Amish Affair (2024) Movie Script

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[train whistle blows]
Hannah?
Mr. Stutzman. It's-It's
nice to meet you.
Please, call me Aaron.
Here, let me get this.
How was your journey?
Very pleasant.
Thank you.
Are people here aware
of the accusations
made against me?
Only my wife and I.
We intend to keep it that way.
We want to give
you a fresh start.
[]
Sarah and the children
have been waiting all
morning to meet you.
[door creaks open]
Hannah, these are
our daughters...
Rachel and Grace.
- Hello.
- Hi.
It's nice to meet both of you.
[Aaron] And this is Sarah.
Welcome to our home.
Thank you so much
for this opportunity,
Mrs. Stutzman.
Please, "Sarah".
Rachel, show Hannah to her room.
Follow me.
[]
[Hannah] Please
give me strength.
I'm begging you.
Help me navigate this path.
God, grant me the
wisdom to find my way.
Keep me true to my values.
Please.
I'm so desperate for
your guidance right now.
Amen.
[speaks in Pennsylvania
Dutch] Handt nunna.
Heavenly Father,
we give thanks for
the food before us,
for the warmth of family...
for guiding Hannah safely to us.
We pray for
your wisdom for Rachel
during her Rumspringa
and your continued
healing touch with Sarah.
Amen.
[others] Amen.
Guests first, Rachel!
Oh, no, it's fine.
No, Grace is right.
Except... this is
now Hannah's home,
so she's no longer a guest.
[all chuckling]
So, Rachel, I hear
you just turned 16.
Last week.
Did you date any English
boys during your Rumspringa?
I should have warned you
about my daughter's
inquisitive nature.
Um... yes, I did.
What was that like?
It helped me come to appreciate
the values of Amish boys.
Exactly!
Try to find one English boy
that knows how to raise a barn.
[laughter]
[music box squeals and stops]
[knocking]
Come in.
I just wanted to see
how you're settling in.
Fine, thank you.
Mm.
That's nice.
My mother gave it to me
when I was a little girl.
It's one of the few
keepsakes I have from her,
but, sadly, it hasn't
worked in years.
I'm sorry to hear that.
Please know that
having you here,
not only to care for my wife,
but to perform many
of her duties...
it's a huge relief.
I understand you believe
the condition to be ALS,
but there's been no
formal diagnosis?
We've chosen divine guidance
over medical intervention,
but yes,
that's the assumption.
I'm told that you have
experience with this?
Um, yes.
Yes, I had a few ALS patients
when I worked as a
home health aide.
Unfortunately, her...
her condition's
regressed recently.
But I try to take
solace in knowing
that it's all part
of God's design.
Well, goodnight, Hannah.
Goodnight.
[rooster crows]
Ow.
[Aaron] Grace, I'm trying.
Would you like some
help with that?
Please.
[Hannah chuckles]
Hmm.
Grace, I believe Hannah's
better at this than your father.
[Hannah laughs]
Years of practice.
Well, I'll leave you to it.
[]
[gravel crunching]
[]
[]
In the light of God's grace,
we gather united in our faith.
Brethren and sisters...
we are blessed
to have Sister Hannah
joining us today,
dedicating her service
to my daughter, Sarah,
and her family.
It is with a heavy heart
that we address
a transgression
within our midst.
The path to
righteousness is narrow,
and it pains us
when even one among us strays.
Sister Miriam...
you have betrayed the
teachings we hold dear.
After deep deliberation,
we have decided
we must enact Meidung.
You will be isolated
from the community,
forbidden from any interaction,
as a reminder
of the consequences of
your transgressions.
This shunning is a test of
your faith and commitment.
Only through deep reflection
and unwavering adherence
to our principles
can you hope to find
redemption and prove yourself.
You'll be shunned
until the others
deem your worthy to
return to the fold.
In his mercy,
may God's wisdom illuminate
your journey back to us.
[sniffling]
[]
I see the Lord has
also blessed you
with a green thumb.
May I ask why that
woman was shunned?
[bucket clangs]
Miriam...
she made advances
towards a married man,
who, in time, yielded to them.
Was he also held accountable?
He admitted his fault.
But... [sighs]
there's a belief
that a man succumbing to the
allure of a younger woman
is somewhat, um...
Acceptable?
Understandable.
Abraham wanted her
excommunicated.
I convinced him to opt
for shunning instead.
Excuse me.
Were you officially
excommunicated from
your previous community?
Um...
not officially.
But I felt it was best to go.
Are you comfortable
giving your account
of the incident?
[sighs] Uh...
Yes.
Well, uh...
[sighs]
After I came back from
living among the English,
I took over caring
for our bishop.
He had cancer,
and I administered
his medication.
He died...
of a lethal dose,
and I was blamed.
Well, I'm sure it was
an honest mistake.
[defensively] No! It...
[softer] It didn't
come from me...
but the elders claimed that
I was lying to avoid blame.
[Sarah groans]
Wasn't that long ago
I could... still
able to dress myself.
I don't wish to overstep, but...
there are medications...
[Sarah chuckles sadly]
After much prayer
and reflection...
we decided to trust
in God's will.
Did you notice the
attention you were getting
from the young men
at church today?
I... [stammers]
I wasn't really looking.
Well, you should start looking.
[chuckling]
My apologies.
I thought you were
still in the barn.
It's fine.
I picked some flowers
for both you and Sarah.
Thought they might
brighten your room.
Thank you.
They're lovely.
I noticed you have a tattoo.
Yes, um, it's a
regrettable decision
that I made during my
time among the English.
Why a butterfly?
It was meant to
represent transformation
and, um, new beginnings,
but...
now it's just a reminder
of a chapter of my
life I'd rather forget.
Well, let's make it represent
a new, positive chapter.
I hate to add to
your work workload,
but I snagged my
shirt on a nail.
Oh, s-sure. Leave it with me.
I... I didn't mean right now.
Seems appropriate,
don't you think?
Do you play Dutch Blitz?
Uh, yeah. Yes.
Sarah and I used to play, but
it's difficult for her now.
Would you like to have a game?
Sure. Sounds lovely.
I'm warning you, I play to win.
Blitz!
Again?
Who knew that such
a demure young lady
would have such a
competitive streak?
You know, I hope you
don't mind me saying this,
but you don't act like
any elder I've met before.
Oh?
I suppose you're young to be in
such a position of authority.
Well, I've always
felt the calling
to eventually assume
the role of bishop
and shepherd this community.
I have no doubt
that you'll accomplish
that one day.
That day may come soon.
Abraham confided in me that
he's ready to step aside.
I wasn't sure about
the timing, but...
with you here, by my side,
I feel ready.
Well, I'm here for
whatever you need.
[rooster crowing]
[knocking]
Come in.
Hey.
Hello.
We look alike, right?
I suppose so. Why?
Could I borrow your I.D.?
To buy alcohol?
Oh...
Rachel, I'm not sure your
father would approve.
It's Rumspringa,
and we're supposed
to experiment.
Well, yes, but you're not
supposed to break the law.
But I just don't want to have
to ask older English boys
and have them think
that I owe them.
You have a driver's license?
Cool!
Rachel...
If you ever need anything...
advice, whatever...
know that you can come
to me, in confidence.
Thank you.
[knocking]
Back so soon?
I'm sorry. I-I thought
you were Rachel.
Is there something
I can help you with?
Actually, I did
something for you.
My music box.
I wanted it to be a surprise.
I took it this morning,
hoped you wouldn't notice.
[music playing]
[]
I thought it deserved
a second chance...
just like you.
Well...
goodnight, Hannah.
Goodnight, Aaron.
[music playing]
[]
[grunting]
[chuckles weakly]
My family didn't own cows,
so this is not an
area of expertise.
May I assist you?
Yes, please.
[laughs]
It's all in the rhythm.
[Hannah] I got this.
[Hannah] Would you like
some help with that?
Thank you,
but I want to contribute
the best I can
while I still can...
sort of.
I had always hoped
to give Aaron a son,
to carry on the family name.
Perhaps... after he remarries.
You shouldn't think like that.
We've discussed it.
I only hope
that he finds a partner
who brings him joy
and who is a good
mother to my children.
I even insisted he take
out life insurance on me.
Really?
I know it's uncommon
in our faith...
but I think it's prudent.
Well...
I trust your judgment,
but let that be the
least of your concerns.
[sighing]
Mm.
Oh!
[water splashes]
I'm sorry. I didn't
know you were out here.
You want to get in?
There's still some
warm water left.
Um, I'm just, uh, I'm still in
the middle of my chores, so.
Hot shower...
it's a simple pleasure,
but a divine one.
You shouldn't pass it up.
Yeah.
Would you mind coming
to town with me?
I'll give you a tour of my shop.
[metal grinding]
My great-grandfather
established this shop in 1947.
Unfortunately,
I don't have a son to
carry on the family legacy.
Sorry to bother you,
but, uh, there's an issue with
the wheel-alignment machine.
Well, give me a moment.
I'll come take a look.
Hi.
Hannah, this is Jacob, my
wheelwright apprentice.
It's nice to meet you.
You too.
I'll be right back.
So, I was Grace's age when
I started working here,
and then...
Aaron, when you get a chance,
these need your signature.
Of course.
Hannah, this is my
assistant, Laura.
She keeps me on the
straight and narrow.
I do what I can,
though keeping Aaron in
line is no small feat.
Hey!
Would you be able to come by
my house again later today?
I'm having an issue
with the water well.
- Of course.
- Thank you.
Oh, and these are the
herbs that I mentioned.
They helped my aunt,
so I hope that they also bring
some relief to Sarah, too.
Thank you, Laura.
This is the money
for the groceries.
Oh, thank you.
And while you're out,
treat yourself to
something sweet...
ice cream, perhaps.
Oh, that's really not necessary.
"There's nothing
better for a person
than that he should eat,
drink, and find enjoyment."
Ecclesiastes 2:24.
If not for yourself, have
some ice cream for God.
I'm going to help Jacob.
Aaron has been
singing your praises.
Oh!
I'm-I'm pleased to hear that.
Yes. He says it's been
a godsend having someone
to attend to his cooking
and his cleaning.
Nothing like ice cream
to brighten a day.
You shouldn't be speaking to me.
I'm Hannah.
Miriam.
I'm so sorry for what
you're going through.
It's hard, everyone judging you.
I know.
I mean, I can only imagine.
My friends won't look at me.
Not even my own family
will speak to me.
I made a terrible mistake,
and I know it's my fault, but...
I feel so alone.
Well, you're not alone anymore.
[]
Whoa!
Oh! [chuckles]
Thank you.
[Sarah] Aaron...
what are you doing?
[]
How long did you live outside
of your Amish community?
Mm, a little over five years.
[Sarah] What was it
that took you away
from our way of life?
[Hannah] After my
mother died, growing up,
my home was...
sad,
and I left in search of joy,
hoping I'd find it out there.
[Sarah] And then did you?
[Hannah] For a time,
and then less so.
[Sarah] In my experience,
happiness isn't something
that you search
far and wide for,
but rather you cultivate
in yourself and in
your relationships,
right where you are.
[Sarah] It is my hope that
you find a man of your own.
[Hannah humming]
I hope you don't mind me asking,
but how is it that Laura
came to work for you?
It's not common to see
an Amish woman working
in a regular job.
Well, she kept the books
for her husband's business
after he passed.
She was all alone,
so I gave her a job
in hopes it would be a
meaningful distraction.
She didn't seem to
like me very much.
Well, I think she's
developed a small crush.
Oh.
It's innocent, but, um...
she probably feels
threatened by you.
By me?
What reason would she have?
Well, you're an
attractive younger woman
living in my house,
assuming many of the duties
that my wife would do,
and, uh, well, I think
she has plenty of reasons.
[Aaron chuckles]
[Hannah] I don't know.
[Hannah laughs nervously]
[Aaron] I'm serious, Hannah.
I feel complete with you here.
God has truly blessed
us with your presence.
[horse nickering]
Looks like you made a friend.
Aaron...
Hannah...
I need you.
[]
[]
[]
[]
You have such a natural
way with children.
It surprises me you didn't
grow up with siblings.
My parents wanted more kids,
but I was younger than
Grace when I lost my mother.
To bear such a profound
loss at such a young age
is truly heartrending.
Yeah.
She was a beacon of
kindness and love.
I still miss her every day.
She would be very proud of
the woman you've become.
I hope and pray you find a
young man meant just for you.
[]
[]
Is something wrong?
I find myself caught between...
immense joy
and overwhelming guilt.
Sarah's shown me
nothing but kindness,
and here I am...
Hey.
I understand how you're feeling,
because I've struggled
with it myself.
Aaron, what sort of future
do we have together?
I want a family
of my own one day,
and you can't give that to me.
No.
No, I can't...
not while Sarah's still with us.
Which I feel absolutely
horrible even contemplating.
Hannah...
I have prayed about this,
and I believe that God
has delivered you to me...
to one day bless this
family with sons.
And you feel that
justifies our actions?
No.
But if He is the
architect of our lives...
maybe it somewhat explains them.
Aaron, I think we
need to end things
until being together
is no longer immoral.
That could be for years.
It's not only the
right thing to do,
it's the prudent thing.
We both have so much to lose,
and if... if people were
to find out about this...
Everything you're
saying is true.
Hannah, I need to be with you.
I want to be with you, too...
but I just can't.
Aaron...
I'm sorry. I hope
you understand.
I have to go.
[]
Hello.
Hello, Jacob.
My mother asked me
to deliver this jam
for Mrs. Stutzman.
Oh.
That's very thoughtful.
I'll... I'll make
sure she gets it.
Actually, the...
the jam was really an
excuse for me to come by,
so I could ask you on a date.
Oh!
Oh, uh, I'm flattered.
I'm just still trying
to get a handle
on all my responsibilities here,
and I-I just don't think
the timing's right.
I understand.
I just hope you like jam...
'cause I plan on coming
by with another jar
and asking you out every day
until the timing is right.
[laughs]
Well, I do like jam.
[laughing]
Good.
Well...
Same time tomorrow?
Sounds good.
[giggling]
[hammer pounding]
I've agreed to go on a date
with one of your employees.
Who?
Jacob.
He seems nice.
And I need to start moving
forward with my life.
I suppose you have to do
what you think is best.
So you lived among the
English for a few years?
Yes.
You ever second-guess
your decision to return?
Never.
I hope I never have to
go back to living there.
Why would you?
Exactly.
There's no reason I would.
Yeah, I don't regret
my decision to return
after Rumspringa, either...
but, well, there are
a few things I miss
about the outside world.
Like?
The usual...
music, movies.
Blue jeans?
[chuckles]
Running water.
Not having to wrestle my
hair into a bun every day.
[chuckles]
Oh, there was this
one video game...
"Dance Dance Revolution".
You're joking.
I mean, you may not believe it,
but I was a dancing machine.
You know what?
You're right. I...
I don't believe it.
Wait. Wait. No.
Huh? Huh?
Jacob. Jacob, dancing
is not permitted.
Oh, come on, there's no
music, so, technically...
it's more like flailing.
Okay, okay! Sit down.
[both laughing]
Just stop.
[clapping]
I stand corrected.
Hmm?
You are a dancing machine.
I told you.
Who knew?
[Jacob laughs]
[Hannah chuckles]
[Hannah laughs]
[brakes squeaking] [chuckling]
So, you glad I talked you
into going out with me?
Uh, more like pestered...
but, yeah, I had a nice time.
Good.
May I see you again?
I'd like that.
Me too.
I should go inside.
Mm.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
[Jacob] Bye, Hannah.
[Hannah] Bye!
[knocking]
[door shuts]
Here's your I.D.
Oh.
Rachel, you should
take that makeup off
before your father sees.
So, how was your
date with Jacob?
It was, um... nice.
Did you kiss him?
No!
It was a first date.
Well, I kissed an English boy.
Rachel...
you need to be careful.
It's easy to get
caught up in things
and then do something
you might later regret.
I know.
So did you want to kiss him?
Goodnight, Rachel.
[laughs]
Okay.
[door opens]
Mm. Ice cream was a great idea.
It's my guilty pleasure.
[laughing]
It's funny.
They pity us,
but I feel sorry for them.
Why?
They think we're missing out
because of what we forgo,
but I think the spiritual
wealth we accumulate
far outweighs
the material possessions
we leave behind...
and we're still allowed
to eat all the ice
cream our hearts desire.
[both laughing]
Uh, so...
what do you think
of our community?
Can you see it becoming
your forever home?
Yeah...
I can.
[both chuckling]
[Aaron] "Then Jonah
prayed unto..."
So how was the date?
Oh, it was, uh, lovely.
We just went for ice cream.
Any plans to see him again?
Uh...
yes.
I'm going to his home for lunch
to meet his family.
[Sarah chuckles]
Oh... sounds serious.
It won't be long before he...
he...
[grunts in frustration]
It's okay...
It's okay.
Can I get you anything?
No. She'll be fine.
"Then Jonah prayed
unto the Lord his God.
Out of the fish's belly..."
[grinder whirring]
[Laura] Here's the copy of
Sarah's life-insurance policy
you asked for.
Has her condition regressed?
Unfortunately, it has.
I'll be praying for you both.
Thank you, Laura.
Jacob.
You have a minute?
Of course.
[sighing]
I hear you intend to introduce
Hannah to your family?
Yeah, they're
excited to meet her.
There's something I need
to tell you about her.
Now, please don't
share this with anyone,
not even Hannah...
but before she came here,
she was involved in
a serious incident...
[quieter] ...that led to
the death of her bishop.
[Jacob chuckles]
Yeah, but it was
an accident, right?
Well, the police cleared
her of any wrongdoing,
but the elders believe
that she is at fault.
Unfortunately,
her past will likely impede
the church's
blessing of marriage.
The mere act
of asking for approval will...
it will force Hannah
to expose her past,
which she's desperately
trying to keep secret.
Oh.
It's your decision,
but the best thing
that you can do for her
is to end things
between you two.
[Abraham] Sarah's mom
used to make this.
It was her favorite.
It still is.
I hope it's all right.
It's my first
attempt at making it.
Delicious.
Here, let me help you with this.
[slurping]
Mm.
Thanks, Dad.
You feeling all right?
I'm fine...
just tired.
Your pulse is on the low side.
I should cancel my date.
No.
I'll stay with my daughter.
Thank you.
Hello.
I'm sorry, but I need
to cancel our date.
Oh.
Is everything all right?
Yeah, it's just...
Look, I don't think we should
see each other anymore.
Oh.
Look.
I think you're great.
It's just...
I prayed on it and...
It's fine.
Okay.
Well, I'll see you around.
Goodbye.
[]
Sarah told me
that Jacob ended
things between you two.
Did he give a reason?
Not really.
Well, I just look
at it as a sign...
that we're meant to be together.
Aaron.
Things may have not
worked out with Jacob,
but seeing someone
who's appropriate for me
made it very clear how
inappropriate we've been.
Our love might be inconvenient,
but it's not inappropriate.
I can't see you
while you're still
married to Sarah.
I'm sorry, Aaron.
I just can't.
[Sarah gasping deeply]
Sarah? Sarah, what's wrong?
[gasping for breath]
It's all right, I'm here.
I'm here.
[gasping]
It's all right, my love.
- [wheezing intensely]
- Your love is my strength
and my shield.
Your love is my
strength and my shield.
[wracked gasping]
It's all right.
[Sarah whimpering]
I don't understand.
She's exhibiting
entirely new symptoms.
Her illness is unpredictable.
I gave her Laura's herbs,
but what if that's
what's making her worse?
We don't know that.
What should I do?
Whatever you can to
make her comfortable.
That's not enough, Aaron!
She needs to see a doctor.
I understand your impulse,
because I share it.
I have tried to convince
Sarah to seek medical help.
She's unwavering
in her conviction.
But she might die.
We have to keep the faith...
even in the toughest of times.
Whatever happens...
it's His plan.
[sighing]
[creaking]
[door shuts]
[exhaling]
[Sarah groaning softly]
[Sarah groaning]
[Sarah groaning]
[Sarah groaning]
[]
[]
[]
[]
[Abraham] Heavenly Father,
in the shadow of our mourning,
we gather together...
hearts heavy with grief...
for the daughter I've lost
and our community has cherished.
In your wisdom,
you have called Sarah home.
May her spirit find
joy in your kingdom
and let her memory inspire us
to live with kindness
and faith.
[]
[]
[]
[sobbing]
[sniffing deeply]
[sighing]
[Aaron sniffling]
I need to go, before
the girls wake up.
Aaron...
what do we do,
now that I'm no longer
needed as caretaker?
The girls need you
more than ever,
as do I.
But in what capacity?
I'd like to continue
our relationship...
fulfill God's plan.
When you're ready, of course.
You mean discreetly, right?
Yes.
But only until
I've observed a...
respectful period of mourning.
Aaron.
I've been thinking
about this, and...
[sighing]
won't marrying your
wife's caretaker
raise some eyebrows?
Sarah wanted me to find someone
who cherished our children.
I know she'd agree that
you're the ideal candidate.
I'm not sure she'd agree, if
she knew what I'd been doing.
She adored you.
So do I.
Even covered in flour,
you're still so beautiful.
[Hannah chuckles]
[banging on door]
Mr. Stutzman?
I'm Sergeant Riley.
I have a few questions
pertaining to the
passing of your wife.
I need you to come
with me to the station.
Of course.
Aaron?
I'll be home soon.
[door thuds]
What did that
police officer want?
Apparently, a life
insurance agent reached out.
With no formal diagnosis,
Sarah's rapid decline
set off a few red flags.
But everything's
cleared up, right?
Essentially.
She wants to speak with you.
Hey, there's nothing
to be worried about,
because you've
done nothing wrong.
Except having an affair with you
while Sarah was still alive.
Obviously, there isn't
anything to be gained
by acknowledging that, correct?
[sternly] Correct?
[smooch]
I understand that, as
part of your duties,
you were tasked for
caring with Mrs. Stutzman?
Yes.
Did that include
managing her medication?
Sarah didn't take any.
Didn't you find that odd,
considering her
advanced condition?
No.
It's not uncommon for
those of our faith
to place their healing
in God's hands.
And how would you
describe her relationship
with Mr. Stutzman?
Good.
Aaron was, um...
very caring and attentive.
So you have no reason to believe
he would have done
anything to aggravate
his wife's condition?
No. Absolutely not.
Is this all because of
the life-insurance policy?
Mrs. Stutzman died
only days after the
contestability period ended.
A week earlier,
the policy would've
been null and void.
Well, I'm sure that's
just a coincidence.
Speaking of coincidences,
I understand the last
person in your care
also died from
suspicious circumstances.
I-I was cleared of that.
Regardless,
I'm sure you'd agree that
this is a troubling pattern.
Sarah treated me with
the utmost kindness.
What reason would
I have to harm her?
Do you have romantic
feelings for Mr. Stutzman?
No.
So you've never contemplated
stepping into Mrs.
Stutzman's shoes?
No, never.
I had nothing to do
with Sarah's death.
Nobody did.
Sarah was ill and died
of natural causes.
That's it.
[woman] Right this way, Miss.
[Hannah] What's
Laura doing here?
Questioning Ms.
Miller. Questioning.
May I go?
You may.
Thank you.
[chair scrapes floor]
[]
The officer thinks
Sarah was murdered.
Did she state that explicitly?
No, but she hinted at
your possible involvement,
and then mine,
and she seems to know
about my feelings for you.
That's not possible.
She also spoke to Laura.
What if she said something?
Laura was brought in
because she assisted
with the policy.
She'd never say anything
to add to their suspicions.
I just don't understand
why they'd be suspicious
in the first place.
The outside world can't
grasp our way of life...
how we could choose
devotion over medicine.
That's all this is.
When we get home,
I've got something
special to show you.
Keep your eyes closed.
[Hannah chuckles]
Wait right there.
Okay.
Open your eyes.
[fabric flutters]
[gasping]
This is why I've been spending
so much time out here.
Wow.
It's... It's beautiful.
I built it
for you to one day
rock our baby boy.
I know this has been a
particularly stressful time,
especially with what you've
already been through.
But I know...
when we come through the shadows
and into the light...
our bond is going
to be even stronger.
[]
[]
[]
[hushed whispering]
[woman] She's not
to be trusted.
[woman #2] Absolutely not.
[woman] You heard
what happened before.
[woman #2] Yeah,
and the police think
she may have killed
Sarah to be with Aaron.
Killed?
Well, I... [clears throat]
This seat's taken.
Aaron...
Aaron.
The entire quilting bee
was gossiping about
the investigation...
saying that I may
have harmed Sarah
to be with you.
There was even talk
that we were together
while she was still alive.
Unfortunately, the rumors
have reached the elders.
They've asked us to
stand before the council.
What should I tell them?
That there's no
truth to any of it.
Aaron, I know I've
already sinned,
but lying to the council
is akin to lying to God himself.
Confessing now
will end my prospects
of becoming bishop
and will guarantee
your excommunication.
No other Amish community
will take you in.
If you want a future...
here, with me...
you must do this.
[]
This tribunal serves as
the voice of the Almighty.
Any falsehood uttered here
is tantamount
to bearing false
witness before God.
We've heard from Brother Aaron.
He's now absent to allow you
to speak your truth.
No doubt
you've heard the talk
casting shadows
upon your character?
I have.
Matters of legal concern
will be left to
secular authorities.
Here, we address the allegations
that compromise the
integrity of our beliefs.
What is your response
to the talk of
improper relations
between you and Aaron?
It's untrue.
Has there ever been a moment
where you made untoward
advances toward Aaron
that he didn't reciprocate?
No. Never.
And what of Aaron's conduct?
Has his behavior always merited
the expectations of our faith?
Aaron was a kind
and devoted husband.
In light of the gravity
of this assembly,
is there anything
further you wish to add?
I just want to
say how sorry I am
for any pain that this situation
has caused you personally.
Your daughter was...
a beautiful person, and...
the thought of her
memory being dimmed
by all of this gossip
weighs heavily on me.
Thank you.
We will speak with you
after we congregate.
Thank you.
[sighs]
Hannah.
Hi.
How are you doing?
I've been better.
I'm sure you've heard
what's being said about me.
I know the gossip
began with Laura.
Laura is somehow
responsible for this.
She is possessive of Aaron
and has never liked me.
I'm not sure where
it all began, but...
well, she hasn't been shy
about fanning the flames.
For the record, I don't
believe any of it.
Well, you seem to
be the only one.
Hang in there.
Better days are ahead.
Thank you, Jacob.
Of course.
Today,
we are faced with the challenge
of examining the very
essence of our community...
a challenge that stems
not from the
transgressions of one
but the failings of many.
The undue gossip...
and judgment
that has besieged Sister
Hannah and Brother Aaron
has left a stain upon
our collective spirit.
We've allowed whispers
to sow discord
as we've strayed
from the foundational
virtues that define us,
and this time of grief
has been compounded
by our own doing...
and I am personally ashamed
for allowing myself
to get swept up in it.
[quietly] I'm sorry.
[]
[]
What could you possibly
want to discuss
at our house of worship?
I have a court order
to exhume your wife's
remains for an autopsy.
How could you justify
desecrating my
wife's resting place
without any evidence whatsoever?
Turns out, Miss
Weaver's proximity
to more than one
suspicious death
also raised the
eyebrows of the judge.
Let's go.
[]
What is this?
Come inside.
[]
I've done nothing wrong.
The police are using
Hannah's past as an excuse.
Were you aware of
the allegations
levied against her
when you offered her employment?
Yes, as was Sarah.
Finding a woman of our faith
with her qualifications
is difficult.
And you felt that justified
inviting her to live with my
daughter and grandchildren?
Hannah was never
charged with a crime.
Well...
if it's determined she
had any role to play
in Sarah's death,
even if the law doesn't
hold you accountable,
I will.
[]
What is this?
Are these Laura's herbs?
[sniffling softly]
Rachel...
I'm so sorry you have
to go through all this
with your mother.
[Rachel sobs and grunts]
I don't want to talk to you.
I know that you've heard all
sorts of horrible rumors,
but you must know I would
never do anything to harm her.
Right?
But you're glad she's dead.
How could you say such a thing?
I'm not naive.
It's obvious you want
to be with my father.
But even if he
makes you his wife,
you will never be my mother.
[door opening]
Bishop Abraham. I'm
sorry, Aaron's not...
I've come to gather
my granddaughters.
They'll be staying with me
till this matter is resolved.
Pack up your belongings.
Meet me at the buggy.
Where's Grace?
She's still in school,
but I can walk her over
when she's finished.
[Abraham] Fine.
[door slams]
Let's get you to
Grandpa's house.
[Grace] Is that Dad?
Why is he coming out
of Laura's house?
Let's, um, let's... let's
just go back this way.
I heard that Abraham
wants my girls to stay with
him for the time being.
I just dropped off Grace.
Aaron...
earlier, when I was walking,
I saw you leaving Laura's house.
You know I feel she's
trying to tarnish me.
I was just about to tell you.
I went there to confront her
regarding her gossip about you.
Well, I'm sure she
denied everything.
Actually, no.
She admitted to her jealousy...
her desire to damage
your reputation,
and her wanting to
replace Sarah as my wife.
How did you respond?
I told her I didn't
share the same feelings.
I was gentle, but...
but she was still angry.
She blamed you.
[sighs]
Well, her intention
to keep us apart
may still work.
Wait. What do you mean?
Aaron,
being together in the future
only implies we were lying
about being together
in the past.
[sighs]
Don't worry.
I'm confident my plan will
overcome her manipulations.
Your "plan"?
I mean, God's plan...
for us.
I'll start dinner.
Thank you.
[]
[broom bristles swishing]
[stops sweeping]
[broom hits floor]
Aaron!
- [groans]
- Come on.
[Aaron coughing]
I don't understand.
I mean, your symptoms are
exactly the same as Sarah's
the day she passed away.
[wheezing]
I need to go to the hospital.
[indistinct announcement
crackling on PA system]
I heard about Aaron.
Do the doctors know
what's wrong with him?
I haven't had an update.
He doesn't want you here...
and neither do I.
I know you blame
me for the rumors.
All I did was share the truth
about the police
asking questions.
Aaron already told me
that you admitted to wanting
to hurt my reputation
when he spoke to you yesterday.
I didn't see Aaron yesterday.
You're lying.
I saw him leaving your
home. What were those herbs?
I need you to come to
the station with me.
No. No, I have to
be here for Aaron.
Let's go.
What? No!
Am I under arrest?
I need to inform you
that you're entitled to
have an attorney present.
I-I don't need a lawyer. I
just want to know about Aaron.
Mr. Stutzman's stomach
has been pumped,
and he's expected to recover.
Did he have food poisoning?
The doctors found
brodifacoum in his system.
I-I don't know what that is.
It's a toxin commonly
used in rat poison.
It's tasteless and odorless,
so while it wasn't
food poisoning,
it's most likely he consumed
it in something he ate.
Do you do the cooking?
Y-Yes, but I-I don't...
Did you prepare dinner
for him last night?
We... We keep rat poison
in the barn, and he was...
he was outside, right
before he got sick.
Maybe he swallowed
some by accident?
That's highly unlikely...
considering the
autopsy determined
that Mrs. Stutzman also died
from consuming the same poison.
Wait. So Sarah
really was murdered?
Did you do it, Hannah?
What? No! No, I didn't.
Look, I don't think you're
some heartless killer.
Quite the contrary.
I believe you genuinely
cared for Mrs. Stutzman,
and watching her suffer,
you made the decision
to ease her pain,
just like you did the
elder you took care of.
I changed my mind.
I want a lawyer.
[door buzzes]
You're free to go.
I apologize for the
misunderstanding.
So I'm no longer a suspect?
Laura Miller has been charged
with Mrs. Stutzman's murder.
I couldn't believe
when they told me Sarah
had been poisoned,
and then I find out
you were in jail.
How did they come
to suspect Laura?
I told Sergeant Riley Laura
confessed her feelings.
[chuckles darkly] Then
I remembered the herbs.
She gave them to you
right before Sarah's
health turned.
And she made me tea
while I was at her house.
The police found a vial of
rat poison in her kitchen.
I don't understand it.
She wanted to marry you...
why poison you, and not me?
Apparently it wasn't
a lethal dose.
Sergeant Riley believes
she poisoned me
to shift the blame of
Sarah's death onto you.
And with me in prison,
there's no competition
for your affection.
Wait. Where are you going?
The council needs
to hear the truth.
Abraham dared to insinuate
that I had a hand
in my wife's death.
He needs to hear this now.
[]
[echoing] Hannah!
Hannah.
[chuckles happily]
Hannah.
Miriam!
I just came by to
share some good news.
My shunning's been lifted.
That's wonderful.
Bishop Abraham felt
I demonstrated genuine
remorse for my actions.
You were so kind to me.
I know you couldn't have
done the horrible things
people are saying.
That means a lot.
But, um...
Laura...
was just arrested
for Sarah's murder.
Oh, my gosh.
I know.
I'm still in shock, myself.
It probably has something to
do with the day before last,
when I saw Aaron going
into Laura's house.
Well, yes, he went
there to confront her
about everything
that's been happening.
But Laura wasn't home.
Are you sure?
I saw her at the market,
minutes after Aaron let
himself into her house.
Laura was telling the truth.
She never saw Aaron
in her home that day.
Pardon?
I'm sorry, Miriam, I have to go!
[]
[whispering to self] There
was two. There was two.
What have you done?
[pellets crunching under mallet]
No, no, no. The
poison... Aaron.
[Aaron] Hannah.
What are you doing?
[Hannah] Just taking
care of some chores.
[chuckles]
How did it go with the elders?
They were taken
aback, naturally.
I, uh, enjoyed listening
to them apologize.
Especially Abraham.
[chuckling]
Were you using the rat poison?
No.
Why is it open?
I don't know.
Oh!
The police...
they must have come
by to examine it.
I told them that we
kept some in here,
when they questioned me.
[dog barks]
Someone's here.
Jacob, what are you doing here?
I heard about Laura
being arrested.
I-I can't believe it.
We're still trying to
process it ourselves.
Well, I just wanted
to say how sorry I am
for everything you
both have been through,
and my mother asked me
to drop off some
bread and tomatoes,
as well as a few
plants from our garden.
Apparently, these seedlings
should be replanted
as soon as possible.
We'll do it right away.
Aaron, you really should rest.
Jacob, do you mind
sticking around
and-and helping
me replant these?
- Sure.
- Here, take these inside.
We'll just be a minute.
[hushed] Jacob, there's
something I need to tell you,
and it's gonna be
hard to believe.
[Jacob] Okay.
I think that Aaron
poisoned Sarah
and made Laura look responsible.
[Aaron] You should have
left things alone. Hannah.
Why would he do such a thing?
So that he could marry me.
Do you have any evidence?
No, nothing concrete.
Well, without any proof,
the elders will almost
certainly take his side.
I know. That's why I need
to speak to the police.
If you want, I can take
you there right now.
No, no.
I need to do this
without Aaron knowing.
If he starts to suspect that
I pieced things together,
he might try to frame me.
[Jacob] Okay, well, how
about later tonight?
I'll come by and wait.
Once Aaron's in bed, slip out,
and I can take
you there and back
before he realizes
you were gone.
Thank you, Jacob.
I can't tell you how
much your support means.
Of course.
[Aaron] Hannah!
- Go, go.
- Hannah!
When you're finished
in the garden,
come inside...
I have a surprise for you.
[forced] I'll be right there.
[door opens]
Get everything planted?
Yes.
This looks nice.
Have a seat.
It's the least I
could do for you.
You were working so
hard in the garden.
I thought wine was reserved
for special occasions.
You seem tense.
Have a sip.
You're not having any?
I have a confession to make.
I've done things...
things that I'm not proud
of, for us to be together.
What sort of things, Aaron?
You forced me to stand by
while you grew closer to Jacob,
as my wife was dying...
and it forced me to act.
I convinced Jacob to
stop pursuing you.
Oh.
Well, I'm sure you only did that
because of how much
you care for me.
That's right.
I risked
my place in the
community for you.
I even poisoned
myself to frame Laura.
Everything that I hold dear,
I risked for you, Hannah.
I'd kill for you.
But you already know
that, don't you?
Yes.
Question is...
would you do the same for me?
Yes.
Really?
Because the moment
that our relationship
got put to the test...
you were ready to swap
me out with Jacob.
I just wanted to act in
a way that honored God.
If that was truly the case,
and you believe that
God put us together,
as do I,
wouldn't being with
another man dishonor Him?
We couldn't be together, Aaron.
Oh, no, you made that clear.
Not when my wife was alive...
so I killed Sarah for you.
[thud]
Hannah!
No!
[Hannah grunts]
- No!
- Hannah!
[Hannah panting]
Hannah!
[hay rustling]
You brought this on
yourself, Hannah!
In my moment of
weakness, you seduced me.
You led me to believe
that God sent you
to bear me a son.
Sarah might not have
died by your hands...
but her blood is on them.
Now you must pay.
Thanks to your past...
our community will believe
that you confessed
to poisoning Sarah
and framing Laura...
but, before I could
turn you in...
you fled...
and conveniently
disappeared forever.
No! No, no!
[whimpering] No!
You were supposed
to be my Eve...
the promise of a new wife,
of a new life, new son...
and you were the
serpent all along!
Aaron! Aaron! Let her go.
Jacob... I don't know
what she told you,
but she poisoned Sarah.
Jacob, run!
[flesh tears]
I told you.
You should have stayed
away from Hannah.
[gasping]
- Jacob...
- I'm all right.
- Jacob!
- I'm all right.
- Are you okay?
- I'm all right.
[Jacob] Get the rope.
Get the rope!
[Hannah whimpering]
[groaning]
[gasping and wincing]
[Jacob wincing in pain]
[radios crackling]
[Hannah] Bishop Abraham?
I'm so sorry.
No.
I should've heeded my
suspicions of Aaron earlier.
Hannah, it's okay. You're
gonna be safe here.
[siren wails]
[]
[]
[Hannah and Jacob chuckling]
[]
[]
[]
[]