When Mom Becomes a m*rder*r (2024)

[bunniefuu]

[mysterious music]

[hooting]

[panting frantically]

[ominous music]

Individuals who commit crimes

are not inherently evil.

They're often products

of their environment.

They could be struggling

with mental health issues,

trauma, addiction.

Instead of perpetuating

the cycle of violence,

we should focus on

rehabilitation

and restorative justice.

This means addressing

the root causes

of criminal behavior.

Creating opportunities

to heal and grow.

We argue against the motion

that an eye for an eye

is a suitable form of justice.

It fails to address

the complex human behavior

and-and the inequities

that exist within our society.

Instead, we should strive

for a justice system

that emphasizes compassion

and rehabilitation.

I yield my time.

[clapping and cheering]

Thank you.

And thank you to all

of our Erstwell competitors.

And now, if I may have

the judges' results, please.

Thank you.

And the champion

of this year's State High School

Debate League is...

[chuckles]

Rockwood High.

[squeals excitedly]

[cheering and clapping]

Yes!

[soft music]

Honey, I am so proud of you.

[chuckling]

Good job.

Oh, we have to take a photo

for the school's Instagram.

Oh, no, no, no, sorry.

No pictures online.

Come on, Mom.

You don't want a record

of my victory?

Honey, you know the rule.

The only safe digital presence

- is to have none at all.

- Yeah.

You know, I must be

the only kid in the world

- without social media.

- Oh.

[laughing]

Isn't he a little old for you?

Definitely not in high school.

I'm not either.

You just graduated last week.

So, as a principal, I...

I know I'm supposed

to remain neutral,

so I just wanted to say

that you k*lled it.

[laughing]

You k*lled it.

And I just got us a table

at Gino's to celebrate.

Ooh!

You guys go ahead.

I'll catch up with you.

- You sure?

- Mm-hmm.

- Mm-hmm.

- Okay, yep.

- Okay.

- Yep.

The bus leaves in five minutes.

Don't be late.

[indistinct chatter]

You're not actually

gonna talk to him, are you?

Why not?

I don't think he's gonna wanna

flirt with a girl

that his kid brother

just debated against.

If he thinks she's cute,

he might.

- Hi.

- Hey.

Hello.

Um, hello.

- Hey.

- Hello.

I'm Ellie.

I'm-I'm on the debate team.

- Yeah, I know.

- Yeah.

You just watched us debating.

[heart beating]

[wheezing]

You okay?

[wheezing]

You sure?

[wheezing]

[tense music]

[wheezing]

[panicked breathing]

What do I do?

Ellie, what do I do?

I'm gonna get your mom.

[wheezing]

Honey? Honey?

Try to relax.

Okay? I've got you.

Look at me, look at me, okay?

Breathe with me. Okay?

[inhales deeply]

In, one, two, three.

Out, one, two, three.

That's it.

Keep breathing slowly.

Here we go, here we go.

Okay?

[oxygen hissing]

That's it, that's it.

You see?

This is exactly why

you should stay close

to your mom.

Come on, come on, come on.

Let's get you outta here.

Nathan, can you grab her stuff?

- Yeah.

- Let's go.

[soft music]

[birds chirping]

- This one's nice.

- Yeah, she looks composed.

- That's going in my office.

- Okay.

When are you guys gonna stop

looking at those, do you think?

- Never.

- [chuckling]

- I think this one.

- Yep.

- Have at it.

- Yep.

This is going on the fridge.

[chuckling]

So, now that high school's done,

debate's done,

what are you gonna do

with your first day of freedom?

Um, Isla and I have some ideas.

Yeah, I had some ideas

for summer vacation once

and they promoted me

to principal

and they all went away.

- [sighs]

- Anyway,

Eleanor, do tell.

It's nothing, Mom.

Just like, stuff.

You know,

it's just that kids, you know,

once they graduate,

they can get a little...

out of control.

Less accountability,

less structure.

Mom, you're off duty.

No school counselor at home,

please.

I'd at least like to know

who you're hanging around with.

It's just Isla! Okay,

we were actually gonna celebrate

and we were gonna go to dinner,

you know,

celebrate our graduation.

Is that scandalous enough

for you?

Oh.

I heard that you had been

spending time with Nancy Meyers.

Yeah, I was just like,

helping her with final exams.

Well, she is a girl who knows

how to get into trouble.

Mom!

Like, I'm a debate kid.

I'm not like, a party animal.

So, you can trust me.

- Okay.

- Anyway,

we're gonna go

pick up some groceries.

- You wanna come?

- Okay, thrilling as that sounds

um, no, I actually have to

pick out an outfit for tonight.

Well, that... that'll take all day?

[both]: Yeah.

Oh yeah.

Yeah.

- But...

- Okay.

- Hey.

- Just the two of us.

- [throat clearing]

- Fun.

- [sighs]

- Sneaking into a bar?

I don't know about this, Ellie.

You saw how I was with that guy?

Yeah, we need this.

Well, I need this.

What is this?

Oh, my mom's mad

I'm going out of state.

She's trying to bubble wrap me.

A whistle,

pepper spray, and a keychain?

Press the button.

- My mom has one too.

- That's cool.

Seriously uncool.

[beeping stops]

- You leave in two weeks, yeah?

- Mm-hmm.

Yeah, so you don't want to...

build your confidence with guys?

You could find love in Paris.

- You'll get romanced in Rome.

- I'm going with my family.

It's not gonna be like that.

Besides,

I'm excited to see the museums

and the architecture.

Actually see history

before I go and study it.

[sighs]

Yeah, this is our problem.

We got our scholarships.

We worked hard.

We need to let go.

But the Roadhouse is sketchy.

Besides, they probably

won't even let us in.

No, I actually thought

about that.

So, um, I invited Nancy Meyers.

Yeah, she's got fake IDs.

- Nancy Meyers?

- Come on,

she's actually really nice

when you get to know her.

And you know what?

I think you guys

would have fun together.

No.

She's not like us.

Please come, Isla.

It wouldn't be the same

without you.

And I think you're gonna look

really hot in this dress.

I'm just gonna put this right...

Oh, so pretty!

Wow! So nice.

Okay, I'm only coming

to make sure that you don't get

into any trouble.

I'm trying this on.

And I'm not wearing that dress.

I'm going to get a soda.

[somber music]

Hey, Isla,

can you grab me a soda too

when you're down there?

Isla?

Okay, Isla,

I know you're not sure

about tonight

but you don't have to give me

the silent treatment.

Isla?

[screaming]

[ominous music]

Are you okay?

There... Someone was here.

- What?

- I don't know.

They rushed out so quickly,

I-I didn't see.

[startling]

Why is this door open?

Why are you coming

through the back door?

Why are you even back so early?

I forgot something.

What?

[suspenseful music]

[birds chirping]

- Anything?

- Well, there's nobody up there

and nothing's gone,

as far as I can tell.

It looks like they went through

some old photo albums

and papers.

My jewelry box was open.

Should we even call the police?

Well, I didn't notice

anything missing

and no one was hurt, right,

so I don't think we need to.

Okay, well uh,

let's just go grab our stuff

then.

Well, hold on.

You still wanna go out tonight?

Yeah. Isla was the one

who was spooked.

She needs cheering up.

And we're just gonna get ready

at her place.

Yeah, you know what?

You've worked hard all year.

This is a celebration.

Enjoy the night.

Okay.

Don't worry, honey,

she'll be fine.

[rhythmic music]

[overlapping chatter]

You need this.

You look too young.

I like your natural look.

The guys here won't.

[chuckles]

We can always

just watch a movie.

You need to chill, Tallulah.

Come on, this is gonna be fun.

Okay, but your dad's

the principal.

You're wearing

our school jacket.

- Somebody could recognize you.

- Look,

I'm not making you guys

do anything.

Either you're in or you're out.

But it'll be fun.

We wanted to spend

some one on one time together

before my trip.

Just the two of us.

We can just do that instead.

I need this, Isla.

But you're totally right,

I can't wear this.

Can you hold this?

[chucking]

[indistinct chatter]

Hi.

Okay, now I'm a little excited.

Just be cool.

- Right.

- [chuckles nervously]

And stop worrying

about your dad.

- Yeah.

- If anything,

it's your mom

I'd be more concerned about.

My mom?

Yeah.

She may be a counselor

but she's the one with issues.

Are we gonna chit-chat all day

or are we gonna head inside?

- Okay!

- [chuckles]

[tense music]

[beeping]

Just dinner with Isla, huh?

Let's go.

Both of you.

Let's go.

[ominous music]

[engine stops]

[sighs]

Talk to me, Eleanor.

Was this Nancy's idea?

No, it was mine.

What were you thinking?

I just wanted to get some...

practice.

Practice?

Talking to boys.

I'm going off to college soon.

How are we supposed to trust you

at a college out of state,

when you can't even

be safe at home?

- Mom, I'm going to college.

- Trust is earned, Eleanor.

It's Ellie.

But Eleanor means shining light,

which is what you are.

Don't dim that light.

I'm not Eleanor,

your little girl anymore, Mom.

I'm Ellie.

I can't wait to get outta here.

Wow.

[soft music]

[cellphone rings]

[dial tone]

Hey, Nance, sorry about tonight.

I told you it was your mom

you had to watch out for.

Listen, I met a guy

on my way home.

He and his buddies

are hanging out

at Gib's Lookout,

if you wanna come.

- I'm already here.

- My mom is so mad at me.

- He said he knew you.

- What?

Yeah, from debate?

Said you freaked out

when you tried talking to him.

Oh, my God. It's him.

Wow, I can't believe

he remembers me.

- Um...

- So, are you in?

[soft music]

- I'm in.

- Great.

Oh, by the way,

I'm wearing your jacket.

You left it in my car.

I'll keep it warm for you.

Oh yeah. Okay, thanks.

- See ya soon!

- Okay, see ya soon!

[]

No.

No. Too high.

[suspenseful music]

What are you doing?

Midnight study group?

[sighs]

I'm going to meet Nancy.

But there's no dive bars

this time.

Sneaking out

in the middle of the night

is not the way

to win back my trust,

especially not with Nancy.

Tell her you're not going.

Where were you meeting?

Gib's Lookout.

Go to bed.

We'll talk about this

in the morning.

[footsteps in the stairs]

[door closing]

[ominous music]

[car door closing]

[engine starts]

[insects chirping]

[sighs]

[cellphone rings]

Come on, Ellie,

I'm already here.

[sighs]

[ominous music]

[footsteps approaching]

[screams]

[birds chirping]

- Hi.

- Where'd you go last night?

Midnight study group.

That's funny.

I phoned Nancy's parents.

They hadn't heard from her

so I decided

- to try and find her myself.

- Mom!

Okay, did you?

If there was a party

at the lookout,

I certainly didn't see it.

So...

Honey, are you okay?

I just got a call

from the chief of police.

Nancy Meyers' body

was found this morning

What?

No, she... she's dead?

No, I-I saw her last night.

Like, we-we texted.

She can't... she can't...

- [wheezing]

- Honey, honey,

breathe, breathe,

breathe, breathe.

Breathe. Breathe.

Deeply.

[wheezing inhale]

And slowly.

That's it.

[wheezing]

What happened?

They don't know much

at this stage.

Uh, some local hickers

found her body on the rocks

below Gib's Lookout.

That's where she asked me

to meet her.

We should call the police.

Based on the evidence

they found at the scene,

they think this was m*rder.

No, no,

they honestly can't

believe that.

She must have slipped and fell.

Was she drinking last night?

Mom... Like, I know you think

she was some kind of monster

but...

They're not ruling out

anything at this point.

Oh.

Oh, God.

- You okay?

- Oh.

Why wouldn't she be okay?

She hated Nancy.

Eleanor,

that is a horrible thing to say.

[sobbing]

- Oh.

- Hey.

[shaky breathing]

[Marion]: I can't believe

this is happening again.

[Nathan]: It's not.

It's different this time.

We're gonna be okay.

[Marion]: What if the chief

questions me?

What if he questions Eleanor?

What if Eleanor finds out

about all of this?

[Nathan]: Stop, stop, stop.

Just take a breath.

[Marion]: Okay.

[car door opening]

[doorbell ringing]

Uh, Chief, um,

we weren't expecting you.

Yeah, I just have

some questions in regards

to some new evidence

that's just cropped up.

You mind if I come in?

- Um...

- [sighs]

Eleanor is really upset

about this whole situation.

Nancy was her friend.

I don't think

now is a good time.

It's fine, Mom. I-I wanna help.

Hey.

- Come on in.

- Thank you.

[sighs]

[kettle hissing]

Um, your coffee, Chief.

Shirley says

you're on to decaf now

so I made that.

Do you take sugar or...

Listen, I don't wanna take

too much of your folks' time.

I just got a few questions.

Does this necklace

look familiar?

Um...

It's mine.

Yeah, uh, we found it

at the lookout last night.

Near where we believe

Nancy was...

We found it at the lookout

and we ran it for prints

and they matched yours, Marion.

The break-in yesterday.

- It must have been taken then.

- Wait.

Wait, wait, you guys had

a break-in yesterday?

Did my people investigate?

We didn't think

anything was missing.

I mean,

Ellie's friend saw someone,

she thought

she saw someone but...

We-we didn't wanna

waste your time.

So, you didn't notice

it was missing?

It's an old necklace

I've had since I was a teenager.

I... I don't even

wear it anymore.

Where were you last night,

Mrs. Bevan?

Huh.

Are we under investigation here,

Chief?

This is a m*rder case.

I have to dot all the I's.

So, just tell me,

where were you last night?

Um, I-I picked up Eleanor

and then, drove her friend,

Isla, home,

and then, had cocoa

and went to bed.

Well, sadly,

your necklace wasn't

all we found at the scene.

We also found

a Rockwood High jacket,

and in the front pocket it had

an assignment

with your name on it.

I forgot. I-I left my jacket

in Nancy's car.

When did you leave Nancy?

About 10:00, I guess.

We saw on her phone

that you called her last night.

Yeah, she-she wanted me

to meet her at Gib's Lookout

but my mom wouldn't let me go.

Hmm.

Was she with anyone?

Yeah, um, there was this...

this guy I met

at the debate final

the other week.

Um, yeah,

she said she was hanging out

with him and his friends.

I... I think he was one

of the older brother's

- of the other team.

- Hmm.

Yeah, he-he seemed really nice.

Well, appearances

can be deceptive.

That's all the questions

I have for now.

Great. I'll...

I'll see you out, Chief.

Thank you.

- Ma'am.

- Thank you.

I wanna talk to you about

how I'm gonna deal with this

in terms of the children

at school.

Why did you lie?

- [door closing]

- What?

To the Chief,

I saw you go out last night.

I let the registration lapse

on the car.

What?

I-I know. I forgot to renew it

and I didn't wanna give

the Chief any reason

to dig deeper

into the car's exact whereabouts

last night.

He'd find out,

I'd get into trouble.

I mean, they could

impound the car, or worse!

Okay.

You lied.

I didn't have any information.

I didn't see anyone there.

What help would the truth be?

Eleanor, please, just...

give me a break on this one.

[soft music]

[birds chirping]

How ya holdin' up?

I just can't believe it.

I feel like there's more

that we should be doing,

you know?

She was our friend.

Not really.

She's dead, Isla.

I'm not being mean, I-I just...

she wasn't really our friend.

She got us in massive trouble

the other night.

It could have been

so much worse.

If they had found our fake IDs.

I can't lose my scholarship.

- My whole future depends on it.

- Okay, that-that was my fault.

Not hers.

Did they talk

to the college guy?

Yeah, the police said

they found him in his dorm.

I don't know,

they'll keep us updated.

I don't think

I can go to this memorial.

But your dad planned it.

We have to.

I know, I just like...

I just don't wanna see like,

all these people who hated Nancy

just pretending

to be sad she's gone.

[soft music]

Mom, Dad,

Isla and I are just gonna

head off together.

We'll meet you there.

I have a better idea.

[birds chirping]

I got Nancy into this.

What?

Don't be ridiculous.

She was always looking

for trouble.

Can we say

a little something for her?

Like our own private memorial?

Yeah.

[sighs]

You'll be missed, Nancy.

I know we didn't know

each other that long

but um, I'm glad we got

to become friends.

I promise to be more reckless

in my life.

[sniffles]

I... I do not promise that.

[laughing]

I don't know really know

what else to say.

To be honest,

you kinda scared me, Nancy.

And it scared me

that you and Ellie

suddenly became so close.

- Eleanor!

- [gasps]

What are you doing?

Get away from there!

Both of you!

We...

I wanted to do our own service

for Nancy.

Something personal.

No. No, not here.

Not while there's a k*ller

on the loose.

Police have the k*ller, Mom.

Chief Jones

just called your father.

That college kid

from your debate has an alibi.

What? How?

It doesn't matter, just come on.

Let's go, let's go.

Come home with me.

[soft music]

[door opening]

[sighs]

Oh, thank goodness.

Our little girl decided

it would be a good idea

to explore Gib's Lookout.

I just wanted

to say my own goodbye.

You need to stay home, Eleanor,

until this is all figured out.

This is serious!

You...

Try not to be so hard

on your mom, okay?

Between you and me,

she's going through a tough time

at work right now.

Somebody filed a complaint

against her

and she's been suspended

until they can investigate.

What? Who?

It's nothing to worry about.

Just it's a stressful time

for her

and then, losing Nancy

like that, you know,

we're all a bit rattled, okay?

Bring it in here, come on.

Come on.

And be good.

[sobbing]: Okay.

Oh, kid.

[soft music]

[insects chirping]

[Isla]: So, now your mom's

under investigation at school?

Yep, so she's gonna be around.

A lot.

Making sure I am stuck at home.

Well, is that really

such a bad thing?

We both could've gotten

really hurt

and besides, I'll come over

and we'll do popcorn and movies

like we said.

Yeah.

Well, my parents don't want me

going out on my own

but if I said I was meeting you

at the library for like...

like a college project,

that should work,

- right?

- But why?

Well, I mean, I

got Nancy into this.

Like, she was out

because I asked her to,

and it was a guy from debate

that took her to the lookout.

I wanna figure this out.

[sighs]

Hey, listen, this isn't

gonna be like last time.

Like, you know,

heading out with Nancy.

- Just you and me.

- Fine.

- Meet you there tomorrow?

- Hey, honey,

want some ice cream?

Mom, I'm on the phone.

Like, if you won't let me

have a lock,

- you could at least knock.

- Locks are a fire hazard,

you know that.

If you want ice cream,

it's downstairs.

I have to get outta here

before she suffocates me.

Okay. I will see you tomorrow.

[birds chirping]

Ah, ah, where are you going?

Mom, I'm just going

to the library with Isla.

Mom, we have pre-college reading

we have to do.

Okay, but don't be too long.

And let me know

if you need picking up.

- I will.

- [door opening]

- El... Oh.

- [door closing]

[birds chirping]

Okay, who are our suspects?

This feels kind of weird.

Come on, Isla.

The police have no leads.

We can't just sit back

and do nothing.

So, it had to have been

someone with access

to the necklace.

Yeah, um...

I'm sorry,

I really didn't get a good look

- at who was at your house.

- Okay.

And whoever sent the message

to Nancy

had to have been at the debate,

so it was me, you, my parents.

And like a million other people.

I mean, even if the guy

at the debate had an alibi,

like what about his friends?

Nancy said she was meeting him

and his buddies.

Maybe it was them.

Yeah, maybe he doesn't have

an alibi at all.

Maybe his friends

covered for him.

You think so?

Of course, they're his friends.

I'd cover for you

in a heartbeat.

Can I help with anything

today, dears?

Oh, uh, no. No, thank you.

Is that a school project?

- Yeah.

- It's the summer vacation.

You should be outside

enjoying yourselves.

Wish my mom agreed with you.

I hope you don't mind me

saying this

but I recognize you, don't I?

You're the principal's daughter.

- Guilty.

- Such a shame

about that awful business

with that poor girl, Nancy.

Were you friends?

Oh, honey,

I can't begin to imagine

what you're going through.

I'm so sorry for your loss.

Thank you.

Do they know what happened yet?

Not yet.

The police

are still investigating.

Well, listen,

I couldn't help but notice

you're scribbling

on loose scraps of paper

and I thought,

"What those ladies need

is a good notebook",

and we had some

just laying around

in the back office, so.

- Thank you. So kind.

- There you go.

Good luck with your project.

Thank you.

Cute.

All right, so...

did Nancy say anything

about these friends?

No.

A lot of kids in school

didn't like her.

Not liking her is different

than wanting her dead.

I have an idea.

Can you meet me later tonight?

Yeah, okay.

Okay.

[Isla]: I really don't know

about this.

How are we even supposed

to get inside?

I borrowed my dad's school keys.

I really don't like this, Ellie.

Don't worry,

there's no one here.

What do you expect to find

in her folder?

Motives for m*rder?

This isn't Clue.

If someone complained about her

that was also at the debate,

you don't think

that might mean something?

I thought that you decided

it was one of the college guys?

Uh, yeah, I just...

I don't know yet.

Wanna get as much info as I can.

[door opening]

Wait, I just heard something.

What? I didn't...

[indistinct chatter]

[door closing]

Okay, Ellie, that was so close.

We have to go.

It'll only take a minute.

[suspenseful music]

Ellie,

if we get caught,

we could be in serious trouble.

We have our scholarships

to keep.

We...

[sighs]

Keep lookout.

[sighs]

Okay, this is dangerous

and stupid.

Just let it go.

You're wasting your future

on a girl

that you barely even knew.

Then go, Isla.

I'm staying here.

See? It's locked.

[beeping]

[clicking]

Wow, for two people

who are so strict on safety,

my parents really use

my birthday for everything.

[sighs]

- [tense music]

- Someone's coming.

Just give me a minute.

It could be the janitors.

It's security!

Ellie, we don't have time.

We have to go!

[heavy breathing]

[indistinct radio chatter]

[frantic music]

[panting]

- Quick!

- I'm trying.

[grunting]

[panting]

And then, as if lying

and disobeying the rules

isn't enough,

you break into the school?

That's trespassing, Ellie,

that's a criminal offence!

You're lucky school security

called me and not the police.

And in the middle

of a m*rder investigation.

But that's exactly why I did it.

- I needed to try and help.

- Eleanor,

don't you get it?

Nancy spent the evening

with you and Isla.

She was wearing your jacket.

She texted you to join her.

Then they find my necklace

at the scene?

So?

So?

- What?

- [sighs]

So, we just think

it might be best

if you lay low

for a little while.

You think I look suspicious?

Of course we don't think

you're gonna hurt anybody

but there's

a m*rder investigation going on

and we don't want you or Isla

to get caught up in it.

We just wanna protect you.

No, no. No, don't do this.

No, no, it's okay. Let her go.

That's where you're gonna be

for the next week.

[sighs]

[door closing]

[sniffles]

[mysterious music]

[tense music]

Isla.

[]

[city rumble]

[cellphone ringing]

Hello?

So, how much trouble

did you get into?

Uh, they were okay.

I thought my dad

was going to explode.

He threatened to call off

the Europe trip this summer

but my sister managed

to calm him down.

Ellie, you okay?

Yeah. Yeah, I'm fine.

But at least we can put an end

to this whole

investigation thing, right?

I'm meant to be grounded,

but I think

my parents will let me out

if it's just to your place.

I can say

the principal's supervising us.

[chuckles]

Uh, I have

a mother-daughter hike tomorrow.

- Oh.

- Yeah, my hiking boots

need new laces.

It's like...

the only reason

my mom let me out of the house.

I could pick you up

from the mall later.

No, I won't be out long enough.

Um... raincheck?

[call beeps off]

- Oh.

- Oh, my gosh, I'm so sorry.

- Are you okay?

- Yeah, I'm fine.

I feel awful tough.

Uh, can I get you a coffee?

- I could use a coffee.

- All right.

[soft music]

- There you go.

- Thank you.

- Anything else?

- I'm Simon, by the way.

Hi. I'm Ellie.

Uh, how's the coffee here?

It's good. Yeah, it's nice,

it's really nice.

It's good beans, you know?

I only came to town yesterday

and uh...

number one priority

is finding good coffee.

Yeah, what brought you here?

Well, I'm a journalist

looking into the m*rder

of Nancy Meyers.

Yeah. You were about her age.

- Did you know her?

- I did.

Oh. Sorry.

Thank you.

Have you found anything?

Well, I spoke to the police

and there was a college kid

with an alibi, right?

Then they found

the counselor's necklace

at the scene

but haven't been able

to find anything about her

online.

Yeah.

"The only safe digital presence

is to have none."

Huh?

So, the counselor,

she's my mom.

She doesn't believe

you should have anything

about yourself online.

Like, no photos,

no socials, nothing.

She's into like,

online safety and all that.

What can I get for you?

Oh, um...

could I please get a latte?

Can I get an Americano, please?

Thank you.

So, have you found

anything else on the case?

Nancy was my friend.

Of course, but you know,

the counselor, your mom,

I've rarely come across anyone

whose past is just nonexistent.

Oh well, yeah,

she's definitely not involved.

[chuckles]

She's just...

Well, she's my mom.

Well,

I'd love to know more about her,

you know,

just to rule her out.

Uh, she's an only child.

She grew up on a farm out west.

That help solve your mystery?

Um...

Her parents died

before I was born so...

I'm not looking to pry,

I just...

She doesn't even have a photo

on the school site.

It just seemed strange to me.

I'm only in town

for a few more days

but you're the first person

that's been willing

to speak to me,

so if anything comes up,

literally anything,

feel free to reach out.

Yeah, and same to you.

Um...

I really wanna know

what happened to my friend.

Of course.

[mysterious music]

[sighs]

Marion Bevan.

Marion Brooks.

[pants]

[wheezing]

[shaky exhale]

[wheezing]

[tense music]

[wheezing]

[heavy breathing]

Where's my notebook?

[dramatic music]

Hello?

Hey, is somebody out there?

Please!

[wheezing]

[oxygen hissing]

[wheezing]

[dramatic crescendo]

Ellie, are you all right?

I think the door got stuck.

[wheezing]

[heavy breathing]

Did you take my notebook?

What? No, of course not.

I just had it.

Um, maybe you dropped it.

I just had it.

[birds chirping]

- [tense music]

- Hey.

Only me.

No need to jump.

- Are you okay?

- Sorry, I...

I met this journalist today.

I think he stole my notebook.

You met a journalist? Where?

Um, at a coffee shop.

I thought you were

just running out to get laces?

Well, who cares

if he stole your notebook?

The investigation's over, right?

I'm going to Europe soon

with my family.

I was hoping that this would be

our last big summer at home

together.

I didn't wanna spend it

being amateur detectives.

- Ellie.

- Why didn't you tell me

you reported Nancy for bullying?

That's supposed

to be confidential.

Well, I know, so.

I don't know,

maybe because she was a bully.

Because she treated me horribly

and you still hung out with her

anyway.

And you really didn't see

who broke into our house?

What is this?

Do you think

I had something to do with this?

I don't want to, but Isla,

my mom's necklace was taken

by someone only you saw,

and like,

supposedly didn't get

a good enough look at?

- I didn't.

- I know you knew

I was meeting Nancy there.

I texted you.

[shaky exhale]

You never liked her.

- Look.

- [sighs]

We are meant to be best friends.

We were meant to go for dinner

and have a movie night,

not come up

with conspiracy theories.

It's not a conspiracy theory.

So, I'm the big suspect

who k*lled Nancy,

is that it?

If you really wanna dig

into this,

there's someone

right under your nose

that you're missing.

What do you mean?

My parents told me

that it was Nancy

who made the complaint

about your mom.

That's why she's suspended.

- No, that's...

- It was her necklace the scene.

She knew where Nancy was going

to meet those guys

and she liked Nancy

a lot less than I did.

[mysterious music]

This is delinquent behavior.

But you know punishment

is not always the answer.

- But this is almost...

- Hang on a second,

I'll be right back.

[Marion]: All right, of course.

[suspenseful music]

[Nathan]: We tried your way.

[Marion]: She doesn't understand

how serious

the consequences are.

[Nathan]:

No one does at her age.

[Marion]: Isn't that

what we're supposed to do

as her parents?

[indistinct]

[insects chirping]

[beeping]

[suspenseful music]

Okay. History.

Gib's Lookout.

15 minutes.

That doesn't expire

for another month.

[keys jiggling]

[mysterious music]

Why aren't you dressed yet?

I totally forgot.

- [sighs]

- Well, get dressed quickly.

I will lace your boots.

Where are your new laces?

Uh, I forgot to get them.

What?

- Eleanor!

- I'm sorry,

I almost had an asthma attack

on the way.

That's why.

Oh.

Honey,

why didn't you say anything?

Actually, I'm still

not feeling great today.

Um, I think

a lot of walking around

won't really be good, so.

[sighs]

- Well, I...

- [sighs]

I don't wanna force you to go

but...

this is the club's last hike

and it's our last chance

to do this

before you leave for college.

This is important.

To me.

Okay.

Okay.

I have a feeling

that this is gonna be

our most memorable trip yet.

[soft music]

I have an old pair of boots

you can use for today.

I'll get them.

Get dressed!

[birds chirping]

So, you all should have

different checkpoints,

so make sure

you check your maps.

And of course,

don't forget your water.

- And...

- Hi!

- Oh!

- [panting]

Sorry, we're late.

Marion, you came.

I didn't think you would,

what with...

Oh, you're so brave.

What do you mean, Rachel?

Oh, you know, it's just gossip.

[sighs]

You know perfectly well

we have not been

officially questioned.

It's terrifying, though.

Isn't it?

Knowing that whoever did this

is out there?

And that they somehow had

your necklace?

So scary.

You know what's scary?

Is how much you're enjoying

all this information.

We'll see you

at the finish line.

All right, we'll see you

at the finish line.

[indistinct chatter]

[birds chirping]

Okay, so our first checkpoint

should just be

a few minutes this way.

You never really talk

about your past much.

- Huh?

- Your childhood.

Like, I don't really know

anything about it.

- Uh, it was uneventful.

- [chuckles nervously]

If you think it's boring here,

try living on a farm.

How did Grandma and Grandpa die?

Really, Eleanor?

We're kind of on the clock here.

You've never spoken about it.

Like...

Not like properly.

It was a car accident, okay?

Now, can we please

change the subject?

Okay.

Surely we have

other family though.

Like, we have cousins,

or like, uncles?

I would really like

to just focus

on beating Rachel right now.

It's a hiking club, Mom.

It's not really about winning.

- So...

- Well, it is to me.

[camera shutter snaps]

Okay, that's our first one.

Now, our second checkpoint

should be due south.

I just think it's weird

we never see any other family.

You know what?

I have an idea.

Come on, follow me.

Come on!

- Keep your knees up.

- This is like, not a path.

Well, it's a shortcut.

[mysterious music]

Um, what about friends?

Like uh...

Who was your Isla

in high school?

Mom?

Why the sudden interest

in my past?

Um...

Well, I met this guy

the other day,

he's a... a journalist.

What? A journalist?

What did you tell him?

Nothing.

Well, who is he?

He's probably nobody.

I don't know.

He-he seemed,

he like, gave me his card.

His card? Do you have it?

Eleanor.

Give it to me.

Right now.

[sighs]

Why would a journalist

talk to a teenager

- without their parents?

- I didn't say anything.

Not really.

Eleanor,

we have to be so careful.

Don't you understand that?

[sighs]

Come on.

[sighs]

Watch where you're stepping.

Yeah, we're supposed to be like,

meeting at the checkpoints, Mom.

This is like,

completely off trail.

Trust me.

- Are you mad at me?

- No!

I'm just a private person,

Eleanor.

I don't want other people

knowing my business,

- or yours.

- Yeah, I know.

You don't even have a photo

on the school website.

Like, something like that

is fine.

Why would anyone need

to see my photo online?

It's just best

to keep ourselves to ourselves.

- But I...

- No!

No buts, Eleanor.

Am I clear?

[sighs]

[somber music]

[insects chirping]

[birds chirping]

Mom, this is crazy.

Can't even see anyone anymore.

Are we lost?

Mom, can you please talk to me?

Hey, you'd never lie to me,

right?

What? No, of course not!

Look, stop bugging me

about the past.

I'll let you know

when the time is right.

[panting]

Oh, Eleanor, just breathe.

- Remember to breathe.

- I think I need to stop.

It's not long now.

Take the lead.

It's just straight ahead.

I'm right behind you.

Mom, I don't think

this is the right way.

[ominous music]

Mom?

It's the only way.

Keep moving.

Just keep going.

[pants]

[beeping]

A little further.

[dramatic crescendo]

[pants frantically]

Marion, Ellie,

I see you guys

are cutting the trails, too!

Smart.

You've almost caught up to us.

Come on, Mom.

Let's jog it to the finish line.

This is not over. Come on.

[soft music]

Hey! How'd it go?

We did not take home the win.

Rachel beat us in the end.

- Ah! Rachel.

- Mm-hmm.

Whoa there, kiddo.

- I wanna hear all about it.

- Uh...

Yeah, I'm just like,

so exhausted.

I think I'm just gonna

like, head up and rest.

Okay.

Me too.

Okay.

[insects chirping]

[mysterious music]

[dialing]

[cellphone rings]

Hello?

Hi, it's Ellie, uh,

from the caf.

- You gave me your card.

- Ellie, hi.

I'm so glad you called.

- Uh, are you doing better?

- Yeah, I just, um...

I feel like I'm losing my mind.

I just wanted to ask, um...

Have you made any progress

on the case?

Like, do you have

any more information about...

Like, what might

have happened to Nancy?

Who might have hurt her?

Look, I don't wanna

speak out of turn here.

- Just tell me.

- Okay, it's probably nothing

but I've been struggling

to find anything to write about,

so I looked up similar cases.

I found this other incident

and they're basically the same.

They're so close it's uncanny.

Okay, it was in Waterford,

25 years ago,

almost to the day, June 28th.

[door opening]

Maybe you could meet me tomorrw

at the same coffee place?

I have to go.

- [call beeps off]

- Ellie?

Hello? Are you...?

[]

[footsteps thudding]

[mysterious music]

[shaky breathing]

[birds chirping]

Oh, hey there, early bird.

- Got a minute?

- Well, um,

I have to do

some admin stuff for college.

Well, it'll just take a second.

Okay.

I'm just...

I'm wondering

how you're feeling.

How am I feeling?

Well, I know

this Nancy thing's hit you

pretty hard

so I'm just making sure

you're okay.

I'll be fine.

- I'll see ya tonight.

- Um, hey, hey...

You and your mom are okay,

aren't ya?

I-I mean,

I know she can be tough

but she's desperate

to spend time with ya,

so maybe you could ask her

to help you

- with some of your college stuff.

- Yeah,

this one I'm really supposed

to do by myself.

But um...

I'll ask her for the next one.

Okay. Okay, have fun!

[mysterious music]

[]

Do you need some help?

Uh, yeah, that'd be great.

There's like, so many papers

and I don't think the dust

is good for my asthma.

Ah. What is it exactly

that you're looking for?

Um, so it sounds kinda morbid.

I'm...

I'm actually...

I'm looking into a m*rder case.

Uh, it was in Waterford

about 25 years ago.

I know the date, it's June 28th.

Yeah, I assume

there's a newspaper article

about it, but...

it's driving me nuts,

there's like so many.

Well, this is

because you're looking

through the local archives.

And if it was in Waterford,

then you need to check

the national archives.

And they can only be accessed

on the library's

computer system.

Okay? You can follow me.

Okay, thank you.

- This baby has everything.

- Okay.

Detailed logs

of hundreds of newspapers

going back 80 years at least.

- Amazing.

- Yeah.

I'll be around

if you need anything else.

You know, it's funny,

I've just remembered,

your friend Nancy,

she was here

just a few days before...

She was? Why?

She'd just come out

of a counselling session.

She seemed really upset.

I only put two and two together

when I saw her photo

in the papers this morning.

She seemed so torn up that day.

I feel so sad

about what happened to her.

"The Marshall family

is grappling

with an unimaginable loss

after the death

of their youngest daughter,

Emma, aged 17.

The body of the young victim

was discovered

at the base of a cliff

on the morning of June 28th,

by some local hikers.

Law enforcement officials

have confirmed a suspect.

Close friend of the victim

is being pursued

in connection with the crime."

[mysterious music]

Mom.

[dramatic crescendo]

[mysterious music]

Isla?

[car door closing]

[engine starts]

[tires screeching]

[panting]

Hi, you've reached

Simon Marshall.

Leave a detailed message

and I'll get back to you.

Simon, it's Ellie. Um...

So I looked into the case

you mentioned.

Can you just call me back

when you get this?

[shaky breathing]

[mysterious music]

[elevator chimes]

- Miss Bevan.

- Chief Jones.

Thank you so much for seeing me.

Yeah, you said it was

about Nancy Meyers.

All right, please follow me.

Take your time, Miss Bevan.

It can be hard to talk

about things

that might

make you uncomfortable.

Maybe things that Nancy did

or things that you've done

that may be wrong.

But it's important

that you're honest with me

right now for Nancy's sake.

No, it's...

It's nothing like that. Um...

We know Nancy

could be prone to trouble.

I've had to take her

to her parents

a few times myself.

Yeah, she could be

a bit reckless but she...

but she was a good kid.

Really,

she worked hard on her exams.

Like, she wanted to do better.

It's natural

to wanna protect your friends.

It's not that.

And yourself, too.

[sighs]

Just read this.

The friend, Jane Service,

that's my mom.

I'm gonna look into this,

all right?

Will you wait for me

just outside?

Yeah, of course.

Thank you.

[overlapping chatter]

Miss Bevan.

[tense music]

I really appreciate you

coming in.

I understand

Nancy Meyers was your friend,

and I know

this must be hard on you.

But we spoke to your mom

and everything's been

cleared up.

Cleared up.

Yeah, you don't have

to worry about your mom

getting into any trouble.

I know it must be tough thinking

that you could lose Nancy

and then your Mom too,

but I don't want you to worry

about that, all right?

Once again, I'm so sorry

that Eleanor's wasted your time.

I promise,

she won't be any more trouble.

Ah, no trouble.

Losing a friend

is tough for anyone

but especially at this age.

You're very kind.

Well, I hope your suspension

gets cleared up too, Mrs. Bevan.

You've been doing wonders

for my boy, Kyle.

- Oh.

- [chuckles]

[ominous music]

[indistinct chatter]

What on Earth

has gotten into you?

I like to keep my life private.

I told you that

time and time again.

If you had any questions,

- take them directly to me.

- I did. I asked you.

You wouldn't tell me anything.

Oh, so because I didn't feel

like talking then

you decide

to sniff around in my past

and go to the police with it?

What else was I supposed to do?

Oh, it's unbelievable, Eleanor.

So, talk to me now.

Tell me now.

[sighs]

Okay, you wanna play detective?

Be all mature,

date college guys,

have all this freedom.

But the way you behaved today

was so incredibly immature.

It just shows me

you're not ready.

You're still a child!

Isn't that what you want?

If you had it your way,

I'd stay a child forever.

I'd never leave.

[sighs]

I wish that was the case.

[sighs]

[mysterious music]

Where's Dad?

He had an emergency

Board of Education meeting

- in Bakersfield.

- But he'll be home later?

I told him to stay the night.

- He can come back in the morning.

- What? Why?

These meetings

go on for hours, Eleanor.

He could get himself hurt

driving home so late.

Go on upstairs.

I'll be right behind you,

and then you and I,

we are gonna

sort this out tonight.

For good.

[somber music]

[dial tone]

- Ellie.

- Dad.

Sorry, the signal here

is terrible.

Um, you have to come home.

How'd you know?

Know what?

I've been sent

on a wild goose chase.

I got an emergency memo today

to head down to

the education board

and as soon as I get here, nada.

No emergency, no board meeting.

Th-there's no meeting?

Like...

Like someone sent you away

on purpose?

Yeah, probably

some high schooler pranking me.

Who knows?

Your mom took the message.

Look, I'm gonna grab

a bite to eat

and I'll be right back

on the road.

No, Dad, you have

to come back right away, Dad.

- Everything all right?

- Dad, look...

Listen, I think...

I think Mom wants to hurt me.

Ellie, I...

I can't hear you properly.

- [static interference]

- Dad?

Dad?

[ominous music]

[shaky breathing]

[Marion]:

Eleanor, we need to talk.

[thudding on the door]

Eleanor, I know

you went through my purse.

That journalist's card

is missing

and you took it, didn't you?

I know you did!

Lies after lies after lies,

Eleanor.

This is gonna stop.

I can't take this anymore.

I am reaching

my breaking point with you!

[thudding on the door]

[dramatic crescendo]

Eleanor, can you even hear me?

Fine. Fine. You wanna...

You wanna stay in there

the whole night?

That's fine.

That's not a problem.

I will be right downstairs

waiting for you, Eleanor.

I am not going anywhere.

Oh!

[pants]

[suspenseful music]

[grunts]

[tense music]

[panting]

[dial tone]

You've reached the voicemail

of Nathan Bevan.

[dial tone]

Hi. You've reached

Simon Marshall.

Leave a detailed...

[pants]

[oxygen hissing]

[wheezing]

[pants]

Honey!

Are you okay?

Please, I need your help.

Oh, sweetie, what happened?

Are you in trouble?

Oh, my goodness. Oh, sweetie!

[crying]: I'm sorry.

Oh, I'm sure whatever it was,

it's not as bad a you think.

I have a place nearby.

We could have a cup of tea.

We could talk about it.

Okay?

Okay.

[soft music]

Eleanor!

Are you ready to talk?

Eleanor?

Oh no. No, no, you didn't.

Eleanor,

you are in so much trou...

Oh!

Oh, Eleanor?

[somber music]

No.

No, no.

No.

No, no, no. No.

No. No.

[insects chirping]

So peaceful.

Oh, I do love it here.

I mean, that's the benefit

of having a mobile home.

I can take it wherever I like.

[chuckles]

[cellphone ringing]

You wanna talk about it?

Yeah, I'm afraid if I like,

say it out loud,

you'll think I'm crazy, so.

Try me.

I think...

My mom...

[shaky exhale]

I think my mom is a m*rder*r.

Yeah, it sounds stupid

when I say it like that.

But um...

I've researched it and...

I think it's happened before.

Um...

someone died

when my mom was younger

and she was the suspect

and I think

Nancy found out about it

and complained to the school.

And I think my mom hurt her.

Well, you're safe here.

- Do you believe me?

- I do.

I tried to go to the police

but they didn't believe me.

My parents are like,

friends with the chief.

- My mom counsels his son.

- Okay,

let's just take it slow, okay?

Okay.

Tea makes everything better.

Oh, you've hurt yourself.

Oh, yeah. Oh.

Must've knocked it

climbing out of the house.

Well, you just sit tight

and I'm gonna get you

- something to help with that.

- Okay.

[cellphone ringing]

[sniffles]

Hello?

Thank God. Are you okay?

- So you spoke to my mom?

- What?

No, I'm sorry, Ellie,

I know we haven't spoken

for the last couple days

but I heard something

really weird and...

- What?

- That librarian, Carla...

Ellie, she doesn't work

at the library.

What do you... What do you mean?

She's been hanging around

but she doesn't work there.

When the librarians

asked her to move on,

she got really angry,

really aggressive.

How-how do you know that?

My sister was there today.

She was the one I dropped off

when you saw me.

I'm sorry.

I shouldn't have

driven off like that

but I was still mad

and I didn't wanna talk to you.

[mysterious music]

What happened, Isla?

She needed to print stuff

for our flights

and she saw them

arguing with her.

But that's not all.

Guess when Carla showed up?

When?

The morning Nancy died.

Is something wrong?

Ellie? Is that her?

- Are you with her?

- Um...

My friend, she's um...

She needs me.

I have to...

- Ellie, get out of there.

- I have to go.

[ominous music]

[dramatic crescendo]

I'm sorry,

I'm afraid

it's a little late for that.

[heavy breathing]

[somber music]

[pants]

Help!

Help!

- Oh, hush.

- Hey, can anyone hear me?

There's no sense

making a ruckus, so hush.

We're all alone out here.

You don't have to do this.

[crying]:

Please, I have a family.

My mom.

My dad.

But your dad's not here, is he?

He's in Bakersfield.

And then, your mom.

[panting breathing]

Is this about Nancy?

You really remind me of her.

She was also a good student.

Determined.

Oh, she could often be stubborn,

too.

But then, you're so young.

I wasn't expecting you

to remind me so much of her.

Nancy?

Of course not Nancy.

[tense music]

Emma.

[shaky breathing]

You're Emma's mom.

You know, I never trusted

the way your mom was with Emma.

Always putting thoughts

in her head.

Making her feel

like she was unhappy at home.

But we provided a warm,

loving family.

After your mother

took my girl away from me,

she just ran away.

Like a rat from a fire.

Do you know

how much I sacrificed

trying to find her?

And then to see

that she has

her own perfect family?

Why does she deserve that?

[crying]

- She doesn't.

- No! No!

No! No!

That's enough now.

It'll all be over soon.

[heavy breathing]

She's not answering her phone,

Nathan.

I was gonna tell her

the truth tonight

but I don't know

what's gotten into her.

I-I just don't!

[phone beeps]

Hang on a sec.

Hang on, Nathan, okay?

Isla's calling.

Isla.

Isla, are you with Ellie?

I'm... I'm sorry.

What did you say?

[dramatic crescendo]

- [shaky breathing]

- Carla, please.

It doesn't have to be this way.

You don't wanna hurt me.

You're not like that.

I can tell.

You were so kind at the library.

Emma would not have wanted you

to become a m*rder*r.

Don't you talk about her!

You didn't know her.

Carla, please.

I have asthma.

[wheezes]

My inhaler...

is in my bag.

Can't breathe.

[wheezing]

I need...

[wheezing]

Please. Please.

[wheezing]

[coughs]

[wheezes harder]

[gasping]

[tense music]

Breathe with me.

Okay?

[inhales deeply]

In, one, two, three.

Out, one, two, three.

That's it.

Now keep breathing slowly.

[exhales slowly]

[dramatic music]

You can't run from this.

[frantic music]

[pants]

Hey! Hey!

Hey! Stop, please!

Please, please! Stop!

Hey, you have to help us!

This woman is trying to k*ll me!

[music suddenly stops]

Simon.

Oh, thank God, it's you.

The woman from the library,

she's trying to k*ll me.

Please, I just...

I need to get to the police.

[tense music]

Simon, open the door.

I didn't wanna do this.

I didn't want any part of this.

Simon...

What are you talking about?

She didn't mean to k*ll Nancy.

You have to know that.

You shouldn't have

given her your jacket.

That's on you.

- No.

- [shaky breathing]

We're not bad people,

we just want what's right.

We didn't just lose Emma.

Afterwards,

we lost so much more.

Our futures.

[wheezing]

Everything.

I couldn't believe it

when I saw you at the debate.

Even before I found

the charm bracelet,

I knew it had to be you.

She's your mother.

And Emma was my sister

and I was just a kid

when your mom took her from us.

[wheezing]

Ah!

This would be easier

if you'd stop fighting.

[grunting]

Ah!

[sighs]

Oh.

[tense music]

[panting]

[wheezing]

[breathing deeply]

[panting]

[ominous music]

[g*n shot]

[gasps]

Just like your mother.

Always running away.

Although, I suppose

it's a bit poetic, isn't it?

I was just gonna sh**t you

but my little girl fell

to her death,

and now...

Ma, I don't think I can do this.

You were meant

to finish this without me.

I wasn't involved.

You were involved

when you broke into their house.

When you took the charm necklace

and her notebook.

That was to confirm

who they were,

not to k*ll anyone.

She's just a kid.

She's older than Emma was

when she died.

We have to finish it.

It's like you said

after Nancy died,

this could be more

than an eye for an eye.

This could be justice.

Jane will not only

lose her daughter

but she'll go to jail

for the murders.

She'll finally get

the prison sentence

that she deserves.

It's for Emma, Simon.

It's time we finished this.

- You're right.

- No.

No!

No!

[screams]

Leave her alone!

Oh!

- Mom!

- Oh, my baby!

[screams]

[panting]

Go. Get away.

You move and your mother dies.

[ominous music]

- I can't.

- No, baby,

this is not your fault,

it's mine.

Now run!

You know what?

I'm glad you're here, Jane.

You should get to see this.

You know

I never meant to hurt Emma.

That's not true.

I just wanted her

to have a break from you.

We all saw the bruises

she tried so hard to hide.

How you made her feel

so little about herself.

She felt trapped!

That's because

you made her feel that way.

You put those thoughts

in her head.

No, no.

No, I thought the lookout

would be peaceful.

More lies!

No, I just wanted her

to get away from your home!

When I told her

I wanted to help her,

she got so angry.

She thought I was tricking her.

And you did! You did trick her!

No! It was reflex to move

when she went for me.

I never...

I never thought she'd...

She'd fall.

I never, I never...

- You liar. You pushed her!

- No.

No, I would never push Emma!

I loved her.

She was my best f-friend.

Carla...

Carla, please.

I miss her too.

You don't know the half of it.

- But you will.

- Wait, I'll go.

- I'll jump.

- No!

- Do it. Quickly.

- Mom.

- No.

- I just want you to know,

I'll always be your Eleanor.

Your shining light.

Do it.

Do it now!

Jump!

No. No.

Eleanor, no. No.

Eleanor, Eleanor, don't.

- Do it!

- Don't do it!

- [beeping]

- Ah!

[grunting]

My g*n!

[screams]

[crying]: No!

- Oh, thank God.

- Mom!

[sobbing]

Oh, my baby.

[police sirens]

[soft music]

How did you find me?

I put a tracker on your phone.

I know, I'm sorry,

I shouldn't have.

No, you should.

I'm glad you did.

You know, when Isla called me...

[sighs]

...and said the name Carla,

I just knew.

So, I tracked your phone

to her trailer,

and when I saw Emma's photo...

Oh, I thought I was too late.

But then I heard you yelling.

- You saved me.

- No, but...

I trapped you too.

You know,

I always wanted to help Emma

get away

from her controlling parents.

I wanted to protect her

like I've always wanted

to protect you.

But when the police

started questioning you,

I got so scared that...

they would accuse you

of hurting Nancy,

just like they accused me

of hurting Emma.

And before I realized it,

I was...

becoming a controlling parent

myself.

You're nothing like Carla.

Oh, I don't know, honey.

I think if I lost you

I might've gotten crazy too.

[crying]: Can we go home?

Yep.

Yeah. Let's go.

[soft music]

That is the last one.

Watch yourselves.

Okay,

so what's the first stop?

Oh, there's

this really cute town

a couple hours away

that has amazing thrift shops.

And an old-fashioned drive-in

with a long overdue

popcorn movie night.

Sounds perfect.

So, you'll get Ellie

all settled in,

- and then Isla.

- Off to my college.

Oh, gosh.

I remember when you girls were

riding bikes down the street

and going to ballet lessons.

- And now, look.

- Oh yeah,

and now,

it's a road trip to college.

What could be better?

It's just the two of us!

- Best friends!

- Best friends.

[chuckling]

Oh, you packed

the pepper spray, right?

- Mm-hmm, and the whistle.

- Okay.

The tank is full.

You checked the tire pressure?

You sure you don't want us

to give this a little...

Honey. We talked about this.

Right, right. Old habits.

No, I appreciate it. Always.

I trust you. Always.

You could always

come with us, Mom.

We'll do like, a girls' trip.

- Could be fun.

- No, you know what?

This is your time

to get out there on your own.

[soft music]

[shaky exhale]

- I love you.

- Come on, Isla, bring it in.

- Yeah.

- Okay.

Have a great trip.

Okay, okay, drive safe.

- All right.

- Okay.

[car doors closing]

[engine starts]

[]

[birds chirping]

[mysterious music]