Unwanted Guest (2016) Movie Script

There we go. Watch your head.
This is terrible.
Does anyone know what
happened to him?
No. No one does.
But someone said that Alan tripped and fell
down the stairs at the Science Center.
My God, I hope he's
going to be okay.
God knows how long he
was laying there for.
Anybody know that boy?
I do.
- All right.
- Yeah, me, too.
Detective Parker.
Mind if I ask you a
few questions, girls?
Sure, I guess.
- Friend of yours?
- We went out a few times.
What's your name?
- Christine Roberts.
- Hmm.
And how about you?
What's your name?
Oh! Right, sorry.
It's Amy.
- Amy Thomas.
- All right.
So when's the last time
either of you saw him?
A day or so ago, I guess.
That's who you should
be talking to.
Marilyn. That's his girlfriend.
His girlfriend?
So I heard.
Right.
Fine. Well, thank you for your
time, ladies. I appreciate it.
- Um, Detective Parker.
- Yeah?
Is Alan going to be okay?
He was dead when they found him.
Christine, come on, let's go.
Well, I'm sure glad to be
getting out of here right now.
Why is that?
Are you kidding me?
Alan's dead. This whole campus
is going into a deep funk.
Who'd want to stick around
and be a part of that?
Well, some of us
don't have a choice.
What do you mean?
I'm kinda stranded
here, you know?
Hey, who's this?
Oh! That's my mom
and her husband.
He's handsome.
I guess. Never really
thought of him like that.
They look perfect.
They look like the
perfect couple.
Well, looks aren't everything. So, what,
you're staying here for the holidays?
Yeah, my folks are out
of the country, so...
Well, you know, what can you do?
Well, you can come home with me.
My mom won't mind.
No, thank you, but I couldn't.
No, I'm serious. I insist.
Now go pack your bag. We're getting out of
this morgue first thing in the morning.
Okay.
Okay.
Hey.
- Morning.
- Morning.
You're up and out early.
Yeah, I had a showing.
Got it. Any luck?
Oh, who knows?
I mean, sales are
down all over town.
I haven't sold
anything in a month.
I hear you.
I keep trying.
It's all you can do.
I think I know who that is.
Oh, I want to change out of my
good clothes. Would you mind?
I got it.
Why do you always have the door
locked when you know I'm coming home?
Never can be too careful.
It's like you don't
even want me around.
Hello, Christine.
Hello.
Now, who's this?
Uh, this is my friend Amy.
She didn't have anywhere to go for
the break, so I brought her along.
She won't eat much.
- Hello, Amy.
- Hi, Mr. Benton.
Please, don't be so stuffy.
If you're a friend of
Christine's, call me Charles.
Okay, Charles. Thank you for having me.
I'll try not to be a bother.
I'm sure there won't
be a problem.
Where's Mom?
Oh, she had some work
around town this morning.
She's changing out
of her work clothes.
Did she sell anything?
Not yet...
but she has some interest.
Okay, come on. Let's go
put our bags in my room.
And this is my room.
It's only got the one
bed, but it's a big one.
It's big enough for two.
There is a guest room on the other
side of the house if you prefer that.
Oh, no, this is fine. Really, I wouldn't
want to be alone in a big new house anyway.
Me neither.
So Charles seems really nice.
So handsome, too.
Yeah, I mean, he's one of the top
copyright attorneys in town.
Except he's not my dad.
He's my step-dad.
- Right.
- Not that there's...
He's a really great guy. Don't
get me wrong. It's just...
He's the kind of guy who
never wanted kids, you know.
I always wondered why you lived on
campus when your house is so close by.
It's really not a
big deal, I just...
I kinda wanted to give him and my
mom their own space. You know?
Trust me, Christine, I get it.
I know what it's like to be in
the way of other people's lives.
What's that?
That's Mr. Chips.
Hello, little buddy.
Did you miss me?
You have a rat?
He's a hamster.
- Mmm. That's a rat.
- N Shh.
You may hurt his feelings.
He kinda smells funny.
Yeah, my mom might've gotten a little
bit behind on cleaning the cage.
She gets forgetful sometimes.
Where is your mom anyway?
We should go find her.
Yeah.
- There you are!
- Oh, Christine.
Sweetie, I thought I
heard you come in.
Charles said you were
getting dressed.
Yes, I had an early morning.
Who is your friend?
Hi, Mrs. Benton. I'm Amy.
Amy didn't have anywhere
to go for the holidays,
so I invited her to
tag along with me.
I said you wouldn't mind.
Oh! No. It's fine. Of course.
Yeah. I was just fixing lunch.
You girls want a sandwich?
Uh, no, thank you. I had
a really big breakfast.
I will have one, please,
with extra mayo.
You got it, sweetheart. Oh, and
Amy, please call me Anna, okay?
Okay, Anna.
Oh, Charles, the ice
maker's acting up again.
Really?
Okay, I'll take a look.
It's that one piece of ice that
always gets stuck in the back.
That oughta do it.
But it's going to take a while before
it makes enough ice for everybody.
Maybe I should just run to
the store and get a bag.
- Would you mind?
- Of course not.
Anybody want a ride along?
Mmm, no, thank you.
I'm about to eat.
I'll go... if that's okay.
Sure, we'll be back soon.
Christine, do you need anything?
- No, thank you.
- Okay.
So, Mom, how goes the war?
Well, could be
better, hon, I mean,
no one wants to buy
a house anymore.
Well, at least you're trying.
Yeah. Yeah, I am trying, but
am I trying hard enough?
Are we talking about real estate or are we
talking about what's going on around here?
Both.
I seemed to have lost
that spark, you know?
That thing that keeps every day
from being like the day before.
Now everything is
just a routine.
Can't always be fireworks.
I know. I just feel like
I need to shake it up
every once in a while.
So how long have you and
Christine been friends?
A little while now.
She's never mentioned me?
No, but she doesn't
really confide in me.
I'm not her father, you know.
She doesn't come home as
often as she used to.
Oh, well, I talk about
Christine all the time.
But I'm also just a chatterbox,
I say whatever's on my mind whether
people want to hear it or not.
A person could get in a
lot of trouble like that.
No kidding.
So why didn't you go home for the break?
Won't your family miss you?
Yeah, well, they're... my
family's in Europe, actually.
They go every year, so...
You know, there's nothing for
me but a big empty house.
That's too bad.
You'll have a great
time with us.
You know, you're much better
looking than your photograph.
Thanks.
I think.
So, Amy, hon, tell me, what
kind of courses are you taking?
Oh, I'm a pre-med student.
Yeah, although, I don't know
how long that will last.
Why's that?
Amy hates being
around sick people.
- Liar!
- It's the truth.
It's true.
Okay, I just...
I think it's kind of
depressing, don't you?
Well, that's a curious career
choice then, isn't it?
Yeah. Yeah, totally. My
dad badgered me into it.
And why would he do that?
Because he thinks there's
no future in chemistry.
Oh, you're interested
in chemistry?
Yeah. Yeah, I'm actually
pretty good at it.
And still, it's a very
disciplined course, but,
you know, not good
enough for my dad.
What does your dad do, hon?
He's an engineer. Yeah,
he builds things.
He was a Seabee in the Gulf War.
Oh, a military man. It's probably where
you get your sense of discipline from.
Um, can you make some of
it rub off on Christine?
Her room is always such a mess.
Ha-ha! Very funny.
Well, if I had a home
as beautiful as this,
I would never let it get messy.
"Where thou art, that is home."
Are you sure you're
only 21 years old?
Oh. 21 and a half.
Doesn't he ever sleep?
Of course, he does.
During the day.
Oh. Great.
He's really very sweet.
You'll get used to him.
Maybe.
He does smell better now
that you cleaned his cage.
You will learn to love
him just like I did.
Well, I don't know. I don't
fall in love very easily.
Here.
Did my mom see you with these?
No, I think everybody's asleep.
Why, is it a problem?
No, I'm just wondering. Cheers.
Cheers.
You know, you're actually very
pretty when you take those off.
Ouch.
You know what I mean.
No, actually I'm not sure
I do know what you mean.
I'm just kidding around, Amy.
I know. I know what you mean.
Guys don't make passes...
and all that.
I'm just messing with you.
I know, it's just...
you're so beautiful...
so perfect.
I feel like everything
comes so easily for you.
No, I'm just lucky.
I want you to do something for me.
Come on.
I want you...
- Yes?
- I want you to take your hair down.
No.
- Come on.
- No, Christine, I don't do that.
Come on, just do it.
- Why?
- Let it go.
- Come on.
- Okay.
See! See?
Look at how gorgeous you are.
You're sweet, but...
I could never get a guy like
Alan to even look at me twice.
Yeah. Well...
you didn't miss much.
He was kind of a jerk.
Still, it's really horrible
what happened to him.
Yeah. Just horrible.
Hey, um...
how come you never told that detective
that Alan used to be your boyfriend?
"Used to be" is right.
Why would I want to
get involved now?
He went off with someone else.
She should be the
one they question.
Amy...
If Alan were my boyfriend,
I'd never let him
fall like that.
Never.
Good morning, Anna.
Morning, Amy.
You're up awfully early.
Yeah, I know. I wanted to
make breakfast for everybody.
That's very nice of you.
But why?
Well, to be honest,
it's one of the things I miss most
about not living at home anymore.
The smell of fresh
coffee brewing,
and pancakes on the griddle.
Reminds me of the time when
my whole family was together.
Everybody needs
somebody to care about.
I hope... you don't
mind, do you?
No! No! Of course not.
I'm just a little
surprised, that's all.
No, it's great.
Oh, you're not wearing
your glasses.
Oh, my goggles?
I just put my contacts in when I don't
feel like wearing those anymore.
Oh, you look very different.
Different in a good way, I hope.
Oh, of course, I didn't
mean it like that. Yes.
- Good.
- Good morning.
Hey, good morning, Charles.
I made breakfast. Have a seat.
Okay.
Here you go. And be
careful with the syrup, I
don't want you to get
in on your nice suit.
Don't start spoiling me,
Amy, I might get used to it.
I guess I'll go get dressed.
Is it really spoiling someone to
make them a decent breakfast?
You work very hard, Charles.
It's important that people
make you feel appreciated.
Even so, you don't
need to pamper me.
Where's Christine?
Oh, she's still asleep. Yeah,
she was so tired last night.
Who knows when she'll wake up?
She'll sleep till
noon if you let her.
Well, it is holiday break and
she's been studying so hard.
Sometimes I worry about her getting sick,
the way she burns the candle at both ends.
It's not healthy.
I think you're the first person to ever
accuse Christine of over-studying.
But...
you're right. Some people
deserve to sleep in.
Right now, I have a
law firm to run.
Oh. Let me get you a travel mug, so
you can take your coffee with you.
Wow.
You're going to make some
lucky man very happy one day.
I sure hope so.
Here.
- Who opened this?
- I did.
- You?
- Yeah.
Christine and I had a few glasses
before we went to bed last night.
I probably should've asked,
but everyone was asleep,
so I just thought...
It's no problem. I
was just curious.
I'm going to replace it when I go to
the store today. I will replace that.
Don't worry about it. Wine
is meant to be enjoyed.
- Thank you.
- No, thank you.
Breakfast was great.
Yeah.
Well, that is one nasty fall.
I really don't know how something
like this could've happened.
We have an almost
perfect safety record.
Well, what troubled
me was all the blood.
- The blood?
- Yeah.
I mean, I can accept it
on the stairs there,
where the body would naturally
hit the concrete steps.
I can accept it at the bottom
where he finally landed.
How does all this
blood get up here,
before the body's even
fallen a single step?
- Ed!
- Yeah?
- Joe, you got it?
- I do.
What's that?
Coroner's initial report.
According to this, Alan Kerwood received
blunt-force trauma to the head,
prior to falling
down the stairs.
Well, that explains the blood.
What does it mean?
It means that somebody
killed that boy.
- Killed him?
- Yeah.
They probably hit him
with something heavy,
when he was standing right
about here, then...
they just gave him
a little shove.
Then it was murder?
Yeah. What's your
school's record for that?
Who'd want to kill Alan?
Maybe no one.
It could've been unintentional.
It could've just
been an argument.
That got out of hand.
Yeah, a fight, a scuffle, maybe,
in which case that fall woulve
been a complete accident.
Why are you looking at me like that?
You don't...
Come on, you don't think I
had something to do with it.
You know, it wouldn't have taken
a big person to do it, just...
something heavy in the...
- right hands.
- He was your boyfriend, right?
That's right, but
only for a few weeks.
Had you two been arguing?
- That's crazy.
- Did he have any enemies?
Maybe one of your ex-boyfriends?
Maybe one of his ex-girlfriends?
No, but...
- But what?
- Well...
I did think that he might've
been cheating on me.
He was really popular
with the girls.
You know how that is.
Oh, yeah, we know.
So it maybe someone
else's boyfriend?
I can't say. I just don't know.
But I did think that there
might have been someone else.
Gentlemen, I'm sure if Marilyn knew
anything more, she would tell you.
Wouldn't you, dear?
Of course.
Any plans for the holiday?
I'm flying home at noon.
That is, if I'm free to go.
You're free.
She's one of our brightest students,
I'm sure she's telling you the truth.
Maybe.
But is she telling all of it?
Mmm.
For a minute there, I thought they were
going to tell me I couldn't leave town.
That's only in the movies.
They can't actually stop you,
unless they plan to book you.
Yeah, well, you weren't sitting
there in the hot seat like I was.
That's true. You
must've been freaked.
Terrified.
Just a minute.
Hey, the airport shuttle's here.
- I'll call you back later.
- Okay.
And stop worrying.
Right. Bye.
What do you want?
You got a minute?
Sure. What's going on?
It's that case with Olympic,
the blueprint infringement.
I have hit a wall.
How so?
Library of Congress shows no registration
on file for any of Johnson's plans.
- He never registered them?
- Nope.
And...
And we can't file a lawsuit
without a proper registration.
Exactly.
Get an expedited claim going.
I will get all over this.
Hey!
Don't forget about
Wednesday night.
Well, how could I forget?
You dinner parties
are always the talk
at the water cooler.
Oh, and this year, guess
who's flying solo?
Yeah? Becky's out of town?
Mmm-hmm. And that
suits me just fine.
I get to cut loose without her
hovering over my shoulder.
It is going to be so good.
Trust me.
Yeah.
Wonder what that's like.
Cutting loose a little.
You know what it's like?
It's kind of like the difference
between being married...
and only having a girlfriend.
Hey, sleepy head.
- Hi.
- Hi.
What time is it?
- One?
- Yup.
Guess I was more tired
than I thought.
It's okay, I don't blame you.
There's been so much going on.
I'm so sorry, what
have you been doing?
Me? Oh, uh...
I made breakfast and went to the
corner to pick up a few things.
Oh, no, Mr. Chips got out.
Oh, no.
You must not have re-latched the cage
properly when you cleaned it yesterday.
This happens all the time.
He always comes back,
but what a pain.
It's okay. I'll help you look.
Thank you.
Mr. Chips, where are you?
He's so tiny.
Mmm. But he can cover a lot of
territory when he wants to.
Sooner or later, he'll get hungry
though and that's when we get him.
Ah! Hmm.
Hamster marches on his stomach.
Something like that.
Look, he'll be back. I'm so
sorry I woke up so late.
I'm going to go take a shower and
then we'll go do something fun.
Okay, great. I'll keep looking.
- Thank you.
- Yeah.
Who's that?
Hello?
It's me. Amy.
Oh, Amy.
What do you want?
I just...
I just wanted to use
your hairbrush.
Oh, uh, I just didn't
know who it was.
Who else could it be?
You know what I mean.
Do you mind?
Of course not.
Hello. Benton residence.
Hi, Christine?
No, this is Amy,
Christine's friend.
Oh, hi, Amy.
This is Clare. Is Anna around?
No, not at the moment.
Can I take a message?
I just wanted to confirm our
lunch date for tomorrow.
Noon.
Oh, I'm so sorry.
She asked me to tell you
that something's come
up and she's not going
to be able to make it.
Oh, gosh, okay well,
No big deal. Tell her I'll
catch up with her next week.
I will do just that. Thanks.
Was that the phone?
Oh, yeah. It was Clare.
She told me to tell you
that something's come up,
and she's not going to be able
to make your lunch tomorrow,
but she did say that she
would call you next week.
Oh, what a flake.
So, what are you two
girls doing today?
Uh, I don't know,
just girl stuff.
Hey, do you want a glass?
Kind of takes the
edge off the day.
No, thanks. It's a little early.
Oh, please. People in Italy
have wine at every meal.
Even kids.
Yeah, so I've heard.
But not for me, thank you.
Miss Benton...
are you okay?
Of course, why do you ask?
Look, I know it's none
of my business, but...
but you just seem a
little troubled.
No, not at all.
I mean, maybe I'm a
bit out of sorts.
I am a pre-med student,
and I don't just study medicine.
So, if you want to tell me how
you feel, maybe I could help.
I just need to smile
more, I think.
- Okay, you sure?
- Mmm.
All right. Well, if you do decide that
you want to talk, just say the word.
Yeah, well, don't
you worry about me.
You girls just have fun today.
Okay, I think we're
going to the mall.
Oh, and keep an eye out for Mr.
Chips.
He's on the loose.
- Again?
- Yup. Afraid so.
Such a shame.
It's not, and then this guy, he's like, "Do
you want to dance? Do you want to dance?"
- He keeps asking me, and I say, "No."
- Yeah.
He's like, "Come on,
just one dance."
And so finally I say,
"Okay, okay, let's dance."
- And guess what?
- What?
- He couldn't dance.
- Oh, no!
He could not dance.
I'm not a very good
dancer either, so...
But you're a girl, that's fine.
I mean, with a guy, it's
just that they want to dance
so that they can get up close
and breathe all over you.
Ugh!
I mean, how many guys do you
actually know that like to dance?
Like none.
See Christine, this is
what I'm talking about.
You always have everything
all figured out, don't you?
Absolutely not.
But I do know a thing
or two about men.
And then the...
I've never had a nightie.
I want to get one.
I want to get one
that looks like that
that's sheer and lacy
and a bright color.
Listen to you.
What?
Who would you model it for?
Nobody, I guess.
I'd just like to have one.
See that's the problem
with lingerie.
Nobody ever gets
to see it but you.
True, but...
my grandma did send
me some mad money.
So...
why not go mad?
Why not indeed?
- Really?
- Sure.
Can't sleep?
Oh, you startled me.
Maybe I should make
more noise, huh?
No, it's fine. I just wasn't
expecting to run into anyone.
I was just a little bit
restless tonight, that's all.
Funny. Me, too.
Care to join me?
Maybe just a wee dram.
Where's Christine?
How come every time we're alone
together, you ask me about Christine?
Do I?
Do I make you uncomfortable?
Don't be silly.
Then how come you won't
even look at me?
Do you like this?
I got it at the mall today.
It's very pretty.
I like the color.
It suits you.
Did you know that they say color
can affect a person's mood?
I've heard that.
So what about this color?
Does it make you feel anything?
Maybe you should put a robe on.
It's supposed to get down
in the upper 30s tonight.
Oh, who cares? I'm inside.
It's nice and toasty in here.
Oh, and to answer your
question about Christine...
she's asleep.
Anna?
Then I guess it's just
us two night owls.
See you tomorrow.
See you tomorrow.
Mrs. Benton.
Good morning, Amy. You're just in time.
Breakfast is almost ready.
Charles, breakfast!
Wow! Look at you.
Yeah. Coffee's on
if you want some.
What a pleasant surprise.
I thought I'd get an
early start on the day.
Go sit.
Um, Amy, why don't you have a seat?
I'll fix you a plate.
Thanks, but I'm not hungry.
Well, could you tell Christine
that breakfast is ready?
Sure.
This is great, honey.
What's the occasion?
Mmm, no occasion.
I'm just, you know, trying
to be the woman you married.
You already are.
No, I haven't been
that woman in a while.
But I can be, and I will be.
Don't even think about it.
Everybody gets side-tracked
once in a while.
I want to get that spark
back, that we used to have.
I'm going to start
doing that right now.
I'd love to help you.
Come quick! There's something
wrong with Christine.
- Christine?
- She's real sick. She wants you.
Real sick.
Oh, baby, what's the matter?
Christine, what's wrong?
Mom, I think it's just a cold.
A really bad one.
Why, I feel awful!
My head is pounding,
and I can barely breathe.
Amy said you'd been burning
the candle at both ends.
This is what happens.
Stop trying to make
me feel better.
No, no, no. You stay right
where you are, young lady.
You are not leaving
this bed today.
What am I supposed to do?
You need your rest. You need
to let this run its course.
You're not going anywhere.
What? Now you're the expert.
Yes, as a matter of fact, I am.
Now I'm going to get you
something to drink.
You gotta stay hydrated.
Oh! Feel better, princess.
I'll call you later to
see how you're doing.
Okay, I'm going to run to the drug
store and pick up some cold meds.
Maybe those will help.
Mom, I'm so sorry.
I feel so bad.
I know you had that dinner
party to get ready for.
No! No! Don't even
think about it.
I'm sure Amy can help
out if I need it.
Yes, of course, I can.
I'd be happy to help out.
Here, now drink this.
Oh, God.
Now one of you please
help me to the bathroom.
- Yeah, sure.
- I got this.
- Okay.
- Okay.
I guess I'll run to the store.
Oh, make sure you get
some decongestant...
and a thermometer. I
couldn't find one.
I think I can handle this.
All right, after you're done,
it is straight to bed.
Yes, doctor.
I'm ready.
Aw!
Okay.
Now you stay put...
and I will be back again
soon to check on you.
I think you're such
a good friend, Amy,
I honestly don't know
what I'd do without you.
Just take it easy.
Your mom's going to be home soon and
you won't even need me around anymore.
Don't say that, please.
Come on. I want you around.
Well, then I'm not
going anywhere.
This way, guys, go
on right over here.
Hey!
I just got your message.
Is she...
Yeah, she is.
Airport shuttle driver said there
was no answer at the door,
and then her folks phoned it in
when they couldn't reach her.
Yeah, well, you're
going to love this.
- What's this?
- Toxicology report from that kid.
It's about time.
Let me guess, alcohol, right?
Nope. Something
better is in there.
"Sodium diethylbarbiturate"?
What the hell is that, Joe?
It's a sleeping powder.
Odorless, tasteless,
classified as a hypnotic.
It's powerful stuff.
Knocks you out in minutes.
And get this, has not been
used since the 1950s.
Tell me, how would somebody
get a hold of that today?
You can make it...
if you have a chemistry lab.
You mean, like the chemistry
lab here on campus.
That's what I'm thinking.
You figure it was used on her?
I guess we'll see.
Only three students have a key
to the chemistry department.
Connolly, Williams, and Thomas.
Thomas. Amy Thomas?
That's right. A promising
pre-med student.
She absolutely
excels at chemistry.
We already talked to her.
What about the other two?
Once again, both
excellent students.
All volunteer as
teacher's aides.
Can we get their contact info?
Of course. But these other two
students, they've already left town.
I wouldn't bet on it.
Hello?
Can I speak to Christine
Roberts, please?
Yes, this is Christine.
Christine, this is Detective Parker,
we met at the college the other night.
Yes, I remember.
Well, I'm calling about
your friend Amy Thomas.
Amy, what about her?
Well, I was told that she maybe staying
with you for the holiday break.
Yeah, she was.
Was?
She's not there now?
No, she left, yesterday.
Left.
Any idea where she went?
I'm not sure. I think that she went
to spend time with her family.
They're in Europe.
Again, she didn't
say anything else?
No, that's all, Detective.
She can be a little
secretive sometimes.
Yeah, we're just starting to
figure that out ourselves.
Thank you.
No problem.
There you are, buddy.
Mr. Chips.
Come on, buddy. Don't run away.
Come here, buddy.
Where are you?
Come here, buddy.
Hi, Mr. Chips.
There.
All better.
Amy?
I'm in here, Mrs. Benton.
I told you, you can stop calling me "Mrs.
Benton." It's Anna.
I know. I know. I'll do better
in the future. I promise.
What's going on?
Uh, nothing.
Christine is asleep,
so I just thought
I'd clean up a bit.
No one wants to come
home to a messy kitchen.
That's so unexpected.
You really are too
good to be true.
I spilled cranberry juice.
You don't want a sticky floor.
No, you don't, but I
could've done that.
No, I always clean up my messes...
Anna.
I'm going to go
check on Christine.
Okay. I will be in in a second,
just when I finish up.
Christine. Honey, you awake?
You awake?
Christine?
Honey?
Honey? Christine?
Christine?
So how many people are you having for
this dinner party tomorrow night?
Um, just two other couples. So with you
and Christine, that makes eight of us.
Oh, great.
You know, I used to braise short
ribs with my mom as a kid.
I loved it. The house would just
fill up with the most amazing aroma,
and just float around for days.
Sometimes... Sometimes, it was
like I could almost taste the air.
Oh, the trick is to prepare
everything a day in advance.
It's such a shame to waste a perfectly
good bottle of wine on raw meat, right?
Well, we're only going
to use half a bottle.
Oh! Well, great.
Then more for us.
- You want some?
- No, thanks.
Do you not like wine?
Uh, I... I don't drink.
I haven't for sometime.
Oh. Why is that?
Is it because it causes
problems for you and Charles?
That's kind of personal, Amy.
Oh, God, I'm so sorry.
I didn't mean to imply anything.
I just...
I have this thing where I say
whatever pops into my head,
and sometimes it's
the wrong thing.
- I'm sorry.
- That's all right.
And Charles and I don't
have any problems.
We're fine.
Oh. Well, that's good to hear.
Yeah, it takes work,
but I'm up to it.
We are going to need
the Dutch oven.
Okay, where is it?
Ugh, it's up here. Charles
put all the big pots
out of the way, so we'd have
more room in the kitchen.
Oh, you know, I would
help you with that,
but I'm a little
afraid of heights.
No, that's okay. I think
I can reach it. Here.
- Just help me. Thanks.
- Yeah.
Okay. I think I can
reach the lid.
Okay, just hand it down to me.
Yeah, it's heavy.
Okay, here.
Got it.
Uh! Oh, almost got this.
Hold on.
Almost got it. Almost got...
Oh, my God. Oh, my God.
Are you okay?
What happened?
Oh, my God, the chair... you
were leaning too far forward,
and it just flipped
right from under you.
Are you hurt?
My leg. I think I
might've broken it.
And my back really hurts.
Okay, don't move. It can make things worse,
all right? I know exactly what to do.
You're going to be fine. I
can take care of everything.
Well, it all just
happened so fast.
One minute she was on the chair, the
next minute she was on the floor.
How bad is it?
Well, they say she broke
her tibia and her fibula.
She also tweaked her back,
but that's not as serious.
Look, I can be there
in about 30 minutes.
Oh, no, no, don't.
Don't do that. She's ready to go
home now and I've got the car.
I'm just waiting on them
to fill her prescriptions.
- Are you sure?
- Of course, I'm sure.
You've got important things to do.
Just leave this to me.
All right. Tell her
I'll be home early.
I'll see you at the house.
And Charles...
don't worry, okay?
This is just a little setback. It's
nothing life-threatening or anything.
She's in good hands.
Amy, I don't know how
to thank you enough.
I'll see you at home.
So the doctors say that your mom should
just stay in bed the next few days,
and she should put as little
pressure on that leg as possible.
How's the soup? Is it too hot?
Oh, it's great. Thank you.
Man, whatever you
got, you got it good.
And now your poor mom.
Some vacation for you.
Stop. Really, I'm just glad I
could be here to help out.
Could you imagine Charles trying
to handle both of you on his own?
No.
Are you done with that?
Thank you. Yeah.
I'm just getting really tired.
Okay. Well, I'll
keep quiet for you.
Still no sign of Mr. Chips?
No.
But maybe he just finally
escaped to greener pastures.
I really hope he
didn't get outside.
It's going to be
freezing tonight.
Again? Really?
Well, get some rest.
Charles.
Hi.
You taking visitors?
What an idiot I am.
What kind of talk is that?
I should've known better.
All I had to do was go into the
garage and get a step ladder, but no,
not me!
You should've let
Amy climb up there.
Yeah, she said she was
afraid of heights.
Really? Afraid of heights?
Well, what difference does it make?
What's done is done.
Does it hurt?
It might when these
drugs wear off.
Then we'll make sure
that doesn't happen.
They're the good ones.
You want some?
No, thanks. I'm trying to quit.
Too bad.
Could've had a party.
Maybe later.
I'll be back.
I'll wait right here.
Thought you said you were
going to be home early.
Oh, hey, I got caught on a conference
call with Washington that took forever.
I'm sorry I wasn't home
earlier to help out.
Don't apologize to me.
I'm nobody.
Don't say that.
Here. Thought you could use
this after a day like today.
There you go, spoiling me again.
Where's yours?
What smells so good?
It's wine-braised beef for your
dinner party tomorrow night.
I have to cancel that.
Why would you do that?
Anna has worked so hard to
put everything together.
It would kill her.
Besides, I can stage the entire
dinner party and play hostess.
Mmm, I don't know about that.
Look, hard part's already done.
Please, let me help
you with this.
It is a huge client.
Anna did want this to happen.
Then it's done.
Get this to Anna.
How's you manage to get
the Dutch oven down?
Oh, it was no big deal.
I just... climbed
up and grabbed it.
If Anna would have let me help
her in the first place...
then it never would
have been a problem.
Why are you dressed like...
that?
Dressed like what?
Like that?
All my clothes are in the wash.
But if this shirt bothers
you, I can take it off.
Just say the word.
- Morning.
- Morning.
Sleep well?
Hardly.
Breakfast is almost ready.
Um, already running late.
But you're the boss.
You can go in whenever you want.
Hey.
I gotta go.
Here you go.
Thanks, hon.
I wish you didn't
have to go in today.
I know.
But you have Amy
around to help you.
Yeah, that's just it, I feel so
helpless lying here while some...
strange girl runs my house.
We're lucky to have her here.
I just checked in on Christine.
She's doing worse today
than she was yesterday.
I know, and I'm worried.
I'm scared.
Scared of what?
Of her.
Of Amy? Please.
No, I mean it. Look at what's
happened since she got here.
Christine got seriously
ill within a day
and is getting worse by the minute.
Why?
And she didn't like Mr. Chips
and now he's disappeared.
I accidentally fall and
break my leg in two places
and all of this after some boy
that Christine used to date
accidentally falls to his death.
How could she have anything to
do with these things? And why?
Because Charles, she wants you.
I see how she's constantly
looking at you.
She needs me and Christine
out of the way.
And I'm scared.
I think maybe you're just being
a little bit jealous, Anna.
She's just a kid.
Why are you protecting her?
You see that tea cup?
I don't remember anything after I
drank that last night. Not anything.
And there's something at the bottom,
like undissolved sugar or something.
Look.
I don't see anything.
No, it's there.
You have to look hard,
but it's there.
Maybe it is sugar.
I don't use sugar
in my tea, Charles.
She put something in it.
What do you want me to do?
I want you to get her out
of this house right now.
I can't just throw her out.
No, no, you don't have
to throw her out.
Just make up some excuse.
Just drive her back to her dorm.
Please, do it.
Charles, do it for me.
Do what?
If it's an errand you need to
run, I'd be happy to help out.
No. I can handle it.
All right.
Oh, silly me.
I forgot to come back for this.
Sorry.
Well, let me know if
you need anything.
Yes?
Yes.
Thank you, Charles.
I'll see you later.
Take care of that leg.
I'll be home early to
help with the dinner.
Don't worry about a thing.
I've got it all under control.
Christine, I'm starting
to worry about your mom.
Why?
Look, I know it's
none of my business,
but I think she
might be depressed.
I'd be depressed, too,
if I were her right now.
True, but she has this
small pharmacy's worth
of painkillers on her
nightstand right now.
And I think she might be
overmedicating herself.
I know she wouldn't do that.
Look, Christine...
Your mom told me about her
trouble with alcohol.
I know all about it.
And now with the
accident, I'm worried.
You know, some people have
addictive personalities.
Christine, and they just
can't help themselves.
Trust me, I know what
I'm talking about.
I know, she's going to be okay.
I know my mom. She...
She's stronger
than people think.
Whatever you say.
I just...
If she were to ever to overdose,
I would never be able to forgive
myself for not saying something.
So I just thought
you should know.
I mean, thank you
for caring, but...
you don't need to worry.
Zip me up?
Where did you get this?
Oh, I got it from Anna's closet.
She was asleep, otherwise
I would've asked her.
But I'm sure she won't mind. I
have to look good for your guests.
Do you like it?
You look great.
Don't be like that. Hey.
You know, people
will be here soon.
I did all this for you.
Oh, well, you know,
that will be Ken,
my junior partner.
Oh, I'll get it.
I need to finish
getting dressed.
Come on in.
- I'm early.
- Oh, it's no problem.
I'm Ken. I work with Charles.
Yes, I know who you are.
I brought a little something
for the party here.
Oh, excellent. Thank you.
You didn't have to do that.
That's so sweet.
So tell me, where have
they been hiding you?
I'm a friend of Christine's.
- So is she still laid up here?
- Yes.
She is. It's awful, and Mrs.
Benton.
That's why I offered to
help host the dinner party,
so Charles didn't
have to cancel.
Well, you certainly
are easy on the eyes.
Your name wouldn't happen
to be Amy, would it?
Yes, it is. Why has somebody
been talking about me?
Well, as a matter of fact, just as
Charles was leaving the office today.
- Really?
- Mmm-hmm.
A police detective
called named Parker.
Asked if there was an Amy
staying at the Benton house.
Wow, a detective. What
did you tell him?
I told him the truth,
that I had never heard
of anyone named Amy.
But boy, oh, boy, have I now!
Yes, you have.
So, Amy, are you on someone's
top 10 most wanted list?
Hardly. No, uh...
actually, there was an
accident at my school.
It was pretty serious and I
gave the detective a statement,
so he's probably just
calling to follow up.
I should give him
a call tomorrow.
But, more importantly, can
I shake you up a cocktail?
You seem to me like you
are a vodka martini guy?
Straight up, no vermouth,
olives on the side.
Amy, I might be falling
in love with you.
Well, Ken, that's what
all the boys say.
And that gentlemen, is the growing
problem with digital content delivery.
It's just too
difficult to protect.
If not, ultimately impossible.
That's why the new system
needs to be put in place.
A file list of managed works.
Make the webmasters accountable
for their own actions.
Mmm-hmm. Now we have had success
with Sycho-vue last year
and we've covered all the revenue
generated by an illegal distribution
up until that point.
Well, that is exactly
what I wanted to hear.
Well, I can work up a proposal if you'd
like, have it ready for you by next week.
Great. That should
work out just fine.
So, anybody have plans
for the holiday?
I am headed to San Luis
for the rest of the week.
Oh, the water is
beautiful up there.
- When do you leave?
- Mmm.
Tonight. I've got a bag packed and I'm
outta here as soon as dinner is over.
I don't know how I'll
get along without you.
Well, I am sorry,
Charles, but...
I can't help you there.
- You're gonna have a great time.
- Thank you.
And I will be here...
just taking care of everybody.
Amy, you're a perfect angel.
And you've done a wonderful
job with the dinner.
Yes, it was expertly cooked.
Well, I tried.
You succeeded.
I don't know how I'd
get along without you.
Yes. Excellent. That's exactly
what I wanted to hear.
And I will be here...
taking care of everybody.
What a lovely evening.
I can't thank you both enough
for coming to my home.
Oh, thank you so much.
It was a pleasure.
A pleasure, Brian.
- Drive safely.
- Thank you very much. Good night.
Thank you. Good night.
Well, I think we
nailed that one.
I think we did.
You guys can thank me later.
Ooh. She is quite a find.
You my friend, are very lucky.
Why do you say that?
She's got a lot
going on for her,
and plus the wrapper ain't
half bad, am I right?
Don't you have a
long drive ahead?
Yeah. Yeah, I should
hit the road.
Hey, about Amy...
Yeah?
Never mind.
Unzip me?
You can keep going if you want.
I'm pretty tired tonight.
So that's the way it is?
That's the way it is.
Honey.
Honey.
Oh, honey.
Come on. Come on.
I'm okay. All right.
Come on! Come on.
Morning. Have a seat.
It's almost ready.
We need to talk.
All right.
Okay, let's talk. What do
you want to talk about?
I'm worried about Christine.
She's not getting any better.
With Anna out of commission,
I think, it's time that...
I brought in some
professional help.
Professional help?
What are you trying to say?
What I'm trying to say is...
we all appreciate everything
you've done here,
especially me...
but I need to hire
a live-in nurse.
She's going to need
the guest room.
You're throwing me out?
After everything that
I've done for you?
After everything
that we've shared?
I mean, we had...
we had something going here.
No, we never had
anything going here.
That was a mistake,
and a big one.
No, that's not true.
Don't say that. That's not true.
Well, I realize that...
now.
I really love my wife.
I really need you to leave.
I'll drive you back to campus.
Oh, no.
No, you don't have to...
you don't have to
drive me anywhere.
You don't want me around? Fine.
Fine. Then I'll leave on my own.
I have my own friends,
and I can get my own damn ride.
I'm sorry about this,
but it is for the best.
Oh, is it?
Is it? Is it for the best?
What do you know about
"for the best," hmm?
I'm the best thing that
ever happened to you!
Better than that lazy
step-daughter of yours.
And I'm sure as hell a lot
better than that pathetic excuse
of a wife that you have
laying in there right now.
And you know it.
You know it.
I'm sorry.
My mind is made up.
Fine.
Fine.
Then I won't be here
when you get back.
'Cause I don't want to ruin...
or get in the way
of your happiness.
Thank you.
Good morning, sunshine.
Morning.
How'd your dinner go?
Dinner?
Uh, dinner went fine, thanks.
You got visitors.
- What?
- In your office.
It looks very official.
Can I help you?
Detective Ed Parker, this
is my partner Joe Davis.
Police, is there a problem?
Do you know a girl by
the name of Amy Thomas?
Yes.
She's a friend of my
step-daughter Christine.
Well, do you know
where she is now?
She's been staying at our
house the last few days.
And how's that been going?
Tough.
Christine became
sick immediately,
and she's been bed-ridden ever since and
Amy was taking care of her when my...
wife had an accident.
What kind of accident?
She took a bad fall.
Broke her leg.
We'd like to talk
to Miss Thomas.
You might be too late.
I told her this
morning to get out.
Let's go.
I'm sorry I can't stick around
to help you feel better.
There's nothing that
would've made me happier.
But I guess everybody's
done with me now.
It's sad.
It's tragic, really.
I give and I give and I give,
but I just can't seem to find what
it is that I'm searching for.
People can be so shallow.
They don't know what love is.
But I do.
I know what love is.
And I deserve it.
I just can't seem to find it.
In a moment...
that leg won't be hurting
you at all anymore.
You won't feel any pain.
You'd like that, wouldn't you?
I know I would.
Amy!
I'll be right back.
Amy!
Christine, what is it?
You called for me?
I had a really bad dream.
Aw.
I really want to see my mom.
Well, your step-dad thinks that
you've already suffered enough, so...
it's time to take
you to the doctor.
- Really?
- Yup.
Come on, Scout's honor.
- Come on.
- Can you help me get dressed?
No, there's no time for that.
We're already running late.
I can't go like this. I
need to get dressed.
- No.
- What are you doing? What are you doing?
- Christine, it has to be this way.
- Let go of me! Let go!
Christine, let's go!
It has to be this way!
Go!
Leave me alone!
Stop it!
Stop being so
ungrateful, Christine.
Your whole family is ungrateful.
Come on.
Mom!
You always got everything
you ever wanted.
All you ever had to do was wish
for something and it was yours.
Perfect Christine.
Beautiful Christine.
I never got anything!
I'm nobody.
Now, Christine...
if you want to
just lay around...
and sleep your life away
like a selfish little bitch...
then be my guest.
Nothing worthwhile's ever easy.
I want you to know that you're
making me do this, Christine.
Amy, please, stop.
It's all your fault.
You've ruined everything.
Don't move, Miss Thomas.
Charles.
Amy, don't move.
They'll shoot you.
I'm sorry.
I'm sorry, Charles.
What the hell was
this all about?
Who knows?
So many pieces from so many
places to put together.
She wasn't even Amy Thomas.
The real Amy Thomas
died two years ago.
Then who was she?
Yeah, we'll find out eventually.
Who knows? We might even find
out why she did all this.
I don't think anybody
ever really loved her.
But it's over now, isn't it?
It is for her.