The Wrong Marriage (2025) Movie Script

[door opens]
[keys jangling]
[distant footsteps]
[foreboding music]
[keyboard clacking]
[footsteps]
[beeps]
[phone line trilling]
You didn't come by my house
today, did you?
[suspenseful music]
[Carrie]
Mom, you don't understand.
[Diane] Then explain it to me.
[Carrie] I've already
explained it to you.
- I have to leave Marc.
- [Diane] No.
You told me
you have to leave him.
You didn't explain why.
There's no reason
to get into the details.
They don't matter.
[phone rings]
[Diane]
So, give me the broad strokes.
Okay, the broad strokes
are that things
have been bad for a long time.
Why didn't you tell me?
I didn't wanna upset you.
Carrie, I'm your mother.
If you can't talk to me,
who can you talk to?
He provides for you, doesn't he?
[scoffs]
There's more to being a husband
than just providing, Mom.
Then what is it?
Is it another woman?
- No, it's not another woman.
- Because if it's another woman,
- there are plenty...
- He's abusive, Mom.
Has he hit you?
No. There's other ways
to be abusive.
- [phone ringing]
- [gasps]
- Hello?
- [man breathing heavily]
Hello?
I know it's you, Marc.
Okay, I told you not to call me
and I meant it.
Just where do you think
you're going?
[sighs deeply]
He's emotionally abusive.
He manipulates me.
He gaslights me.
He spies on me when I'm alone.
[phone ringing]
[Marc] Peek-a-boo.
I see you.
How do you know
where I always am?
I'm always watching, Carrie.
You know that.
I have eyes everywhere.
[suspenseful music]
[Diane]
You need to go to the police.
He is the police.
No, no, no, not anymore.
He is not.
Oh, you don't know
how it works, Mom.
Look, he still has friends
on the force.
If I even try to file
a complaint,
he'll know about it
before it even moves up
the chain of command.
So, what are you going to do?
The only thing I can do.
I'm gonna leave him.
I see you've considered
this already.
I have.
And there's already
some things in motion.
Look, I've been safe about this.
I've made a plan with Kim.
[Diane] What kind of plan?
[Carrie]
It's better if you don't know.
[suspenseful music]
Oh, I have something for you.
Oh, what is this?
St. Anne.
It's patron saint for women.
It was your grandmother's
and her mother's
before she immigrated
to America.
I've never seen this before.
I didn't know you had this.
It was never the right moment
to give it to you.
I love you, Mom.
Be safe, sweetheart. Promise me?
Yes, I promise. I promise.
[dramatic music]
[tram bell ringing]
[Vicki] Here you go.
I thought you could use it.
You're too good to me, Vicki.
Oh.
You know, just because
we're not together
doesn't mean
that I can't help you.
I'll always be here for you.
You know that.
I know that.
And I appreciate it.
More than you know.
I just can't understand
why she doesn't see
she's making a mistake?
Marc...
Marc, just let her go.
You don't need her.
You deserve to be with someone
who really appreciates you.
She's got this hold on me.
I have to find her, Vicki.
All right.
All right, so
if she's already left,
then there's only one place
that she would go.
Where is that?
To that friend of hers.
The defense attorney?
Kim?
Uh-hmm. That's right.
Whatever you need me
to do, Marc,
just tell me, okay?
[distant siren wailing]
[distant dog barking]
[doorbell rings]
- [Kim] Hey, are you okay?
- Yeah.
You did it?
I did it.
I'm proud of you.
Thank you.
I've gotta get going though.
Marc knows I left.
What? How does he know?
He's in security, Kim.
He knows everything.
Okay, let's get you set up.
- Coffee?
- No.
I just wanna get on the road.
Okay. Okay. Got you.
Ooh, Margaret Cobb?
I didn't choose the name.
Just tell them you go by Maggie.
- Okay.
- There's a burner phone, too.
- Uh, and the address?
- Address is real.
It's an apartment building,
lots of people.
It'll be better cover for you.
How did you get this, Kim?
[laughs]
I've been a criminal
defense attorney
for over 10 years.
I know lots of people
in all kind of places.
- Hmm.
- You got enough money?
Yeah, for now.
Even for Malibu?
Well, not everyone there
is filthy rich.
They need people like me
to work for them.
True. Still don't think
you should go
maybe just a little bit further?
It's a seven-hour car ride.
He could find me
just as easily in Tucson.
I just need to be smart
and lucky.
He's a dangerous man, Carrie.
Why do you think
I'm leaving him?
I know what he did,
but he still has friends
on the force,
not to mention
his current co-workers.
I just wanna make sure
that you really know
what you're doing.
I don't have any other choice.
Let me know
once you arrive, okay?
Look, you know I couldn't have
done this without you, right?
Take care of yourself.
Be safe.
Be free.
[somber music]
[seagulls squawking]
[birds chirping]
[door closes]
[upbeat music]
The menu's right there,
I'll be right with you.
What can I get you?
Hopefully a job.
I was walking by
and saw your sign.
You have experience
as a waitress?
Yes, ma'am. Uh, all throughout
high school, college,
even a few years after.
Well, the first thing you can do
is lose the, ma'am.
[both laugh]
You can call me Meredith.
Maggie. Maggie Cobb.
Are you the owner?
The owner, the manager,
the waitress,
the short order cook, busboy,
depending on the day.
When can you start?
Uh, right away, actually.
I just got into town.
You from around here?
No, the East Coast.
I was looking for something new.
Do you have a place to stay?
Not yet.
I'm just gonna stay in a motel
until I find something
more permanent.
Well, there are some places
further inland
if you head that way.
Tell you what,
why don't you start tomorrow?
Get settled tonight
and start at the morning shift
6:00 AM.
- Really?
- You bet.
Thank you, Meredith.
[both chuckle]
[distant siren wailing]
- [Carrie] Hi.
- Hey, how are you?
- I'm here.
- [Kim] Already?
I made good time.
And guess what?
I already found a job.
What do you mean
you already found a job?
Well, I pulled over
at this diner
and they had a help wanted sign
in the window
and they hired me on the spot.
Well, it's a start.
How about a place to stay?
Well, I'm working on that next.
Have you heard from Marc?
No. Why would I?
[Carrie] Believe me, you will.
Once he realizes what I've done,
he's gonna go scorch the earth.
Oh, he won't be getting
anything from me.
I know. Uh, look, I gotta go.
Okay. Call me
if you need anything.
I will.
[sighs]
[siren blaring]
[bell chimes]
- Hello?
- Huh?
[Carrie] Oh.
Can I help you?
Yeah, do you have any vacancies?
How long you're looking to stay?
I don't know,
just one night to start.
Two hundred bucks a night
plus a security deposit.
Two hundred bucks to stay here?
You know where you are, lady.
Okay. Do you happen to know
of anywhere cheaper?
Oh. Well, that's just
the way it is, lady.
Okay.
Thank you.
[sighs deeply]
[suspenseful music]
[gasping]
[exhales deeply]
Okay, one breakfast special
- coming right up.
- [man] Thank you.
You're a natural.
My first day was like
I had two left feet.
Nothing natural about it.
I put myself through college
working at places like this.
- You went to college?
- Uh-hmm.
I barely graduated high school.
What are you doing
working here, then?
Uh, I just needed a change.
I guess so. Hi, Kyle.
Go right into the back.
This here is Maggie.
She just started.
- Pleased to meet you.
- Hi.
You may have graduated college,
but Kyle's an actual writer.
- Oh?
- Wrote a couple of books.
I tried to read one,
but couldn't get through it.
What's he doing working here?
What everyone else
is doing these days,
making ends meet.
Uh, Gina, do you know of a place
where I could stay?
[Gina] I wish I could get rid
of my boyfriend
and have you stay with me,
but his name is on the lease.
Not that he's much help
with the rent.
Well, if you hear of anything,
can you let me know?
Mm.
[Kyle] You need a place to stay?
I wasn't eavesdropping,
I overheard you.
I guess that's the definition
of eavesdropping.
Do you know of somewhere?
My mother has a guesthouse.
I've been trying
to rent it out for her.
How much is it?
How much can you afford?
Not much.
You're in luck.
Then that's the rent.
Why would you offer it to me?
I guess something is better
than nothing.
And I haven't found any takers.
I don't know.
If you don't like it,
you don't have to take it.
It would be completely official
and everything.
I'll even write up
a renter's agreement.
I hear you have some experience
with writing.
[soft chuckles] Oh, Gina.
She likes to over-exaggerate
my talents.
So what do you say?
Look, if you don't like it,
you don't have to take it.
And you can leave anytime
you want.
Thank you.
I'll give you the address
and you could meet me there
after your shift.
Thanks.
[dramatic music]
- Bryant? What are you doing?
- Huh?
You're supposed to meet me
in the parking lot
10 minutes ago?
Sorry. I got tied up.
What are you working on?
Nothing.
I just... I mean, it's fine.
Let's go.
Mr. Palmer isn't gonna be happy
if we're late
to his headquarters.
And that security review of his
is turning into a nightmare,
so I don't wanna be there
all night.
I said I was ready.
Let's go.
[birds chirping]
Mom lives right there,
so if you need anything,
she's close by.
Is she home now?
No, she's out of town right now.
She's visiting some friends,
she'll be back in a few days.
You don't think
she'd wanna meet me first?
She trusts my judgment.
Come on.
I mean,
we call it a guest house,
but it's more like
a one bedroom apartment.
[Carrie] I'm sure it'll be fine.
It's not like I'm in the market
for an oceanfront property.
[Kyle]
Well, prepare to be wowed.
Okay.
Thank you.
It's perfect. [Laughs]
[laughs] I'm glad.
You can decorate
how you like, too.
And I can help you paint
if you need one too.
No, no, no.
Uh, it's fine the way it is,
I won't be making any capital
improvements for a while.
Well, if anything else,
just shoot me a text.
I'm not that far away.
Uh, look,
I can't thank you enough.
You don't know how much
this helps.
Like I said, it helps us too.
This place was just unoccupied.
I'll let you get settled in.
Oh, hey, I almost forgot.
My mom has a spare
laying around somewhere.
Feel free to make a copy
if you need to.
- Thank you.
- Welcome home.
[chuckles]
[soft dramatic music]
[door creaks open]
[suspenseful music]
I promised I'd never let you go!
[gasps]
[panting]
[muffled rattling sound]
[sighs]
Hey, I'm sorry.
I didn't mean to scare you.
Just in case you wanted to go
for a swim, I brought these.
Why didn't you just knock?
I didn't wanna disturb you.
I really am sorry.
I didn't mean to follow you.
Well, since you found me
a place to live,
I think I can forgive you.
I can get you one of those
doorbell cameras if you want.
No, really. I... I'm fine.
Well, like I said,
the pool is yours.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
Have a good night.
[exhales sharply]
[ship horn blowing]
[loud knocking on door]
Open up, Kim.
I know you're in there.
[loud knocking on door]
[Kim] Stop banging on my door!
I'm gonna call the cops.
You remember them, don't you?
- Where is she?
- I don't know.
And even if I did know,
I wouldn't tell you.
[Marc] You think I believe that?
I know she wouldn't do anything
without checking with you first.
I don't care what you believe.
Just get away from my house.
I'm gonna find her, Kim.
I know that, you know that.
And she knows that.
Leave her alone, Marc.
She's done with you.
She's seen who you really are.
It just took her longer
to realize it
than it did everyone else.
You know, Kim, you should be
more like your friend
and watch your mouth around me.
Is that a threat?
It's just a fact.
I know you still have friends
on the force, Marc.
But so do I.
I've defended plenty
of good cops
who were wrongfully accused.
And trust me,
they don't appreciate
the attention
you brought on them.
[Marc] Is that a threat?
Just a fact.
One you better remember.
Can I get you all anything else?
More hot chocolate, please.
Okay. More hot chocolate
coming up.
- I like that lady.
- Sweet. Yeah.
Everything okay, hon?
Fine.
I just need a hot chocolate
- when you get a chance.
- Coming right up.
[Gina]
Another breakfast special.
Breakfast is our busiest time.
You'll get used to it.
[sighs]
Here you go.
Thank you.
Breakfast special.
Excuse me, Maggie?
How do you know my name?
I saw it on your name tag.
Look, I know
you're not my waitress,
but I just gotta call
and I have to run,
so I was hoping you could
put this in a to-go cup for me?
Yeah. You bet.
Uh, I'll be right back.
Oh, my gosh.
I'm sorry.
I don't usually have
that effect on women
unless I'm arresting them.
You're a cop?
A detective.
I thought you had
somewhere to be?
Well, I do, it's just
I was getting in my car
and I saw you talking out
the trash, and...
I'm really terrible at this.
I'm a regular
and I've never seen you before.
That's because I just started.
Look, might you wanna have
a drink some time?
I don't even know you.
Which is why
we'd have that drink.
Look, I don't mean to be rude,
I have a rule,
I don't date cops.
It's nothing personal,
just a rule I have.
Then it's a good thing
I'm a detective?
Sorry. It's all the same to me.
Okay.
Well, if you change your mind
or perhaps you'll need help
with a traffic ticket,
you know where to find me.
Okay.
[car door opens]
[car engine starts]
[dramatic music]
[loud knocking on door]
Diane Keller?
Yes?
I'm Detective Lisa McNeil.
Carrie... is she okay?
Well, you'd know that
better than me, ma'am.
That is why I'm here.
May I come in?
I know you think I'm holding out
on you, Detective,
but I really don't know
anything.
Think, Mrs. Keller.
I mean, you must have some idea
of where your daughter is.
But I don't.
Carrie wanted it that way.
[sighs]
Yeah. Yeah, I understand.
She probably thought
she was being smart.
I mean, after all, her husband
is a very, very dangerous man.
Why couldn't you do anything
to protect her?
We could have, ma'am.
But she never reached out
to us for help.
Do you have
any other properties?
Like a vacation home or,
you know, some place
that Carrie might go?
No. Just this.
And what about Carrie and Marc?
Did they have a second home
somewhere?
Not that I'm aware of.
What are some
of her vacation spots?
You know, Detective,
I'm not really sure.
[chuckles]
I really need you to think,
ma'am.
This is important.
You know, Detective,
if Carrie didn't come to you,
how did you know to contact me?
A good friend of hers
reached out to us.
She was very concerned.
Can you tell me her name?
No. No, ma'am,
that's confidential.
What about that friend of hers?
The defense attorney,
uh, Kimberly Williams?
Sorry. Never heard of her.
Really?
I'm told she's your daughter's
best friend.
Must be a new friend.
Is there anything
you can tell me at all?
I mean, even if you think
it's not important.
Well,
we used to visit relatives up
in, um, Northern Minnesota,
right by the Canadian border.
Carrie always loved it up there.
I mean, if she was looking
for somewhere to hide out...
These relatives,
do they still live there?
Oh, no. Passed away years ago.
I was just saying
how fond of the area she was.
Hmm.
All right.
Well, if you hear from Carrie,
can you give me a call
right away?
Of course.
Okay. Let me give you my number.
Mm.
[gasps]
Why don't I just call you
at the police station?
Of course. That'll work, too.
[sighs]
[tense music]
[line trilling]
Hey, it's me.
I just left the mother's house.
I couldn't really tell
if she knows
where Carrie is or not.
Of course
she says that she doesn't,
but that could've had something
to do with the fact that
I don't know that she believed
that I was who I said I was.
Anyway, just give me a call
when you get a chance,
all right?
And I'll fill you in.
[Meredith] Mind if I join you?
[Carrie] No. Of course.
But my break is almost done, so.
I think they're gonna be okay.
Is there something wrong?
[laughs]
Man, you are wound tightly.
You know, I just wanted to see
how you were doing.
I'm fine. Like I told you,
I've worked at restaurants
like this before.
Yeah, you did.
So, how's the house hunting
going?
Actually, I'm staying
at Kyle's mom's guest house.
- Really?
- [Carrie] Yeah.
He overheard me talking to Gina
and he offered me the place.
Well, you are lucky.
Kyle is good people.
[Carrie] Uh-hmm.
Meredith is there anything
I should know
about Kyle or...
Are you asking me
if there's anything about Kyle
that you should be
concerned about?
No.
I'm happy to say no.
He's as genuine as they come.
Although he's a little bit
more reserved
since his wife left him.
Oh. He was married?
Yeah, I don't think
he likes to talk about it,
especially not
with people he just met.
And he works
for the delivery service?
Yeah, among other odd jobs
he does around town.
He's good with his hands.
[laughter]
Uh, Gina said he's a novelist?
Uh-hmm.
- You've read his book?
- [Meredith] Uh-hmm.
All three of them.
And?
Well, I'm not really a critic,
but, um,
no, they were good.
They were really good.
Why doesn't he do that
full time?
I guess it's not that easy
to make a living as a writer.
Anyway,
I just wanted to make sure
that you were getting on okay.
I am. Thank you.
Okay.
[dramatic music]
[dog barking in distance]
[footsteps approaching]
- Oh!
- [Elle] I didn't mean
- to frighten you, dear.
- Oh.
I'm Elle Woodburn,
Kyle's mother.
Yes, I'm Maggie Cobb.
- It's so nice to meet you.
- Likewise.
We've been looking for a tenant
for a while.
Well, I love the place.
Thank you for renting it to me.
Why don't you get dressed
and come up to the house?
I can make us some tea.
We can get to know one another.
Okay. Thank you.
[Elle]
How do you take your tea, dear?
Oh, however you take it.
It doesn't matter. [Chuckles]
I switched from coffee
a couple of years ago.
My doctor said
it was better for my health.
Ooh. I don't think
I could ever quit coffee.
You're young. You don't have
to worry about it.
Hmm. Well, I don't feel young.
So where did you move from,
dear?
Uh, the East Coast.
And did you have family here?
No, no. I just wanted a change,
and I've always wanted
to live here.
Well, it has its pros and cons,
like every place.
But Kyle has been super helpful.
Uh-hmm. It's his one flaw.
I hear he's quite the novelist.
- Did he tell you that?
- Oh, no.
No. They were talking about it
at the diner.
[Elle] That makes more sense.
It's not Kyle's way
to bring attention on himself.
Hmm.
You must be so proud though?
Oh, I'm proud of my son
no matter what he does.
[Marc]
And where did you say this was?
But you do have the footage,
so why can't you just
upload it to me?
I don't know,
professional courtesy?
Yeah, I know where it is.
I can be there within the hour.
Thank you.
[sighs]
[car beeps]
Going somewhere?
It's usually
what you do in a car.
Where you off to?
Was there a change
in the old chart
I wasn't aware of?
Look, man,
I'm trying to help you.
You can start
by minding your own business.
It is my business
if you're going to the Regal
or the Millstone
Housing Development.
It's a personal matter.
Seems like you have a lot
of those these days.
You got a problem with me, Bob?
Hey, man. Chill out, okay?
- You don't wanna go there.
- Yeah?
- Yeah.
- Why is that?
You don't have a union
behind you this time.
Watch yourself.
[car engine starts]
Kyle.
- [winces]
- Oh.
Oh. I didn't mean to scare you.
Are you okay?
Is it bad?
[winces]
I think you'll live. [Chuckles]
- It hurts.
- I know.
Let's get it checked out anyway.
Come on.
[Kyle] All right. [Winces]
[winces]
Stop being such a baby.
Am I gonna need stitches?
Look, I don't even think
you'll need a Band-Aid.
The bleeding
has already stopped.
It hurts like hell.
What were you doing anyway?
I was installing your
door cameras anyway for you.
Kyle.
Next time, get an electrician.
What's a novelist doing
pretending to be an electrician?
Better question
is what am I doing
pretending to be a novelist?
Well, all the evidence suggests
that you are a novelist.
What are you doing
waiting tables?
What do mean?
You know what I mean.
You know what? Take an aspirin
so you don't have a headache
in the morning.
You didn't answer my question.
Well, you didn't really
answer mine.
Let me make you a deal.
Let me take you to dinner
and then you can ask me
anything you wanna know.
- When?
- Today.
If you don't have
any other plans.
I don't have any other plans.
Well, you gotta eat.
I do have to eat.
[chuckles]
[birds chirping]
[suspenseful music]
[keys jangling]
[distant footsteps]
[suspenseful music]
[music continues]
[scoffs]
[camera shutter clicks]
- [door closes]
- Oh, there it is.
[suspenseful music]
[Kim exhales sharply]
[phone rings]
Hi.
Uh, you didn't come
by my house today, did you?
What? No. How could I?
Right. I just had to ask.
Why? What's going on?
Nothing. Nothing.
Don't worry about it.
It's Marc, isn't it?
[Kim] No. It is not Marc.
What are you doing?
If I told you,
you'd never believe me.
[chuckles] I'd believe
just about anything nowadays.
I'm getting ready for dinner.
Ooh. Well, that doesn't sound
too surprising.
[Carrie] With someone.
Well, I wasn't expecting that.
You're moving quickly.
No. He's just a friend.
It's the guy
who found me a place to stay.
Hmm. If you say so.
Kim, what's going on?
[Kim] Look, you just go
and have a good time, okay?
I'll try.
Okay. Gotta go.
[door closes]
[suspenseful music]
[mellow music]
[indistinct chatter]
[exhales sharply]
We were young and naive.
We thought we were gonna change
the world with our art.
Her with her paintings
and me with my novels.
Why didn't you go with her
to New York?
Because I realized long before,
the problem
wasn't the geography.
The problem was us.
Neither of us were good enough.
You did what so many people
dream of doing.
I just don't understand how...
How I'm not successful?
- [sighs]
- [Kyle] People don't understand.
They hear novelists
and they think Stephen King.
A very small percentage
of writers
make a living doing it.
Well, you do it
because you love it, right?
And I hope to be a part
of that small percentage.
- [laughter]
- [Kyle] I'm only kidding.
Not about the desire,
but about the visibility.
The novels I write,
they don't sell real well.
Well, what are they about?
Family dramas
set in the country.
But if you wanna make
the big bucks,
you gotta write thrillers
and fantasy.
Well, I'd love to read them.
I'd buy them, of course.
Don't worry. I got plenty
of copies you can borrow.
I just don't think
I'm at a place to, uh
to let them go.
Okay. Enough about me.
I'm not the one
who's running from something.
It's that obvious, huh?
[Kyle] You move here
with no place to live.
You take the first job
that's offered
and one you're obviously
overqualified for.
I just needed a change.
- From?
- From life.
[chuckles] What else?
That's not much of an answer.
Look, I got married young.
Too young.
To a man I didn't really know.
A lot of women do that.
Doesn't mean you have to move.
When it's my husband, it does.
[sirens wailing]
[suspenseful music]
[phone line trilling]
I need a favor.
[phone rings]
[Jack] Hello. This is Jack.
Jack. Hey, it's Kim Williams.
- It's been a while, Kim.
- [Kim] Yeah.
I didn't think
you'd remember me.
- You're a tough woman to forget.
- [Kim laughs]
Unfortunately, this is not
a social call.
I didn't imagine it was.
What can I do for you?
I'm calling about one
of your employees, Marc Bryant.
[Jack] What about him?
You know what he's going through
with his wife?
I try not to get involved
in the private lives
of my employees.
Well, she left him.
[Jack] Sorry to hear that.
Don't be. It was long overdue.
Problem is is that
he's now looking for her
and I'm afraid of what
he might do if he finds her.
He's already threatened me.
So why call me
and not the police?
I was hoping that you could talk
some sense into him.
[chuckles]
And because you know
you don't have enough
for the cops to act on.
Look, I don't know
what kind of employee Marc is
or exactly what he does for you.
This guy is dangerous.
Well, sometimes in our business,
that's not necessarily
a bad thing.
I'm not talking
about your "business".
Look, I admit, I was calling you
asking for help.
But if he goes down,
you're going down with him.
So consider this call
a professional courtesy call.
I'll see what I can do, Kim.
[Kim] That's all I ask.
Thanks, Jack.
I had a really nice time.
Me too.
And thank you.
You didn't need to treat me.
It was my pleasure.
Have a good evening.
- Uh, Kyle?
- Yeah?
My name isn't really Maggie.
Do you like Maggie?
I do. Yeah.
Well, then you're Maggie to me.
[chuckles]
[exhales]
[mellow music]
Can I get you anything else?
Uh
how about a rent-free
seaside cottage.
Oh. You see that on the menu?
- Oh.
- [laughter]
You're funny.
I like you.
[chuckles]
No, no. Actually, um,
I really am looking
for a place to stay.
You wouldn't happen to know
of any affordable hotels
in the area, would you?
You're kinda asking
the wrong person.
- Oh?
- I just moved here.
Oh, really?
- From where?
- Back east.
I just came
from up the coast myself.
I'm visiting some friends.
Well, can't you just stay
with them?
Uh, I'm trying to give them
a little bit of space.
They just got married.
- [Carrie] Ah.
- If know what I mean.
Oof. I do know what you mean.
- [Vicki] Uh-hmm.
- [laughter]
It's okay. I can just
find something online.
If you go further inland,
there are some places.
It just depends
on what your definition
of "affordable" is.
Okay. Good to know.
How are you liking it down here?
Hmm, so far, so good, I guess.
Did you come here
for this job or...
You think I traveled halfway
across the country for this job?
[chuckles]
Then it's gotta be a man.
What does?
What you're running away from.
Why would you say that?
Oh.
Just because I had
this ex-boyfriend, Billy,
and he left me for this tramp
who used to do payroll for him.
So I took his truck
and I kept driving it
until his engine overheated.
Uh-hmm.
I ended up in El Paso
for over a year.
[chuckles]
Uh, well, in my case,
I just needed a change.
Hmm.
You wouldn't happen
to have anything
stronger than this, would you?
I'll get you a splash.
Thanks.
It's been a long drive.
[Meredith] Maggie!
Let me grab that for you.
I'll be right back.
[Vicki] All right.
[suspenseful music]
[phone ringing]
Yes?
Yeah. I'll be there in a moment.
[clears throat]
Marc, close the door
and have a seat please.
I suppose you know
why I called you in.
Actually, I don't.
Do you know Kim Williams?
Not well.
Our paths crossed when I was
at the police department.
I got an interesting call
from her.
According to Ms. Williams,
she's close with your ex-wife.
My wife and I are still married.
Well, be that as it may,
she also claims
that your wife left you
and that you threatened her
in order to find the whereabouts
of your wife.
She's a damn liar.
So you didn't go
to Ms. Williams' house?
I went, but I went there
looking for Carrie.
I didn't threaten anyone.
Are you looking for your wife?
And before you say something
you're gonna regret,
just know that I already know
you're looking for her.
These are the logs
from your computer
over the past few days.
You've been spying on me?
Monitoring employee
communications falls well
within our purview.
Check your employment contract.
Look, Marc, I hired you
because we have mutual friends
on the force
and because often ex-cops
make the best employees.
But I can't have you
going on some personal crusade.
Well, none of this has affected
my work, Mr. Tull.
Just stop.
I'm willing to let this slide
if I don't hear anything else
about it.
- Are we done?
- But if I do hear more about it,
we are gonna have
a different conversation.
Capiche?
[birds chirping]
[suspenseful music]
Hello, Kim.
Don't try anything.
You know I'd be more than happy
to hurt you.
You understand me?
What are you gonna do? Shoot me?
- Don't be stupid.
- Shut up.
You're taking this too far.
I don't think
you're in a position
to tell me anything.
- You called my boss.
- I had to.
You're out of control, Marc.
You know, I could ask you
where Carrie is.
And I'd tell you
the exact same thing.
- I don't...
- I know. I know.
You don't know.
Except we both know that you do.
Now, I could force you
to tell me.
You really think you could?
Well, the coffee
couldn't be that good.
Thought I'd get a cup to go.
Leaving so soon?
Yeah. This wasn't exactly
the trip I was expecting.
Who knew that newlyweds
wanna spend
their honeymoon phase
totally alone?
- I'm sorry.
- [Vicki] Oh, don't be.
I like it on the road.
Well, I am sorry to see you go.
I don't know many people
in this town.
Take care of yourself, Maggie.
The world could be
a tough place.
[phone buzzing]
Yeah?
[Vicki] She's here.
You sure?
[Vicki] Unless I was just
served coffee
by her twin.
What are you gonna do, Marc?
Don't worry about it.
You promised me
no one would get hurt.
You know what they say
about promises.
Well, I guess
it's your lucky day, Kim.
But just remember,
this isn't over.
What are you talking about?
Shh.
- [door closes]
- [dog barking]
- What?
- [Kim] Yup.
- He just left.
- [Carrie sighs]
What did he say?
What do you think he said?
He was looking for you.
You didn't tell him anything,
did you?
Please. Could you give me
some credit?
I'm sorry. I'm sorry.
But you have to get back here
and make a statement, Carrie.
The whole point of me being here
is so I'm not there.
You need to be on the record.
I always knew he was dangerous,
but I just didn't know
how dangerous until now.
Okay. Okay.
Look, come back here.
He won't even know you're here.
You could be in and out.
I have a friend,
Detective Karen Hawkins.
Make your statement
and you can head
right back to Malibu.
Do you really think
this is a smart move?
[Kim] I know it is.
Okay. I'll call you
when I'm on the road.
Drive safe. Bye.
Is everything okay?
Yeah. Everything's fine.
Hmm. 'Cause I know that look
and it doesn't look
like everything is okay.
No, sorry.
I was... I was daydreaming.
Hmm. You're living
the dream life already?
- [laughs]
- Oh, gosh. I'm sorry.
I don't want you to feel like
I don't appreciate everything.
No. Honey, if I thought
that working at Mack's
was anybody's dream job,
I should have been committed
a long time ago.
[laughs]
Well, how long have
you owned this place?
Hmm. Always or never.
What I mean to say,
it's always been in the family.
My great-grandfather built it
when people started moving out
here in the '40s.
My father still
technically owns it
but he hasn't run this place
since the Millennium.
- Wow. A family business.
- [Meredith] Uh-hmm.
That's really great to hear.
For better or for worse.
And there has been enough
of both throughout the years.
[distant sirens wailing]
I appreciate you
agreeing to see me.
I can tell you right now,
Mr. Tull.
Jack.
I can tell you right now, Jack,
that I only agreed to see you
because Kim Williams said
that I could trust you,
but I don't trust you.
I don't trust anyone
when it comes
to my daughter's safety.
I understand.
And I think you're smart not to.
I don't know if you know
where your daughter is
and I really don't care.
What I do care about
is my company.
How does that relate to me?
Kim Williams called me
and told me about her situation.
Now, I don't usually
get involved
in the personal lives
of my employees,
but in this case,
I made an exception.
Because of Marc's history.
[sighs] Mr. Tull... Jack,
now, I don't actually know
what happened with my son-in-law
to get him kicked off
the police force.
I'm really not at liberty
to say.
But I hired Marc
because, despite his faults,
he has some talents
that I value.
But I still don't understand.
As I was saying,
I don't like to get involved
in the personal affairs
of my employees.
But after I spoke
with Ms. Williams,
I had a little chat
with Marc Bryant
and I warned him to leave
your daughter alone.
I appreciate that.
Now, do you think
he'll listen to you?
Well, that's why I called you
in here, Mrs. Keller.
I can't reach him.
What do you mean?
I mean, I can't get
a hold of him.
He's not returning my calls,
texts, or emails.
And in this business,
that's very concerning.
So you think
he went after Carrie?
I think if you know
where your daughter is,
- you should let her know...
- [scoffs]
[Jack]
and let her know right away.
And have her contact
the authorities.
My daughter won't see me.
She won't speak to me,
not until all this is over.
She thinks it's safer that way.
Well, that's between
the two of you.
I just thought
I should tell you what I know.
I appreciate that.
Jack, how dangerous
is Marc Bryant?
In my business,
we don't employ people
because they have a good heart.
That's not much of an answer.
[Jack] That's the only answer
I can give you.
I don't really know him
that well.
But I'll tell you this,
the man's gone AWOL,
which means he must know
I plan to fire him
once I get in touch with him.
But he doesn't seem
to care about that.
And a man with no cares,
that is a dangerous man.
That much I know, Mrs. Keller.
[birds chirping]
[chuckles]
Do you really have to leave?
Yeah. Unfortunately, I do.
I just don't understand.
How do know this lady's right?
Well, she's a criminal
defense attorney
and a good one.
She knows
what she's talking about.
Plus...
What is it?
Marc, my ex, used to be a cop.
Oh, no, no.
I told you I was trouble.
No, you didn't.
Well, I'm telling you now.
It's okay. I like trouble.
[chuckles]
[suspenseful music]
Anywhere you want, sweetheart.
[exhales]
Hi.
Coffee to start?
Uh, yes, please.
Black, to go.
Okay.
[suspenseful music]
Anything to eat?
Actually, I was wondering
if you could help me.
Do you know this woman?
Sure. Maggie.
One of our waitresses.
Maggie.
Is she working today?
Actually, she took the day off.
Do you know where she went?
No idea.
This is a little embarrassing
but I'm her brother.
And I haven't seen her
for quite some time.
And I was told
that I could find her here.
Well, like I said,
she took the day off.
You wouldn't happen to know
where she lives, would you?
Sorry.
I don't know her that well.
[suspenseful music]
What was that about?
He was asking about Maggie.
What did you tell him?
Nothing. That she's not here.
He said he was her brother.
He doesn't look like her?
No, he doesn't.
[sighs] Well, if he says
anything else to you
about her, just play dumb.
Sure. Not much more I could say.
No.
[sighs]
[distant sirens wailing]
Here.
I knew you had a long drive.
You know, I knew your husband.
Not well, mainly by reputation.
Lucky you.
Hardly.
I can see why you left him.
And Kim was absolutely right
to have you come here
and file a report
for a variety of reasons.
She speaks very highly of you.
[Det. Hawkins]
I feel the same about her.
She's got a whole lot
of integrity,
for a defense attorney.
So I did try to talk
to your husband
after we spoke.
Called his cellphone.
Went right to voicemail.
He hasn't been at his office.
None of his coworkers
have seen him.
So I need you to think,
is there anywhere else
he could possibly be?
A friend, family,
property maybe?
No. I mean,
no close friends, no family.
I guess that should
have been a red flag.
Um, no other homes
or vacation properties.
But there's a lot
Marc didn't tell me,
so it could be possible.
We'll find him.
I will promise you that.
It's not that easy
to just go off the grid,
disappear somewhere.
Uh, it's much easier
for one person
to avoid another than for us.
We have a whole department,
plenty of resources.
So you think I can go back
to where I'm hiding?
Which is where?
Carrie, we're on your side,
I promise.
It's somewhere
where he can't find me.
You have no reason to believe
that he will find you
- or know where that is?
- No, no.
There's no significance.
That's why I chose it.
You're not using your real name,
nothing with your real identity
on it?
No.
Okay. Well,
then I have to assume
that you'll be safe,
but please call me
if you hear from him
or you think of anywhere
he could possibly be.
I will.
Thank you, Detective.
Hang in there.
This will all be over soon.
[Kim] You sure you're all right?
Oh, I'm fine for now. [Chuckles]
What did Hawkins say?
Well, she has a lot
of respect for you.
That's for sure.
I told you. She's a smart woman
and a damn good detective.
Yeah.
What'd she say about Marc?
Well, I called her
on the car ride
and filled her in.
When I got there, she said
they already tried
contacting him.
- Hmm. No luck?
- No. Not yet.
Well, the police know,
so you're gonna
stay here, right?
I still think it's safest
if Marc can't find me,
and he doesn't know where I am.
You sure?
Yeah. I mean, I'm not sure
about anything right now
but I have to go
with what feels right.
Promise me, if you need
anything, you'll call me.
Of course.
- Okay?
- Yeah.
You know, I could always go back
to Malibu with you.
[chuckles]
I'm sorry, Kim.
I need to do this alone.
[birds chirping]
[suspenseful music]
[phone buzzes]
She just left
her friend's house.
Good.
Did you see her
do anything else?
Nope. She went in.
She came back out.
Good.
She'll be coming back
here soon then.
Where are you?
That's not your concern.
Marc, I told you.
I do not like this.
When this is all over, Vicki,
we're gonna take that
much-deserved vacation.
I promise.
Hold down the fort for me, okay?
[suspenseful music]
All right.
I'll see you tomorrow.
You're opening, right?
With Maggie,
if she's back by then.
Oh, she will be.
She gave me her word.
All right.
Uh, what do you think
about that guy
who came to the diner today,
her "brother"?
I don't know but, uh,
he gave me a bad vibe.
Yeah, me too.
I'll talk to her tomorrow.
There's nothing
we can do now anyway.
Yeah. Night, Meredith.
Night, Gina.
[suspenseful music]
[birds cawing]
[gasps]
Sorry, we're closed.
That's okay.
I'm not hungry.
How did you get in here?
Back door was unlocked.
Look, mister.
I don't know who you are,
but I don't appreciate you
sneaking in here after hours.
Now, if you don't leave,
I'm gonna call the cops.
Where is she?
I said, if you don't leave,
I'm gonna call the cops.
I'm gonna ask you one more time.
Where is she?
This is ridiculous.
Shouldn't have left it
on the counter.
Now, I'm gonna ask you
one more time.
Where is she?
I have no idea.
Well, you must know her address.
She had to fill out paperwork.
Go get it!
Does this look
like the kind of place
that issues W2s?
I pay cash under the table.
No questions asked.
I'm gonna ask you one more time.
Where is she?
And I'm telling you,
I don't know!
Get back!
Or what?
Are you gonna serve me
a piece of pie?
I'm warning you!
No, I'm warning you.
[panting]
- [gunshots]
- [birds cawing]
[buzzer buzzing]
Maggie, you're back.
Straight up,
just like you asked.
Yeah.
Hey, if you don't wanna talk
about it,
I understand.
He's on his way here.
I can feel it.
Who, your ex-husband?
Maggie, you have absolutely
no reason to believe that,
even if the police don't know
where he's at.
You told me that.
I know, but I just feel
like Marc's gonna be
one step ahead of them.
I mean, he was one of them.
Well, did you contact
the police here?
Well, the cops back at home said
they'd keep them up to date.
See? You have nothing
to worry about.
Come on.
Hmm.
Another one?
Yeah. [Chuckles]
[dramatic music]
Here you go.
You know you can stay here
if you want.
[birds chirping]
I know,
but I don't wanna use you
as a crutch.
I don't mind.
I know.
But when it happens,
I don't want it to be
because I was scared, okay?
Okay.
[suspenseful music]
[Kyle] Maggie?
Let me at least walk you home.
It's right down the road.
It'll make me feel a lot better.
Please.
- Okay.
- Come on.
[suspenseful music]
[birds cawing]
- [Gina] Hi.
- Hi, Gina.
- How's your day off?
- Long story.
Well, you can tell me
all about it while we get ready.
[Carrie] Hmm.
I'll turn on the ranges
and start the fryer.
Sounds good.
You know, Maggie,
I know I shouldn't say anything,
but...
Meredith is going
to talk to you.
Did I do something wrong?
No, no, no, nothing like that.
[Carrie] Okay.
God,
I shouldn't have said anything.
Let me just get the oil started.
Okay.
So yesterday, this guy
[suspenseful music]
- [both gasp]
- [indistinct radio chatter]
- [sirens wailing]
[Carrie]
Why didn't you send a car here
once you heard from the police
in San Francisco?
Because, Ms. Bryant,
we were under the impression
he didn't know where you were.
And besides,
it may have already been
too late.
Bryant?
Uh, my name isn't Maggie Cobb.
It's Carrie Bryant.
You were running away
from someone?
My husband.
You haven't seen
your husband at all?
Not since the day I left him.
Chances are he still
might not know where you are.
- He knows.
- [Det. Steel] Then
why don't you think
he came after you last night?
I think he's just waiting
for his moment.
Okay.
Well, we'll have a detective
with you 24/7 from now on.
He won't be able to get close.
She was so good to me.
Oh, if I told her
the truth sooner,
maybe she'd still be alive.
Meredith knew
what she was doing.
What do you mean?
She knew you were hiding
from something.
And you told her
you'd come from the East
to get a new start, but
your car has California plates.
[Carrie]
And she hired me anyway.
She wasn't afraid of anything.
You can bet she put up a fight.
I believe she did.
We found a knife on the floor.
She very well may have used it
to injure her attacker.
- So, what now?
- Well, forensics
has to go through the diner.
And after that,
we may have some more questions.
Where can we get in touch?
Uh, I'll be at the house
I'm renting.
Okay. Don't leave yet.
I wanna make sure
a car follows you home, okay?
I'm gonna be a prisoner
in my own home.
[Det. Steel]
It's only until we catch him.
And don't worry,
he can't hide for long.
[dramatic music]
[suspenseful music]
[birds chirping]
[sighs]
Maggie,
I heard what happened.
Are you okay?
I don't know how you can be.
Look, you sit right here,
I'll fix you something to eat.
- And you must be starving.
- No, I'm fine.
I really
couldn't eat now anyway.
I was gonna call Kyle,
- but I just...
- I already called him.
He was on his way down
to make a delivery in San Diego,
but he's already
on his way back.
I don't always get
into my son's business,
but only a fool would not notice
that there's something going on
between the two of you.
And I'm not a fool.
No. No, you definitely aren't.
Now, this man that is after you,
is he why you moved here?
Yeah, um
my ex-husband, or
technically he's still
my husband.
He's a really dangerous guy.
Well, you were brave enough
to leave him when you did.
Many women wouldn't have.
I'm stupid enough
to marry him in the first place.
Listen, I don't know any woman
that never made a mistake.
What matters
is what you do about it.
Thank you, Elle.
Now don't go
breaking Kyle's heart.
- Elle, Kyle and I are just...
- No, no.
It's none of my business.
[Carrie]
Look, I don't wanna be rude.
I just... I think
I need some sleep.
I barely slept last night
and everything that's happened.
No, you go ahead.
I'll be sitting
right here for you.
No, no, no.
I wouldn't be able to sleep.
I'm fine and the police
are right outside.
Well, I won't argue with you.
But if you need anything,
- you know where to find me.
- I do.
Thank you, Elle.
You've been wonderful.
[dramatic music]
[suspenseful music]
[dispatch]
Officer Luisa, what's your 20?
[Officer Luisa] I'm in front
of the target's house.
Nothing to report.
[dispatch] Okay.
I'm gonna have Perkins
relieve you in two hours.
[Officer Luisa]
10-4, I'll be here.
[dispatch]
You need anything, Luisa?
I can have patrol bring it by.
[Officer Luisa]
Negative. I'll grab dinner
once Perkins takes over.
[dispatch] 10-4. Stay alert.
[suspenseful music]
[sighs]
[suspenseful music]
Shhh.
Keep quiet and I won't hurt you.
Where's the detective?
Don't worry.
He won't bother us.
You know when they realize
he's missing,
they'll send backup, right?
They won't realize he's missing
for quite some time.
I promise you.
I was listening to their shifts
on the police band radio.
You know you'll never get away
with this.
There's two
entire police departments
- looking for you, Marc.
- Right now, Carrie,
the last thing
you need to worry about
is me getting away.
You killed Meredith.
She should have minded
her own business.
You knew what I was
when you married me.
Yeah, worst decision
I've ever made.
[Marc] I know
you don't believe that.
We were so happy once.
Sure, on our wedding day.
You always were
a tad melodramatic.
But I can overlook that.
Just come back with me.
Let's forget all this
unpleasantness ever happened.
I have money put away
and a safe house.
- No one will find us.
- What?
It'll be different, but better.
Just the two of us.
Marc and Carrie
against the world.
I'd rather die
than live with you.
[Kyle] Maggie!
Maggie, are you okay?
Shhh. Send him away.
[Kyle] Maggie!
You try anything
- and I'll kill you both.
- [Kyle] Maggie!
But him first, so you can watch.
- You understand me?
- [Kyle] Maggie,
- are you in there?
- [Marc] Okay.
- [Kyle] Open up!
- Go.
[Kyle] Maggie!
Maggie, are you okay?
Yeah, yeah. Um, I fell asleep.
I woke up. Sorry.
I got here as fast as I can.
What's going on?
- Yeah, thank you.
- [Kyle] There's a cop car
- outside, there's no one inside.
- Yeah, he's
it's a shift change.
He'll be back soon.
- Can I come in?
- No, uh, I'm sorry, Gary.
With everything going on,
I just wanna be alone.
Are you sure?
Everything all right?
Yeah. Yeah. Yeah.
You know
what the...
Not bad, Carrie.
I think he almost believed you.
If he didn't,
he's gonna call the cops.
Which is why we're leaving,
right now.
Same deal, whoever it is.
You do anything,
you both get it.
- Understand?
- Yeah.
Oh, Maggie, you're all right.
I was just taking a walk
and I saw a car.
A police car
parked in front of the house.
And I nearly had a heart attack.
Oh, you can imagine
what went through my head.
You know, I bought this house
because of
the safe neighborhood,
but the crime these days
is everywhere.
You can't even go outside
- until...
- Shut up!
Maggie, I didn't realize
you had guests.
Go!
[Kyle] Mom!
You did good, Mom.
- Are you okay?
- Yeah.
[police sirens wailing]
[Diane] Thank you
for seeing me, Detective.
You're welcome. I was happy
when I got your call.
You know, of all of the ways
this could have gone down,
this is one of the better ones.
Which is why
I wanted to see you.
What can I help you with?
I want to make sure
that my daughter is protected.
But Marc Bryant is in custody.
He's not going anywhere.
What about bail?
Well, he's been charged
with first degree murder
along with a half a dozen
other charges,
so I wouldn't worry about bail.
Where is he being tried?
Down in Malibu,
where he's charged
with the murder.
And if he's convicted?
[Det. Hawkins]
When he's convicted.
When he is convicted,
he will spend
the rest of his life in prison.
What is it, Mrs. Keller?
Well, I'm sure
you can understand at this point
that I don't have complete faith
in the justice system.
Yes, I can understand.
My daughter is going to need me,
and I wanna be able
to reassure her
as much as is humanly possible
that she no longer
has anything to worry about.
Well, I would like
to reassure you too,
but as we both know,
in my business,
there are no guarantees.
But trust me when I tell you,
this is as tight a case
as any I have ever seen.
Marc Bryant
is gonna spend the rest
of his natural born life
behind bars.
Well, thank you
for all your help.
Carrie thanks you too.
You're welcome.
And please tell Carrie
if she needs anything,
I'll be right here.
[dramatic music]
[seagulls squawking]
We're closed.
[chuckles]
I know she's gone,
but I can still feel
her presence in this place.
Is that weird?
No, I don't think so.
Look, this diner was her life.
Everything around this,
she was a part of.
I have big shoes to fill.
- Did you know?
- What?
That she left it to me?
Are you kidding?
This never crossed my mind.
We'll make her proud.
You don't have
to stay, you know?
Why wouldn't I?
[Gina] Come on, Carrie.
We both know this was just
a pit stop for you.
Besides, this isn't what
you wanna do with your life.
I mean, no, not forever.
But for right now,
it's exactly what I want.
[chuckles]
[dramatic music]
[seagulls squawking]
So what did Gina have to say?
Well, she's overwhelmed,
of course,
but I told her
I'd be here to help.
So you're really gonna stay?
Yes.
[laughter]
I hope
I'm not interrupting anyone.
- Mom.
- No, no, no, of course not.
- It's your house.
- Well, technically maybe.
But if I heard correctly,
you'll be staying in it
for quite some time.
I think so.
[Elle] I'm glad.
But I really came to tell you
that you have a guest.
- Oh!
- A woman named Kim?
- Should I send her back?
- Of course. Thank you.
Thanks, Mom.
Goodbye, Maggie.
[Kyle] Carrie.
Always Carrie.
Carrie? I like that.
Well, I'm gonna go fix
some lunch.
Thanks again, Ma.
[Carrie]
I thought you liked Maggie.
- I did. I really did.
- Uh-hmm.
- But I like Carrie a lot better.
- Uh-hmm.
- Uh-hmm.
- Okay, you two,
give it a rest for now.
Oh. Oh.
- Hey.
- [Carrie] Hi.
Oh, well, Kim, this is Kyle.
Kyle, I've been
looking forward to this.
- Likewise.
- [Kim chuckles]
I'm gonna let you guys, uh,
catch up a little bit,
all right?
Okay. Thank you.
Um, nice meeting you.
You as well, ma'am.
Oh.
He seems nice.
- He's very nice.
- Uh-hmm.
I'm so happy, but...
But what?
I don't know. At one point,
I was happy with Marc too.
Well, darling, you sure picked
the wrong marriage.
So maybe next time,
- date a little longer?
- Ugh, don't worry.
I won't make that mistake again.
I hope not.
[police sirens wailing]
[suspenseful music]
[Det. Hawkins] I'll be back
to start the interrogation.
[suspenseful music]
[birds chirping]
So, you're really okay?
I am, I swear.
I was so worried about you.
Well, it's a good thing
that I had someone
- looking over me.
- [Diane] Hmm.
- Saint Anne.
- No, you.
You're the one
that gave it to me.
Well, I'm just glad
you decided to wear it.
You were right.
You gave me the strength
I never knew I had.
So, um
what are you gonna do now?
Go back to Malibu?
Yeah, I think so.
I like it down there.
- You like it?
- [chuckles]
I like him too, Mom.
Hmm.
Sweetheart, I want you to know
I spoke with that detective.
- Detective Hawkins?
- [Diane] Uh-hmm. That's right.
She assured me that you have
nothing to worry about.
I don't know
if I would believe that.
What? Even when he's behind bars
for good?
I don't know, Mom.
If there's one thing
I know about Marc
is that he's good at getting out
of a tight spot.
Not this time, sweetheart.
Not a chance.
Yeah.
[dramatic music]
[sighs]
[suspenseful music]
[dramatic music]