Unwanted Guest (2016)

[bunniefuu]

[police radio chatter]

There we go. Watch your head.

[muttering]

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.

[scoffs] I guess. Never really thought of him like that.

[Amy] 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.

The couple was leaving town and could only view the property at 8:30.

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.

[doorbell rings]

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.

[squeaking]

[gasps] What's that?

That's Mr. Chips.

Hello, little buddy. Did you miss me?

[Amy] 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.

[sighs]

So, Mom, how goes the w*r?

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? [chuckles]

Amy hates being around sick people.

Liar! It's the truth.

[softly] 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 w*r.

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.

[clears throat] 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 k*lled that boy.

k*lled 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 m*rder?

Yeah. What's your school's record for that?

[Marilyn] Who'd want to k*ll 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.

[Cindy] 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.

[knocking on door]

Just a minute.

Hey, the airport shuttle's here.

I'll call you back later. Okay.

And stop worrying.

Right. Bye.

You're early, I said 10:30.

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.

[sighing] 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?

1:00.

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.

[phone ringing]

Hello. Benton residence.

[Clare] Hi, Christine?

No, this is Amy, Christine's friend.

[Clare] 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.

[scoffs] 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!

[emphatically] 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.

[coughing]

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?

She's been asleep since 10:00.

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.

[coughing]

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.

[laughing cough]

Stop trying to make me feel better.

[sighing]

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.

[Christine] 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.

[scoffs] 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?

[sighs] 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.

[phone ringing]

Hello?

[Parker] 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.

[squeaking]

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.

[squeaking]

[sighs] 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.

[sighs]

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...

[screams]

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.

[groaning] 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.

[Amy] 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.

[coughing]

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?

[coughing] 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.

[sighs]

[knock on door]

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 dr*gs 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.

[whistling]

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 k*ll 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.

[shivering]

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.

[chuckles] 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.

[coughs]

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.

[sighing] 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.

[coughing]

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.

[doorbell rings]

Oh, well, you know, that will be Ken, my junior partner.

Oh, I'll get it.

I need to finish getting dressed.

[sighs]

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.

[distorted] I don't know how I'd get along without you.

[Brian] Yes. Excellent. That's exactly what I wanted to hear.

[Amy] 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.

[whistling]

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.

[emotionally] 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.

[sobbing]

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.

[sighs]

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.

[Christine] Amy!

[gasps]

I'll be right back.

[Christine] 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!

[groaning]

[groaning]

Stop being so ungrateful, Christine.

Your whole family is ungrateful. Come on.

Mom! [screaming]

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.

[groans]

I never got anything!

I'm nobody.

[gas hissing] [sighs deeply]

Now, Christine...

if you want to just lay around... and sleep your life away like a selfish little bitch...

then be my guest.

[coughing]

[scoffs]

Nothing worthwhile's ever easy.

[gasping]

I want you to know that you're making me do this, Christine.

Amy, please, stop.

It's all your fault.

[yelps]

[groans]

You've ruined everything.

Don't move, Miss Thomas.

Charles.

Amy, don't move. They'll sh**t you.

I'm sorry.

I'm sorry, Charles.

[thuds]

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.