Wrong Marriage, The (2025)

[bunniefuu]

[door opens]

[keys jangling]

[distant footsteps]

[foreboding music]

[keyboard clacking]

[footsteps]

[beeps]

[phone line trilling]

You didn't come by my house

today, did you?

[suspenseful music]

[Carrie]

Mom, you don't understand.

[Diane] Then explain it to me.

[Carrie] I've already

explained it to you.

- I have to leave Marc.

- [Diane] No.

You told me

you have to leave him.

You didn't explain why.

There's no reason

to get into the details.

They don't matter.

[phone rings]

[Diane]

So, give me the broad strokes.

Okay, the broad strokes

are that things

have been bad for a long time.

Why didn't you tell me?

I didn't wanna upset you.

Carrie, I'm your mother.

If you can't talk to me,

who can you talk to?

He provides for you, doesn't he?

[scoffs]

There's more to being a husband

than just providing, Mom.

Then what is it?

Is it another woman?

- No, it's not another woman.

- Because if it's another woman,

- there are plenty...

- He's a*usive, Mom.

Has he hit you?

No. There's other ways

to be a*usive.

- [phone ringing]

- [gasps]

- Hello?

- [man breathing heavily]

Hello?

I know it's you, Marc.

Okay, I told you not to call me

and I meant it.

Just where do you think

you're going?

[sighs deeply]

He's emotionally a*usive.

He manipulates me.

He gaslights me.

He spies on me when I'm alone.

[phone ringing]

[Marc] Peek-a-boo.

I see you.

How do you know

where I always am?

I'm always watching, Carrie.

You know that.

I have eyes everywhere.

[suspenseful music]

[Diane]

You need to go to the police.

He is the police.

No, no, no, not anymore.

He is not.

Oh, you don't know

how it works, Mom.

Look, he still has friends

on the force.

If I even try to file

a complaint,

he'll know about it

before it even moves up

the chain of command.

So, what are you going to do?

The only thing I can do.

I'm gonna leave him.

I see you've considered

this already.

I have.

And there's already

some things in motion.

Look, I've been safe about this.

I've made a plan with Kim.

[Diane] What kind of plan?

[Carrie]

It's better if you don't know.

[suspenseful music]

Oh, I have something for you.

Oh, what is this?

St. Anne.

It's patron saint for women.

It was your grandmother's

and her mother's

before she immigrated

to America.

I've never seen this before.

I didn't know you had this.

It was never the right moment

to give it to you.

I love you, Mom.

Be safe, sweetheart. Promise me?

Yes, I promise. I promise.

[dramatic music]

[tram bell ringing]

[Vicki] Here you go.

I thought you could use it.

You're too good to me, Vicki.

Oh.

You know, just because

we're not together

doesn't mean

that I can't help you.

I'll always be here for you.

You know that.

I know that.

And I appreciate it.

More than you know.

I just can't understand

why she doesn't see

she's making a mistake?

Marc...

Marc, just let her go.

You don't need her.

You deserve to be with someone

who really appreciates you.

She's got this hold on me.

I have to find her, Vicki.

All right.

All right, so

if she's already left,

then there's only one place

that she would go.

Where is that?

To that friend of hers.

The defense attorney?

Kim?

Uh-hmm. That's right.

Whatever you need me

to do, Marc,

just tell me, okay?

[distant siren wailing]

[distant dog barking]

[doorbell rings]

- [Kim] Hey, are you okay?

- Yeah.

You did it?

I did it.

I'm proud of you.

Thank you.

I've gotta get going though.

Marc knows I left.

What? How does he know?

He's in security, Kim.

He knows everything.

Okay, let's get you set up.

- Coffee?

- No.

I just wanna get on the road.

Okay. Okay. Got you.

Ooh, Margaret Cobb?

I didn't choose the name.

Just tell them you go by Maggie.

- Okay.

- There's a burner phone, too.

- Uh, and the address?

- Address is real.

It's an apartment building,

lots of people.

It'll be better cover for you.

How did you get this, Kim?

[laughs]

I've been a criminal

defense attorney

for over 10 years.

I know lots of people

in all kind of places.

- Hmm.

- You got enough money?

Yeah, for now.

Even for Malibu?

Well, not everyone there

is filthy rich.

They need people like me

to work for them.

True. Still don't think

you should go

maybe just a little bit further?

It's a seven-hour car ride.

He could find me

just as easily in Tucson.

I just need to be smart

and lucky.

He's a dangerous man, Carrie.

Why do you think

I'm leaving him?

I know what he did,

but he still has friends

on the force,

not to mention

his current co-workers.

I just wanna make sure

that you really know

what you're doing.

I don't have any other choice.

Let me know

once you arrive, okay?

Look, you know I couldn't have

done this without you, right?

Take care of yourself.

Be safe.

Be free.

[somber music]

[seagulls squawking]

[birds chirping]

[door closes]

[upbeat music]

The menu's right there,

I'll be right with you.

What can I get you?

Hopefully a job.

I was walking by

and saw your sign.

You have experience

as a waitress?

Yes, ma'am. Uh, all throughout

high school, college,

even a few years after.

Well, the first thing you can do

is lose the, ma'am.

[both laugh]

You can call me Meredith.

Maggie. Maggie Cobb.

Are you the owner?

The owner, the manager,

the waitress,

the short order cook, busboy,

depending on the day.

When can you start?

Uh, right away, actually.

I just got into town.

You from around here?

No, the East Coast.

I was looking for something new.

Do you have a place to stay?

Not yet.

I'm just gonna stay in a motel

until I find something

more permanent.

Well, there are some places

further inland

if you head that way.

Tell you what,

why don't you start tomorrow?

Get settled tonight

and start at the morning shift

6:00 AM.

- Really?

- You bet.

Thank you, Meredith.

[both chuckle]

[distant siren wailing]

- [Carrie] Hi.

- Hey, how are you?

- I'm here.

- [Kim] Already?

I made good time.

And guess what?

I already found a job.

What do you mean

you already found a job?

Well, I pulled over

at this diner

and they had a help wanted sign

in the window

and they hired me on the spot.

Well, it's a start.

How about a place to stay?

Well, I'm working on that next.

Have you heard from Marc?

No. Why would I?

[Carrie] Believe me, you will.

Once he realizes what I've done,

he's gonna go scorch the earth.

Oh, he won't be getting

anything from me.

I know. Uh, look, I gotta go.

Okay. Call me

if you need anything.

I will.

[sighs]

[siren blaring]

[bell chimes]

- Hello?

- Huh?

[Carrie] Oh.

Can I help you?

Yeah, do you have any vacancies?

How long you're looking to stay?

I don't know,

just one night to start.

Two hundred bucks a night

plus a security deposit.

Two hundred bucks to stay here?

You know where you are, lady.

Okay. Do you happen to know

of anywhere cheaper?

Oh. Well, that's just

the way it is, lady.

Okay.

Thank you.

[sighs deeply]

[suspenseful music]

[gasping]

[exhales deeply]

Okay, one breakfast special

- coming right up.

- [man] Thank you.

You're a natural.

My first day was like

I had two left feet.

Nothing natural about it.

I put myself through college

working at places like this.

- You went to college?

- Uh-hmm.

I barely graduated high school.

What are you doing

working here, then?

Uh, I just needed a change.

I guess so. Hi, Kyle.

Go right into the back.

This here is Maggie.

She just started.

- Pleased to meet you.

- Hi.

You may have graduated college,

but Kyle's an actual writer.

- Oh?

- Wrote a couple of books.

I tried to read one,

but couldn't get through it.

What's he doing working here?

What everyone else

is doing these days,

making ends meet.

Uh, Gina, do you know of a place

where I could stay?

[Gina] I wish I could get rid

of my boyfriend

and have you stay with me,

but his name is on the lease.

Not that he's much help

with the rent.

Well, if you hear of anything,

can you let me know?

Mm.

[Kyle] You need a place to stay?

I wasn't eavesdropping,

I overheard you.

I guess that's the definition

of eavesdropping.

Do you know of somewhere?

My mother has a guesthouse.

I've been trying

to rent it out for her.

How much is it?

How much can you afford?

Not much.

You're in luck.

Then that's the rent.

Why would you offer it to me?

I guess something is better

than nothing.

And I haven't found any takers.

I don't know.

If you don't like it,

you don't have to take it.

It would be completely official

and everything.

I'll even write up

a renter's agreement.

I hear you have some experience

with writing.

[soft chuckles] Oh, Gina.

She likes to over-exaggerate

my talents.

So what do you say?

Look, if you don't like it,

you don't have to take it.

And you can leave anytime

you want.

Thank you.

I'll give you the address

and you could meet me there

after your shift.

Thanks.

[dramatic music]

- Bryant? What are you doing?

- Huh?

You're supposed to meet me

in the parking lot

10 minutes ago?

Sorry. I got tied up.

What are you working on?

Nothing.

I just... I mean, it's fine.

Let's go.

Mr. Palmer isn't gonna be happy

if we're late

to his headquarters.

And that security review of his

is turning into a nightmare,

so I don't wanna be there

all night.

I said I was ready.

Let's go.

[birds chirping]

Mom lives right there,

so if you need anything,

she's close by.

Is she home now?

No, she's out of town right now.

She's visiting some friends,

she'll be back in a few days.

You don't think

she'd wanna meet me first?

She trusts my judgment.

Come on.

I mean,

we call it a guest house,

but it's more like

a one bedroom apartment.

[Carrie] I'm sure it'll be fine.

It's not like I'm in the market

for an oceanfront property.

[Kyle]

Well, prepare to be wowed.

Okay.

Thank you.

It's perfect. [Laughs]

[laughs] I'm glad.

You can decorate

how you like, too.

And I can help you paint

if you need one too.

No, no, no.

Uh, it's fine the way it is,

I won't be making any capital

improvements for a while.

Well, if anything else,

just sh**t me a text.

I'm not that far away.

Uh, look,

I can't thank you enough.

You don't know how much

this helps.

Like I said, it helps us too.

This place was just unoccupied.

I'll let you get settled in.

Oh, hey, I almost forgot.

My mom has a spare

laying around somewhere.

Feel free to make a copy

if you need to.

- Thank you.

- Welcome home.

[chuckles]

[soft dramatic music]

[door creaks open]

[suspenseful music]

I promised I'd never let you go!

[gasps]

[panting]

[muffled rattling sound]

[sighs]

Hey, I'm sorry.

I didn't mean to scare you.

Just in case you wanted to go

for a swim, I brought these.

Why didn't you just knock?

I didn't wanna disturb you.

I really am sorry.

I didn't mean to follow you.

Well, since you found me

a place to live,

I think I can forgive you.

I can get you one of those

doorbell cameras if you want.

No, really. I... I'm fine.

Well, like I said,

the pool is yours.

Thank you.

You're welcome.

Have a good night.

[exhales sharply]

[ship horn blowing]

[loud knocking on door]

Open up, Kim.

I know you're in there.

[loud knocking on door]

[Kim] Stop banging on my door!

I'm gonna call the cops.

You remember them, don't you?

- Where is she?

- I don't know.

And even if I did know,

I wouldn't tell you.

[Marc] You think I believe that?

I know she wouldn't do anything

without checking with you first.

I don't care what you believe.

Just get away from my house.

I'm gonna find her, Kim.

I know that, you know that.

And she knows that.

Leave her alone, Marc.

She's done with you.

She's seen who you really are.

It just took her longer

to realize it

than it did everyone else.

You know, Kim, you should be

more like your friend

and watch your mouth around me.

Is that a threat?

It's just a fact.

I know you still have friends

on the force, Marc.

But so do I.

I've defended plenty

of good cops

who were wrongfully accused.

And trust me,

they don't appreciate

the attention

you brought on them.

[Marc] Is that a threat?

Just a fact.

One you better remember.

Can I get you all anything else?

More hot chocolate, please.

Okay. More hot chocolate

coming up.

- I like that lady.

- Sweet. Yeah.

Everything okay, hon?

Fine.

I just need a hot chocolate

- when you get a chance.

- Coming right up.

[Gina]

Another breakfast special.

Breakfast is our busiest time.

You'll get used to it.

[sighs]

Here you go.

Thank you.

Breakfast special.

Excuse me, Maggie?

How do you know my name?

I saw it on your name tag.

Look, I know

you're not my waitress,

but I just gotta call

and I have to run,

so I was hoping you could

put this in a to-go cup for me?

Yeah. You bet.

Uh, I'll be right back.

Oh, my gosh.

I'm sorry.

I don't usually have

that effect on women

unless I'm arresting them.

You're a cop?

A detective.

I thought you had

somewhere to be?

Well, I do, it's just

I was getting in my car

and I saw you talking out

the trash, and...

I'm really terrible at this.

I'm a regular

and I've never seen you before.

That's because I just started.

Look, might you wanna have

a drink some time?

I don't even know you.

Which is why

we'd have that drink.

Look, I don't mean to be rude,

I have a rule,

I don't date cops.

It's nothing personal,

just a rule I have.

Then it's a good thing

I'm a detective?

Sorry. It's all the same to me.

Okay.

Well, if you change your mind

or perhaps you'll need help

with a traffic ticket,

you know where to find me.

Okay.

[car door opens]

[car engine starts]

[dramatic music]

[loud knocking on door]

Diane Keller?

Yes?

I'm Detective Lisa McNeil.

Carrie... is she okay?

Well, you'd know that

better than me, ma'am.

That is why I'm here.

May I come in?

I know you think I'm holding out

on you, Detective,

but I really don't know

anything.

Think, Mrs. Keller.

I mean, you must have some idea

of where your daughter is.

But I don't.

Carrie wanted it that way.

[sighs]

Yeah. Yeah, I understand.

She probably thought

she was being smart.

I mean, after all, her husband

is a very, very dangerous man.

Why couldn't you do anything

to protect her?

We could have, ma'am.

But she never reached out

to us for help.

Do you have

any other properties?

Like a vacation home or,

you know, some place

that Carrie might go?

No. Just this.

And what about Carrie and Marc?

Did they have a second home

somewhere?

Not that I'm aware of.

What are some

of her vacation spots?

You know, Detective,

I'm not really sure.

[chuckles]

I really need you to think,

ma'am.

This is important.

You know, Detective,

if Carrie didn't come to you,

how did you know to contact me?

A good friend of hers

reached out to us.

She was very concerned.

Can you tell me her name?

No. No, ma'am,

that's confidential.

What about that friend of hers?

The defense attorney,

uh, Kimberly Williams?

Sorry. Never heard of her.

Really?

I'm told she's your daughter's

best friend.

Must be a new friend.

Is there anything

you can tell me at all?

I mean, even if you think

it's not important.

Well,

we used to visit relatives up

in, um, Northern Minnesota,

right by the Canadian border.

Carrie always loved it up there.

I mean, if she was looking

for somewhere to hide out...

These relatives,

do they still live there?

Oh, no. Passed away years ago.

I was just saying

how fond of the area she was.

Hmm.

All right.

Well, if you hear from Carrie,

can you give me a call

right away?

Of course.

Okay. Let me give you my number.

Mm.

[gasps]

Why don't I just call you

at the police station?

Of course. That'll work, too.

[sighs]

[tense music]

[line trilling]

Hey, it's me.

I just left the mother's house.

I couldn't really tell

if she knows

where Carrie is or not.

Of course

she says that she doesn't,

but that could've had something

to do with the fact that

I don't know that she believed

that I was who I said I was.

Anyway, just give me a call

when you get a chance,

all right?

And I'll fill you in.

[Meredith] Mind if I join you?

[Carrie] No. Of course.

But my break is almost done, so.

I think they're gonna be okay.

Is there something wrong?

[laughs]

Man, you are wound tightly.

You know, I just wanted to see

how you were doing.

I'm fine. Like I told you,

I've worked at restaurants

like this before.

Yeah, you did.

So, how's the house hunting

going?

Actually, I'm staying

at Kyle's mom's guest house.

- Really?

- [Carrie] Yeah.

He overheard me talking to Gina

and he offered me the place.

Well, you are lucky.

Kyle is good people.

[Carrie] Uh-hmm.

Meredith is there anything

I should know

about Kyle or...

Are you asking me

if there's anything about Kyle

that you should be

concerned about?

No.

I'm happy to say no.

He's as genuine as they come.

Although he's a little bit

more reserved

since his wife left him.

Oh. He was married?

Yeah, I don't think

he likes to talk about it,

especially not

with people he just met.

And he works

for the delivery service?

Yeah, among other odd jobs

he does around town.

He's good with his hands.

[laughter]

Uh, Gina said he's a novelist?

Uh-hmm.

- You've read his book?

- [Meredith] Uh-hmm.

All three of them.

And?

Well, I'm not really a critic,

but, um,

no, they were good.

They were really good.

Why doesn't he do that

full time?

I guess it's not that easy

to make a living as a writer.

Anyway,

I just wanted to make sure

that you were getting on okay.

I am. Thank you.

Okay.

[dramatic music]

[dog barking in distance]

[footsteps approaching]

- Oh!

- [Elle] I didn't mean

- to frighten you, dear.

- Oh.

I'm Elle Woodburn,

Kyle's mother.

Yes, I'm Maggie Cobb.

- It's so nice to meet you.

- Likewise.

We've been looking for a tenant

for a while.

Well, I love the place.

Thank you for renting it to me.

Why don't you get dressed

and come up to the house?

I can make us some tea.

We can get to know one another.

Okay. Thank you.

[Elle]

How do you take your tea, dear?

Oh, however you take it.

It doesn't matter. [Chuckles]

I switched from coffee

a couple of years ago.

My doctor said

it was better for my health.

Ooh. I don't think

I could ever quit coffee.

You're young. You don't have

to worry about it.

Hmm. Well, I don't feel young.

So where did you move from,

dear?

Uh, the East Coast.

And did you have family here?

No, no. I just wanted a change,

and I've always wanted

to live here.

Well, it has its pros and cons,

like every place.

But Kyle has been super helpful.

Uh-hmm. It's his one flaw.

I hear he's quite the novelist.

- Did he tell you that?

- Oh, no.

No. They were talking about it

at the diner.

[Elle] That makes more sense.

It's not Kyle's way

to bring attention on himself.

Hmm.

You must be so proud though?

Oh, I'm proud of my son

no matter what he does.

[Marc]

And where did you say this was?

But you do have the footage,

so why can't you just

upload it to me?

I don't know,

professional courtesy?

Yeah, I know where it is.

I can be there within the hour.

Thank you.

[sighs]

[car beeps]

Going somewhere?

It's usually

what you do in a car.

Where you off to?

Was there a change

in the old chart

I wasn't aware of?

Look, man,

I'm trying to help you.

You can start

by minding your own business.

It is my business

if you're going to the Regal

or the Millstone

Housing Development.

It's a personal matter.

Seems like you have a lot

of those these days.

You got a problem with me, Bob?

Hey, man. Chill out, okay?

- You don't wanna go there.

- Yeah?

- Yeah.

- Why is that?

You don't have a union

behind you this time.

Watch yourself.

[car engine starts]

Kyle.

- [winces]

- Oh.

Oh. I didn't mean to scare you.

Are you okay?

Is it bad?

[winces]

I think you'll live. [Chuckles]

- It hurts.

- I know.

Let's get it checked out anyway.

Come on.

[Kyle] All right. [Winces]

[winces]

Stop being such a baby.

Am I gonna need stitches?

Look, I don't even think

you'll need a Band-Aid.

The bleeding

has already stopped.

It hurts like hell.

What were you doing anyway?

I was installing your

door cameras anyway for you.

Kyle.

Next time, get an electrician.

What's a novelist doing

pretending to be an electrician?

Better question

is what am I doing

pretending to be a novelist?

Well, all the evidence suggests

that you are a novelist.

What are you doing

waiting tables?

What do mean?

You know what I mean.

You know what? Take an aspirin

so you don't have a headache

in the morning.

You didn't answer my question.

Well, you didn't really

answer mine.

Let me make you a deal.

Let me take you to dinner

and then you can ask me

anything you wanna know.

- When?

- Today.

If you don't have

any other plans.

I don't have any other plans.

Well, you gotta eat.

I do have to eat.

[chuckles]

[birds chirping]

[suspenseful music]

[keys jangling]

[distant footsteps]

[suspenseful music]

[music continues]

[scoffs]

[camera shutter clicks]

- [door closes]

- Oh, there it is.

[suspenseful music]

[Kim exhales sharply]

[phone rings]

Hi.

Uh, you didn't come

by my house today, did you?

What? No. How could I?

Right. I just had to ask.

Why? What's going on?

Nothing. Nothing.

Don't worry about it.

It's Marc, isn't it?

[Kim] No. It is not Marc.

What are you doing?

If I told you,

you'd never believe me.

[chuckles] I'd believe

just about anything nowadays.

I'm getting ready for dinner.

Ooh. Well, that doesn't sound

too surprising.

[Carrie] With someone.

Well, I wasn't expecting that.

You're moving quickly.

No. He's just a friend.

It's the guy

who found me a place to stay.

Hmm. If you say so.

Kim, what's going on?

[Kim] Look, you just go

and have a good time, okay?

I'll try.

Okay. Gotta go.

[door closes]

[suspenseful music]

[mellow music]

[indistinct chatter]

[exhales sharply]

We were young and naive.

We thought we were gonna change

the world with our art.

Her with her paintings

and me with my novels.

Why didn't you go with her

to New York?

Because I realized long before,

the problem

wasn't the geography.

The problem was us.

Neither of us were good enough.

You did what so many people

dream of doing.

I just don't understand how...

How I'm not successful?

- [sighs]

- [Kyle] People don't understand.

They hear novelists

and they think Stephen King.

A very small percentage

of writers

make a living doing it.

Well, you do it

because you love it, right?

And I hope to be a part

of that small percentage.

- [laughter]

- [Kyle] I'm only kidding.

Not about the desire,

but about the visibility.

The novels I write,

they don't sell real well.

Well, what are they about?

Family dramas

set in the country.

But if you wanna make

the big bucks,

you gotta write thrillers

and fantasy.

Well, I'd love to read them.

I'd buy them, of course.

Don't worry. I got plenty

of copies you can borrow.

I just don't think

I'm at a place to, uh

to let them go.

Okay. Enough about me.

I'm not the one

who's running from something.

It's that obvious, huh?

[Kyle] You move here

with no place to live.

You take the first job

that's offered

and one you're obviously

overqualified for.

I just needed a change.

- From?

- From life.

[chuckles] What else?

That's not much of an answer.

Look, I got married young.

Too young.

To a man I didn't really know.

A lot of women do that.

Doesn't mean you have to move.

When it's my husband, it does.

[sirens wailing]

[suspenseful music]

[phone line trilling]

I need a favor.

[phone rings]

[Jack] Hello. This is Jack.

Jack. Hey, it's Kim Williams.

- It's been a while, Kim.

- [Kim] Yeah.

I didn't think

you'd remember me.

- You're a tough woman to forget.

- [Kim laughs]

Unfortunately, this is not

a social call.

I didn't imagine it was.

What can I do for you?

I'm calling about one

of your employees, Marc Bryant.

[Jack] What about him?

You know what he's going through

with his wife?

I try not to get involved

in the private lives

of my employees.

Well, she left him.

[Jack] Sorry to hear that.

Don't be. It was long overdue.

Problem is is that

he's now looking for her

and I'm afraid of what

he might do if he finds her.

He's already threatened me.

So why call me

and not the police?

I was hoping that you could talk

some sense into him.

[chuckles]

And because you know

you don't have enough

for the cops to act on.

Look, I don't know

what kind of employee Marc is

or exactly what he does for you.

This guy is dangerous.

Well, sometimes in our business,

that's not necessarily

a bad thing.

I'm not talking

about your "business".

Look, I admit, I was calling you

asking for help.

But if he goes down,

you're going down with him.

So consider this call

a professional courtesy call.

I'll see what I can do, Kim.

[Kim] That's all I ask.

Thanks, Jack.

I had a really nice time.

Me too.

And thank you.

You didn't need to treat me.

It was my pleasure.

Have a good evening.

- Uh, Kyle?

- Yeah?

My name isn't really Maggie.

Do you like Maggie?

I do. Yeah.

Well, then you're Maggie to me.

[chuckles]

[exhales]

[mellow music]

Can I get you anything else?

Uh

how about a rent-free

seaside cottage.

Oh. You see that on the menu?

- Oh.

- [laughter]

You're funny.

I like you.

[chuckles]

No, no. Actually, um,

I really am looking

for a place to stay.

You wouldn't happen to know

of any affordable hotels

in the area, would you?

You're kinda asking

the wrong person.

- Oh?

- I just moved here.

Oh, really?

- From where?

- Back east.

I just came

from up the coast myself.

I'm visiting some friends.

Well, can't you just stay

with them?

Uh, I'm trying to give them

a little bit of space.

They just got married.

- [Carrie] Ah.

- If know what I mean.

Oof. I do know what you mean.

- [Vicki] Uh-hmm.

- [laughter]

It's okay. I can just

find something online.

If you go further inland,

there are some places.

It just depends

on what your definition

of "affordable" is.

Okay. Good to know.

How are you liking it down here?

Hmm, so far, so good, I guess.

Did you come here

for this job or...

You think I traveled halfway

across the country for this job?

[chuckles]

Then it's gotta be a man.

What does?

What you're running away from.

Why would you say that?

Oh.

Just because I had

this ex-boyfriend, Billy,

and he left me for this tr*mp

who used to do payroll for him.

So I took his truck

and I kept driving it

until his engine overheated.

Uh-hmm.

I ended up in El Paso

for over a year.

[chuckles]

Uh, well, in my case,

I just needed a change.

Hmm.

You wouldn't happen

to have anything

stronger than this, would you?

I'll get you a splash.

Thanks.

It's been a long drive.

[Meredith] Maggie!

Let me grab that for you.

I'll be right back.

[Vicki] All right.

[suspenseful music]

[phone ringing]

Yes?

Yeah. I'll be there in a moment.

[clears throat]

Marc, close the door

and have a seat please.

I suppose you know

why I called you in.

Actually, I don't.

Do you know Kim Williams?

Not well.

Our paths crossed when I was

at the police department.

I got an interesting call

from her.

According to Ms. Williams,

she's close with your ex-wife.

My wife and I are still married.

Well, be that as it may,

she also claims

that your wife left you

and that you threatened her

in order to find the whereabouts

of your wife.

She's a damn liar.

So you didn't go

to Ms. Williams' house?

I went, but I went there

looking for Carrie.

I didn't threaten anyone.

Are you looking for your wife?

And before you say something

you're gonna regret,

just know that I already know

you're looking for her.

These are the logs

from your computer

over the past few days.

You've been spying on me?

Monitoring employee

communications falls well

within our purview.

Check your employment contract.

Look, Marc, I hired you

because we have mutual friends

on the force

and because often ex-cops

make the best employees.

But I can't have you

going on some personal crusade.

Well, none of this has affected

my work, Mr. Tull.

Just stop.

I'm willing to let this slide

if I don't hear anything else

about it.

- Are we done?

- But if I do hear more about it,

we are gonna have

a different conversation.

Capiche?

[birds chirping]

[suspenseful music]

Hello, Kim.

Don't try anything.

You know I'd be more than happy

to hurt you.

You understand me?

What are you gonna do? sh**t me?

- Don't be stupid.

- Shut up.

You're taking this too far.

I don't think

you're in a position

to tell me anything.

- You called my boss.

- I had to.

You're out of control, Marc.

You know, I could ask you

where Carrie is.

And I'd tell you

the exact same thing.

- I don't...

- I know. I know.

You don't know.

Except we both know that you do.

Now, I could force you

to tell me.

You really think you could?

Well, the coffee

couldn't be that good.

Thought I'd get a cup to go.

Leaving so soon?

Yeah. This wasn't exactly

the trip I was expecting.

Who knew that newlyweds

wanna spend

their honeymoon phase

totally alone?

- I'm sorry.

- [Vicki] Oh, don't be.

I like it on the road.

Well, I am sorry to see you go.

I don't know many people

in this town.

Take care of yourself, Maggie.

The world could be

a tough place.

[phone buzzing]

Yeah?

[Vicki] She's here.

You sure?

[Vicki] Unless I was just

served coffee

by her twin.

What are you gonna do, Marc?

Don't worry about it.

You promised me

no one would get hurt.

You know what they say

about promises.

Well, I guess

it's your lucky day, Kim.

But just remember,

this isn't over.

What are you talking about?

Shh.

- [door closes]

- [dog barking]

- What?

- [Kim] Yup.

- He just left.

- [Carrie sighs]

What did he say?

What do you think he said?

He was looking for you.

You didn't tell him anything,

did you?

Please. Could you give me

some credit?

I'm sorry. I'm sorry.

But you have to get back here

and make a statement, Carrie.

The whole point of me being here

is so I'm not there.

You need to be on the record.

I always knew he was dangerous,

but I just didn't know

how dangerous until now.

Okay. Okay.

Look, come back here.

He won't even know you're here.

You could be in and out.

I have a friend,

Detective Karen Hawkins.

Make your statement

and you can head

right back to Malibu.

Do you really think

this is a smart move?

[Kim] I know it is.

Okay. I'll call you

when I'm on the road.

Drive safe. Bye.

Is everything okay?

Yeah. Everything's fine.

Hmm. 'Cause I know that look

and it doesn't look

like everything is okay.

No, sorry.

I was... I was daydreaming.

Hmm. You're living

the dream life already?

- [laughs]

- Oh, gosh. I'm sorry.

I don't want you to feel like

I don't appreciate everything.

No. Honey, if I thought

that working at Mack's

was anybody's dream job,

I should have been committed

a long time ago.

[laughs]

Well, how long have

you owned this place?

Hmm. Always or never.

What I mean to say,

it's always been in the family.

My great-grandfather built it

when people started moving out

here in the '40s.

My father still

technically owns it

but he hasn't run this place

since the Millennium.

- Wow. A family business.

- [Meredith] Uh-hmm.

That's really great to hear.

For better or for worse.

And there has been enough

of both throughout the years.

[distant sirens wailing]

I appreciate you

agreeing to see me.

I can tell you right now,

Mr. Tull.

Jack.

I can tell you right now, Jack,

that I only agreed to see you

because Kim Williams said

that I could trust you,

but I don't trust you.

I don't trust anyone

when it comes

to my daughter's safety.

I understand.

And I think you're smart not to.

I don't know if you know

where your daughter is

and I really don't care.

What I do care about

is my company.

How does that relate to me?

Kim Williams called me

and told me about her situation.

Now, I don't usually

get involved

in the personal lives

of my employees,

but in this case,

I made an exception.

Because of Marc's history.

[sighs] Mr. Tull... Jack,

now, I don't actually know

what happened with my son-in-law

to get him kicked off

the police force.

I'm really not at liberty

to say.

But I hired Marc

because, despite his faults,

he has some talents

that I value.

But I still don't understand.

As I was saying,

I don't like to get involved

in the personal affairs

of my employees.

But after I spoke

with Ms. Williams,

I had a little chat

with Marc Bryant

and I warned him to leave

your daughter alone.

I appreciate that.

Now, do you think

he'll listen to you?

Well, that's why I called you

in here, Mrs. Keller.

I can't reach him.

What do you mean?

I mean, I can't get

a hold of him.

He's not returning my calls,

texts, or emails.

And in this business,

that's very concerning.

So you think

he went after Carrie?

I think if you know

where your daughter is,

- you should let her know...

- [scoffs]

[Jack]

and let her know right away.

And have her contact

the authorities.

My daughter won't see me.

She won't speak to me,

not until all this is over.

She thinks it's safer that way.

Well, that's between

the two of you.

I just thought

I should tell you what I know.

I appreciate that.

Jack, how dangerous

is Marc Bryant?

In my business,

we don't employ people

because they have a good heart.

That's not much of an answer.

[Jack] That's the only answer

I can give you.

I don't really know him

that well.

But I'll tell you this,

the man's gone AWOL,

which means he must know

I plan to fire him

once I get in touch with him.

But he doesn't seem

to care about that.

And a man with no cares,

that is a dangerous man.

That much I know, Mrs. Keller.

[birds chirping]

[chuckles]

Do you really have to leave?

Yeah. Unfortunately, I do.

I just don't understand.

How do know this lady's right?

Well, she's a criminal

defense attorney

and a good one.

She knows

what she's talking about.

Plus...

What is it?

Marc, my ex, used to be a cop.

Oh, no, no.

I told you I was trouble.

No, you didn't.

Well, I'm telling you now.

It's okay. I like trouble.

[chuckles]

[suspenseful music]

Anywhere you want, sweetheart.

[exhales]

Hi.

Coffee to start?

Uh, yes, please.

Black, to go.

Okay.

[suspenseful music]

Anything to eat?

Actually, I was wondering

if you could help me.

Do you know this woman?

Sure. Maggie.

One of our waitresses.

Maggie.

Is she working today?

Actually, she took the day off.

Do you know where she went?

No idea.

This is a little embarrassing

but I'm her brother.

And I haven't seen her

for quite some time.

And I was told

that I could find her here.

Well, like I said,

she took the day off.

You wouldn't happen to know

where she lives, would you?

Sorry.

I don't know her that well.

[suspenseful music]

What was that about?

He was asking about Maggie.

What did you tell him?

Nothing. That she's not here.

He said he was her brother.

He doesn't look like her?

No, he doesn't.

[sighs] Well, if he says

anything else to you

about her, just play dumb.

Sure. Not much more I could say.

No.

[sighs]

[distant sirens wailing]

Here.

I knew you had a long drive.

You know, I knew your husband.

Not well, mainly by reputation.

Lucky you.

Hardly.

I can see why you left him.

And Kim was absolutely right

to have you come here

and file a report

for a variety of reasons.

She speaks very highly of you.

[Det. Hawkins]

I feel the same about her.

She's got a whole lot

of integrity,

for a defense attorney.

So I did try to talk

to your husband

after we spoke.

Called his cellphone.

Went right to voicemail.

He hasn't been at his office.

None of his coworkers

have seen him.

So I need you to think,

is there anywhere else

he could possibly be?

A friend, family,

property maybe?

No. I mean,

no close friends, no family.

I guess that should

have been a red flag.

Um, no other homes

or vacation properties.

But there's a lot

Marc didn't tell me,

so it could be possible.

We'll find him.

I will promise you that.

It's not that easy

to just go off the grid,

disappear somewhere.

Uh, it's much easier

for one person

to avoid another than for us.

We have a whole department,

plenty of resources.

So you think I can go back

to where I'm hiding?

Which is where?

Carrie, we're on your side,

I promise.

It's somewhere

where he can't find me.

You have no reason to believe

that he will find you

- or know where that is?

- No, no.

There's no significance.

That's why I chose it.

You're not using your real name,

nothing with your real identity

on it?

No.

Okay. Well,

then I have to assume

that you'll be safe,

but please call me

if you hear from him

or you think of anywhere

he could possibly be.

I will.

Thank you, Detective.

Hang in there.

This will all be over soon.

[Kim] You sure you're all right?

Oh, I'm fine for now. [Chuckles]

What did Hawkins say?

Well, she has a lot

of respect for you.

That's for sure.

I told you. She's a smart woman

and a damn good detective.

Yeah.

What'd she say about Marc?

Well, I called her

on the car ride

and filled her in.

When I got there, she said

they already tried

contacting him.

- Hmm. No luck?

- No. Not yet.

Well, the police know,

so you're gonna

stay here, right?

I still think it's safest

if Marc can't find me,

and he doesn't know where I am.

You sure?

Yeah. I mean, I'm not sure

about anything right now

but I have to go

with what feels right.

Promise me, if you need

anything, you'll call me.

Of course.

- Okay?

- Yeah.

You know, I could always go back

to Malibu with you.

[chuckles]

I'm sorry, Kim.

I need to do this alone.

[birds chirping]

[suspenseful music]

[phone buzzes]

She just left

her friend's house.

Good.

Did you see her

do anything else?

Nope. She went in.

She came back out.

Good.

She'll be coming back

here soon then.

Where are you?

That's not your concern.

Marc, I told you.

I do not like this.

When this is all over, Vicki,

we're gonna take that

much-deserved vacation.

I promise.

Hold down the fort for me, okay?

[suspenseful music]

All right.

I'll see you tomorrow.

You're opening, right?

With Maggie,

if she's back by then.

Oh, she will be.

She gave me her word.

All right.

Uh, what do you think

about that guy

who came to the diner today,

her "brother"?

I don't know but, uh,

he gave me a bad vibe.

Yeah, me too.

I'll talk to her tomorrow.

There's nothing

we can do now anyway.

Yeah. Night, Meredith.

Night, Gina.

[suspenseful music]

[birds cawing]

[gasps]

Sorry, we're closed.

That's okay.

I'm not hungry.

How did you get in here?

Back door was unlocked.

Look, mister.

I don't know who you are,

but I don't appreciate you

sneaking in here after hours.

Now, if you don't leave,

I'm gonna call the cops.

Where is she?

I said, if you don't leave,

I'm gonna call the cops.

I'm gonna ask you one more time.

Where is she?

This is ridiculous.

Shouldn't have left it

on the counter.

Now, I'm gonna ask you

one more time.

Where is she?

I have no idea.

Well, you must know her address.

She had to fill out paperwork.

Go get it!

Does this look

like the kind of place

that issues W2s?

I pay cash under the table.

No questions asked.

I'm gonna ask you one more time.

Where is she?

And I'm telling you,

I don't know!

Get back!

Or what?

Are you gonna serve me

a piece of pie?

I'm warning you!

No, I'm warning you.

[panting]

- [g*nshots]

- [birds cawing]

[buzzer buzzing]

Maggie, you're back.

Straight up,

just like you asked.

Yeah.

Hey, if you don't wanna talk

about it,

I understand.

He's on his way here.

I can feel it.

Who, your ex-husband?

Maggie, you have absolutely

no reason to believe that,

even if the police don't know

where he's at.

You told me that.

I know, but I just feel

like Marc's gonna be

one step ahead of them.

I mean, he was one of them.

Well, did you contact

the police here?

Well, the cops back at home said

they'd keep them up to date.

See? You have nothing

to worry about.

Come on.

Hmm.

Another one?

Yeah. [Chuckles]

[dramatic music]

Here you go.

You know you can stay here

if you want.

[birds chirping]

I know,

but I don't wanna use you

as a crutch.

I don't mind.

I know.

But when it happens,

I don't want it to be

because I was scared, okay?

Okay.

[suspenseful music]

[Kyle] Maggie?

Let me at least walk you home.

It's right down the road.

It'll make me feel a lot better.

Please.

- Okay.

- Come on.

[suspenseful music]

[birds cawing]

- [Gina] Hi.

- Hi, Gina.

- How's your day off?

- Long story.

Well, you can tell me

all about it while we get ready.

[Carrie] Hmm.

I'll turn on the ranges

and start the fryer.

Sounds good.

You know, Maggie,

I know I shouldn't say anything,

but...

Meredith is going

to talk to you.

Did I do something wrong?

No, no, no, nothing like that.

[Carrie] Okay.

God,

I shouldn't have said anything.

Let me just get the oil started.

Okay.

So yesterday, this guy

[suspenseful music]

- [both gasp]

- [indistinct radio chatter]

- [sirens wailing]

[Carrie]

Why didn't you send a car here

once you heard from the police

in San Francisco?

Because, Ms. Bryant,

we were under the impression

he didn't know where you were.

And besides,

it may have already been

too late.

Bryant?

Uh, my name isn't Maggie Cobb.

It's Carrie Bryant.

You were running away

from someone?

My husband.

You haven't seen

your husband at all?

Not since the day I left him.

Chances are he still

might not know where you are.

- He knows.

- [Det. Steel] Then

why don't you think

he came after you last night?

I think he's just waiting

for his moment.

Okay.

Well, we'll have a detective

with you 24/7 from now on.

He won't be able to get close.

She was so good to me.

Oh, if I told her

the truth sooner,

maybe she'd still be alive.

Meredith knew

what she was doing.

What do you mean?

She knew you were hiding

from something.

And you told her

you'd come from the East

to get a new start, but

your car has California plates.

[Carrie]

And she hired me anyway.

She wasn't afraid of anything.

You can bet she put up a fight.

I believe she did.

We found a knife on the floor.

She very well may have used it

to injure her attacker.

- So, what now?

- Well, forensics

has to go through the diner.

And after that,

we may have some more questions.

Where can we get in touch?

Uh, I'll be at the house

I'm renting.

Okay. Don't leave yet.

I wanna make sure

a car follows you home, okay?

I'm gonna be a prisoner

in my own home.

[Det. Steel]

It's only until we catch him.

And don't worry,

he can't hide for long.

[dramatic music]

[suspenseful music]

[birds chirping]

[sighs]

Maggie,

I heard what happened.

Are you okay?

I don't know how you can be.

Look, you sit right here,

I'll fix you something to eat.

- And you must be starving.

- No, I'm fine.

I really

couldn't eat now anyway.

I was gonna call Kyle,

- but I just...

- I already called him.

He was on his way down

to make a delivery in San Diego,

but he's already

on his way back.

I don't always get

into my son's business,

but only a fool would not notice

that there's something going on

between the two of you.

And I'm not a fool.

No. No, you definitely aren't.

Now, this man that is after you,

is he why you moved here?

Yeah, um

my ex-husband, or

technically he's still

my husband.

He's a really dangerous guy.

Well, you were brave enough

to leave him when you did.

Many women wouldn't have.

I'm stupid enough

to marry him in the first place.

Listen, I don't know any woman

that never made a mistake.

What matters

is what you do about it.

Thank you, Elle.

Now don't go

breaking Kyle's heart.

- Elle, Kyle and I are just...

- No, no.

It's none of my business.

[Carrie]

Look, I don't wanna be rude.

I just... I think

I need some sleep.

I barely slept last night

and everything that's happened.

No, you go ahead.

I'll be sitting

right here for you.

No, no, no.

I wouldn't be able to sleep.

I'm fine and the police

are right outside.

Well, I won't argue with you.

But if you need anything,

- you know where to find me.

- I do.

Thank you, Elle.

You've been wonderful.

[dramatic music]

[suspenseful music]

[dispatch]

Officer Luisa, what's your 20?

[Officer Luisa] I'm in front

of the target's house.

Nothing to report.

[dispatch] Okay.

I'm gonna have Perkins

relieve you in two hours.

[Officer Luisa]

10-4, I'll be here.

[dispatch]

You need anything, Luisa?

I can have patrol bring it by.

[Officer Luisa]

Negative. I'll grab dinner

once Perkins takes over.

[dispatch] 10-4. Stay alert.

[suspenseful music]

[sighs]

[suspenseful music]

Shhh.

Keep quiet and I won't hurt you.

Where's the detective?

Don't worry.

He won't bother us.

You know when they realize

he's missing,

they'll send backup, right?

They won't realize he's missing

for quite some time.

I promise you.

I was listening to their shifts

on the police band radio.

You know you'll never get away

with this.

There's two

entire police departments

- looking for you, Marc.

- Right now, Carrie,

the last thing

you need to worry about

is me getting away.

You k*lled Meredith.

She should have minded

her own business.

You knew what I was

when you married me.

Yeah, worst decision

I've ever made.

[Marc] I know

you don't believe that.

We were so happy once.

Sure, on our wedding day.

You always were

a tad melodramatic.

But I can overlook that.

Just come back with me.

Let's forget all this

unpleasantness ever happened.

I have money put away

and a safe house.

- No one will find us.

- What?

It'll be different, but better.

Just the two of us.

Marc and Carrie

against the world.

I'd rather die

than live with you.

[Kyle] Maggie!

Maggie, are you okay?

Shhh. Send him away.

[Kyle] Maggie!

You try anything

- and I'll k*ll you both.

- [Kyle] Maggie!

But him first, so you can watch.

- You understand me?

- [Kyle] Maggie,

- are you in there?

- [Marc] Okay.

- [Kyle] Open up!

- Go.

[Kyle] Maggie!

Maggie, are you okay?

Yeah, yeah. Um, I fell asleep.

I woke up. Sorry.

I got here as fast as I can.

What's going on?

- Yeah, thank you.

- [Kyle] There's a cop car

- outside, there's no one inside.

- Yeah, he's

it's a shift change.

He'll be back soon.

- Can I come in?

- No, uh, I'm sorry, Gary.

With everything going on,

I just wanna be alone.

Are you sure?

Everything all right?

Yeah. Yeah. Yeah.

You know

what the...

Not bad, Carrie.

I think he almost believed you.

If he didn't,

he's gonna call the cops.

Which is why we're leaving,

right now.

Same deal, whoever it is.

You do anything,

you both get it.

- Understand?

- Yeah.

Oh, Maggie, you're all right.

I was just taking a walk

and I saw a car.

A police car

parked in front of the house.

And I nearly had a heart attack.

Oh, you can imagine

what went through my head.

You know, I bought this house

because of

the safe neighborhood,

but the crime these days

is everywhere.

You can't even go outside

- until...

- Shut up!

Maggie, I didn't realize

you had guests.

Go!

[Kyle] Mom!

You did good, Mom.

- Are you okay?

- Yeah.

[police sirens wailing]

[Diane] Thank you

for seeing me, Detective.

You're welcome. I was happy

when I got your call.

You know, of all of the ways

this could have gone down,

this is one of the better ones.

Which is why

I wanted to see you.

What can I help you with?

I want to make sure

that my daughter is protected.

But Marc Bryant is in custody.

He's not going anywhere.

What about bail?

Well, he's been charged

with first degree m*rder

along with a half a dozen

other charges,

so I wouldn't worry about bail.

Where is he being tried?

Down in Malibu,

where he's charged

with the m*rder.

And if he's convicted?

[Det. Hawkins]

When he's convicted.

When he is convicted,

he will spend

the rest of his life in prison.

What is it, Mrs. Keller?

Well, I'm sure

you can understand at this point

that I don't have complete faith

in the justice system.

Yes, I can understand.

My daughter is going to need me,

and I wanna be able

to reassure her

as much as is humanly possible

that she no longer

has anything to worry about.

Well, I would like

to reassure you too,

but as we both know,

in my business,

there are no guarantees.

But trust me when I tell you,

this is as tight a case

as any I have ever seen.

Marc Bryant

is gonna spend the rest

of his natural born life

behind bars.

Well, thank you

for all your help.

Carrie thanks you too.

You're welcome.

And please tell Carrie

if she needs anything,

I'll be right here.

[dramatic music]

[seagulls squawking]

We're closed.

[chuckles]

I know she's gone,

but I can still feel

her presence in this place.

Is that weird?

No, I don't think so.

Look, this diner was her life.

Everything around this,

she was a part of.

I have big shoes to fill.

- Did you know?

- What?

That she left it to me?

Are you kidding?

This never crossed my mind.

We'll make her proud.

You don't have

to stay, you know?

Why wouldn't I?

[Gina] Come on, Carrie.

We both know this was just

a pit stop for you.

Besides, this isn't what

you wanna do with your life.

I mean, no, not forever.

But for right now,

it's exactly what I want.

[chuckles]

[dramatic music]

[seagulls squawking]

So what did Gina have to say?

Well, she's overwhelmed,

of course,

but I told her

I'd be here to help.

So you're really gonna stay?

Yes.

[laughter]

I hope

I'm not interrupting anyone.

- Mom.

- No, no, no, of course not.

- It's your house.

- Well, technically maybe.

But if I heard correctly,

you'll be staying in it

for quite some time.

I think so.

[Elle] I'm glad.

But I really came to tell you

that you have a guest.

- Oh!

- A woman named Kim?

- Should I send her back?

- Of course. Thank you.

Thanks, Mom.

Goodbye, Maggie.

[Kyle] Carrie.

Always Carrie.

Carrie? I like that.

Well, I'm gonna go fix

some lunch.

Thanks again, Ma.

[Carrie]

I thought you liked Maggie.

- I did. I really did.

- Uh-hmm.

- But I like Carrie a lot better.

- Uh-hmm.

- Uh-hmm.

- Okay, you two,

give it a rest for now.

Oh. Oh.

- Hey.

- [Carrie] Hi.

Oh, well, Kim, this is Kyle.

Kyle, I've been

looking forward to this.

- Likewise.

- [Kim chuckles]

I'm gonna let you guys, uh,

catch up a little bit,

all right?

Okay. Thank you.

Um, nice meeting you.

You as well, ma'am.

Oh.

He seems nice.

- He's very nice.

- Uh-hmm.

I'm so happy, but...

But what?

I don't know. At one point,

I was happy with Marc too.

Well, darling, you sure picked

the wrong marriage.

So maybe next time,

- date a little longer?

- Ugh, don't worry.

I won't make that mistake again.

I hope not.

[police sirens wailing]

[suspenseful music]

[Det. Hawkins] I'll be back

to start the interrogation.

[suspenseful music]

[birds chirping]

So, you're really okay?

I am, I swear.

I was so worried about you.

Well, it's a good thing

that I had someone

- looking over me.

- [Diane] Hmm.

- Saint Anne.

- No, you.

You're the one

that gave it to me.

Well, I'm just glad

you decided to wear it.

You were right.

You gave me the strength

I never knew I had.

So, um

what are you gonna do now?

Go back to Malibu?

Yeah, I think so.

I like it down there.

- You like it?

- [chuckles]

I like him too, Mom.

Hmm.

Sweetheart, I want you to know

I spoke with that detective.

- Detective Hawkins?

- [Diane] Uh-hmm. That's right.

She assured me that you have

nothing to worry about.

I don't know

if I would believe that.

What? Even when he's behind bars

for good?

I don't know, Mom.

If there's one thing

I know about Marc

is that he's good at getting out

of a tight spot.

Not this time, sweetheart.

Not a chance.

Yeah.

[dramatic music]

[sighs]

[suspenseful music]

[dramatic music]