The Killer Downstairs (2019) Movie Script
1
That's why it's
the best possible solution.
Or you could just sell it,
make a ton of money
and start over.
No way.
I am not selling my family home.
It's the easiest way
to make some extra money.
It's unregulated,
and I can get to be my own boss.
I mean,
how many people can say that?
It's not that easy, Alison.
You've got to be careful
out there.
You don't know
who you're letting in.
I mean, I wouldn't want some
stranger living in my home.
They're not strangers,
and it is totally safe.
In fact, I'm meeting
with a family tonight.
And they seem like
the perfect fit.
Anyway, I'm gonna be late
for work.
But have you vetted them?
I mean, like,
really checked them out?
I've seen their profile.
He's in the tech industry,
and his wife is a professional...
And his kid is...
well, a kid.
Well, the passive income
will certainly help,
at least until you get
a new law firm opening.
Yeah, well,
I'm not going to hold my breath.
That's because
you haven't tried again.
You've gone though a lot
this past year.
Things are going to turn around
as soon as you're ready.
Trust me, I'm ready.
Can we go home yet?
Hey, this is
my seventh straight day,
so don't even go there.
Brandon is paying you
overtime, though, right?
You just hung up on me.
Don't be cute.
You realize you have
the labor rights on your side?
Okay, Ali, this isn't
Fairview Law,
or whatever
law firm you worked for.
Fairfax and Associates.
Whatever.
Down here on main street,
we take all the work we can get.
Hey, has he asked you out yet?
What?
He told me he was going to.
He says you can't use
your "I'm still reeling
from my ex" excuse forever.
I'm not reeling
and I'm not making excuses.
Edwin was psychotic
and possessive.
Yeah, well,
you don't have to tell me twice.
I'm the one
who warned you about him.
I'm aware, thanks.
Anyway, Brandon may mean well,
but if he asks you out,
like he did to all of us,
just say no.
Okay.
Do you know how all men
interpret women
who don't say no
to the smallest of advances?
They think it means
you like them
and that they have a chance
with you.
I don't want to make a scene.
I need this job.
Okay.
Edwin might have
messed with your head,
but you're still the strongest,
bravest woman I know.
And if Brandon asks you out...
Say no.
Say no.
Got it.
Okay. Trust me.
Hi. Can I help you
with something?
I bet you there's lots
of things you can help me with.
Well, this is
an all-season couch.
You could put it on your patio,
in your backyard,
in your living room,
so it's pretty great.
Why don't you have a seat
here with me?
I don't think
I can help you with that.
Oh, no.
Isn't it your job to help me...
Alison?
Do you have a question, sir?
No.
I'm alright.
Thanks for your help.
Have a nice day.
You okay?
Yeah.
Thanks, Mr. Matthews.
Alison, please.
I've told you,
you can call me Brandon.
Listen, if anything like that
ever happens again...
Nothing happened.
Okay, all I'm saying
is that I'm here for you.
For anything.
Anything at all.
I appreciate that,
Mr. Matthews.
I'll keep that in mind.
Okay.
James?
Alison?
Yeah. Hey.
It's so great to meet you.
Yeah, yeah.
You too.
I hope your drive up was okay?
Yeah, yeah,
a few bumps on the road,
but about as smooth
as one could hope for.
Good.
Is your family with you?
My family?
Yeah. Your profile said
you had a wife and a kid...
Oh...
I'm sorry.
I've been meaning
to update that for a few months.
We...
We separated a while back.
Oh...
I'm really sorry to hear that.
No. No, no, no.
You know what, it's been hard,
but we're still friends.
Kid and all, so.
Well, that's good.
For the kid.
Yeah. Yeah.
Yeah.
They're actually
back in Minneapolis.
Lilly's gonna come out here
in a few weeks to... to visit.
That's my daughter.
If this is a problem,
I can go find a hotel...
No! No, no, no, no.
Don't be silly.
Honestly, it's great.
Yeah?
Yeah!
Okay.
Well, let me...
Let me show you to the suite.
Great.
Okay.
You know, my ex, actually,
works in law, just like you.
I saw it on your profile.
Oh.
What law firm does she work for?
Uh, Mckenzie, Latner and Co.
And you?
It's a long story.
Just down this way.
Okay.
So what brings you to town?
Uh, well, I'm actually thinking
about investing
in a local cryptocurrency start-up,
so I came to check it out.
Oh. That's interesting.
Yeah.
I sold my private
security company
a couple of years ago.
Now I spend most of my time
just looking
for good investments.
Sounds like you're pretty busy.
Try to be.
So this is it.
Wow!
This is a nice spot.
Yeah, it's super cozy in here.
Well, got a bedroom
down the hall
and a second bedroom right here.
And we've got the bathroom here.
And I just left some towels
under the cabinet.
Great.
And the TV
is a little bit wonky, but...
I'm gonna get a repairman
to come soon, so.
Okay.
Well, you know what,
I can probably
take a look at it.
I'm kind of
a tech-nerd/handyman myself.
Oh, well, maybe you could fix
my sink upstairs, too.
Yeah, sure thing.
That was a joke, but okay.
I'll try.
Well, if you need anything,
you can just text me, or...
I'm just right up the stairs.
The door on the left
leads to my kitchen.
And I left you a list
of some of
my favorite restaurants in town,
if ever you get hungry.
That's awesome.
Thank you so much.
I appreciate that.
Well, this is my first time
being a Mi Casa Su Casa host,
so if you like what you see,
I would appreciate
you commenting
on anything
you feel comfortable posting.
Seems like a beautiful home,
I'm sure you'll be
the perfect host.
It would be my pleasure.
Thanks.
Yeah.
Great! Well, I'll leave
your keys right here...
Awesome.
...And I'll let you
get settled in.
Okay. Thank you.
This is great.
Goodnight.
Goodnight, Alison.
Hey.
Morning!
You're making breakfast?
Yeah. It's the best way
to start the day, right?
Hannah, my ex, used to harass me
if she ever found
a pound of fat on me,
so I kind of got in the habit
of going for a run,
and now I'm making us breakfast.
Listen, James, I...
Big Box Outlet?
What's that?
It's temporary.
I lost my job
at the firm not too long ago,
and so this is...
Hey, you know what,
it's none of my business.
I mean, I don't judge anyone
for doing what they have to do
to put food on the table.
In fact, you know what,
maybe I could talk to Hannah
about getting you
practicing again.
I mean, her partners have
satellite firms
all over the country.
There might be a fit somewhere.
You think
that she would do that?
Yeah. Yeah.
I mean, we might be separated,
but we're still civil.
That's says a lot about someone
who goes their separate ways
but can still be friends.
I agree.
Well, have a nice day.
Yeah, you too.
Hey, there she is!
Just the ex-lawyer
I want to see.
Brandon... hi.
Come on into my office.
I want to run something by you.
Why don't you grab a seat
right there?
So I have got a little problem
that I wanted to run by you.
The thing is,
I can't afford
an actual law firm.
I was kind of hoping
that maybe I could
pick your brain.
I'm listening.
You know, this isn't really
the time or place
to discuss it.
Why don't you and I grab
a bite to eat later on tonight?
My treat.
And I'll fill you in
on the details.
Mr. Matthews,
I appreciate you...
Look, I will pay you
$150 for the hour.
Come on.
You get fed, you listen,
you go home.
That's it?
That's it.
Look, Sarah told me
that you're renting out
your basement suite right now.
Sounds like you're
a little bit desperate...
And the truth is...
so am I.
Fine.
Great.
How about 8:00 P.M.
at The Fat Cow Oyster Bar?
They've got everything there.
And it's very central.
Sure.
8:00.
Great.
Looking forward to it.
You told him
about my rental suite?
He was asking
about your situation,
I didn't think
it was a big deal.
I know.
It's just, he's so...
So what happened?
Did he ask you out?
No, he just wanted to ask me
some legal stuff.
He's going to pay me
for my time.
Okay, well, just remember
that being nice
to men like that...
I know, I get it.
Anyway, how'd it go
with the family?
Well, actually,
it wasn't a family.
Really?
It was supposed to be,
but they're going through
a separation.
What, so no one showed up?
No, the guy did.
Just him?
His kid is coming next week.
And he's...
Okay, please don't tell me
he's the most gorgeous guy
you've ever seen.
I was going to say he's nice,
but if you like handsome,
charming,
and in really great shape...
I hate you.
But...
This morning,
when I came downstairs,
he had cooked
a full healthy breakfast.
Sounds like
a modern-day renaissance man.
In my kitchen.
So?
That wasn't
part of the agreement.
Oh, well, did he know that?
It was on the website.
I think.
So then you told him?
I didn't have the heart
to tell him.
He put so much effort
into the breakfast.
Well, then just set
some boundaries.
I mean,
I'm sure he'll understand.
He has his space,
you have yours.
Yeah...
Alison?
Michael?
I thought that was you.
I don't think I've seen you
since graduation.
How have you been?
Really great, obviously.
I was upgraded to partner
of the gardening section.
And I won a case in dairy, so...
What about you?
Didn't you move back to Orlando?
I moved out here
just over six months ago.
Crowder and Associates.
Nice landing.
Yeah, it's alright.
Oh, sorry.
Michael, this is Sarah.
Sarah, this is Michael.
Michael and I went to Chase...
And Sarah and I
have been best friends
since elementary school.
Sarah Williams.
I actually remember
Alison mentioning your name
back in the day.
You remember that?
I have a weird brain
for that sort of information.
Impressive.
You know what,
now that you mention it,
I remember that about you...
Hence why you were
at the top of our class.
Didn't you get a 98%
in the debate final?
I did.
I remember that.
Excuse me, Miss.
How can I help you?
So, obviously, things didn't
work out at Fairfax?
It's a long story,
but the short of it is
me and my ex
were splitting up, and...
Edwin.
Edwin, right...
I really didn't like that guy.
Well, a lot of people didn't,
and apparently,
I was the last one to find out.
Who is that?
That's my boss, Mr. Matthews,
or...
"Brandon" as he would like me
to call him.
Does he always
stare at you like that?
That's alright.
You know, if you're still
interested in practicing,
the partners at my firm
are actually looking for
some new associates right now.
Seriously?
Here, have a look at this.
Crowder and Associates.
Nice.
Look, if and when you're ready,
give me a call or email
me your C.V., okay?
We'll set something up for you.
You don't deserve this.
That's so great, sweetie.
I can't wait to see it.
Okay.
Yeah, I love you, too.
Alright, put your mom
on the phone again, alright?
Hey, Hannah.
I know, it sounds like
she's doing really great.
Lilly's gonna have
a great time, I think.
Okay. Alright, bye.
Hello?
Sorry, I just got home
from work,
and I saw
that you used my kitchen.
Yeah, yeah.
I hope you don't mind,
I just thought I'd make
something healthy for dinner,
and then I was wondering
if maybe you wanted to join.
I was going to mention
that I'd rather...
Hey.
Hi.
I was gonna say
that I didn't intend
on my kitchen being used
by the downstairs tenants...
Oh...
It wasn't even clear
on the site,
so it's my fault.
When you said to knock
and that you were just upstairs,
I thought that...
It's all good.
Yeah.
Sorry. It was
a total misunderstanding.
Now I know.
It won't happen again.
I appreciate that.
I did actually, um,
fix your sink, though,
while I was up here.
You did?
Yeah. May I?
Yeah. Of course.
Yeah, it was just
a little blockage,
but it should be gone now.
Ta-dah!
Okay, now I just feel bad.
No, no, no, don't...
No, seriously, I should
be paying you to stay here.
Well, maybe just
join me for some dinner.
You hungry?
I wish I could.
I actually have plans.
Oh, yeah.
Yeah, of course.
It's my boss.
It's the last thing
I would want to be doing.
Well, work comes first.
You know what, I'll just...
I'll clear this up.
I'll be out of your hair.
Hey, why don't you eat up here?
You already
went through all the trouble.
Well, I appreciate that,
but it might be kind of weird
just being in your house,
eating alone.
Well, I do it all the time.
Right.
I'm gonna go get ready
for this thing
I really don't want to do.
I'm sorry that I can't join you
for dinner.
No, no. Another night.
Okay.
You're gonna I
Oh, just water for me, thanks.
Well, more for me, I guess.
So what did you want
to talk to me about?
What, no foreplay?
Excuse me?
I just thought that rapport
was a necessary step
in the attorney-client
relationship.
Well, I'm not your attorney.
No, but you are my employee,
and someone
I'd like to get to know better,
so a modicum
of mutual socializing
isn't too much to ask,
now, is it?
Look...
I want to be
perfectly frank with you.
I think...
that you and I...
would make a perfect team...
which is why
I want to make a proposal.
Assistant Manager.
What about Sarah?
Sarah doesn't have the brains.
I see the way
you handle yourself.
The way you interact
with customers.
I see a lot.
But you can't...
Sarah's been there for years.
She practically runs the place.
She's way past
her best-before date.
Which is why I wanted to get
your legal advice
on how I can get you
to take her place, hmm?
That would be
a conflict of interest.
Well, would it change things
if I told you
that there'd be a raise?
Maybe a bump in commissions?
Not to mention...
other perks.
I'd make it
all worth your while.
What are you doing?
Don't make a scene.
You realize
that this is harassment?
Come on.
Don't pull that card.
Alison!
Alison, what's the problem?
Just leave me alone!
You've done enough tonight!
You're overreacting.
Overreacting?
You grabbed me!
I barely touched you.
Come on.
Hey!
Hey, why don't you mind
your own business, buddy?
I think the lady
would like for you
to leave her alone...
buddy.
You've got this all wrong.
So that's your boss, huh?
Yeah.
What are you doing here?
I was gonna eat at home,
but then I just figured
we'd save it for tomorrow,
so I came to get some Chinese.
Are you sure you're okay?
Yeah.
Look, why don't you get home,
I'll pick something up,
I'll bring it back for us.
That's really sweet,
but I think I'm just
gonna go home,
and go to bed early.
Yeah. Okay.
Thanks for helping me.
Yeah.
Good night.
'Night.
Hey.
Hey.
Sorry I missed your call.
Everything okay?
You were right.
About Brandon.
Oh, no.
What did he do?
He just...
I can't believe
he made a move on me like that.
Ali...
I don't know why
I keep attracting
these kinds of people
into my life, you know?
Maybe it's me.
No, no!
It's not you.
Don't even go there.
Men like him are a dying breed.
I just don't know
how I'm going
to face him tomorrow.
Hey, listen,
if you want to
take this up with H.R.,
you know I'll back you up.
Brandon's been
getting away with this
for far too long.
In my opinion,
he's run into the wrong person
in the wrong era.
I know.
Look, I'm just gonna
get some sleep,
and I will see you tomorrow.
Okay.
Bright and early.
Bye.
Okay. Bye.
Good morning.
Hi.
None for me?
James got it for me.
Ooh! Breakfast in bed now?
Stop it.
Maybe I should rent out
my basement...
I don't have a basement.
I have a living room.
I could rent out my living room.
Very funny.
Oh! And his wife...
Well, ex-wife...
Is a lawyer,
and she said
she'd look over my resume.
Two contacts in two days.
Not too shabby...
Hey...
You know I appreciate you
getting me this job, right?
Of course.
And we all know
you're over-qualified.
Probably going to be
a long process,
and I'm not really sure...
Excuse me, Alison.
Could I speak to you
for a minute, please?
Good morning, folks.
Welcome to the store.
Don't forget to check out
all of our great specials.
Listen, Alison...
Mr. Matthews, I...
Please. Let me just finish.
Okay?
From what I recall,
all I did last night
was ask you for a little help
with a personal matter,
and if you think
that you can accuse me
of anything untoward,
well...
it's not going to work out
for you here.
Mr. Matthews...
Brandon...
I really need this job,
and...
I apologize if I overreacted.
Good.
I was hoping you'd say that.
Hey!
Hey.
You never told me
you had a green thumb.
Yeah. Yeah.
I hope you don't mind.
No, I...
In fact, that's not something
I would do for myself,
so thank you.
Well, I have to admit,
I saw on your profile
that you loved petunias, so...
You saw that?
Yeah. It was listed under
favorite things,
which is funny,
because I kind of had you pegged
as more of a tulip girl.
That's what you get for
putting all your things online.
Right.
Oh, excuse me.
Hello?
Michael?
You found my number.
Really?
They want to interview me?
That's amazing.
Yeah, I can go for a snack.
The Friendly Bistro, 7:00.
I'll see you then.
Bye.
Who was that?
That's an old
law-school friend of mine.
I guess his firm
wants to interview me.
That's great, right?
Yeah...
What?
It's just...
I don't know.
He's one of those people
who's, like, really pleased
to see me, you know?
Ah...
Well, do you want me
to come with?
I could sit in the corner,
put on a disguise,
choke him if he tries
any funny business.
I think we'll be fine.
Okay.
Um...
do you mind if I grab a glass
of water from your kitchen?
No. Come on in.
You think you guys will be
having a late night tonight?
No. It's just to get an update
about this potential interview.
That's cool.
Here you go.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
I'm just going to go change.
Yeah.
Hey, how did it go
with your boss today?
He said I overreacted,
which is why
I need this interview.
And I need it badly.
Okay...
Wow.
You sure it's not a date?
Trust me.
I just want
to look professional.
So what are you going
to be doing?
I'm just going to...
finish up back here,
shoot off some work emails.
Nothing major.
I wish I could stay in.
This sounds like
a great opportunity for you.
Yeah. Thanks.
I love the flowers.
You're welcome.
And thank you for the water.
Anytime.
See you later.
See ya.
You remember
those all-night study sessions
at Calhoun's Cafe in Kentucky?
Strongest coffee in town.
I never drank it.
You never drank the coffee?
How did you stay up?
I don't know.
I just never really needed it.
But I do remember
Edwin trying to pick you up
one night.
You were sitting
over there in the corner,
and he walked right in,
looking like a lost little kid
in a land full of lawyers.
Well, he always hated lawyers.
And Kentucky.
Should've taken that hint,
I guess.
Well, he obviously
didn't want to lose you.
I mean, I can't blame him.
What do you mean?
Well, I had a little crush
on you back in the day.
You did?
Everybody did.
But I went my own way.
Out of respect, of course.
Speaking of which,
is your boss
still creeping on you
from his window?
Uh, yeah.
I'm hoping
not for much longer, though.
Well, actually,
I spoke to my associates.
You did?
Mm-hmm.
I told them about your grades
and your Bar exam,
and they're very impressed.
And they want to see
your full C.V.,
which you can bring
to your interview!
Sorry. Sorry.
Don't be.
It's just been such a while
since I got some good news.
Don't worry about it.
Cheers to that.
Yes.
They'll call you
by the end of the week,
so don't stress.
Just be yourself.
Let me send you
their contact info
so you'll know it's them
when they call.
That is old school.
Keeps it simple.
If I wanna check the weather,
I'll open a newspaper.
Oh.
Well, thanks again, Michael.
It was so great
running into you again.
Some things
are just meant to be.
Right.
Okay, well,
I should probably get home.
Yeah, it is getting late.
I want to make sure
I'm sharp for
all those canned goods tomorrow.
Bye.
Bye now.
James?
Just a sec.
Hey.
Guess who got a job interview?
What?
That's fantastic!
Not only that,
but I don't have
much to celebrate these days,
so I brought over
a bottle of wine.
Do you feel like hosting?
Mi Casa Su Casa.
Literally. Come on.
Awesome.
Thank you.
You know, I used to live
down here for a while.
Yeah. I kind of figured
it was your family home
or something.
Most people can't afford
a house like this these days.
Well, not on
a one-year law career.
Right.
So, when my dad died,
my mom just needed a change,
and so she moved to
Sedona, of all places.
Ah... Home of the vortexes.
You know your stuff.
It's the spiritual center
of the United States.
I mean, the Hopi people
still have a lot
to teach us about
peace and love...
If we're willing to learn.
Have you ever been there?
It's actually
where Hannah and I got married.
I have to admit,
I heard you guys talking.
You heard?
Yeah. It's an old house.
Thin walls.
I don't mean to pry, but...
I think it's really great
that you two are friends.
I know how hard breakups can be.
Yeah, I mean, the truth is,
we hadn't been on the same page
for a long, long time.
Even intimately...
it's been years.
Years?
Sorry. Is that
too much information?
No, no, not at all.
In fact, it's refreshing
to know that
I'm not the only one who has...
struggles.
You and your ex?
Yeah.
We were...
a bad match.
How so?
He was possessive
and jealous of my friends
and colleagues.
That can be a lot to deal with.
Did he hurt you?
Well, if that's
all in the past...
I mean, frankly,
he's just lucky
I wasn't there to protect you.
Not many men would have done
what you did last night.
Put yourself in harm's way
to help.
I guess I'm not like most men.
No...
you definitely aren't.
I'm sorry.
What? No, no.
I should not have done that.
It's okay.
No, I'm your landlord,
and I should just
go back upstairs.
Alison, just wait.
Okay, look, this is your space,
and if anything,
I misread the situation.
No. You didn't.
I don't think they cover this
in the Tenancy Act.
Look, I used your kitchen...
and you kissed me, so...
let's just call it even.
You're not weirded out?
No, no.
Not at all.
Look, whatever happened,
happened...
and we're totally cool.
We're cool?
Totally cool.
So how's your tenant?
James?
He's...
good.
What does that mean?
Did something happen
between you two?
We kissed.
What?
Shh!
Ali!
How did that even happen?
We were on the couch,
and we were talking,
and then
one thing led to another...
I feel terrible!
Why, why, why?
Because he's my tenant.
So, people meet on the Internet
all the time, I guess.
I guess.
Just be careful.
What do you mean?
Well, personally,
I'm very happy
to see you moving on
and feeling good
about yourself...
Just... you know, don't...
Move too fast.
Exactly.
Yeah.
Okay, now I really
have to meet this guy.
Uh, Ali?
This is Detective Fitzgerald
and Detective Reynolds.
They're hoping
to have a word with you.
What's going on?
When was the last time
you saw Mr. Matthews?
Uh, yesterday.
We had a bit of an argument.
About what?
I was a lawyer.
He asked me to help him
with a personal problem.
I said I couldn't.
Was he in some kind of trouble?
Not that I'm aware of.
What is going on?
Did he do something?
What happened
after the argument?
I finished my shift,
I went home,
and then I met up
with a friend for a drink...
From back in college.
He have a name?
Michael Hammond.
He'll vouch
for your whereabouts?
Yes, of course.
What is going on?
Brandon Matthews
was killed last night.
He was burned alive.
How was your relationship
with him?
He...
he was my boss.
Did your relationship ever
venture into any other areas?
No.
Nothing sexual
or something that could be
misconstrued as such?
Why are you asking me this?
Miss Peters,
Mr. Matthews' phone
was retrieved
from the fire last night.
Our forensics
were able to pull the records.
They show texts of you
communicating with him
right up until
the time of his murder.
What?
"Hey, it's Alison.
Wanna try again?
"Grab a drink tonight and talk?
I promise to not overreact."
Then, "I knew you'd be
a team player.
Where do you want to meet me?"
"Same place.
15 minutes."
Then "Done."
I didn't write that!
Are you still 555-0199?
No.
That is not my number.
It isn't?
No.
Is there anyone in your life
who might want to harm
Mr. Matthews?
Maybe someone who wants
to get close to you?
Is your boss
still creeping on you
from his window?
He shouldn't do that to you.
You don't deserve this.
Alison?
What is it?
Well...
Michael was...
What?
Michael was what?
He saw...
He saw Brandon staring at me
and he said a comment
that I didn't
pay much attention to
at the time...
And then he called me
out of the blue that night,
and asked me to go
for dinner with him...
And then he admitted
that he had a crush on me
since we were in school.
Listen...
I'll check him out.
In the meantime, just...
you need to stay safe, okay?
Whatever precautions
you need to take...
do it.
We're just a phone call away.
Alison?
Is everything okay?
Hey. You okay?
So what happened?
He was murdered.
What? Who?
My boss.
The guy from the restaurant?
Yeah.
Do they have a suspect?
They don't know yet, but...
Are you expecting someone?
Yeah.
Hey.
I just had to leave
after they talked to me.
Are you okay?
No.
No, I'm not.
Sarah, this is James.
James, this is Sarah.
Hi.
Hey.
I'm really sorry
to hear about your boss.
Yeah, thanks.
Did they question you, too?
They questioned everybody.
I'll get that.
Do you guys want tea?
Yeah. Thanks, James.
Yeah.
So did they tell you
that someone texted Brandon
and they tried to pin it on me?
What?
Yeah.
From your phone?
It was another phone number,
but they still haven't found
the phone.
So someone's trying
to put this on you?
Okay, that's just freaky.
It's Michael's firm.
Put it on speaker phone.
Hello?
Miss Peters,
I'm calling on behalf of
Crowder and Associates.
Hi.
Mr. Crowder would like
to see you for an interview.
Does 2:00 P.M.
tomorrow work for you?
Uh... yes.
That's perfect.
Wonderful.
We'll see you then.
Okay, bye.
What are you doing?
Why would he do that for me
if he was going
to go after Brandon?
Well, it makes
perfect sense, Ali.
Thank you.
Yeah.
He wants you for himself,
and now he's even closer.
Yeah, some guys can be
really, really possessive.
Even dangerous.
From everything I've heard
about this Michael guy,
I don't trust him.
I don't even think
you should go to this interview.
I agree.
Hey, how about
I stay over tonight?
I mean, you're not the only one
who's freaked out here.
And plus,
if he's coming after you,
he's going to have to go
through me first.
Well, you know what,
I'm right downstairs.
I mean, we're probably
pretty safe in the house.
Thanks, James,
but you don't know me,
and I am vicious.
I will rip his face off.
Okay. Either way...
we've got each other's back.
Okay?
Of course.
Yeah.
What are you doing?
What are you doing?
I heard something.
Please don't say that.
It was probably
just the wind, but...
But what?
Let's go downstairs.
Okay.
You know what I think you need?
New locks.
I don't need new locks.
Yes, you do!
I'll have to change
the whole house.
So at least
you'll feel more safe.
And put a new lock on the
basement door once and for all.
Why?
Well, if you want to play
Miss Landlord,
then Miss Landlord
needs to put in some separation.
What about James?
What about James?
It's not like
he's going to be here forever.
That's true.
Did you see how weird he got
when I said I was staying over?
Please.
Not your spidey sense again.
Okay, my spidey senses
are always right, aren't they?
Ali?
I think we're all being
a little bit sensitive.
I'm sure he was
just being protective.
Okay, well, just humor me.
Okay...
He came upstairs... twice.
To make me food.
Right, because your site
didn't specifically say
that he couldn't.
I mean, I'm just saying...
what else do you think he does
in here when you're not home?
Sarah...
Well, just put feelings aside
and be a landlord.
I mean, every house
needs rules, right?
And if James
or some other tenant
wants to stay here,
then he should
have to follow them.
Rules?
Ali.
You're so afraid
of offending people
and that's how you get stuck
in these situations
in the first place.
If he's as good of a guy
as you say he is,
then he should understand.
You're right.
Let's just go back to bed.
Okay.
That's the last one?
That's it.
Thank you so much.
You're welcome.
Awesome.
Here are your new keys.
Great.
Have a nice day.
Locksmith, huh?
Uh...
Sarah convinced me.
I... I put a lock
on your basement suite door,
just up the stairs.
Oh, good.
It's good?
Yeah. I mean, if you're going
to be opening up your space
for strangers to stay,
then absolutely.
I've been so worried
about offending you,
with the locks and rules.
No, no, no.
Not at all.
I mean,
you need to take care of you.
Oh, sorry.
Hello?
Miss Peters,
this is Detective Fitzgerald.
Detective.
Hi. Is everything alright?
Yeah. We just wanted
to let you know
we've apprehended a suspect
in the Brandon Matthews case.
You did?
Some intoxicated vagrant.
We found him with the mobile.
We found him
with the lighter fluid.
Everything.
That is great news.
We still don't know why
Mr. Matthews thought
that number was yours,
or what this guy
even had against him,
but once he sobers up,
we'll get
more information out of him.
Okay.
Let me know if there's
anything else I can do to help.
Will do.
Okay, bye.
They got the guy
that murdered my boss.
What do you mean,
so it wasn't Michael?
I feel bad.
I feel relieved, but...
I feel relieved for Michael,
but he is never
going to let this go.
What do you mean?
Well...
if the police called him,
he's got a brain like a machine,
so I wouldn't be surprised
if he helped them find the guy.
Anyway, I should probably go
and get ready for my interview,
but...
so this is your new key.
Thank you.
Maybe we could do
dinner tonight?
You can help me work on
those online rules?
Yeah. That would be...
That would be really great.
Okay.
Okay.
It's all very impressive.
Top of your debate class.
Highest Bar Exam at Chase.
All I know is
you were fired from Fairfax,
and everyone signed
a confidentiality agreement
to not speak about it.
Now, I'm not asking you
to break your word,
but how about you explain it
to me as best you can?
It's a chapter
I like to forget about.
Mm.
The truth is,
I had an affair
with a colleague at the firm.
I didn't get fired.
I quit.
My life was such a mess,
and I wanted to own that,
and start over.
I love law, Mr. Crowder.
And I would give anything
to get a second chance.
Your honesty is noble,
Miss Peters.
As is your integrity.
Whoa.
Oh!
Oh, I'm so sorry.
I didn't see you there.
Oh, don't worry about it.
So how'd it go?
It went good, I think.
Good.
Yeah.
I'm really happy for you.
Well, let's not get happy yet.
Those chickens
aren't guaranteed to hatch.
They'd be fools to pass on
someone like you.
Listen...
I'm sorry about your boss.
The police called me,
they told me what happened.
I'm really sorry that
I gave your name to the police.
No...
you were just crossing your
"T"s and dotting your "I"s.
That's why you're a good lawyer.
Thank you.
You might not want
to count those chickens,
but I'll see you
when they hatch.
Can't wait.
It'll be like old times.
Yup.
See you soon.
Alright.
Bye.
It's too bad that's not...
Where are you doing, man? Huh?
Why are you after me?
That's a pretty stupid question
for such a smart guy.
It was you, wasn't it?
You killed her boss, huh?
Nothing gets past you, huh?
What the hell
do you want from me, huh?
What do you want from her?
I just want her.
Maybe some kids.
A white-picket fence.
See, I want what you want.
I just want it more.
James?
And shared laundry,
but you choose the days.
But what if they're only here
for two days?
Then you set some hours.
Fine.
Oh, I have an email.
It's from Hannah.
"Hey, Alison,
James informed me
of your inquiries.
Please send over your C.V.
at your earliest convenience."
That's amazing, Ali!
Yeah...
but what about Michael?
You do the smart thing
and see which one sticks.
You have your C.V. on file?
Of course.
So send it, girl!
Roll with it while you can.
Okay...
"Hey, Hannah!
Thank you so much for your help.
Here's my C.V.
Looking forward
to hearing from you.
Alison Peters"
And send.
Good job.
Oh!
I think James is back.
Oh... gonna go
to second base?
How old are you?
Are we still on for tomorrow?
Only if you're making me.
I'm making you.
Okay.
Have fun.
Okay, bye.
Hey, what happened?
I'm embarrassed.
Are you okay?
Yeah, no.
I went running on this trail,
and I fell pretty hard.
It looks painful.
No, it's alright.
Here. Come inside.
I'll clean you up.
And that is why you should
always have a running partner.
Are you offering?
Well, I think Sarah would get
a little bit jealous.
Didn't realize
you guys had a routine.
We try...
Although once a week
seems to be like
all we can handle right now.
We're going to go
tomorrow morning
if you want to join.
Yeah, I'm thinking
maybe I should take
a day off for once.
I think that's
probably a good idea.
You know,
Hannah would never do this.
No?
No.
Well, good thing
you have me, then.
Wouldn't have it any other way,
except for the scrapes
and everything.
She emailed me, by the way.
Oh, yeah?
Mm-hmm.
I sent over my C.V. to her.
That's awesome.
I'm excited for you.
Thank you.
Do you want to make dinner
with me tonight?
I'd love to.
Okay.
Well, I'll go get started.
You finish up here
and meet me downstairs?
Yeah.
Okay.
I remember in school,
there was this kid
who copied my test.
And then when he got caught,
he told the teacher
that I gave him his answers.
Did you?
Not at all.
Okay, so, I see,
and then you went on
a legal crusade
to try to right
all the wrongs of the world.
My dad is the one who wanted me
to go into law,
and I was never able to say no,
and no matter what I did,
it was just never good enough.
I guess that's why I...
couldn't stand up to Brandon.
Or any man, for that matter.
No, no, no.
That guy played with fire
and he got burned.
What?
It was just a figure of speech.
Did I tell you
that he died in a fire?
No, I don't think so, but...
I mean, come to think of it,
I did see something on the news.
Brandon...
Matthews.
That was your boss?
Yeah.
Oh, my...
what a horrible way to die.
Yeah.
Remind me why
I agreed to this again?
Because we're trying
to be more disciplined.
How's lover boy?
What? Did you sleep with him?
No, not at all,
it was just...
What? What is it?
He just said something
that was...
What? What did he say?
Did you tell him
that Brandon died in a fire?
Why would I tell him that?
He said he saw it on the news,
but then when I looked online
last night for local murders,
there was nothing.
Huh.
You know what I think?
I think you're scared.
Of what?
Of what?
Feelings, connections.
I mean, it does make sense.
This is the first guy
you've actually liked
in a while.
You would probably find
some things to freak out about.
How are the new rules going,
by the way?
Perfect.
He says they should have
been placed from the beginning.
Okay, well, then just
enjoy it, you know?
Be present.
Speak of the devil.
Hey.
Hey.
Ladies.
How are you feeling?
Still a little tender,
but nothing that won't heal up.
How was the run?
Feels good, right?
Worst decision ever.
Right.
Oh! It's the law firm.
Well, answer it!
Put it on speaker phone.
Okay.
Alison Peters.
Alison.
It's Cameron Crowder.
Have I caught you at a bad time?
No, no.
It's good to hear from you.
Listen, firstly...
I want to get this
out of the way...
We'd love for you
to join the firm.
Really?
Your honesty, your enthusiasm...
Your resume speaks for itself.
I'd like you to start next week.
I would love that!
Wonderful, wonderful.
Listen, secondly,
have you heard
from Michael at all?
Michael? No.
We haven't either.
Not since yesterday.
Not like him
to not return our calls.
You know what,
I actually sent him a text
last night,
and he never
got back to me either.
Well, it's early, I suppose.
I'm sure he'll be in soon.
Yeah. I'm sure he will.
I'll see you in a week.
Yeah. Thank you so much,
Mr. Crowder.
I'm really excited
to join the team.
You're very welcome.
Bye now.
Bye.
Ali! That is amazing!
That's amazing!
Please tell me that you told him
I could work the phones
like nobody's business.
I didn't.
But I will.
Okay.
Congratulations.
Hey, what's up?
Why don't you look happy?
I just hope Michael's okay.
I'm sure he's fine.
Hey, you know what,
we should celebrate tonight.
What do you say about dinner?
Come on!
I love that.
Okay.
As long as you're both in.
No, I don't want to be
a third wheel.
What? Please, no.
You know, I should probably
get to know you anyway.
Yeah.
Right?
Sure, yeah, okay.
Good. Sweet.
Hi. You've reached
Michael Hammond.
Leave a message.
Hey, Michael.
It's Alison.
Look, I've tried to call you
a few times,
and I was hoping
to talk to you in person, but...
I just wanted to thank you again
for getting me the opening.
It looks like Cameron's
going to be taking me on, so...
Anyway, um,
we're having a celebratory
dinner at my house,
and I would love it
if you could stop by.
I hope you're okay.
It's open.
Hey, girl.
Hey.
Hey. Ooh.
Is everything alright?
James up here?
No. He's downstairs.
What's going on?
Okay, Ali, um...
don't get upset, alright?
What?
Hello.
Hey.
You didn't have to bring that.
Oh, no, no, no,
I'm happy to help.
Did you get a hold of Michael?
No, you know what,
I wasn't able to reach him.
I guess we'll flip a coin
to see
who's the third wheel, huh?
Well, shall we?
Yeah.
Yeah.
Thank you.
This is delicious, by the way.
I'm just really happy
that we could all get together.
So Ali tells me
that your wife is a lawyer?
Uh... ex-wife.
Sorry. Ex-wife.
What firm?
Uh, Mckenzie, Latner and Co.
Never heard of it.
It's boutique.
Got it.
So your family is still in...
Minnesota.
Minneapolis, to be exact.
Yeah, it's been a little hard
on Lilly, but...
she's a strong girl.
She sounds adorable.
I mean, I haven't talked to her,
but...
I've heard James talking to her.
She's everything to me.
Well, she sure is cute.
Looks a lot like her mom.
Excuse me?
Well, I mean,
from your profile picture.
Why were you looking at
his profile?
'Cause I was helping you
with your profile
when we were doing
the house rules.
Right.
Yeah.
Yeah, they look a lot alike.
Can I get you ladies
some more wine?
Yes, please.
Please. Thanks.
Thank you.
I could use a top-up.
Thank you.
And what about you two? Huh?
You guys went to school
together or something?
Yeah, we were in third grade,
and we took the bus together.
That's cute.
So how long
have you been separated?
Sarah, enough.
What are you doing?
What?
He's open about her,
right, James?
About a month.
A month?
Officially. Yeah.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Well, that's weird, 'cause...
when I look at your profile,
it says that
you've been renting
all across the country...
For six months.
Sarah.
Well, ask him.
You think it looks like
I've been having an affair.
Were you?
No.
Hannah and I were trying
to fix things for a long time,
and I was traveling
back and forth
across the country for work.
Sarah, I think
your spidey senses
have had a little bit
too much tonight.
If you'll excuse me,
I have to go to the bathroom.
I am so sorry.
I do not know
what has gotten into her.
It's alright.
I'm sure it's just her way
of looking out for you.
Yeah...
I'm really happy to be here.
I'm happy that you're here, too.
Is she okay?
Uh, yeah.
Her ride share
will be here soon.
Um... listen,
I...
I got you something.
You did?
Yeah. Yeah, it's just
a little something
to celebrate your new job.
"A" for "Ali."
I love it.
Yeah?
Yeah. Thank you.
May I?
Yeah. Of course.
Yeah?
It's beautiful.
Thank you.
Oh, the car's here.
Do you want to help me?
Oh, yeah, of course.
Come on, girl.
The car's here.
It's time to go to bed.
No, I don't want to leave.
It's night-night time.
I got her, I got her.
Alright.
Get her home safe, okay?
Good night.
I love you, Ali!
Love you.
Well, that was eventful.
Hello.
Hello.
Okay...
Mm...
Detective Fitzgerald?
It's Alison Peters.
I need your help.
Hey, this is Sarah.
Leave a message.
Sarah, this is the third time
I've called you.
Where are you?
Call me back, please.
I don't know
what else you want me
to tell you, Miss Peters.
You have to do something.
You've seen the texts.
Listen,
it's breaking and entering,
it's past 3:00 A.M.
It could have been
a random event, for all we know.
Fitzgerald, take a look at this.
That's Michael's phone.
Michael Hammond?
Yeah. He's been missing
for two days.
Last communication...
Sarah Williams
to Michael Hammond
last night, 2:00 A.M.
"Leave Alison and me alone.
She wants nothing to do
with your firm.
She's mine."
No.
Sarah would've never said that.
So who would?
My spidey senses
are never wrong.
Did you see how weird he got
when I said I was staying over?
Who was that?
And, frankly, he's just lucky
I wasn't there to protect you.
Hey.
He came upstairs twice.
What else do you think he does
when you're not home?
Hey, this is Sarah.
Leave a message.
Sarah, please call me back.
I need you to call me back.
I'm worried about you, okay?
Where are you?
That's a committed friend
you've got there.
Must be nice.
Sarah, can you please pick up?
I went to work,
I checked the gym,
I went back to your house.
I'm worried about you.
Sarah, just please call me back.
James?
Screw the rules.
Hello?
James?
Hello?
I shouldn't be here.
Hannah's phone number.
Okay...
Hello?
Is this Hannah Brewer?
This is her sister.
Who is this?
This is Alison Peters.
Do I know you?
I'm the landlord
that rented
the basement suite to James.
Oh, my gosh.
He's doing it again.
What?
He's not who you think he is.
You need to get off the phone
right now and call the police!
Oh!
Sarah?
Oh, honey.
We're going
to get you out of here, okay?
Doesn't this go
against the house rules?
James, what are you doing?
I really wish you hadn't
come down here, Ali.
I didn't see anything.
You didn't see anything?
No.
You didn't see Sarah
right there?
My computer right there?
Is it true?
Did you kill them?
You talked to Hannah's sister,
didn't you?
I'm guessing she filled you in.
But I heard you talking to them.
Are you sure about that?
Oh, hi, sweetie.
That's great.
I can't wait to see you, too.
Hey, put your mom
on the phone, would you?
So, all those emails
from Hannah,
they weren't real?
I'm just trying to make it
work with us, Ali.
And I was really hoping that
you'd be wearing this today.
I took that off to go to bed.
You went into my room?
You came down to mine,
didn't you?
That was a mistake.
It's always the same.
It's always the same.
Come here!
Let go of me!
Come on!
Alison.
Alison.
I know you saw
some things down there.
But I think if we just have
a chance to speak about it...
it can all be explained.
Everything I've done
has been for you.
Stop it!
Please, please!
Don't make this harder
than it has to be.
No!
Why are you doing this?
I always do
everything for you...
I hold doors for you,
I buy you things,
and all I want
is a little love in return.
It's getting quiet now,
isn't it?
It's dark.
Look who decided
to make a final appearance.
You know,
Hannah loved flowers, too.
They were her "special place."
She wouldn't let me
go near them, of course.
Said I couldn't be trusted
with such fragile things.
That's ironic.
People and their boundaries...
She had no problem sleeping
with somebody else, though.
No problem crossing
those boundaries, did she?
They still haven't found
her body.
That doesn't
surprise me, though.
It can be very difficult
for people to see what lies
below the surface sometimes.
You should know that.
You ready?
From what I've read,
once the dirt hits your face,
it takes about eight minutes
for you to suffocate.
The worms will be on your body
for around a year...
Then after that,
there will be nothing left.
I really wish it could have been
different between us, Ali.
Don't do that.
You haven't earned that.
What?
I don't care
that you've been bad.
I've been bad!
It doesn't matter.
I don't care.
We all do bad things.
Bitch!
Love you, bestie!
Turn out he's been connected
with seven other murders
across state lines.
You're the first person
to get away.
I can't believe I trusted him.
Well,
human nature is still
what it always was.
We believe what we think is true
until we don't.
I'm just glad
you lived to talk about it.
Crowder and Associates,
how may I direct your call?
One moment, please.
Miller's on line two.
Can you take a message?
Hey, you want to go get lunch?
I am starving.
Kinda craving some Mexican.
Ooh.
Si, por favor.
All right.
I've been meaning to tell you,
my new client
is so easy to work with.
That's because
he has you on his side.
Well, I'm just lucky
I have you on my side.
Besties forever.
You know it.
Hey, have you seen
that cute guy
who works down the hall?
Yeah, he's almost cute enough
to rent a basement suite to?
Ali!
Very funny.
Okay. Too soon?
Too soon!
Alright.
That's why it's
the best possible solution.
Or you could just sell it,
make a ton of money
and start over.
No way.
I am not selling my family home.
It's the easiest way
to make some extra money.
It's unregulated,
and I can get to be my own boss.
I mean,
how many people can say that?
It's not that easy, Alison.
You've got to be careful
out there.
You don't know
who you're letting in.
I mean, I wouldn't want some
stranger living in my home.
They're not strangers,
and it is totally safe.
In fact, I'm meeting
with a family tonight.
And they seem like
the perfect fit.
Anyway, I'm gonna be late
for work.
But have you vetted them?
I mean, like,
really checked them out?
I've seen their profile.
He's in the tech industry,
and his wife is a professional...
And his kid is...
well, a kid.
Well, the passive income
will certainly help,
at least until you get
a new law firm opening.
Yeah, well,
I'm not going to hold my breath.
That's because
you haven't tried again.
You've gone though a lot
this past year.
Things are going to turn around
as soon as you're ready.
Trust me, I'm ready.
Can we go home yet?
Hey, this is
my seventh straight day,
so don't even go there.
Brandon is paying you
overtime, though, right?
You just hung up on me.
Don't be cute.
You realize you have
the labor rights on your side?
Okay, Ali, this isn't
Fairview Law,
or whatever
law firm you worked for.
Fairfax and Associates.
Whatever.
Down here on main street,
we take all the work we can get.
Hey, has he asked you out yet?
What?
He told me he was going to.
He says you can't use
your "I'm still reeling
from my ex" excuse forever.
I'm not reeling
and I'm not making excuses.
Edwin was psychotic
and possessive.
Yeah, well,
you don't have to tell me twice.
I'm the one
who warned you about him.
I'm aware, thanks.
Anyway, Brandon may mean well,
but if he asks you out,
like he did to all of us,
just say no.
Okay.
Do you know how all men
interpret women
who don't say no
to the smallest of advances?
They think it means
you like them
and that they have a chance
with you.
I don't want to make a scene.
I need this job.
Okay.
Edwin might have
messed with your head,
but you're still the strongest,
bravest woman I know.
And if Brandon asks you out...
Say no.
Say no.
Got it.
Okay. Trust me.
Hi. Can I help you
with something?
I bet you there's lots
of things you can help me with.
Well, this is
an all-season couch.
You could put it on your patio,
in your backyard,
in your living room,
so it's pretty great.
Why don't you have a seat
here with me?
I don't think
I can help you with that.
Oh, no.
Isn't it your job to help me...
Alison?
Do you have a question, sir?
No.
I'm alright.
Thanks for your help.
Have a nice day.
You okay?
Yeah.
Thanks, Mr. Matthews.
Alison, please.
I've told you,
you can call me Brandon.
Listen, if anything like that
ever happens again...
Nothing happened.
Okay, all I'm saying
is that I'm here for you.
For anything.
Anything at all.
I appreciate that,
Mr. Matthews.
I'll keep that in mind.
Okay.
James?
Alison?
Yeah. Hey.
It's so great to meet you.
Yeah, yeah.
You too.
I hope your drive up was okay?
Yeah, yeah,
a few bumps on the road,
but about as smooth
as one could hope for.
Good.
Is your family with you?
My family?
Yeah. Your profile said
you had a wife and a kid...
Oh...
I'm sorry.
I've been meaning
to update that for a few months.
We...
We separated a while back.
Oh...
I'm really sorry to hear that.
No. No, no, no.
You know what, it's been hard,
but we're still friends.
Kid and all, so.
Well, that's good.
For the kid.
Yeah. Yeah.
Yeah.
They're actually
back in Minneapolis.
Lilly's gonna come out here
in a few weeks to... to visit.
That's my daughter.
If this is a problem,
I can go find a hotel...
No! No, no, no, no.
Don't be silly.
Honestly, it's great.
Yeah?
Yeah!
Okay.
Well, let me...
Let me show you to the suite.
Great.
Okay.
You know, my ex, actually,
works in law, just like you.
I saw it on your profile.
Oh.
What law firm does she work for?
Uh, Mckenzie, Latner and Co.
And you?
It's a long story.
Just down this way.
Okay.
So what brings you to town?
Uh, well, I'm actually thinking
about investing
in a local cryptocurrency start-up,
so I came to check it out.
Oh. That's interesting.
Yeah.
I sold my private
security company
a couple of years ago.
Now I spend most of my time
just looking
for good investments.
Sounds like you're pretty busy.
Try to be.
So this is it.
Wow!
This is a nice spot.
Yeah, it's super cozy in here.
Well, got a bedroom
down the hall
and a second bedroom right here.
And we've got the bathroom here.
And I just left some towels
under the cabinet.
Great.
And the TV
is a little bit wonky, but...
I'm gonna get a repairman
to come soon, so.
Okay.
Well, you know what,
I can probably
take a look at it.
I'm kind of
a tech-nerd/handyman myself.
Oh, well, maybe you could fix
my sink upstairs, too.
Yeah, sure thing.
That was a joke, but okay.
I'll try.
Well, if you need anything,
you can just text me, or...
I'm just right up the stairs.
The door on the left
leads to my kitchen.
And I left you a list
of some of
my favorite restaurants in town,
if ever you get hungry.
That's awesome.
Thank you so much.
I appreciate that.
Well, this is my first time
being a Mi Casa Su Casa host,
so if you like what you see,
I would appreciate
you commenting
on anything
you feel comfortable posting.
Seems like a beautiful home,
I'm sure you'll be
the perfect host.
It would be my pleasure.
Thanks.
Yeah.
Great! Well, I'll leave
your keys right here...
Awesome.
...And I'll let you
get settled in.
Okay. Thank you.
This is great.
Goodnight.
Goodnight, Alison.
Hey.
Morning!
You're making breakfast?
Yeah. It's the best way
to start the day, right?
Hannah, my ex, used to harass me
if she ever found
a pound of fat on me,
so I kind of got in the habit
of going for a run,
and now I'm making us breakfast.
Listen, James, I...
Big Box Outlet?
What's that?
It's temporary.
I lost my job
at the firm not too long ago,
and so this is...
Hey, you know what,
it's none of my business.
I mean, I don't judge anyone
for doing what they have to do
to put food on the table.
In fact, you know what,
maybe I could talk to Hannah
about getting you
practicing again.
I mean, her partners have
satellite firms
all over the country.
There might be a fit somewhere.
You think
that she would do that?
Yeah. Yeah.
I mean, we might be separated,
but we're still civil.
That's says a lot about someone
who goes their separate ways
but can still be friends.
I agree.
Well, have a nice day.
Yeah, you too.
Hey, there she is!
Just the ex-lawyer
I want to see.
Brandon... hi.
Come on into my office.
I want to run something by you.
Why don't you grab a seat
right there?
So I have got a little problem
that I wanted to run by you.
The thing is,
I can't afford
an actual law firm.
I was kind of hoping
that maybe I could
pick your brain.
I'm listening.
You know, this isn't really
the time or place
to discuss it.
Why don't you and I grab
a bite to eat later on tonight?
My treat.
And I'll fill you in
on the details.
Mr. Matthews,
I appreciate you...
Look, I will pay you
$150 for the hour.
Come on.
You get fed, you listen,
you go home.
That's it?
That's it.
Look, Sarah told me
that you're renting out
your basement suite right now.
Sounds like you're
a little bit desperate...
And the truth is...
so am I.
Fine.
Great.
How about 8:00 P.M.
at The Fat Cow Oyster Bar?
They've got everything there.
And it's very central.
Sure.
8:00.
Great.
Looking forward to it.
You told him
about my rental suite?
He was asking
about your situation,
I didn't think
it was a big deal.
I know.
It's just, he's so...
So what happened?
Did he ask you out?
No, he just wanted to ask me
some legal stuff.
He's going to pay me
for my time.
Okay, well, just remember
that being nice
to men like that...
I know, I get it.
Anyway, how'd it go
with the family?
Well, actually,
it wasn't a family.
Really?
It was supposed to be,
but they're going through
a separation.
What, so no one showed up?
No, the guy did.
Just him?
His kid is coming next week.
And he's...
Okay, please don't tell me
he's the most gorgeous guy
you've ever seen.
I was going to say he's nice,
but if you like handsome,
charming,
and in really great shape...
I hate you.
But...
This morning,
when I came downstairs,
he had cooked
a full healthy breakfast.
Sounds like
a modern-day renaissance man.
In my kitchen.
So?
That wasn't
part of the agreement.
Oh, well, did he know that?
It was on the website.
I think.
So then you told him?
I didn't have the heart
to tell him.
He put so much effort
into the breakfast.
Well, then just set
some boundaries.
I mean,
I'm sure he'll understand.
He has his space,
you have yours.
Yeah...
Alison?
Michael?
I thought that was you.
I don't think I've seen you
since graduation.
How have you been?
Really great, obviously.
I was upgraded to partner
of the gardening section.
And I won a case in dairy, so...
What about you?
Didn't you move back to Orlando?
I moved out here
just over six months ago.
Crowder and Associates.
Nice landing.
Yeah, it's alright.
Oh, sorry.
Michael, this is Sarah.
Sarah, this is Michael.
Michael and I went to Chase...
And Sarah and I
have been best friends
since elementary school.
Sarah Williams.
I actually remember
Alison mentioning your name
back in the day.
You remember that?
I have a weird brain
for that sort of information.
Impressive.
You know what,
now that you mention it,
I remember that about you...
Hence why you were
at the top of our class.
Didn't you get a 98%
in the debate final?
I did.
I remember that.
Excuse me, Miss.
How can I help you?
So, obviously, things didn't
work out at Fairfax?
It's a long story,
but the short of it is
me and my ex
were splitting up, and...
Edwin.
Edwin, right...
I really didn't like that guy.
Well, a lot of people didn't,
and apparently,
I was the last one to find out.
Who is that?
That's my boss, Mr. Matthews,
or...
"Brandon" as he would like me
to call him.
Does he always
stare at you like that?
That's alright.
You know, if you're still
interested in practicing,
the partners at my firm
are actually looking for
some new associates right now.
Seriously?
Here, have a look at this.
Crowder and Associates.
Nice.
Look, if and when you're ready,
give me a call or email
me your C.V., okay?
We'll set something up for you.
You don't deserve this.
That's so great, sweetie.
I can't wait to see it.
Okay.
Yeah, I love you, too.
Alright, put your mom
on the phone again, alright?
Hey, Hannah.
I know, it sounds like
she's doing really great.
Lilly's gonna have
a great time, I think.
Okay. Alright, bye.
Hello?
Sorry, I just got home
from work,
and I saw
that you used my kitchen.
Yeah, yeah.
I hope you don't mind,
I just thought I'd make
something healthy for dinner,
and then I was wondering
if maybe you wanted to join.
I was going to mention
that I'd rather...
Hey.
Hi.
I was gonna say
that I didn't intend
on my kitchen being used
by the downstairs tenants...
Oh...
It wasn't even clear
on the site,
so it's my fault.
When you said to knock
and that you were just upstairs,
I thought that...
It's all good.
Yeah.
Sorry. It was
a total misunderstanding.
Now I know.
It won't happen again.
I appreciate that.
I did actually, um,
fix your sink, though,
while I was up here.
You did?
Yeah. May I?
Yeah. Of course.
Yeah, it was just
a little blockage,
but it should be gone now.
Ta-dah!
Okay, now I just feel bad.
No, no, no, don't...
No, seriously, I should
be paying you to stay here.
Well, maybe just
join me for some dinner.
You hungry?
I wish I could.
I actually have plans.
Oh, yeah.
Yeah, of course.
It's my boss.
It's the last thing
I would want to be doing.
Well, work comes first.
You know what, I'll just...
I'll clear this up.
I'll be out of your hair.
Hey, why don't you eat up here?
You already
went through all the trouble.
Well, I appreciate that,
but it might be kind of weird
just being in your house,
eating alone.
Well, I do it all the time.
Right.
I'm gonna go get ready
for this thing
I really don't want to do.
I'm sorry that I can't join you
for dinner.
No, no. Another night.
Okay.
You're gonna I
Oh, just water for me, thanks.
Well, more for me, I guess.
So what did you want
to talk to me about?
What, no foreplay?
Excuse me?
I just thought that rapport
was a necessary step
in the attorney-client
relationship.
Well, I'm not your attorney.
No, but you are my employee,
and someone
I'd like to get to know better,
so a modicum
of mutual socializing
isn't too much to ask,
now, is it?
Look...
I want to be
perfectly frank with you.
I think...
that you and I...
would make a perfect team...
which is why
I want to make a proposal.
Assistant Manager.
What about Sarah?
Sarah doesn't have the brains.
I see the way
you handle yourself.
The way you interact
with customers.
I see a lot.
But you can't...
Sarah's been there for years.
She practically runs the place.
She's way past
her best-before date.
Which is why I wanted to get
your legal advice
on how I can get you
to take her place, hmm?
That would be
a conflict of interest.
Well, would it change things
if I told you
that there'd be a raise?
Maybe a bump in commissions?
Not to mention...
other perks.
I'd make it
all worth your while.
What are you doing?
Don't make a scene.
You realize
that this is harassment?
Come on.
Don't pull that card.
Alison!
Alison, what's the problem?
Just leave me alone!
You've done enough tonight!
You're overreacting.
Overreacting?
You grabbed me!
I barely touched you.
Come on.
Hey!
Hey, why don't you mind
your own business, buddy?
I think the lady
would like for you
to leave her alone...
buddy.
You've got this all wrong.
So that's your boss, huh?
Yeah.
What are you doing here?
I was gonna eat at home,
but then I just figured
we'd save it for tomorrow,
so I came to get some Chinese.
Are you sure you're okay?
Yeah.
Look, why don't you get home,
I'll pick something up,
I'll bring it back for us.
That's really sweet,
but I think I'm just
gonna go home,
and go to bed early.
Yeah. Okay.
Thanks for helping me.
Yeah.
Good night.
'Night.
Hey.
Hey.
Sorry I missed your call.
Everything okay?
You were right.
About Brandon.
Oh, no.
What did he do?
He just...
I can't believe
he made a move on me like that.
Ali...
I don't know why
I keep attracting
these kinds of people
into my life, you know?
Maybe it's me.
No, no!
It's not you.
Don't even go there.
Men like him are a dying breed.
I just don't know
how I'm going
to face him tomorrow.
Hey, listen,
if you want to
take this up with H.R.,
you know I'll back you up.
Brandon's been
getting away with this
for far too long.
In my opinion,
he's run into the wrong person
in the wrong era.
I know.
Look, I'm just gonna
get some sleep,
and I will see you tomorrow.
Okay.
Bright and early.
Bye.
Okay. Bye.
Good morning.
Hi.
None for me?
James got it for me.
Ooh! Breakfast in bed now?
Stop it.
Maybe I should rent out
my basement...
I don't have a basement.
I have a living room.
I could rent out my living room.
Very funny.
Oh! And his wife...
Well, ex-wife...
Is a lawyer,
and she said
she'd look over my resume.
Two contacts in two days.
Not too shabby...
Hey...
You know I appreciate you
getting me this job, right?
Of course.
And we all know
you're over-qualified.
Probably going to be
a long process,
and I'm not really sure...
Excuse me, Alison.
Could I speak to you
for a minute, please?
Good morning, folks.
Welcome to the store.
Don't forget to check out
all of our great specials.
Listen, Alison...
Mr. Matthews, I...
Please. Let me just finish.
Okay?
From what I recall,
all I did last night
was ask you for a little help
with a personal matter,
and if you think
that you can accuse me
of anything untoward,
well...
it's not going to work out
for you here.
Mr. Matthews...
Brandon...
I really need this job,
and...
I apologize if I overreacted.
Good.
I was hoping you'd say that.
Hey!
Hey.
You never told me
you had a green thumb.
Yeah. Yeah.
I hope you don't mind.
No, I...
In fact, that's not something
I would do for myself,
so thank you.
Well, I have to admit,
I saw on your profile
that you loved petunias, so...
You saw that?
Yeah. It was listed under
favorite things,
which is funny,
because I kind of had you pegged
as more of a tulip girl.
That's what you get for
putting all your things online.
Right.
Oh, excuse me.
Hello?
Michael?
You found my number.
Really?
They want to interview me?
That's amazing.
Yeah, I can go for a snack.
The Friendly Bistro, 7:00.
I'll see you then.
Bye.
Who was that?
That's an old
law-school friend of mine.
I guess his firm
wants to interview me.
That's great, right?
Yeah...
What?
It's just...
I don't know.
He's one of those people
who's, like, really pleased
to see me, you know?
Ah...
Well, do you want me
to come with?
I could sit in the corner,
put on a disguise,
choke him if he tries
any funny business.
I think we'll be fine.
Okay.
Um...
do you mind if I grab a glass
of water from your kitchen?
No. Come on in.
You think you guys will be
having a late night tonight?
No. It's just to get an update
about this potential interview.
That's cool.
Here you go.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
I'm just going to go change.
Yeah.
Hey, how did it go
with your boss today?
He said I overreacted,
which is why
I need this interview.
And I need it badly.
Okay...
Wow.
You sure it's not a date?
Trust me.
I just want
to look professional.
So what are you going
to be doing?
I'm just going to...
finish up back here,
shoot off some work emails.
Nothing major.
I wish I could stay in.
This sounds like
a great opportunity for you.
Yeah. Thanks.
I love the flowers.
You're welcome.
And thank you for the water.
Anytime.
See you later.
See ya.
You remember
those all-night study sessions
at Calhoun's Cafe in Kentucky?
Strongest coffee in town.
I never drank it.
You never drank the coffee?
How did you stay up?
I don't know.
I just never really needed it.
But I do remember
Edwin trying to pick you up
one night.
You were sitting
over there in the corner,
and he walked right in,
looking like a lost little kid
in a land full of lawyers.
Well, he always hated lawyers.
And Kentucky.
Should've taken that hint,
I guess.
Well, he obviously
didn't want to lose you.
I mean, I can't blame him.
What do you mean?
Well, I had a little crush
on you back in the day.
You did?
Everybody did.
But I went my own way.
Out of respect, of course.
Speaking of which,
is your boss
still creeping on you
from his window?
Uh, yeah.
I'm hoping
not for much longer, though.
Well, actually,
I spoke to my associates.
You did?
Mm-hmm.
I told them about your grades
and your Bar exam,
and they're very impressed.
And they want to see
your full C.V.,
which you can bring
to your interview!
Sorry. Sorry.
Don't be.
It's just been such a while
since I got some good news.
Don't worry about it.
Cheers to that.
Yes.
They'll call you
by the end of the week,
so don't stress.
Just be yourself.
Let me send you
their contact info
so you'll know it's them
when they call.
That is old school.
Keeps it simple.
If I wanna check the weather,
I'll open a newspaper.
Oh.
Well, thanks again, Michael.
It was so great
running into you again.
Some things
are just meant to be.
Right.
Okay, well,
I should probably get home.
Yeah, it is getting late.
I want to make sure
I'm sharp for
all those canned goods tomorrow.
Bye.
Bye now.
James?
Just a sec.
Hey.
Guess who got a job interview?
What?
That's fantastic!
Not only that,
but I don't have
much to celebrate these days,
so I brought over
a bottle of wine.
Do you feel like hosting?
Mi Casa Su Casa.
Literally. Come on.
Awesome.
Thank you.
You know, I used to live
down here for a while.
Yeah. I kind of figured
it was your family home
or something.
Most people can't afford
a house like this these days.
Well, not on
a one-year law career.
Right.
So, when my dad died,
my mom just needed a change,
and so she moved to
Sedona, of all places.
Ah... Home of the vortexes.
You know your stuff.
It's the spiritual center
of the United States.
I mean, the Hopi people
still have a lot
to teach us about
peace and love...
If we're willing to learn.
Have you ever been there?
It's actually
where Hannah and I got married.
I have to admit,
I heard you guys talking.
You heard?
Yeah. It's an old house.
Thin walls.
I don't mean to pry, but...
I think it's really great
that you two are friends.
I know how hard breakups can be.
Yeah, I mean, the truth is,
we hadn't been on the same page
for a long, long time.
Even intimately...
it's been years.
Years?
Sorry. Is that
too much information?
No, no, not at all.
In fact, it's refreshing
to know that
I'm not the only one who has...
struggles.
You and your ex?
Yeah.
We were...
a bad match.
How so?
He was possessive
and jealous of my friends
and colleagues.
That can be a lot to deal with.
Did he hurt you?
Well, if that's
all in the past...
I mean, frankly,
he's just lucky
I wasn't there to protect you.
Not many men would have done
what you did last night.
Put yourself in harm's way
to help.
I guess I'm not like most men.
No...
you definitely aren't.
I'm sorry.
What? No, no.
I should not have done that.
It's okay.
No, I'm your landlord,
and I should just
go back upstairs.
Alison, just wait.
Okay, look, this is your space,
and if anything,
I misread the situation.
No. You didn't.
I don't think they cover this
in the Tenancy Act.
Look, I used your kitchen...
and you kissed me, so...
let's just call it even.
You're not weirded out?
No, no.
Not at all.
Look, whatever happened,
happened...
and we're totally cool.
We're cool?
Totally cool.
So how's your tenant?
James?
He's...
good.
What does that mean?
Did something happen
between you two?
We kissed.
What?
Shh!
Ali!
How did that even happen?
We were on the couch,
and we were talking,
and then
one thing led to another...
I feel terrible!
Why, why, why?
Because he's my tenant.
So, people meet on the Internet
all the time, I guess.
I guess.
Just be careful.
What do you mean?
Well, personally,
I'm very happy
to see you moving on
and feeling good
about yourself...
Just... you know, don't...
Move too fast.
Exactly.
Yeah.
Okay, now I really
have to meet this guy.
Uh, Ali?
This is Detective Fitzgerald
and Detective Reynolds.
They're hoping
to have a word with you.
What's going on?
When was the last time
you saw Mr. Matthews?
Uh, yesterday.
We had a bit of an argument.
About what?
I was a lawyer.
He asked me to help him
with a personal problem.
I said I couldn't.
Was he in some kind of trouble?
Not that I'm aware of.
What is going on?
Did he do something?
What happened
after the argument?
I finished my shift,
I went home,
and then I met up
with a friend for a drink...
From back in college.
He have a name?
Michael Hammond.
He'll vouch
for your whereabouts?
Yes, of course.
What is going on?
Brandon Matthews
was killed last night.
He was burned alive.
How was your relationship
with him?
He...
he was my boss.
Did your relationship ever
venture into any other areas?
No.
Nothing sexual
or something that could be
misconstrued as such?
Why are you asking me this?
Miss Peters,
Mr. Matthews' phone
was retrieved
from the fire last night.
Our forensics
were able to pull the records.
They show texts of you
communicating with him
right up until
the time of his murder.
What?
"Hey, it's Alison.
Wanna try again?
"Grab a drink tonight and talk?
I promise to not overreact."
Then, "I knew you'd be
a team player.
Where do you want to meet me?"
"Same place.
15 minutes."
Then "Done."
I didn't write that!
Are you still 555-0199?
No.
That is not my number.
It isn't?
No.
Is there anyone in your life
who might want to harm
Mr. Matthews?
Maybe someone who wants
to get close to you?
Is your boss
still creeping on you
from his window?
He shouldn't do that to you.
You don't deserve this.
Alison?
What is it?
Well...
Michael was...
What?
Michael was what?
He saw...
He saw Brandon staring at me
and he said a comment
that I didn't
pay much attention to
at the time...
And then he called me
out of the blue that night,
and asked me to go
for dinner with him...
And then he admitted
that he had a crush on me
since we were in school.
Listen...
I'll check him out.
In the meantime, just...
you need to stay safe, okay?
Whatever precautions
you need to take...
do it.
We're just a phone call away.
Alison?
Is everything okay?
Hey. You okay?
So what happened?
He was murdered.
What? Who?
My boss.
The guy from the restaurant?
Yeah.
Do they have a suspect?
They don't know yet, but...
Are you expecting someone?
Yeah.
Hey.
I just had to leave
after they talked to me.
Are you okay?
No.
No, I'm not.
Sarah, this is James.
James, this is Sarah.
Hi.
Hey.
I'm really sorry
to hear about your boss.
Yeah, thanks.
Did they question you, too?
They questioned everybody.
I'll get that.
Do you guys want tea?
Yeah. Thanks, James.
Yeah.
So did they tell you
that someone texted Brandon
and they tried to pin it on me?
What?
Yeah.
From your phone?
It was another phone number,
but they still haven't found
the phone.
So someone's trying
to put this on you?
Okay, that's just freaky.
It's Michael's firm.
Put it on speaker phone.
Hello?
Miss Peters,
I'm calling on behalf of
Crowder and Associates.
Hi.
Mr. Crowder would like
to see you for an interview.
Does 2:00 P.M.
tomorrow work for you?
Uh... yes.
That's perfect.
Wonderful.
We'll see you then.
Okay, bye.
What are you doing?
Why would he do that for me
if he was going
to go after Brandon?
Well, it makes
perfect sense, Ali.
Thank you.
Yeah.
He wants you for himself,
and now he's even closer.
Yeah, some guys can be
really, really possessive.
Even dangerous.
From everything I've heard
about this Michael guy,
I don't trust him.
I don't even think
you should go to this interview.
I agree.
Hey, how about
I stay over tonight?
I mean, you're not the only one
who's freaked out here.
And plus,
if he's coming after you,
he's going to have to go
through me first.
Well, you know what,
I'm right downstairs.
I mean, we're probably
pretty safe in the house.
Thanks, James,
but you don't know me,
and I am vicious.
I will rip his face off.
Okay. Either way...
we've got each other's back.
Okay?
Of course.
Yeah.
What are you doing?
What are you doing?
I heard something.
Please don't say that.
It was probably
just the wind, but...
But what?
Let's go downstairs.
Okay.
You know what I think you need?
New locks.
I don't need new locks.
Yes, you do!
I'll have to change
the whole house.
So at least
you'll feel more safe.
And put a new lock on the
basement door once and for all.
Why?
Well, if you want to play
Miss Landlord,
then Miss Landlord
needs to put in some separation.
What about James?
What about James?
It's not like
he's going to be here forever.
That's true.
Did you see how weird he got
when I said I was staying over?
Please.
Not your spidey sense again.
Okay, my spidey senses
are always right, aren't they?
Ali?
I think we're all being
a little bit sensitive.
I'm sure he was
just being protective.
Okay, well, just humor me.
Okay...
He came upstairs... twice.
To make me food.
Right, because your site
didn't specifically say
that he couldn't.
I mean, I'm just saying...
what else do you think he does
in here when you're not home?
Sarah...
Well, just put feelings aside
and be a landlord.
I mean, every house
needs rules, right?
And if James
or some other tenant
wants to stay here,
then he should
have to follow them.
Rules?
Ali.
You're so afraid
of offending people
and that's how you get stuck
in these situations
in the first place.
If he's as good of a guy
as you say he is,
then he should understand.
You're right.
Let's just go back to bed.
Okay.
That's the last one?
That's it.
Thank you so much.
You're welcome.
Awesome.
Here are your new keys.
Great.
Have a nice day.
Locksmith, huh?
Uh...
Sarah convinced me.
I... I put a lock
on your basement suite door,
just up the stairs.
Oh, good.
It's good?
Yeah. I mean, if you're going
to be opening up your space
for strangers to stay,
then absolutely.
I've been so worried
about offending you,
with the locks and rules.
No, no, no.
Not at all.
I mean,
you need to take care of you.
Oh, sorry.
Hello?
Miss Peters,
this is Detective Fitzgerald.
Detective.
Hi. Is everything alright?
Yeah. We just wanted
to let you know
we've apprehended a suspect
in the Brandon Matthews case.
You did?
Some intoxicated vagrant.
We found him with the mobile.
We found him
with the lighter fluid.
Everything.
That is great news.
We still don't know why
Mr. Matthews thought
that number was yours,
or what this guy
even had against him,
but once he sobers up,
we'll get
more information out of him.
Okay.
Let me know if there's
anything else I can do to help.
Will do.
Okay, bye.
They got the guy
that murdered my boss.
What do you mean,
so it wasn't Michael?
I feel bad.
I feel relieved, but...
I feel relieved for Michael,
but he is never
going to let this go.
What do you mean?
Well...
if the police called him,
he's got a brain like a machine,
so I wouldn't be surprised
if he helped them find the guy.
Anyway, I should probably go
and get ready for my interview,
but...
so this is your new key.
Thank you.
Maybe we could do
dinner tonight?
You can help me work on
those online rules?
Yeah. That would be...
That would be really great.
Okay.
Okay.
It's all very impressive.
Top of your debate class.
Highest Bar Exam at Chase.
All I know is
you were fired from Fairfax,
and everyone signed
a confidentiality agreement
to not speak about it.
Now, I'm not asking you
to break your word,
but how about you explain it
to me as best you can?
It's a chapter
I like to forget about.
Mm.
The truth is,
I had an affair
with a colleague at the firm.
I didn't get fired.
I quit.
My life was such a mess,
and I wanted to own that,
and start over.
I love law, Mr. Crowder.
And I would give anything
to get a second chance.
Your honesty is noble,
Miss Peters.
As is your integrity.
Whoa.
Oh!
Oh, I'm so sorry.
I didn't see you there.
Oh, don't worry about it.
So how'd it go?
It went good, I think.
Good.
Yeah.
I'm really happy for you.
Well, let's not get happy yet.
Those chickens
aren't guaranteed to hatch.
They'd be fools to pass on
someone like you.
Listen...
I'm sorry about your boss.
The police called me,
they told me what happened.
I'm really sorry that
I gave your name to the police.
No...
you were just crossing your
"T"s and dotting your "I"s.
That's why you're a good lawyer.
Thank you.
You might not want
to count those chickens,
but I'll see you
when they hatch.
Can't wait.
It'll be like old times.
Yup.
See you soon.
Alright.
Bye.
It's too bad that's not...
Where are you doing, man? Huh?
Why are you after me?
That's a pretty stupid question
for such a smart guy.
It was you, wasn't it?
You killed her boss, huh?
Nothing gets past you, huh?
What the hell
do you want from me, huh?
What do you want from her?
I just want her.
Maybe some kids.
A white-picket fence.
See, I want what you want.
I just want it more.
James?
And shared laundry,
but you choose the days.
But what if they're only here
for two days?
Then you set some hours.
Fine.
Oh, I have an email.
It's from Hannah.
"Hey, Alison,
James informed me
of your inquiries.
Please send over your C.V.
at your earliest convenience."
That's amazing, Ali!
Yeah...
but what about Michael?
You do the smart thing
and see which one sticks.
You have your C.V. on file?
Of course.
So send it, girl!
Roll with it while you can.
Okay...
"Hey, Hannah!
Thank you so much for your help.
Here's my C.V.
Looking forward
to hearing from you.
Alison Peters"
And send.
Good job.
Oh!
I think James is back.
Oh... gonna go
to second base?
How old are you?
Are we still on for tomorrow?
Only if you're making me.
I'm making you.
Okay.
Have fun.
Okay, bye.
Hey, what happened?
I'm embarrassed.
Are you okay?
Yeah, no.
I went running on this trail,
and I fell pretty hard.
It looks painful.
No, it's alright.
Here. Come inside.
I'll clean you up.
And that is why you should
always have a running partner.
Are you offering?
Well, I think Sarah would get
a little bit jealous.
Didn't realize
you guys had a routine.
We try...
Although once a week
seems to be like
all we can handle right now.
We're going to go
tomorrow morning
if you want to join.
Yeah, I'm thinking
maybe I should take
a day off for once.
I think that's
probably a good idea.
You know,
Hannah would never do this.
No?
No.
Well, good thing
you have me, then.
Wouldn't have it any other way,
except for the scrapes
and everything.
She emailed me, by the way.
Oh, yeah?
Mm-hmm.
I sent over my C.V. to her.
That's awesome.
I'm excited for you.
Thank you.
Do you want to make dinner
with me tonight?
I'd love to.
Okay.
Well, I'll go get started.
You finish up here
and meet me downstairs?
Yeah.
Okay.
I remember in school,
there was this kid
who copied my test.
And then when he got caught,
he told the teacher
that I gave him his answers.
Did you?
Not at all.
Okay, so, I see,
and then you went on
a legal crusade
to try to right
all the wrongs of the world.
My dad is the one who wanted me
to go into law,
and I was never able to say no,
and no matter what I did,
it was just never good enough.
I guess that's why I...
couldn't stand up to Brandon.
Or any man, for that matter.
No, no, no.
That guy played with fire
and he got burned.
What?
It was just a figure of speech.
Did I tell you
that he died in a fire?
No, I don't think so, but...
I mean, come to think of it,
I did see something on the news.
Brandon...
Matthews.
That was your boss?
Yeah.
Oh, my...
what a horrible way to die.
Yeah.
Remind me why
I agreed to this again?
Because we're trying
to be more disciplined.
How's lover boy?
What? Did you sleep with him?
No, not at all,
it was just...
What? What is it?
He just said something
that was...
What? What did he say?
Did you tell him
that Brandon died in a fire?
Why would I tell him that?
He said he saw it on the news,
but then when I looked online
last night for local murders,
there was nothing.
Huh.
You know what I think?
I think you're scared.
Of what?
Of what?
Feelings, connections.
I mean, it does make sense.
This is the first guy
you've actually liked
in a while.
You would probably find
some things to freak out about.
How are the new rules going,
by the way?
Perfect.
He says they should have
been placed from the beginning.
Okay, well, then just
enjoy it, you know?
Be present.
Speak of the devil.
Hey.
Hey.
Ladies.
How are you feeling?
Still a little tender,
but nothing that won't heal up.
How was the run?
Feels good, right?
Worst decision ever.
Right.
Oh! It's the law firm.
Well, answer it!
Put it on speaker phone.
Okay.
Alison Peters.
Alison.
It's Cameron Crowder.
Have I caught you at a bad time?
No, no.
It's good to hear from you.
Listen, firstly...
I want to get this
out of the way...
We'd love for you
to join the firm.
Really?
Your honesty, your enthusiasm...
Your resume speaks for itself.
I'd like you to start next week.
I would love that!
Wonderful, wonderful.
Listen, secondly,
have you heard
from Michael at all?
Michael? No.
We haven't either.
Not since yesterday.
Not like him
to not return our calls.
You know what,
I actually sent him a text
last night,
and he never
got back to me either.
Well, it's early, I suppose.
I'm sure he'll be in soon.
Yeah. I'm sure he will.
I'll see you in a week.
Yeah. Thank you so much,
Mr. Crowder.
I'm really excited
to join the team.
You're very welcome.
Bye now.
Bye.
Ali! That is amazing!
That's amazing!
Please tell me that you told him
I could work the phones
like nobody's business.
I didn't.
But I will.
Okay.
Congratulations.
Hey, what's up?
Why don't you look happy?
I just hope Michael's okay.
I'm sure he's fine.
Hey, you know what,
we should celebrate tonight.
What do you say about dinner?
Come on!
I love that.
Okay.
As long as you're both in.
No, I don't want to be
a third wheel.
What? Please, no.
You know, I should probably
get to know you anyway.
Yeah.
Right?
Sure, yeah, okay.
Good. Sweet.
Hi. You've reached
Michael Hammond.
Leave a message.
Hey, Michael.
It's Alison.
Look, I've tried to call you
a few times,
and I was hoping
to talk to you in person, but...
I just wanted to thank you again
for getting me the opening.
It looks like Cameron's
going to be taking me on, so...
Anyway, um,
we're having a celebratory
dinner at my house,
and I would love it
if you could stop by.
I hope you're okay.
It's open.
Hey, girl.
Hey.
Hey. Ooh.
Is everything alright?
James up here?
No. He's downstairs.
What's going on?
Okay, Ali, um...
don't get upset, alright?
What?
Hello.
Hey.
You didn't have to bring that.
Oh, no, no, no,
I'm happy to help.
Did you get a hold of Michael?
No, you know what,
I wasn't able to reach him.
I guess we'll flip a coin
to see
who's the third wheel, huh?
Well, shall we?
Yeah.
Yeah.
Thank you.
This is delicious, by the way.
I'm just really happy
that we could all get together.
So Ali tells me
that your wife is a lawyer?
Uh... ex-wife.
Sorry. Ex-wife.
What firm?
Uh, Mckenzie, Latner and Co.
Never heard of it.
It's boutique.
Got it.
So your family is still in...
Minnesota.
Minneapolis, to be exact.
Yeah, it's been a little hard
on Lilly, but...
she's a strong girl.
She sounds adorable.
I mean, I haven't talked to her,
but...
I've heard James talking to her.
She's everything to me.
Well, she sure is cute.
Looks a lot like her mom.
Excuse me?
Well, I mean,
from your profile picture.
Why were you looking at
his profile?
'Cause I was helping you
with your profile
when we were doing
the house rules.
Right.
Yeah.
Yeah, they look a lot alike.
Can I get you ladies
some more wine?
Yes, please.
Please. Thanks.
Thank you.
I could use a top-up.
Thank you.
And what about you two? Huh?
You guys went to school
together or something?
Yeah, we were in third grade,
and we took the bus together.
That's cute.
So how long
have you been separated?
Sarah, enough.
What are you doing?
What?
He's open about her,
right, James?
About a month.
A month?
Officially. Yeah.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Well, that's weird, 'cause...
when I look at your profile,
it says that
you've been renting
all across the country...
For six months.
Sarah.
Well, ask him.
You think it looks like
I've been having an affair.
Were you?
No.
Hannah and I were trying
to fix things for a long time,
and I was traveling
back and forth
across the country for work.
Sarah, I think
your spidey senses
have had a little bit
too much tonight.
If you'll excuse me,
I have to go to the bathroom.
I am so sorry.
I do not know
what has gotten into her.
It's alright.
I'm sure it's just her way
of looking out for you.
Yeah...
I'm really happy to be here.
I'm happy that you're here, too.
Is she okay?
Uh, yeah.
Her ride share
will be here soon.
Um... listen,
I...
I got you something.
You did?
Yeah. Yeah, it's just
a little something
to celebrate your new job.
"A" for "Ali."
I love it.
Yeah?
Yeah. Thank you.
May I?
Yeah. Of course.
Yeah?
It's beautiful.
Thank you.
Oh, the car's here.
Do you want to help me?
Oh, yeah, of course.
Come on, girl.
The car's here.
It's time to go to bed.
No, I don't want to leave.
It's night-night time.
I got her, I got her.
Alright.
Get her home safe, okay?
Good night.
I love you, Ali!
Love you.
Well, that was eventful.
Hello.
Hello.
Okay...
Mm...
Detective Fitzgerald?
It's Alison Peters.
I need your help.
Hey, this is Sarah.
Leave a message.
Sarah, this is the third time
I've called you.
Where are you?
Call me back, please.
I don't know
what else you want me
to tell you, Miss Peters.
You have to do something.
You've seen the texts.
Listen,
it's breaking and entering,
it's past 3:00 A.M.
It could have been
a random event, for all we know.
Fitzgerald, take a look at this.
That's Michael's phone.
Michael Hammond?
Yeah. He's been missing
for two days.
Last communication...
Sarah Williams
to Michael Hammond
last night, 2:00 A.M.
"Leave Alison and me alone.
She wants nothing to do
with your firm.
She's mine."
No.
Sarah would've never said that.
So who would?
My spidey senses
are never wrong.
Did you see how weird he got
when I said I was staying over?
Who was that?
And, frankly, he's just lucky
I wasn't there to protect you.
Hey.
He came upstairs twice.
What else do you think he does
when you're not home?
Hey, this is Sarah.
Leave a message.
Sarah, please call me back.
I need you to call me back.
I'm worried about you, okay?
Where are you?
That's a committed friend
you've got there.
Must be nice.
Sarah, can you please pick up?
I went to work,
I checked the gym,
I went back to your house.
I'm worried about you.
Sarah, just please call me back.
James?
Screw the rules.
Hello?
James?
Hello?
I shouldn't be here.
Hannah's phone number.
Okay...
Hello?
Is this Hannah Brewer?
This is her sister.
Who is this?
This is Alison Peters.
Do I know you?
I'm the landlord
that rented
the basement suite to James.
Oh, my gosh.
He's doing it again.
What?
He's not who you think he is.
You need to get off the phone
right now and call the police!
Oh!
Sarah?
Oh, honey.
We're going
to get you out of here, okay?
Doesn't this go
against the house rules?
James, what are you doing?
I really wish you hadn't
come down here, Ali.
I didn't see anything.
You didn't see anything?
No.
You didn't see Sarah
right there?
My computer right there?
Is it true?
Did you kill them?
You talked to Hannah's sister,
didn't you?
I'm guessing she filled you in.
But I heard you talking to them.
Are you sure about that?
Oh, hi, sweetie.
That's great.
I can't wait to see you, too.
Hey, put your mom
on the phone, would you?
So, all those emails
from Hannah,
they weren't real?
I'm just trying to make it
work with us, Ali.
And I was really hoping that
you'd be wearing this today.
I took that off to go to bed.
You went into my room?
You came down to mine,
didn't you?
That was a mistake.
It's always the same.
It's always the same.
Come here!
Let go of me!
Come on!
Alison.
Alison.
I know you saw
some things down there.
But I think if we just have
a chance to speak about it...
it can all be explained.
Everything I've done
has been for you.
Stop it!
Please, please!
Don't make this harder
than it has to be.
No!
Why are you doing this?
I always do
everything for you...
I hold doors for you,
I buy you things,
and all I want
is a little love in return.
It's getting quiet now,
isn't it?
It's dark.
Look who decided
to make a final appearance.
You know,
Hannah loved flowers, too.
They were her "special place."
She wouldn't let me
go near them, of course.
Said I couldn't be trusted
with such fragile things.
That's ironic.
People and their boundaries...
She had no problem sleeping
with somebody else, though.
No problem crossing
those boundaries, did she?
They still haven't found
her body.
That doesn't
surprise me, though.
It can be very difficult
for people to see what lies
below the surface sometimes.
You should know that.
You ready?
From what I've read,
once the dirt hits your face,
it takes about eight minutes
for you to suffocate.
The worms will be on your body
for around a year...
Then after that,
there will be nothing left.
I really wish it could have been
different between us, Ali.
Don't do that.
You haven't earned that.
What?
I don't care
that you've been bad.
I've been bad!
It doesn't matter.
I don't care.
We all do bad things.
Bitch!
Love you, bestie!
Turn out he's been connected
with seven other murders
across state lines.
You're the first person
to get away.
I can't believe I trusted him.
Well,
human nature is still
what it always was.
We believe what we think is true
until we don't.
I'm just glad
you lived to talk about it.
Crowder and Associates,
how may I direct your call?
One moment, please.
Miller's on line two.
Can you take a message?
Hey, you want to go get lunch?
I am starving.
Kinda craving some Mexican.
Ooh.
Si, por favor.
All right.
I've been meaning to tell you,
my new client
is so easy to work with.
That's because
he has you on his side.
Well, I'm just lucky
I have you on my side.
Besties forever.
You know it.
Hey, have you seen
that cute guy
who works down the hall?
Yeah, he's almost cute enough
to rent a basement suite to?
Ali!
Very funny.
Okay. Too soon?
Too soon!
Alright.