Kyle XY s02e16 Episode Script
Great Expectations
Previously on Kyle XY Kyle? Be careful, even in our backyard.
We have bigger problems than Mrs.
Bloom.
Jessi starts back at school today.
I sort of levitated.
Show me how.
I will.
She's the one who attacked me.
I know Lori will never forgive me.
You have to earn forgiveness.
"She Could Be You.
" What? The two of you used to play that song all the time.
D4.
It's not there.
It's a Latnok ring.
All the members received rings.
It was a way of identifying one another.
And you're Latnok? Yes.
I got accepted into a music program in New York.
I leave in two days.
Two days? I miss this.
I miss you.
I didn't want to go back to how I was before.
How were you before? Invisible.
I'll call and text and e-mail.
I'm gonna come back to you.
You promise? Promise.
Spring cleaning- a curious ritual.
Nicole said it meant time to rid ourselves of things we didn't need anymore.
The first step is reflection.
What's worth keeping? What's lost its value and can be given away? For some, the choice is easy.
For others, much more difficult.
Wow! Getting rid of all that.
Actually, I've gone through, and I like all my things.
I don't want to give them away.
Oh, Kyle, you don't have to, but a lot of this stuff has seen its best day.
Look at this t-shirt.
It's shrunk, it's stained, it's faded.
I wore this the first time Stephen took me to work with him.
Well this one's torn.
I ripped it playing basketball with Josh.
Great game.
The first gift Lori ever gave me.
Sentimental pack rat.
Great.
We're in trouble.
Look, this isn't supposed to be torture.
Consider it a chance to shed your old skin, be someone new.
Dude, take a load off.
Let's throw this puppy around for a few.
Let me grab the rest of the boxes first.
The boxes aren't going anywhere.
But I told Nicole that I- The best part about spring cleaning is ditching out on spring cleaning.
You can't do it, can ya? You always have to do the right thing.
And you always find a way of putting fun before work.
Alphabetical order, my encyclopedic friend.
But I will have you know, I'm done with my room.
And I'm trashing this with the rest of my stuff.
But first Bite marks.
Foam.
It's irresistible.
Come on.
Show me what you got.
Okay.
Keep going.
More.
Whoa! ·ÂÃ룺¸à ÃÃID ã㺸à ÃÃID ñ¼äÃ᣺¿¨Ãø ìÃûKYLE.
XY µÃ2¼¾µÃ16¼¯ You didn't tell me you were coming.
No one knows.
I'm surprising my mom for her birthday.
You're a good present.
How's New York? Amazing.
Everything I imagined.
And the music program? The teachers are all so inspiring.
And the students there are so talented.
Like you.
They've all had incredible training.
It was intimidating at first, but I know I'm in good company.
I'm learning about composers I never knew- Amanda's heart was beating rapidly, and she was speaking really fast.
She seemed happy, but I could sense that she was troubled.
I'm already a better technical player.
Amanda is everything all right? I can never hide anything from you.
But I need to let my mom know I'm home.
Can we get together later? Of course.
Good.
I guess we need to talk.
She said what? "We need to talk.
" What is it? Nothing.
No, I missed something.
Well, when someone says, "We need to talk," sometimes it's a lead in to a discussion about feelings that have changed.
Feelings? Prepare yourself, dude.
She's dumping you.
At least she has the decency to do it in person.
Don't read into it.
Just wait and hear what she has to say.
No.
Not my lucky shirt.
Josh, you've outgrown it.
I couldn't help but wonder Had Amanda already outgrown me? Okay, grab hold of the wire and make these babies blink.
What? You turned a block full of headlights on.
This should be easy.
Are you serious? You said I look for ways to slack off.
This I take seriously.
You have to challenge that brilliant mind of yours, and someone has to fill in for that Foss guy, right? Well, that someone, my friend, will be me.
Really? Just- make 'em blink.
Hey.
Is it working? Not really.
Thinking about Amanda drained all the voltage out of him.
Oh.
Yeah, I heard.
"We need to talk.
" Sorry she left you hanging.
Typical woman.
Um, anyway I need to look for my digital projector.
You giving that away, too? No, I need it for a lecture I'm giving at U.
W.
You're giving a lecture? I mean you're giving a lecture.
I've been asked to speak at a symposium tomorrow.
Are you getting paid for this thing? Because you're supposed to bring home the bacon, Dad, and I eat a lot of bacon.
For your information, Josh, I have already had a job offer.
This lecture is about showing my expertise for free.
Well, I think your expertise is worth more than that.
Thank you, Kyle.
I'll let you two get back to work.
What's that? Just an old magazine.
You done in your room? Yep.
And now I need permission to boycott an assignment.
Let me guess: math.
Nope.
Me.
My guidance counselor is making everyone write a two-page essay about who you really are.
I don't know the answer to that yet.
I mean, how old were you when you figured that out? I'll let you know when I get there.
Figuring out who you are is a constantly evolving process.
"Constantly evolving process.
" That's three words.
I need more.
How about "sarcastic," "moody," and "cynical"? I didn't ask you.
And I'm not a cynic.
I am totally "glass is half full.
" I just acknowledge that the other half of the glass is a desolate void of disappointment, misery, and regret.
Preparing ahead makes me pragmatic.
Uh, speaking of being prepared Homework? Done.
I know.
You should call Ripley's.
I need an opinion.
I can't decide which one.
What do you guys think, plaid? Definitely.
Thanks.
You and Amanda should take a walk around the marina.
Sunsets are really pretty.
Maybe we will.
Dead man walking.
Hi.
Hello.
Can I come in? There's a front door.
I wanted to see you.
This is quicker.
What happened? Oh, I- I slipped and hit my shoulder.
Jumping off another roof? Kyle, I've learned my lesson.
And I'm here to learn another one.
You said I have to work my way up to do things like levitate, so start teaching me.
I can't.
There's nobody around.
I have plans tonight with Amanda.
Oh, Amanda.
She's home? As a surprise.
You're anxious about it.
Your heart's beating really fast, I can tell.
She told me, "We need to talk.
" So? You don't think that means anything? Uh it means she wants to talk to you? Isn't that a good thing? That's what I thought.
So, uh, when can we get started? When Amanda goes back, I'll have time.
Okay.
Well good-bye.
Bye.
Ready? Kyle, I can't go out.
But you said we need to talk.
I'm sorry.
I can't see you.
Amanda? Inside! This is all your fault.
What? My daughter flying clear across the country to surprise me.
You're not happy she's home? I'd be happy if she hadn't used my birthday as an excuse to tell me she wants to drop out.
Drop out of the conservatory? Why? As if you didn't know you're the reason.
She didn't say anything to me about it.
We haven't even had a chance to talk.
You're not gonna get that chance.
You will not see or speak to Amanda until she's back where she belongs, at that school.
I don't understand why she won't let me speak to Amanda.
Well, unfortunately, Mrs.
Bloom sees you as a distraction.
I just want to know what happened, make sure she's okay.
Well, put yourself in Mrs.
Bloom's shoes.
What I mean is, try to see things from her perspective.
That music conservatory sounds like a pretty big opportunity, one that Amanda shouldn't miss.
I don't want her to miss it.
But Mrs.
Bloom shouldn't force her to go back.
Kyle, I'm afraid Mrs.
Bloom has every right to send Amanda back whether she wants to go or not.
Just as she has the right to ask you to stay away.
And the hard truth is it's really none of our business.
You know what Amanda means to me.
If she's struggling with, or confused about something, how could it be none of my business? I know you're bummed, but look at the bright side.
Which, by the way, is my new M.
O.
At least Amanda wasn't planning on dumping you.
How do you know that? Mrs.
Bloom blames you for ruining her life.
It seems to me like Amanda flying home was a case of "girl missing boy next door.
" But we don't know that.
We don't know anything Amanda's feeling.
No one's letting her explain.
Even Mom and Dad.
I can't believe they're siding with Mrs.
Bloom.
I can't believe we're siding with Carol Bloom.
She's uptight, narrow-minded- Yeah, and those are her good qualities.
Well, like it or not, we have to respect what she wants for her daughter.
But Kyle has shown nothing but love and concern for Amanda.
And now we have to keep them apart? The funny thing is, knowing Kyle, he'd make the situation a lot better if he were just allowed to talk to her.
You remember being Kyle's age? When something like this takes over your whole life That's half the fun of being in love.
Now we have to be the buzz kills, the grown-ups.
Well, if this is what being a grown-up means- It sucks.
Why can't Mom and Dad do something? They can't cross the line with Mrs.
Bloom.
They're all about crossing the line when something's not fair.
Go throw Mom one of your "puppy dog in a thunderstorm" looks.
Get her to change her mind.
They made it clear.
I have to obey Mrs.
Bloom's request.
This isn't right.
I can't just stand back and do nothing.
Kyle, do I detect defiance? Genius joins the dark side.
I've got a list of rules I've been dying for you to break.
I don't want to break any rules.
I won't have to.
I'll do exactly what Mrs.
Bloom asked me to do.
Atta boy, Kyle.
Take a stand.
Why are your feet on my bed? There were still ways to contact Amanda without seeing or speaking to her.
* I miss * Feeling you there by my side * I could easily circumvent Mrs.
Bloom without leaving my own house.
But it seemed she could find ways to thwart me just as easily.
If electronic messages weren't getting through, there would be no way for me to send a note or a letter without Mrs.
Bloom intercepting it.
I couldn't see or speak to Amanda.
The written word was no longer an option.
But there were still a few notes I could send her way.
I hoped this message would get through, and she would at least know I was thinking about her.
I was just trying- I know what you were doing.
I think you better come in now.
What? You want my music now, too? You've already confiscated my phone and my computer.
I know this is hard for you to understand- That you're keeping me prisoner? You will leave this house when you agree to return to New York to become the extraordinary pianist you're meant to be.
Mom, I'm not seven years old anymore.
You think I don't get that this is a great opportunity for me? Then why would you throw it away? Because it's not right for me now.
It's not what I want.
You don't know what you want.
Dude the crispity, crunchity goodness in that bowl is long gone.
I'm not really hungry.
My essay sucks.
Speaking of sucks- What? I meant Shakespeare.
Extra credit.
Impressive.
Impressive would be figuring out what language this was written in.
I thought Kyle might be able to translate, but Well, what part are you at? The part that says it's about two families and it's set in "fair Verona.
" That's the first two lines.
She lives exactly and I can't even tell her I'm sorry.
You could if she wasn't locked in her own house.
Who else but Mrs.
Bloom actually changes the alarm code to keep someone in? I just hope Amanda doesn't feel as bad as I do.
Looks like we have our own resident pair of star-crossed lovers.
The balcony scene's her favorite part of the play.
Of course, it didn't end well for them.
So Romeo and Juliet did everything in their power to be together.
You guys know how this ends? Why didn't you say so? This all began when Amanda said we needed to talk.
That's exactly what we're gonna do.
I can write my essay later.
Whatever it is, I'm in.
Wait a minute.
I'll do just about anything but that.
If you wanna help, you have to commit, take this seriously.
Then let me drive the getaway car instead.
Or I could create a diversion or something.
Hey, you want in? Accept the assignment.
Then I guess I'll see if I can borrow one of Andy's.
What can I do to help? Help what? Help Kyle have a night out with Amanda like you've been talking about.
How do you know what we've been talking about? You just sat down.
I listened in while I was sitting at that table over there.
I thought you had the copyright on that move.
I can do anything Kyle can do.
Could you make out with Amanda? 'Cause that would be hot.
It's a common male fantasy to watch two women make out.
Number six on popular top-ten lists, but it's not really backed by statistical evidence.
That's all really fascinating and everything, Kyle, but I think what she really needs to learn is the meaning of privacy.
Bitchy, not cynical.
A total difference.
I was just trying to help.
Actually I think there is something you can do.
Can I help you? Hi.
Is Amanda home? I'm a friend.
I've seen you going in and out of the Trager house.
You're Lori's trampy friend.
Oh, no, that's Hillary.
Well, whoever you are, Amanda is not allowed to have visitors.
Oh, but do tell Kyle, "Nice try.
" Hey! Dad! Josh! Guess who was a hit at the symposium? I knew you'd be.
Yeah, I was a little nervous when I got there, but I look out and I see a room full of computer science geeks.
My peeps.
Sounds like really fulfilling and fascinating stuff.
Say, uh, why don't you take a load off, and I'll put that projector away for you.
Sure.
Thanks.
That's our block? On a map of the power grid.
There's our house.
.
and Amanda's.
And how does that help? I need to know how the neighborhood is wired.
This has high-voltage cables, transformers, utility lines, breaker panels- It's part of the plan.
I'm back.
Jessi, please try to use the- Oh.
Front door.
Right.
How'd it go? So, uh, I'll see you at the Rack later? Okay.
Bye.
She was done, right? I should probably get going.
Um, didn't you just leave? I wanted to talk to you, and, um Kyle said that I should use the front door.
Okay.
Um your parents didn't press charges, and they could have.
They understand that what I did to you wasn't me.
And I'm really lucky that they do.
Yeah, you are.
Kyle explained everything to you.
I didn't want to beat you up.
It was my programming.
Things went wrong.
So, what, you caused the most traumatic experience of my life, and now you're telling me that it's not your fault? I'm telling you I'm sorry.
I'm not here to ruin things anymore.
I'm here to help.
I'm trying.
Then I guess I can try, too.
Okay.
Hey.
Want some help? Dig in.
Hey, I thought you got rid of this.
I got a little nostalgic and rescued it from the reject pile.
I got a little nostalgic myself today.
Being back on campus again, no office politics, no corporate crap, just this flow of ideas.
It was a real give-and-take.
I forgot how satisfying that can be.
It's been a long time since you talked about teaching.
Yeah, I know.
I was surprised when the feeling hit me.
I was also surprised when the head of the computer science program mentioned an adjunct professorship.
Stephen, that's great.
Two job offers.
No, no, no, just the one.
I turned it down.
Why? Well, you wanna get back in the public sector, and I already have a fantastic job.
I mean, it's a great salary.
I'd be the senior VP in charge of software development.
Yeah, at a company that makes elevator control panels.
Well, it's not as exciting as a career change, I admit, but at least this time around, I won't have an evil boss.
How'd it go? Mission accomplished.
Excellent.
So far.
What you are planning here is so out there, there is no way everything will go right.
Suzy Cynic.
Kyle, your plan is genius! It's totally optimistic, at least what I understand of it.
Thank you.
So what's next? Well, Jessi got the alarm code, and you got her to pull down the shade, so on to Phase Two.
Here you go.
Phase Two.
Now we just wait for dark.
I have unwavering faith and fully support your exploits, but how is that a plan? You got something better? It's just that there's a lot at stake for Kyle's sake, and I don't want anything to go wrong.
Any why would that happen? Kyle's covered all the angles.
I'm sure he has.
Then why don't you just relax? Kyle's plan has to work, otherwise he won't get to Amanda before she's gone for good.
I think phase two has been activated.
Think about Amanda, how much you want to see her, to hold her to touch her.
Josh, eww.
What? He needs an emotional trigger.
The other thing I need is silence.
Good idea.
Lori, out! What did I do? This is man's work.
I so wanna make a joke right now.
She could have stayed.
Yeah, but I'm about to get all mushy, and I didn't want her to hear it.
Listen, Kyle, I get how messed up you are right now.
If anybody told me I couldn't see Andy ever again, I'd be a mess, too.
But you've got to pull it together.
You really think I can do this? Knowing how much you care about Amanda? Zero doubts.
Come on.
Deep breaths, just take it slow, one bulb at a time.
By focusing, I could control the flow of electrons along the wire, much like driving a car along a narrow road.
In this case, the road led into the Trager house's electrical system, which in turn connected to the neighborhood transformer.
Through the transformer, I was able to reach Amanda's house and gain access to the house's electrical system.
Once inside, I could direct the flow of electrons through the wires hidden in the walls.
I was able to find my way to Amanda's room.
Finally, I got my message through.
And finally, we would have our chance to talk.
Phase Three.
MEET ME AT THE RACK ALARM CODE 12154 You owe me big.
Trager, you really embraced your inner Hallmark card.
You've gone soft.
I know.
You can cut the irony with a spoon.
I just hope it's worth it.
What's that supposed to mean? Nothing.
All this for puppy love? I mean, seriously, what are the odds that the person you're gonna spend the rest of your life with is literally the girl next door? I mean, I don't want to put a bad mojo on the whole love vibe, but I don't want to set Kyle up to get his heart chopped, sliced, and diced.
God, that felt good.
Did you see where I put the napkins? Is there a garlic convention in here? Too much? Never.
What's the occasion? Take your pick.
I feel guilty about discouraging Kyle.
I appreciate the life we have and that we have such good kids.
Um I'm incredibly hungry.
How about all of the above? Stephen.
Hmm? You mentioned Amanda would be missing an opportunity.
You ever feel that way? What makes you think I feel that way? Spring cleaning.
Dragging the past out of the closets, seeing who we've become.
You still look great in a bikini.
I wouldn't know.
I haven't worn one since Josh was born.
Remember how I was supposed to be the cool mom who published thought-provoking articles and had a career? All I've accomplished this weekend is five loads of laundry.
Not to mention an insanely aromatic marinara sauce.
Yes, there was a time when I wanted to teach, but I don't feel like I'm really missing anything, 'cause I never went down that path.
But you had to go the corporate route to support our family.
Which I wouldn't trade for anything in the world.
Why don't you go gather the troops.
All right.
I'm on it.
Hey.
Is she coming? I hope so.
She got my message.
I know now is not the best time to ask, but can we add that electrical trick to the list? I really want to learn that, too.
After Amanda goes back to New York, when you have more time.
I promise I'll make time.
But I have to make time for Amanda, too.
She might be staying.
Oh, she's staying? She doesn't want to go back.
You're surprised.
No, it's- it's good news for you.
Do you know why? Not yet, but now I have a chance to find out.
Thank you for your help.
Your dinner is getting cold.
I know you're not very happy with me right now, but I am only looking out for your best interests.
I made that noodle casserole you like so much.
Oh, Amanda.
Hey, hon? Where the hell are they? This could be the biggest move you bust all night, so we just wanna make sure you have it down.
Meet her at the door.
Compliment her.
Walk her over to the table.
Offer her a seat.
Yes.
Care to demonstrate? Would you like a seat? No.
No, no.
You have to pull the chair out for her.
Oh.
And then just slip it underneath her as she sits.
Not too fast or you'll take her out at the knees.
Right.
Not too fast.
Why am I even worried? You'll be fine.
Does it look okay? Perfect I love this.
The lights, the table, everything.
And the window in my room.
How'd you even get the idea for that? Romeo and Juliet.
Act 2, scene 2, line 2.
The balcony scene.
That's- Your favorite scene in the play.
I like that you pay attention to weird little details like that.
You do? You're blushing.
I am? I shouldn't have said that.
I totally embarrassed you.
No.
Amanda you can always say whatever you want with me.
Glazed Cornish game hens on a bed of sautéed greens, sweet-potato soufflé and asparagus, with shaved Romano and pancetta.
I don't think this is what we ordered.
Right.
'Cause nothing says romance like a smoked turkey wrap.
I took some liberties with the menu.
You made this? No one knows I'm secretly a fan of Top Chef.
And no one ever will.
Bon appétit.
Stop staring.
I can't.
I'm O.
D'ing on suspense.
I wonder how it's going.
You wanna know if it's going badly.
What you witnessed earlier was a completely uncharacteristic outburst.
No, it's how you really feel.
It was just a mini meltdown brought on by some stupid homework assignment.
The "Who You Really Are" essay? No one ever takes that seriously.
Well, almost no one.
It was recently brought to my attention that I am always the girl with the wry commentary and the patented eye roll.
Honest question.
Do you think I'm a cynic? Honest answer? Absolutely.
You're Miss Possible But Not Likely.
About my own life? Of course.
But watching those two, who am I to say they're not meant for each other? I mean, look at them.
Have you ever seen two people look at each other like Kyle and Amanda? Not in a while.
Amanda, you said we need to talk.
Right.
You didn't think I meant- Maybe a little.
After a few people weighed in.
The one time you didn't take my words literally.
Did you really think my feelings had changed? Is that why you brought me here? I brought you here 'cause everyone else was making assumptions about what you wanted, and how you were feeling and what was right for you.
But no one was actually asking you.
That's why my feelings for you could never change.
Didn't know the lights out here twinkled.
Only for you.
You have no idea how disappointed I am right now! Mom- Save your excuses! Your flight leaves in less than two hours.
My flight- You heard me.
But you haven't heard her.
You have nothing to say in the matter! But I do! Don't you even care? I'm not happy at the conservatory.
Of course I care! But I also care about scholarships, opportunities.
I care about your future.
If you really cared about my future, you would not have sold my piano in the first place! Mom, I'm sorry.
I didn't- Get in the car, now.
I have to go.
I understand.
I hope you're satisfied.
It took all my will power not to trip her.
Thank you for letting me know Amanda was here.
Glad I could help.
Welcome home.
I'd ask you what you were thinking, but I don't think you were thinking at all.
Actually, this took a great deal of planning.
Not helping.
The Blooms' situation was private.
We made it very clear you were not to see Amanda.
You were not to get involved.
I know I broke a rule, but I'm not sorry I did.
I had to do it, for Amanda.
Good intentions aside, you're still grounded.
All of you.
Two weeks.
What? School, work, home.
Everything else is off-limits.
And I'll take your cell phones.
This was my idea.
Lori and Josh shouldn't be punished.
They were just helping.
Exactly.
What if Foss- If anyone important calls, I'll have it with me.
Do I get one last call? No.
But you do get to go to your rooms.
Now.
Grounding Kyle.
Who would have expected it? And he was the ringleader.
When did that start happening? Be honest.
You're kinda glad they did it, aren't you? Well? Aren't you? Some rules are meant to be broken.
About that.
I think we should break some rules, too.
Stephen, I don't want us to sail into a complacent, suburban existence without fighting the good fight.
I want you to pursue that opport U.
W.
Nicole, that's not an option.
Well, then we need to make it one.
You can't get the chance to pursue an old dream and just pass on it.
We have mouths to feed.
We'll keep them fed.
We'll make it work.
We always do.
Spring cleaning isn't just about sorting through things and getting rid of clutter.
It's about taking stock of who you are and how others see you.
It's a chance to redefine yourself, to change expectations.
And to remember that it's never too late to recapture who you were.
Or to aim for who you want to be.
Take a seat.
Where have you been? I was just out looking at the stars.
You were stargazing every night this week.
How about the truth now.
I've been sneaking out.
Obviously.
Why? To try things.
Such as? Um I've been testing myself.
Getting stronger and faster.
I know I shouldn't let people see me, and that's why I do it at night.
I- I don't know what to say.
I expected that it would take you longer to get comfortable living here before we were ready.
We? I have big plans for you, Jessi.
And I need you to be as strong and as smart as you can possibly be.
How do we start? Well, first thing's first.
You need to get some sleep.
We'll talk about it further in the morning.
Okay.
LISTEN WHO IS THIS Amanda.
What happened? Did your mother change her mind? No.
I didn't get on the plane.
Can you hide me? Come in.
»Ã¼ÃÃë
We have bigger problems than Mrs.
Bloom.
Jessi starts back at school today.
I sort of levitated.
Show me how.
I will.
She's the one who attacked me.
I know Lori will never forgive me.
You have to earn forgiveness.
"She Could Be You.
" What? The two of you used to play that song all the time.
D4.
It's not there.
It's a Latnok ring.
All the members received rings.
It was a way of identifying one another.
And you're Latnok? Yes.
I got accepted into a music program in New York.
I leave in two days.
Two days? I miss this.
I miss you.
I didn't want to go back to how I was before.
How were you before? Invisible.
I'll call and text and e-mail.
I'm gonna come back to you.
You promise? Promise.
Spring cleaning- a curious ritual.
Nicole said it meant time to rid ourselves of things we didn't need anymore.
The first step is reflection.
What's worth keeping? What's lost its value and can be given away? For some, the choice is easy.
For others, much more difficult.
Wow! Getting rid of all that.
Actually, I've gone through, and I like all my things.
I don't want to give them away.
Oh, Kyle, you don't have to, but a lot of this stuff has seen its best day.
Look at this t-shirt.
It's shrunk, it's stained, it's faded.
I wore this the first time Stephen took me to work with him.
Well this one's torn.
I ripped it playing basketball with Josh.
Great game.
The first gift Lori ever gave me.
Sentimental pack rat.
Great.
We're in trouble.
Look, this isn't supposed to be torture.
Consider it a chance to shed your old skin, be someone new.
Dude, take a load off.
Let's throw this puppy around for a few.
Let me grab the rest of the boxes first.
The boxes aren't going anywhere.
But I told Nicole that I- The best part about spring cleaning is ditching out on spring cleaning.
You can't do it, can ya? You always have to do the right thing.
And you always find a way of putting fun before work.
Alphabetical order, my encyclopedic friend.
But I will have you know, I'm done with my room.
And I'm trashing this with the rest of my stuff.
But first Bite marks.
Foam.
It's irresistible.
Come on.
Show me what you got.
Okay.
Keep going.
More.
Whoa! ·ÂÃ룺¸à ÃÃID ã㺸à ÃÃID ñ¼äÃ᣺¿¨Ãø ìÃûKYLE.
XY µÃ2¼¾µÃ16¼¯ You didn't tell me you were coming.
No one knows.
I'm surprising my mom for her birthday.
You're a good present.
How's New York? Amazing.
Everything I imagined.
And the music program? The teachers are all so inspiring.
And the students there are so talented.
Like you.
They've all had incredible training.
It was intimidating at first, but I know I'm in good company.
I'm learning about composers I never knew- Amanda's heart was beating rapidly, and she was speaking really fast.
She seemed happy, but I could sense that she was troubled.
I'm already a better technical player.
Amanda is everything all right? I can never hide anything from you.
But I need to let my mom know I'm home.
Can we get together later? Of course.
Good.
I guess we need to talk.
She said what? "We need to talk.
" What is it? Nothing.
No, I missed something.
Well, when someone says, "We need to talk," sometimes it's a lead in to a discussion about feelings that have changed.
Feelings? Prepare yourself, dude.
She's dumping you.
At least she has the decency to do it in person.
Don't read into it.
Just wait and hear what she has to say.
No.
Not my lucky shirt.
Josh, you've outgrown it.
I couldn't help but wonder Had Amanda already outgrown me? Okay, grab hold of the wire and make these babies blink.
What? You turned a block full of headlights on.
This should be easy.
Are you serious? You said I look for ways to slack off.
This I take seriously.
You have to challenge that brilliant mind of yours, and someone has to fill in for that Foss guy, right? Well, that someone, my friend, will be me.
Really? Just- make 'em blink.
Hey.
Is it working? Not really.
Thinking about Amanda drained all the voltage out of him.
Oh.
Yeah, I heard.
"We need to talk.
" Sorry she left you hanging.
Typical woman.
Um, anyway I need to look for my digital projector.
You giving that away, too? No, I need it for a lecture I'm giving at U.
W.
You're giving a lecture? I mean you're giving a lecture.
I've been asked to speak at a symposium tomorrow.
Are you getting paid for this thing? Because you're supposed to bring home the bacon, Dad, and I eat a lot of bacon.
For your information, Josh, I have already had a job offer.
This lecture is about showing my expertise for free.
Well, I think your expertise is worth more than that.
Thank you, Kyle.
I'll let you two get back to work.
What's that? Just an old magazine.
You done in your room? Yep.
And now I need permission to boycott an assignment.
Let me guess: math.
Nope.
Me.
My guidance counselor is making everyone write a two-page essay about who you really are.
I don't know the answer to that yet.
I mean, how old were you when you figured that out? I'll let you know when I get there.
Figuring out who you are is a constantly evolving process.
"Constantly evolving process.
" That's three words.
I need more.
How about "sarcastic," "moody," and "cynical"? I didn't ask you.
And I'm not a cynic.
I am totally "glass is half full.
" I just acknowledge that the other half of the glass is a desolate void of disappointment, misery, and regret.
Preparing ahead makes me pragmatic.
Uh, speaking of being prepared Homework? Done.
I know.
You should call Ripley's.
I need an opinion.
I can't decide which one.
What do you guys think, plaid? Definitely.
Thanks.
You and Amanda should take a walk around the marina.
Sunsets are really pretty.
Maybe we will.
Dead man walking.
Hi.
Hello.
Can I come in? There's a front door.
I wanted to see you.
This is quicker.
What happened? Oh, I- I slipped and hit my shoulder.
Jumping off another roof? Kyle, I've learned my lesson.
And I'm here to learn another one.
You said I have to work my way up to do things like levitate, so start teaching me.
I can't.
There's nobody around.
I have plans tonight with Amanda.
Oh, Amanda.
She's home? As a surprise.
You're anxious about it.
Your heart's beating really fast, I can tell.
She told me, "We need to talk.
" So? You don't think that means anything? Uh it means she wants to talk to you? Isn't that a good thing? That's what I thought.
So, uh, when can we get started? When Amanda goes back, I'll have time.
Okay.
Well good-bye.
Bye.
Ready? Kyle, I can't go out.
But you said we need to talk.
I'm sorry.
I can't see you.
Amanda? Inside! This is all your fault.
What? My daughter flying clear across the country to surprise me.
You're not happy she's home? I'd be happy if she hadn't used my birthday as an excuse to tell me she wants to drop out.
Drop out of the conservatory? Why? As if you didn't know you're the reason.
She didn't say anything to me about it.
We haven't even had a chance to talk.
You're not gonna get that chance.
You will not see or speak to Amanda until she's back where she belongs, at that school.
I don't understand why she won't let me speak to Amanda.
Well, unfortunately, Mrs.
Bloom sees you as a distraction.
I just want to know what happened, make sure she's okay.
Well, put yourself in Mrs.
Bloom's shoes.
What I mean is, try to see things from her perspective.
That music conservatory sounds like a pretty big opportunity, one that Amanda shouldn't miss.
I don't want her to miss it.
But Mrs.
Bloom shouldn't force her to go back.
Kyle, I'm afraid Mrs.
Bloom has every right to send Amanda back whether she wants to go or not.
Just as she has the right to ask you to stay away.
And the hard truth is it's really none of our business.
You know what Amanda means to me.
If she's struggling with, or confused about something, how could it be none of my business? I know you're bummed, but look at the bright side.
Which, by the way, is my new M.
O.
At least Amanda wasn't planning on dumping you.
How do you know that? Mrs.
Bloom blames you for ruining her life.
It seems to me like Amanda flying home was a case of "girl missing boy next door.
" But we don't know that.
We don't know anything Amanda's feeling.
No one's letting her explain.
Even Mom and Dad.
I can't believe they're siding with Mrs.
Bloom.
I can't believe we're siding with Carol Bloom.
She's uptight, narrow-minded- Yeah, and those are her good qualities.
Well, like it or not, we have to respect what she wants for her daughter.
But Kyle has shown nothing but love and concern for Amanda.
And now we have to keep them apart? The funny thing is, knowing Kyle, he'd make the situation a lot better if he were just allowed to talk to her.
You remember being Kyle's age? When something like this takes over your whole life That's half the fun of being in love.
Now we have to be the buzz kills, the grown-ups.
Well, if this is what being a grown-up means- It sucks.
Why can't Mom and Dad do something? They can't cross the line with Mrs.
Bloom.
They're all about crossing the line when something's not fair.
Go throw Mom one of your "puppy dog in a thunderstorm" looks.
Get her to change her mind.
They made it clear.
I have to obey Mrs.
Bloom's request.
This isn't right.
I can't just stand back and do nothing.
Kyle, do I detect defiance? Genius joins the dark side.
I've got a list of rules I've been dying for you to break.
I don't want to break any rules.
I won't have to.
I'll do exactly what Mrs.
Bloom asked me to do.
Atta boy, Kyle.
Take a stand.
Why are your feet on my bed? There were still ways to contact Amanda without seeing or speaking to her.
* I miss * Feeling you there by my side * I could easily circumvent Mrs.
Bloom without leaving my own house.
But it seemed she could find ways to thwart me just as easily.
If electronic messages weren't getting through, there would be no way for me to send a note or a letter without Mrs.
Bloom intercepting it.
I couldn't see or speak to Amanda.
The written word was no longer an option.
But there were still a few notes I could send her way.
I hoped this message would get through, and she would at least know I was thinking about her.
I was just trying- I know what you were doing.
I think you better come in now.
What? You want my music now, too? You've already confiscated my phone and my computer.
I know this is hard for you to understand- That you're keeping me prisoner? You will leave this house when you agree to return to New York to become the extraordinary pianist you're meant to be.
Mom, I'm not seven years old anymore.
You think I don't get that this is a great opportunity for me? Then why would you throw it away? Because it's not right for me now.
It's not what I want.
You don't know what you want.
Dude the crispity, crunchity goodness in that bowl is long gone.
I'm not really hungry.
My essay sucks.
Speaking of sucks- What? I meant Shakespeare.
Extra credit.
Impressive.
Impressive would be figuring out what language this was written in.
I thought Kyle might be able to translate, but Well, what part are you at? The part that says it's about two families and it's set in "fair Verona.
" That's the first two lines.
She lives exactly and I can't even tell her I'm sorry.
You could if she wasn't locked in her own house.
Who else but Mrs.
Bloom actually changes the alarm code to keep someone in? I just hope Amanda doesn't feel as bad as I do.
Looks like we have our own resident pair of star-crossed lovers.
The balcony scene's her favorite part of the play.
Of course, it didn't end well for them.
So Romeo and Juliet did everything in their power to be together.
You guys know how this ends? Why didn't you say so? This all began when Amanda said we needed to talk.
That's exactly what we're gonna do.
I can write my essay later.
Whatever it is, I'm in.
Wait a minute.
I'll do just about anything but that.
If you wanna help, you have to commit, take this seriously.
Then let me drive the getaway car instead.
Or I could create a diversion or something.
Hey, you want in? Accept the assignment.
Then I guess I'll see if I can borrow one of Andy's.
What can I do to help? Help what? Help Kyle have a night out with Amanda like you've been talking about.
How do you know what we've been talking about? You just sat down.
I listened in while I was sitting at that table over there.
I thought you had the copyright on that move.
I can do anything Kyle can do.
Could you make out with Amanda? 'Cause that would be hot.
It's a common male fantasy to watch two women make out.
Number six on popular top-ten lists, but it's not really backed by statistical evidence.
That's all really fascinating and everything, Kyle, but I think what she really needs to learn is the meaning of privacy.
Bitchy, not cynical.
A total difference.
I was just trying to help.
Actually I think there is something you can do.
Can I help you? Hi.
Is Amanda home? I'm a friend.
I've seen you going in and out of the Trager house.
You're Lori's trampy friend.
Oh, no, that's Hillary.
Well, whoever you are, Amanda is not allowed to have visitors.
Oh, but do tell Kyle, "Nice try.
" Hey! Dad! Josh! Guess who was a hit at the symposium? I knew you'd be.
Yeah, I was a little nervous when I got there, but I look out and I see a room full of computer science geeks.
My peeps.
Sounds like really fulfilling and fascinating stuff.
Say, uh, why don't you take a load off, and I'll put that projector away for you.
Sure.
Thanks.
That's our block? On a map of the power grid.
There's our house.
.
and Amanda's.
And how does that help? I need to know how the neighborhood is wired.
This has high-voltage cables, transformers, utility lines, breaker panels- It's part of the plan.
I'm back.
Jessi, please try to use the- Oh.
Front door.
Right.
How'd it go? So, uh, I'll see you at the Rack later? Okay.
Bye.
She was done, right? I should probably get going.
Um, didn't you just leave? I wanted to talk to you, and, um Kyle said that I should use the front door.
Okay.
Um your parents didn't press charges, and they could have.
They understand that what I did to you wasn't me.
And I'm really lucky that they do.
Yeah, you are.
Kyle explained everything to you.
I didn't want to beat you up.
It was my programming.
Things went wrong.
So, what, you caused the most traumatic experience of my life, and now you're telling me that it's not your fault? I'm telling you I'm sorry.
I'm not here to ruin things anymore.
I'm here to help.
I'm trying.
Then I guess I can try, too.
Okay.
Hey.
Want some help? Dig in.
Hey, I thought you got rid of this.
I got a little nostalgic and rescued it from the reject pile.
I got a little nostalgic myself today.
Being back on campus again, no office politics, no corporate crap, just this flow of ideas.
It was a real give-and-take.
I forgot how satisfying that can be.
It's been a long time since you talked about teaching.
Yeah, I know.
I was surprised when the feeling hit me.
I was also surprised when the head of the computer science program mentioned an adjunct professorship.
Stephen, that's great.
Two job offers.
No, no, no, just the one.
I turned it down.
Why? Well, you wanna get back in the public sector, and I already have a fantastic job.
I mean, it's a great salary.
I'd be the senior VP in charge of software development.
Yeah, at a company that makes elevator control panels.
Well, it's not as exciting as a career change, I admit, but at least this time around, I won't have an evil boss.
How'd it go? Mission accomplished.
Excellent.
So far.
What you are planning here is so out there, there is no way everything will go right.
Suzy Cynic.
Kyle, your plan is genius! It's totally optimistic, at least what I understand of it.
Thank you.
So what's next? Well, Jessi got the alarm code, and you got her to pull down the shade, so on to Phase Two.
Here you go.
Phase Two.
Now we just wait for dark.
I have unwavering faith and fully support your exploits, but how is that a plan? You got something better? It's just that there's a lot at stake for Kyle's sake, and I don't want anything to go wrong.
Any why would that happen? Kyle's covered all the angles.
I'm sure he has.
Then why don't you just relax? Kyle's plan has to work, otherwise he won't get to Amanda before she's gone for good.
I think phase two has been activated.
Think about Amanda, how much you want to see her, to hold her to touch her.
Josh, eww.
What? He needs an emotional trigger.
The other thing I need is silence.
Good idea.
Lori, out! What did I do? This is man's work.
I so wanna make a joke right now.
She could have stayed.
Yeah, but I'm about to get all mushy, and I didn't want her to hear it.
Listen, Kyle, I get how messed up you are right now.
If anybody told me I couldn't see Andy ever again, I'd be a mess, too.
But you've got to pull it together.
You really think I can do this? Knowing how much you care about Amanda? Zero doubts.
Come on.
Deep breaths, just take it slow, one bulb at a time.
By focusing, I could control the flow of electrons along the wire, much like driving a car along a narrow road.
In this case, the road led into the Trager house's electrical system, which in turn connected to the neighborhood transformer.
Through the transformer, I was able to reach Amanda's house and gain access to the house's electrical system.
Once inside, I could direct the flow of electrons through the wires hidden in the walls.
I was able to find my way to Amanda's room.
Finally, I got my message through.
And finally, we would have our chance to talk.
Phase Three.
MEET ME AT THE RACK ALARM CODE 12154 You owe me big.
Trager, you really embraced your inner Hallmark card.
You've gone soft.
I know.
You can cut the irony with a spoon.
I just hope it's worth it.
What's that supposed to mean? Nothing.
All this for puppy love? I mean, seriously, what are the odds that the person you're gonna spend the rest of your life with is literally the girl next door? I mean, I don't want to put a bad mojo on the whole love vibe, but I don't want to set Kyle up to get his heart chopped, sliced, and diced.
God, that felt good.
Did you see where I put the napkins? Is there a garlic convention in here? Too much? Never.
What's the occasion? Take your pick.
I feel guilty about discouraging Kyle.
I appreciate the life we have and that we have such good kids.
Um I'm incredibly hungry.
How about all of the above? Stephen.
Hmm? You mentioned Amanda would be missing an opportunity.
You ever feel that way? What makes you think I feel that way? Spring cleaning.
Dragging the past out of the closets, seeing who we've become.
You still look great in a bikini.
I wouldn't know.
I haven't worn one since Josh was born.
Remember how I was supposed to be the cool mom who published thought-provoking articles and had a career? All I've accomplished this weekend is five loads of laundry.
Not to mention an insanely aromatic marinara sauce.
Yes, there was a time when I wanted to teach, but I don't feel like I'm really missing anything, 'cause I never went down that path.
But you had to go the corporate route to support our family.
Which I wouldn't trade for anything in the world.
Why don't you go gather the troops.
All right.
I'm on it.
Hey.
Is she coming? I hope so.
She got my message.
I know now is not the best time to ask, but can we add that electrical trick to the list? I really want to learn that, too.
After Amanda goes back to New York, when you have more time.
I promise I'll make time.
But I have to make time for Amanda, too.
She might be staying.
Oh, she's staying? She doesn't want to go back.
You're surprised.
No, it's- it's good news for you.
Do you know why? Not yet, but now I have a chance to find out.
Thank you for your help.
Your dinner is getting cold.
I know you're not very happy with me right now, but I am only looking out for your best interests.
I made that noodle casserole you like so much.
Oh, Amanda.
Hey, hon? Where the hell are they? This could be the biggest move you bust all night, so we just wanna make sure you have it down.
Meet her at the door.
Compliment her.
Walk her over to the table.
Offer her a seat.
Yes.
Care to demonstrate? Would you like a seat? No.
No, no.
You have to pull the chair out for her.
Oh.
And then just slip it underneath her as she sits.
Not too fast or you'll take her out at the knees.
Right.
Not too fast.
Why am I even worried? You'll be fine.
Does it look okay? Perfect I love this.
The lights, the table, everything.
And the window in my room.
How'd you even get the idea for that? Romeo and Juliet.
Act 2, scene 2, line 2.
The balcony scene.
That's- Your favorite scene in the play.
I like that you pay attention to weird little details like that.
You do? You're blushing.
I am? I shouldn't have said that.
I totally embarrassed you.
No.
Amanda you can always say whatever you want with me.
Glazed Cornish game hens on a bed of sautéed greens, sweet-potato soufflé and asparagus, with shaved Romano and pancetta.
I don't think this is what we ordered.
Right.
'Cause nothing says romance like a smoked turkey wrap.
I took some liberties with the menu.
You made this? No one knows I'm secretly a fan of Top Chef.
And no one ever will.
Bon appétit.
Stop staring.
I can't.
I'm O.
D'ing on suspense.
I wonder how it's going.
You wanna know if it's going badly.
What you witnessed earlier was a completely uncharacteristic outburst.
No, it's how you really feel.
It was just a mini meltdown brought on by some stupid homework assignment.
The "Who You Really Are" essay? No one ever takes that seriously.
Well, almost no one.
It was recently brought to my attention that I am always the girl with the wry commentary and the patented eye roll.
Honest question.
Do you think I'm a cynic? Honest answer? Absolutely.
You're Miss Possible But Not Likely.
About my own life? Of course.
But watching those two, who am I to say they're not meant for each other? I mean, look at them.
Have you ever seen two people look at each other like Kyle and Amanda? Not in a while.
Amanda, you said we need to talk.
Right.
You didn't think I meant- Maybe a little.
After a few people weighed in.
The one time you didn't take my words literally.
Did you really think my feelings had changed? Is that why you brought me here? I brought you here 'cause everyone else was making assumptions about what you wanted, and how you were feeling and what was right for you.
But no one was actually asking you.
That's why my feelings for you could never change.
Didn't know the lights out here twinkled.
Only for you.
You have no idea how disappointed I am right now! Mom- Save your excuses! Your flight leaves in less than two hours.
My flight- You heard me.
But you haven't heard her.
You have nothing to say in the matter! But I do! Don't you even care? I'm not happy at the conservatory.
Of course I care! But I also care about scholarships, opportunities.
I care about your future.
If you really cared about my future, you would not have sold my piano in the first place! Mom, I'm sorry.
I didn't- Get in the car, now.
I have to go.
I understand.
I hope you're satisfied.
It took all my will power not to trip her.
Thank you for letting me know Amanda was here.
Glad I could help.
Welcome home.
I'd ask you what you were thinking, but I don't think you were thinking at all.
Actually, this took a great deal of planning.
Not helping.
The Blooms' situation was private.
We made it very clear you were not to see Amanda.
You were not to get involved.
I know I broke a rule, but I'm not sorry I did.
I had to do it, for Amanda.
Good intentions aside, you're still grounded.
All of you.
Two weeks.
What? School, work, home.
Everything else is off-limits.
And I'll take your cell phones.
This was my idea.
Lori and Josh shouldn't be punished.
They were just helping.
Exactly.
What if Foss- If anyone important calls, I'll have it with me.
Do I get one last call? No.
But you do get to go to your rooms.
Now.
Grounding Kyle.
Who would have expected it? And he was the ringleader.
When did that start happening? Be honest.
You're kinda glad they did it, aren't you? Well? Aren't you? Some rules are meant to be broken.
About that.
I think we should break some rules, too.
Stephen, I don't want us to sail into a complacent, suburban existence without fighting the good fight.
I want you to pursue that opport U.
W.
Nicole, that's not an option.
Well, then we need to make it one.
You can't get the chance to pursue an old dream and just pass on it.
We have mouths to feed.
We'll keep them fed.
We'll make it work.
We always do.
Spring cleaning isn't just about sorting through things and getting rid of clutter.
It's about taking stock of who you are and how others see you.
It's a chance to redefine yourself, to change expectations.
And to remember that it's never too late to recapture who you were.
Or to aim for who you want to be.
Take a seat.
Where have you been? I was just out looking at the stars.
You were stargazing every night this week.
How about the truth now.
I've been sneaking out.
Obviously.
Why? To try things.
Such as? Um I've been testing myself.
Getting stronger and faster.
I know I shouldn't let people see me, and that's why I do it at night.
I- I don't know what to say.
I expected that it would take you longer to get comfortable living here before we were ready.
We? I have big plans for you, Jessi.
And I need you to be as strong and as smart as you can possibly be.
How do we start? Well, first thing's first.
You need to get some sleep.
We'll talk about it further in the morning.
Okay.
LISTEN WHO IS THIS Amanda.
What happened? Did your mother change her mind? No.
I didn't get on the plane.
Can you hide me? Come in.
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