Burned by Love (2023) Movie Script
1
(dog barking in distance)
(woman giggling)
(sensuous giggling)
Group: Surprise!
Roger?
Ashley, what are you doing home?
What am I doing...?
I'm throwing my
husband a birthday party.
Wow.
Ash...
Wait, ashley... Ashley, wait!
Five years, ash. Five years.
You can't just end
it over some fling.
It just did.
Happy birthday.
(hitting table)
(ship's horn sounding)
I just got the most
interesting call.
Oh?
From none other than
mrs. Jacqueline james.
(gasping) the restaurateur?
Yes! She wants to meet.
She's renovating
an old location,
And she's interested
in one of my murals.
Ah! She saw the work
you did at bodega's?
I guess so!
-Aw, that's amazing!
-Right?
Ashley, it's so nice to hear
you get some good news.
I know.
Tess: You know, I can't
believe it's been a year
Since you and roger split.
Since I left him, you mean.
Yes. One whole year since
you were brutally robbed
Of the ability to trust
another human being.
Eh, I wouldn't go that far.
- I mean, I trust you.
- Yeah.
I trust my dad. I trust
the weather guy on tv.
Oh, no, don't trust
the weather guy.
-No, he lies.
-(chuckling)
I do think you should start
dating again, though, you know,
- Just for practice.
- Uh-uh.
So, I'm on this new
dating app, and...
Pass. I'm good.
Look, they're a lot better
than they used to be, I swear.
What's your kickback?
10% off my subscription
for every new referral.
Hmm. Okay.
And you, um, you may
have already signed up.
What?! Tess! What did you do?
I just-- I took some of your
pictures and I plugged them in,
And then... Voila!
Voila what?
Don't tell me I've
already gotten messages.
Obviously, yeah.
You're breathtaking.
Wait, what photo did
you use? Let me see that.
It's cute.
Oh my-- tess!
No. Okay, you know
what? I don't want to see it.
Just purge the account
in some digital fire.
I'm not interested.
- Are you sure?
- Yes.
We have both put a
lot of work into this.
Have you been
replying on my behalf?
No, no! I would never.
I just, you know, provided a
door for others to knock on.
It is up to you if
you want to answer.
Yeah, no.
I don't know.
No, no.
Fine.
(music plays softly)
I...
(sighing)
Fine.
"spiritual vegan." okay.
"I'm an open book,
ask me anything."
Sure you are, buddy.
Hmm.
Hello, marco.
(app chiming)
(phone chiming)
What?!
come together...
Jacqueline: It is so
nice to meet you, ashley.
I'm jacqueline.
Don't mind the dust,
the kitchen's been closed
- For the renovations.
- Wow, what a space,
Yeah, my pride and joy.
Passed down for
three generations.
But, like everything in life,
We must adapt to the
times or be left behind.
Which is why I rely
on the talent of youth
When we're redecorating.
Now, I am picturing one of
your mixed media pieces here.
- Filling the pace.
- Okay.
I am having some
electrical upgrades done
While you complete the mural,
If you can meet
the deadline, that is.
I am scheduled to reopen
the first of the month.
First of the month. Um...
Tight, but yes, I can do it.
Wonderful. How
soon can you start?
Uh, actually I'd love
to get started right away
- If possible.
- Fantastic.
- Grant?
- Mm-hm?
This is ashley morris.
She's gonna be
working here with you.
- Hi.
- Hey.
Here is a key, you
can just let yourself out.
And, uh...
I can't tell you how excited I
am to see the finished product.
- Thank you.
- Thank you.
Grant: I can
never find my tools.
(rattling) crazy.
- Oh.
- (cell phone chiming)
Grant: I pack my own back
and I can even find my own tools.
Excuse me.
(giggling)
Is it a wrong number?
No. Sorry.
My friend signed me up on
this new matchmaking site,
So now I get a...
Little dopamine jolt every
time my phone dings.
- Sounds exhausting.
- Yeah.
- And horribly addicting.
- Yeah.
It's a waste of time anyway.
Romance is my curse.
Okay, okay, now you
just sound like a defeatist.
(chuckling)
I have a feeling that things are
gonna turn around for you soon.
Thank you.
(clearing throat)
Ashley, hey. You there?
- Marco?
- Ashley?
Can you hear me? I think
we have a bad connection.
- Oh.
- Okay.
Hey. I think-- yep!
- There you are.
- Hi.
Marco: And you look beautiful.
Wow.
Your pictures do
not do you justice.
Thank you. You too.
I mean, you look
nice. I like your suit.
Marco: Oh, this old thing?
No, this is a job requirement.
It's a uniform like any other.
Where are you right now?
I'm just at the
office, it's-- it's boring.
To be honest, I wish...
I wish I did something more
like what you do for a living,
You know, working
with your hands,
Crafting your own designs.
Oh, you make me sound
like some avant garde artist.
I'm basically just a
glorified tile setter.
Ashley, you sell yourself short.
I've seen your
portfolio, remember?
Your work is stunning.
Thank you.
You know,
I've gotta admit, this whole
thing feels a little strange.
I mean, dating someone I've
never actually met in person.
Don't get me wrong,
I've been really enjoying
Our conversations.
But they don't quite replace
the real thing, do they?
Yeah.
Which is why, I, um--
All right, I'd like you to
indulge me in something, okay?
Okay.
Close your eyes.
Ashley: Okay. (giggling)
Marco: Now, I want you
to picture that we're at
A charming little
bistro in paris.
Just down the slope
from montmartre.
There's a table
right in the back.
- Can you see it?
- I think so.
There's a candle flickering.
You can feel its warmth
against your skin.
We dimly recall having ordered,
But we don't
remember what or when.
The conversation is flowing,
the wine keeps coming.
And you and I can stay there
at this little place we created
As long as we want.
(birds chirping)
Tess (on phone): And
you fell asleep together?
What are you, 16?
Is he gonna invite you
to the sock hop next?
No! We just lost track
of time, you know?
He was telling me
about his childhood,
And I told him about my mom,
And, you know,
losing her so young.
That was like, our
fifth night in a row.
- It's crazy.
- Hey!
- Oh no, roger is here.
- Tess: At the restaurant?
I gotta go, I'll call you back.
Who's that guy, ashley?
Did you find a new partner?
You didn't think I'd hear about
you poaching my commissions?
Roger, we don't work
together anymore, remember?
And if you were up for this job,
I'm only finding
out about it now.
I'm just trying to put food
on my table too, ashley.
I didn't know you'd
be my competition.
We're not competitors.
We do very different work.
I'm not letting you steal
anymore gigs from me.
- I'm warning you.
- I'm not stealing.
- What is this?
- It's a letter from my lawyer.
Demanding you to stop
using our company's name.
- You agreed to this.
- I changed my mind.
(door banging open)
What was that about?
Nothing.
Just... It's fine.
Roger and I used to own
this business together,
And after our divorce, we
agreed I'd keep the name
As long as I'd buy him out.
I guess he's already
running out of patience.
Grant: Are you-- are you okay?
Yeah, yeah, I'm fine.
It just makes me so angry
that he thinks he can just
Force his way back into
my life still, you know?
- Anyway, let's go.
- Okay.
Ashley: Well, well.
If it isn't santa claus!
- Oh, it's arrived!
- Yes!
- That's wonderful.
- Marco, I...
I can't accept this,
this is too much.
I just want you to feel
comfortable on your trip.
You said the restaurant
had to be empty
For the painters
this weekend, right?
It's my chance to fly
you out here to see me.
Honestly, after the
day I had today, I mean,
A weekend getaway
sounds amazing.
Oh, no, it's something
with your ex again?
Um, roger?
You know what,
it doesn't matter.
Let's talk about
something more exciting.
Like, how am I going to
come all the way from rockport,
Massachusetts to the
beautiful island of little inagua?
Well, ashley, that's a...
That's a good question.
My secretary will book
you a first class fare.
A car will come and pick you
up to take you to the airport,
And all you need to do is pack.
Let me spoil you.
Okay. Sounds great!
(giggling)
(cell phone ringing)
- Is something wrong?
- (marco sighing)
Yeah, I gotta take this.
Okay.
Marco: Ashley, I have to go,
but I will see you so very soon.
Yeah, sure, see you soon!
(hitting key to end call)
(squealing)
(giggling)
(sighing)
(cell phone ringing)
(ringing continues)
Marco?
Ashley, hey.
Hi, it's really late here.
Sorry, is everything okay?
Listen, I'm so sorry
to call you like this,
But, um, seems like I've
had a bit of a setback.
I was robbed tonight.
Oh no!
Oh, I'm so sorry.
Are you all right?
Marco: Yeah, yeah, I'm fine.
They didn't get
into the safe, but...
They did steal my
main hard drive,
Which my secretary
informs me has passwords
To all my accounts.
Oh my god.
Marco: Now I'm gonna be
on the phone with the banks
All weekend trying to
access these accounts.
And I can't believe it,
But it looks like I'll have
to delay our vacation.
(sighing)
That's awful.
I mean, I wish it could still
work, it's just a few days.
Port fees are due tomorrow.
And I've been told
that even a slight delay
In material shipments
and I'll be out of work.
It's the cost of doing
business on an island.
Yeah.
So, do you want to reschedule?
Ashley, this was my
only vacation window
For weeks, or months.
I was so looking
forward to seeing you.
Yeah. Me too.
But hey, we still have
our video calls, right?
And we can try
again in a few months.
Um...
I mean, is there
anything I can do?
What are these port fees?
That's the irony, it's the--
the money's not even the trifle,
It's the timing that's crucial.
I see.
So how much do
you need right now?
$8,000.
(exhaling)
$8,000?
I mean, um...
If I loaned you some money,
You think you can get it
back to me by, like, next week?
Ashley, no. No.
No. Thank you so much,
but I can't let you do that.
Not even if it's
for a good reason.
- I mean, I want to help.
- Ashley.
- No.
- It's okay.
It's fine, it's
temporary, right?
And then we can sort
it out when I'm there.
I mean, trust me, I could
really use a vacation right now.
(sighing)
Okay, but only-- only because
I want to see you so badly,
And only because I know
you'll get that money back
In no time, okay?
Alright, I'm sending
you the account number.
Okay.
Thank you, ashley.
Thank you for trusting me,
And for being a true romantic.
This is only the start of
our wonderful adventure.
Good night.
(sighing)
(sighing)
(clearing throat)
There she is!
Clarissa!
Wow, you look incredible.
No, it's so good to see you.
Hey, have you given
any more thought
To our little rendezvous?
I promise, this
is just the start
Of our wonderful adventure.
(chuckling)
What the hell were
you thinking, ash?
(sighing)
(phone line rings)
Automated
recording: We're sorry,
The number you have
reached is not in service.
Please check the number
or try your call again.
What?
(phone line rings)
Automated
recording: We're sorry,
The number you have
reached is not in service.
Please check the
number or try your--
Tess: Ashley?
Are you home?
It's that bad, is it?
(sniffling)
I mean, it's not even
about the money,
But it's about all the lies
and all the time invested.
You know, all the
stupid mind games.
I mean, it's also
about the money.
Yeah, so, how much
did you loan him?
$8,000.
(coughing)
I don't understand.
Didn't he buy you lavish gifts?
A designer bag?
No, that was a cheap fake, tess.
I can't believe I fell for that.
I mean, I'm such an idiot. God.
All I wanted in my life was
just a little adventure, you know?
And look at me now.
(sighing)
We should go to the police.
Ashley: I did.
They put me on hold
for like, 45 minutes
And then they finally
took my statement.
And they're like, "you can call
back any time after Tuesday
"to file a report."
- And that's it?
- Yeah.
I mean, I wasn't exactly
given the impression
That online romance scams
are a priority these days.
I can't-- I can't...
I let him in, I just...
I let him distract me
From my life, from my career,
from my common sense.
I mean, what was I thinking?
I just... I just want
to forget about it all,
Like it just never
happened, you know?
Thank you.
I need to check one thing.
So, is he?
Not under his name.
Marco's not coming up anymore.
What if I try searching...
He's still active.
Oh, the nerve of this guy!
Why hasn't he been banned yet?
Well, I reported
marco's account,
This is a different one.
Look, different name. Antonio.
Oh, so we report him again.
What if this just the
tip of the iceberg?
What if there's more? Hold on.
Look, here's
another one! Thomas!
Tess: Oh, and here
he is on seek and date
- And lovelife.Com.
- Wow.
This guy is a
heartbreak factory.
It's like he's
automated this crap.
Are you kidding me?
This guy is on every website?!
Look, he's using
different names,
Same cheesy pickup lines!
I mean, how many other
ashleys are out there?
Dozens, hundreds?
This is crazy.
You know what? What am I
even doing wasting my time?
He doesn't even deserve it.
Yeah, but...
They do.
All the other women
he's been scamming.
The people that came before you,
The ones that are
gonna come after.
Guys like this bank on
their victims doing nothing.
Yeah, because it's so
damn humiliating to admit
You've been made
a fool of, you know?
You know what? You're right.
He shouldn't get away with it.
I should do
something about this.
Yeah, I can help!
Okay, I'm gonna get in touch
with some of these women.
- Really?
- Yeah.
Maybe the police can't
do anything about it,
But if we raise a
big enough stink,
The dating sites
will take notice.
Reputation means
everything to these guys.
Okay, but where
do we even start?
Where does everything
start? The internet.
We're going to make an
example out of this guy
For all the other fakes,
Liars, and
manipulators out there.
Con games have consequences.
Beautiful dorothy. How are you?
Hey, have you given
any more thought
To our little rendezvous?
These video conversations,
they've been exciting,
They've been,
exhilarating, but I just...
I really want to be near
you. I want to be close to you.
I want to touch you, I want--
I want to dance with you.
Dorothy, I want to spoil you.
What's wrong?
Hey, is it something
with your big sister again?
Dorothy, we talked about this.
You need to start
standing up to her.
Thomas, I'm sorry
to have to do this.
But there's something
I have to ask you.
Sure, anything.
Um, is this you?
I mean, I can see some
similarities in the jawline,
Yeah, but no, come on,
I'm better looking
than that guy.
(chuckling)
You can't ask me to disbelieve
my own eyes, thomas.
I know this is you.
The warnings are
all over the internet.
My own daughter-in-law
sent me the links.
You're notorious.
I trusted you, thomas.
I confided in you. How
could you do this to me?
You-- what kind of monster--
(call ending)
"if you have been the victim
of notorious romance scammer
"and con artist marco
pastori, aka david best,
"aka fabio torrance..."
(sighing)
"please send your testimonials
to scammerstopped.Net, or contact
"the rockport, massachusetts
police department."
(slamming phone down)
Ashley.
Bitter ashley.
(rock music playing)
(humming)
Wow. It's almost done.
Yeah!
You know, I've got to admit,
I'm going to be a little
sad once I move on
'cause I was just starting
to appreciate your playlist.
Aww.
One more day of touch-ups,
And let it all
set, and that's it.
I just really hope jacqueline
will like the finished product,
- You know?
- Oh, she's gonna love it.
Are you kidding
me? It's fantastic.
I hope so. But it does
look good, doesn't it?
And you met a tight deadline.
She's gonna be thrilled.
So, why don't you look happy?
Oh, I am. I am.
I'm happy, I just...
I've got a lot on
my mind, that's all.
Just going through a little
bit of a financial hardship
Due to some bad choices
I made, but other than that,
- I'm fine.
- I'm sorry to hear that.
Yeah, and you know, all the
legal stuff with my ex-husband
Looks like it might drain
every penny I make on this, so...
Well, I'm gonna be sure
to put your name out there
Wherever I end
up next. Absolutely.
I mean, once people see this,
The offers are gonna
come pouring in.
- Really?
- You'll see.
Oh yeah. It's great work.
Thank you.
Not that this is any
sort of consolation,
Or anything like that, but I
was just about to head out
For a celebratory slice of pie.
- Don't make fun of me.
- (giggling)
Um, just...
You're more than welcome
to join me, if you want.
I mean, if you don't
have other plans.
It would be my treat.
You know what?
A slice of pie sounds just
about perfect right now.
- Yeah.
- Great.
- Let's do it.
- Let's do it.
When was the last
time you had pie?
- I actually don't remember.
- A long time ago, then.
Yes. (laughing)
(indistinct chattering)
Ashley.
Bitter ashley.
(indistinct chattering)
Ashley: For real.
(engine starting)
(chuckling)
(thudding)
(exhaling)
Hmm.
Bitter ashley.
Let me spoil you.
(clattering)
(grunting)
(pieces clattering)
(shouting)
(panting)
(rockabilly music
playing on stereo)
(ashley laughing)
Mmm.
So?
What's the verdict?
Fluffy, yet crusty.
With just the right
amount of cardamom.
Mm-hmm.
But I can't in good conscious
Say it's the best banana
cream pie I've ever head.
(inhaling sharply)
Okay, well, if you tell me
where this other glorious
Slice of pie is right now,
I promise I won't
tell a soul. I promise.
Sadly that family
recipe was lost
During my great migration
out of north dakota.
Many, many moons ago.
So, uh, you still
thinking about that?
About what happened?
I suppose I'm thinking
about a few things.
Just life, you know?
And how we meet people,
And how they
just enter our lives
At the strangest times,
And how trust is literally the
glue that holds it all together.
I mean, once that's gone,
Then you've just got dust.
Yeah.
That's, uh, pretty heavy.
(laughing)
- My brain...
- It's all right.
That's all right. I
didn't mean that.
Sometimes I just, uh...
Grant: What? What is it?
I.. I just--
I thought I saw someone I know.
Nothing, sorry. It was nothing.
Are you sure? 'cause it
didn't seem like nothing.
Yeah. (clearing throat)
I think I've just been working
a little too hard this week.
I'm starting to lose my mind.
Yeah, you and me both.
But no, like, what you
were saying about trust,
I... I totally agree, you know?
Just the way the world works,
it puts people on our paths
In some very serendipitous
way, you know?
And you just...
You don't know why,
You've just gotta
go with it. You know?
(rattling)
(thudding)
Bitter, bitter ashley.
(scoffing)
Well, it's nice to finally
meet the real you.
(smashing)
(keys jingling)
- Thank you.
- You're so welcome.
This was nice, grant.
I'm sorry we
had to cut it short.
No, no problem.
Um, would you like some coffee
For your drive home, or...?
Uh...
You know, it's--
I'd love to, but it's
getting pretty late.
I mean, we both just finished
tough deadlines, and...
You know, I'm sure you
want to get your rest, right?
Yeah. Okay.
Well, I guess I'll, um,
I'll see you later.
Yeah. (chuckling)
- Good night.
- Sounds good.
- Okay.
Actually, ashley--
You know what? Coffee
sounds really nice right now.
- Okay.
- Yeah.
(laughing quietly)
She likes it.
(ashley laughing, chattering)
Ashley: It'll be
great, hopefully.
Well, this is me.
Grant: This is incredible.
- It's beautiful.
- Mm-hmm.
Grant: Absolutely.
You live here?
Yeah, it's actually
my great aunt's place.
Grant: Wow, lucky you.
(giggling)
A lot of character, a lot of...
Yeah, a lot of history.
A lot of history.
That was unexpected.
Well, I love a surprise.
Don't you?
I do.
(floorboards creaking)
What? What is it?
Nothing. Nothing.
You okay?
Yeah, yeah.
Um...
Let's go upstairs.
- Wait.
- What?
I forgot.
Is it regular or decaf?
(giggling)
(floorboards creaking)
What? What?
- What is it?
- Did you hear that?
Hear what?
I just heard
something downstairs.
- Do you want me to take a look?
- Yeah. Please.
Of course.
(wind gusting)
- Grant?
- Yeah.
- You need to see this.
- What?
Oh my god...
Oh my god!
Grant: It's just the
glass, it's the glass.
They could still be here.
We should call 911.
Okay, let's do it outside.
(birds chirping)
(knocking frantically)
- Tess.
- Ashley, what happened?
Someone broke into
my house last night.
- Oh, what? Are you okay?
- I think so.
I mean, luckily I wasn't alone.
Oh. Oh?
- Grant was here.
- Oh, okay.
Well, where is he now?
He's gone ahead
to the restaurant.
I mean, the poor guy
stayed up with me all night.
Oh, that's good. Did
they take anything, or...?
That's the strange part.
They didn't take anything.
I don't know. You know what?
- You wanna just come inside?
- Okay. Yeah, of course.
Who would do
something like this?
I don't know, but
the crazy part is,
They were still here
when I got home.
I mean, things could have
gone much worse, tess.
And they didn't take anything,
so this wasn't a robbery?
No, I guess not.
I mean, this was the only
thing that was damaged.
- It's broken.
- Oh.
So...
This was personal.
You don't think roger
could have done it?
I mean, who else
would have a reason?
I know. I mean...
Look, roger's done
some awful things,
But I can't imagine
him being capable
Of doing something
like this, you know?
- What next?
- Well, the police said
They'll still question
him either way,
So we'll see what
comes of it. But...
I don't know. I don't know.
Whatever happens, you're
not staying here alone tonight.
Why don't you come stay
with me for a few days?
I really don't
want to stay alone,
But I also don't want to
impose on you like that.
I know how much
you like your space.
Oh, okay, alright.
I will make my
chicken parm sliders.
Thanks, tess. I owe you.
(cell phone chiming)
What is it?
Oh, great.
Something is up at
the restaurant. It's grant.
I gotta go. Come on.
Grant? Everything alright?
I just got off the
phone with the police.
- Jacqueline is on her way.
- Why?
- (gasping) - this
is how I found it.
Ashley, I'm so sorry.
How could someone do this?
They broke everything!
If you were to start right
away, do you think maybe
You could have this
done before the opening?
'cause what I could do is I
could source the materials,
I could ask favors
for you, if you need.
Ashley: I-I mean...
Replacing the materials
alone could take... Weeks,
And then having
to redo all this.
Yeah.
Wait, was this the only damage
that was done, nothing else?
No, they, uh, they
got my tool bag,
Which is like, about
three grand worth of gear.
Oh, I'm sorry.
But I didn't see
anything else. Just, um...
I mean, nothing like this.
You know what? They didn't
even check the cash register.
I think this was personal.
Roger.
- It has to be.
- Wait...
You think your ex would
do something like this?
- You think he's this petty?
- I don't know!
I mean, it's something I'm
gonna have to ask him myself.
This is... This is insane.
It's okay, you don't have to
do that, I'll take care of this.
- It's fine.
- Jacqueline: I'm here!
Show me the damage.
Oh my god, it's true.
- Was anybody hurt?
- No.
- What did they take?
- Well, apparently
They took grant's tools, but
the cash register wasn't touched
And nothing else
was stolen. Just...
Oh, this beautiful work.
Ruined.
Oh, that is such a violation.
I think I can still make
this work if I could just
Have a little more
time, I can fix this.
You really think
you can fix this?
Yes, if you could
just give me...
- Just another two weeks or so.
- Another two weeks?
- I needed this ready by Friday.
- I know.
I have my
reputation on the line.
I have made commitments.
I...
No, I'm sorry, ashley.
You know I'm a fan, but I
cannot simply leave a wall bare.
We'll just have to
get a print instead.
- Jacqueline...
- Maybe a watercolor...
Laminate, or something.
Your services will
no longer be needed.
Phillip, can you
get me the number
Of that wallpaper prodigy?
Hey.
(knocking)
(ringing doorbell)
(banging)
Ash, what are you doing here?
Ashley (on mic): You just
couldn't stand the thought of me
Being happy, could you? You
had to do something to ruin it.
I mean, how could
you even do that?
That's just full-on
cruel. I mean, wait,
Was that you last night too, at
my house, trying to scare me?
Seriously, what the hell is
wrong with you? It's just...
You know what? Forget it.
Just give me back the tool bag.
We can figure out
the rest with the police.
What's this tool bag everyone
is trying to talk to me about?
What?
Roger (on mic): I just
talked to the cops about it.
And I will tell you the
same thing I told them.
I was at stever's
birthday bash last night
And I've got eight guys
willing to corroborate it.
Now if you don't mind, I'd
like to get back to my day.
Ashley (on mic): Roger, please.
Are you telling me the
truth, it really wasn't you?
Roger: Yes, ashley,
I am. It wasn't me.
You didn't destroy my mural?
Somebody destroyed your mural?
They just said it was
a break and enter.
- Are you okay?
- Don't.
Don't even try to
comfort me right now.
That is way out
of your jurisdiction.
Roger: Fine, screw it.
We'll save it for the lawyers.
(knocking at door)
Who the hell are you now?
Look, whatever your problem is,
Go figure it out
someplace else, all right?
(groaning)
What the hell? Are you
serious right now, pal?
I'm not your pal.
(blow landing)
You're going to jail for this!
(groaning)
(coughing, groaning)
Wait, wait, wait.
What is this about?
Is this over cash?
You want cash?
I've got nothing.
I've got a work truck.
There's keys on the table.
Take them.
(groaning)
(panting)
You are going to
tell me everything.
Every secret. Every shame,
every turn on, every turn off,
Everything about
your little marriage
With ashley morris, okay?
By the end of our little
talk, I want you and I
To feel like husband and wife.
- What?
- Okay.
Okay. Okay. Okay. Okay.
Okay, okay.
(breathing heavily)
This is a nice place.
Tess: And you believe him?
I mean, he seemed pretty
shocked by the news, so...
Well, if it wasn't
roger, who could it be?
Tess, I have this
strange feeling
That it might be marco.
No, ashley, no. That
guy is long gone.
Besides, he's probably hiding
out in a basement somewhere
Like the pathetic
little troll his is.
- I hope so.
- Guys like that
Are both lazy and cowards, okay?
He's not gonna come after you.
Trust me.
Yeah, but who would
do something like that,
Knowing how much it
would hurt me, you know?
I don't know.
Oh. What did mrs.
Jacqueline james
Say about the
restaurant break-in?
- I think she fired me.
- What?!
She was already
looking for a replacement.
Oh, ashley, I am so sorry.
It's fine.
You know, maybe
it's for the best.
I mean, I'm back to
tiling bathroom stalls
And laundry nooks,
And high school locker
rooms, if I'm lucky.
And, um, you know, restaurants
were a big step up, so...
Oh, hey, maybe you could have a
new career as a scammer catcher.
(giggling)
Not to bring him up
again, but our website
Still keeps getting
hits, every few days
There's like, a new story.
I feel like we did the
whole country a favor
By exposing marco.
Ashley (on mic): Part
of me still thinks back
To all those nights that
we stayed up sharing
- Intimate stories.
- Tess: No.
Throw those memories
in the trash with marco.
Besides, what
happened with grant?
Ashley: Grant...
(car door closing)
(water running)
(doorbell ringing)
Ashley?
Ashley?
Hello?
Hey, tess.
(gasping)
Ah, look, I'm sorry for
barging in on you like this.
- You don't know me, I'm marco.
- (kettle whistling)
We have a friend
in common. Ashley.
(kettle whistling)
Listen, what's about
to happen, it's not me.
I don't want to
do it. Just know,
It's ashley's fault.
(whistling furiously)
Grant? Hi.
Did you do all this?
Yeah, I started sweeping
just after you left,
So I guess I got a
little carried away.
So I decided to
make myself useful.
Check it out.
Ashley: Oh my gosh.
Grant: First I wanted
to make sure that I found
All the right pieces,
and then I started seeing
How it was looking all
smashed up together like that,
And I just-- I
thought it looked cool.
Yeah, it's like the
japanese pottery art.
You know, how they
take something broken
And they turn it into
something beautiful?
- Yeah.
- Kintsugi.
Kintsugi, oh yeah,
I know exactly what
you're talking about.
Grant, this is...
Thank you so much.
- This is unbelievable.
- You're welcome.
I mean, I just wish it
happened before I was fired, so--
No, you're not fired. No.
Don't worry about jacqueline.
People usually get fired
like six or seven times
- Before it actually sticks.
- (chuckling)
- What?
- Yeah, I think I've been fired,
- Like, three times now.
- Really?
I think once she sees
this on a grander scale,
She's-- she's gonna
change her tune.
- I hope so.
- It's true.
- I don't know, I just...
- (cell phone ringing)
(ringing continues)
- Sorry, one second.
- Yeah.
Hello?
This is she.
Okay.
Thank you. Thank
you for letting me know.
What was that?
Roger was attacked last night.
- What?
- It was the hospital.
I don't know what
happened, they didn't...
Look, I've gotta go.
I'll be back, okay?
Of course, yeah, yeah. Yeah.
- Ashley: Are you okay?
- Roger: I'm fine.
I've been hurt worse
than this roller blading.
You don't look fine.
Did the hospital prescribe
anything to you for the--
You know what, actually,
what about an ice pack?
You need an ice pack
right there for the swelling.
- (groaning)
- sorry, sorry.
I'm okay. Look, ashley,
I owe you an apology.
Now that's the
concussion talking.
Ash, I need you to
listen to me, okay?
- Really listen.
- Okay.
I had a lot of time to think
last night at the hospital
Just lying there.
I'm ashamed of the
way I acted with you.
Fighting you, getting
the courts involved.
It's the opposite of
what you are to me.
I'm not your enemy.
I don't want you to worry
about all that anymore, okay?
You can keep the company name.
It was yours to
begin with, anyway.
That means a lot,
roger. Thank you.
You're welcome.
So, did you see who did this?
Sure I saw who did this.
Not that I knew
him, or anything.
- But he sure knew you.
- Knew me?
He was acting crazy,
He was asking me all
these questions about you.
He said to tell you,
"marco is coming."
Oh.
Now she knows.
What do you want, you psycho?
Like there aren't enough
podcasts out there?
- You and ashley are close?
- Like sisters.
What do you want?
I just want my life back.
I want my livelihood back.
I want my reputation back.
I wouldn't mind being
able to hold my head high
In my hometown.
Can you give that to me?
Did you have any
of that to begin with?
You know, they say
a man's reputation
Is the most important
thing he has.
More important than his
words, his deeds, it outshines us,
It lives on after he dies.
I know this woman.
This is dorothy.
Why do you have this photo?
Book club.
(chuckling)
You were plotting
against me, too?
Hmm?
You were trying to destroy me?
You were trying to--
You know, they say a woman's
reputation is her inner beauty.
God, could be anymore
sexist? What are you gonna do,
Spank me with a briefcase and--
(yelping)
I could destroy your
reputation the same way
You and ashley did mine.
(chuckling nervously) oh my god.
All that time lying
to her, spying on her.
You're obsessed.
She's gotten under
your skin, so...
You should probably shut up now.
Okay.
Here's what we're gonna do.
(sighing)
Read that.
"my name is tess parks,
I've known ashley--"
Smile.
Smile!
"my name is tess parks,
"I've known ashley
morris for a very long time.
"she is a ruthless liar
and master manipulator
"out to ruin the life of
every man she meets."
Okay.
Now what we're going to do
Is make a little video
Where you are going to say that,
And you're going to tell
the whole world the truth
About the real ashley
morris, your best friend.
- (door creaking
open) - ashley: Tess?
You home?
(water running)
Tess?
(water running)
Ow.
Tess, I'm standing
in your kitchen
Wondering where
the hell you are.
Call me back, please.
(sighing)
(cell phone ringing)
Finally, I've been
calling you all morning.
Where are you?
Marco: Ashley.
- Where is tess?
- (marco chuckling)
You think you could attack me
and I wouldn't defend myself?
What is this, revenge?
Is that why you're here?
This has nothing
to do with revenge.
Then what do you want, marco?
I want my reputation back!
I want you to publicly retract
all the lies you told about me.
I want everyone to
hear you confess.
Reputation? How?
I can't, it's long gone. I mean,
You can't put an explosion
back in the bomb, marco.
So there's no way
to convince you?
(muffled yelping)
- How about now?
- (phone chiming)
Oh my god, tess!
No, no, no, no! Please!
What are you doing?
Let her go, marco!
She goes free the moment
that you admit publicly
That you lied about me.
(whimpering)
I can't! How would I do
that? I mean, it's not just me!
What do you want me to
do, like, I'm not the only one
Telling my story. There
are hundreds of us out there.
Do you realize that?
Please let her go, please.
She's done nothing to you.
Marco: She helped
destroy my reputation!
She's done nothing?
She couldn't do anymore!
Ashley: I don't know what
you want from me, seriously.
I don't... (whimpering)
Look, um,
I'll do what you
want, okay? I'll...
Just please don't
hurt her, okay?
Um, you want-- you want public
attention, that's what you want?
I'll do it, okay?
Um, maybe we can...
We can go somewhere together
in public for everyone to see.
What are you talking about?
Look, um, the restaurant, okay?
They're having a grand
opening tomorrow night.
Okay, and we can
go there together,
Like a real date, okay?
And everyone
will see us together
And see what a
gentleman you are,
And that's what you
want, right? That's what...?
That's what...
No, you're trying to trick me.
You think that I'm just some...
...Stupid little boy
asking you out for pie.
No, I'm not a fool, ashley.
(whimpering)
I swear, I will do
it. Please, I will.
I'm not lying, just promise
me you'll let her go, please.
Marco?
Marco?
Are you there?
Okay, okay.
We'll do it your way.
But if I see even one
cop there, just one,
You will never see
your friend again.
So, how's tomorrow
night at eight o'clock?
Yeah, yeah, tomorrow
night. Eight o'clock, yeah.
(sobbing)
- Grant?
- Hey.
Are you okay?
- No.
- Come here.
No, I don't know what to do.
I don't know what to do.
- (crying)
- it's all right.
It's okay. It's okay.
Talk to me.
I know who's behind
all the break-ins.
He's been stalking me,
the guy I told you, marco,
The one I met online.
- It's him!
- Right.
And he's the one who attacked
roger, and now he has tess!
(stammers) w-what do
you mean he has tess?
He just-- he took
her! He just took her.
He took her
somewhere, I don't know--
- I don't know where.
- Did you call the police?
No, I can't, I mean, he
said he'd hurt her if I do.
I don't know what to do.
He told me if I do
anything, he'll hurt her,
So I don't know if I
should call the cops,
I don't know if
that's... (sniffing)
This is all my fault. I
shouldn't have done this.
I shouldn't have gone
after him like that,
As if revenge was going
to make me feel better.
No, no, no, it wasn't
about revenge.
It was about justice, right?
We can't let
people do this to us,
Use our trust against
us like that, right?
Yeah, but...
I mean, what have I done?
I don't know what to do now.
Like, it's just...
It's like, one thing after
another, you know?
It all started the night
we went out for pie,
And it's... It's, um...
- That's the night--
- what?
The night we
went out for our pie.
Mm-hmm.
- He...
- Ashley?
(breathing shakily)
Let's, uh, let's play
some music, yeah?
- Just to lighten the mood.
- Sure.
I'm just really depressed.
(playing rock music)
Do you...
Do you think he's
listening to us?
I know he's been
listening to us.
What do you want to do?
I have a plan.
But first we need
to take out the trash.
...The smoking gun
this life's for having fun
blood blister
(clattering)
blood sister
Jacqueline: Ashley?
(gasping)
I can't believe what
you've done here.
The cracks and imperfections
give it such character.
Yeah.
Like old dried leather
in the desert sun.
Was this your plan all along?
Oh, no. No, this
was all improvised.
It's like that
japanese pottery art.
Kisumi, I believe it's called.
Kintsugi.
Jacqueline: That's the one.
Yeah.
Oh, I only wish
it wasn't too late.
I've already cancelled
the reservations.
The reopening has
been postponed,
I've resigned myself
to sucking up the loss.
Well...
Actually, um,
Grant and I might have an
idea how you can fill this place,
If you're willing to
open tomorrow night
From a private,
one-time seating.
Look, jacqueline, I'm
not the one who broke into
Your restaurant and
violated your pride and joy,
But if you help me,
If you give me a chance
to set this straight,
I can deliver you the
son of a bitch who did.
I never had any doubt.
(chuckling)
(sighing)
(clearing throat)
Ashley, ashley, I
am begging you,
You can't go through with this.
You don't know what
this guy is capable of.
Yes, you're still
gonna be in public,
But you're still gonna be alone.
Not if you're there with me.
I... I can't, I won't.
I just, I can't watch you put
yourself in danger like this.
You need to call the police.
Ashley: But then what's
going to happen to tess?
I mean, how could I live
with myself if she gets hurt?
I'm sorry, grant.
I've made up my mind, okay?
I'm doing this,
with or without you.
Well, I'm sorry, ashley.
It's gonna have to
be without me, then.
I'm done.
- Goodbye.
- Grant!
Grant!
Poor bitter ashley.
Always being let down.
Well, I'll show her what
a real man looks like.
(door slamming)
Good evening, welcome.
Your table is waiting.
Hello, good evening.
Thank you for coming.
- Hi.
- Hi.
Hello, welcome.
Thanks for coming.
(cell phone chiming)
Good evening, we
have you right over here.
Ashley.
- Hi.
- In person, finally.
Wow, you look incredible.
Thank you.
Well, I'm here,
In public,
With you, for everyone to see.
So... Where's tess?
She's okay.
For now. The rest is up to you.
If you hurt her--
Don't be so pessimistic here.
Just give me your hand.
- What?
- I said give me your hand.
Was that so hard?
You smell like cheap motel soap.
You're hurting me.
I'm just...
I was just trying to calm you.
Hey, fine. Whatever.
- Just...
- (liquid pouring)
Pretend like you're having fun.
To you.
- To me?
- Yeah.
(glasses clinking)
For showing me how naive I was
About how the world works.
- I showed you that?
- Yes, you did.
And so much more.
She is a ruthless liar
and master manipulator,
Out to ruin the life of
every man she meets.
My name is tess parks.
I've known ashley
morris a very long time.
(thudding at door)
...Ruthless liar and
master manipulator.
- (thudding)
- (grunting)
- (whimpering)
- tess?
- How did you find me?
- Ashley did.
With some help.
(groaning)
- You all right?
- Yeah.
Yeah, is she okay?
Yeah, she's fine. She's fine.
I'll tell you more on
the way. Come on!
(soft jazz playing)
You don't like your wine?
Trying to keep my mind clear.
Hmm.
You haven't been on many
dates, have you, marco?
Well, I mean,
I seduce women
for a living, ashley.
"seduce." sure.
I mean, any idiot
can seduce someone.
You just need to be
shameless enough to lie
And tell people what
they want to hear.
A pathetic grift.
I mean, it's not like you're
earning a person's respect,
Or having someone
fall in love with you
Or call you their friend.
You know, it requires
empathy and honesty
To build a rapport.
But unfortunately you're way
too scarred and too stunted
To make that connection.
Hmm.
Well, you would know.
Years of therapy trying
to fix that broken marriage.
The pills, the depression.
Blaming everybody around you.
Never taking the time
to really look inwards,
At the real problem.
I know you spoke to roger.
- I'm sure he told you plenty.
- Yeah, he did.
He told me the divorce
really took a toll on you
At the end there.
You lost the car,
you lost the house,
You lost every one of
your friends, except for one.
Tess says hi by the way.
Go to hell, you creep.
Keep your voice down.
It scares you, doesn't it?
People staring at you.
- Laughing at you.
- Shut up.
You know what, you think
you can intimidate me?
I know everything about you?
All of your flaws.
You don't even
know my first name.
Oh, yeah?
But I do know your first name.
Nicholas.
How?
Maybe I've done
some digging too.
Nicholas boczek.
Born January 23rd, 1982,
In a town called red
bank in new jersey--
- (cutlery clanging)
- shut up!
(whispering) I'll kill you.
You'll kill me?
Okay.
Are you going to kill us all?
And what is this?
This is your legacy, nicholas.
All your conquests.
Here to meet the real you!
Well, the ones who
were able to make it here
On such short notice, of course.
The many, many others
send their coldest regards.
So, what, you
guys started a club?
You guys-- do you guys
meet every Sunday night
And bad mouth the man
who broke your heart?
This is not funny.
Dorothy, you let her rope
you into this? Come on.
How are the
grandkids, by the way?
- Bite me, thomas.
- Hey.
So this is how you think
you're gonna win? Hmm.
Ashley, I will make
tess disappear.
We've already won, nicky.
Do you realize where you are?
We're in a room with you
where you have no control.
Where we get a good laugh at you
The way you've been
laughing at us this whole time.
Whatever. I'll just disappear.
There's a new site,
There's a new face,
there's a new name.
Maybe I'll date one of your
daughters in the future, hmm?
Or a lonely niece, so you
guys can all get together
And exchange sob
stories. Just the gals.
You think this is a joke?
You're not gonna be
able to do any of that.
You see, you managed to dupe
a very interesting group of women.
Clarissa, for instance,
She's spent over 12
years, working for one of
The most respected forensic
accounting firms in the state,
And boy, they are savage when
it comes to tracking wire fraud.
And indra, well, let's just
say she knows a few folks
Who just love a good
excuse to doxx a scammer.
Great profile
password, by the way.
"hot lady slayer 85."
Hilarious.
I mean, with the amount of
talent standing in this room,
I'll be shocked if you're
able to show your face
On any social media
platform ever again.
That's, of course, if you're
not already on your way to jail
For kidnapping and assault.
You let me go or tess rots.
Tess, right. That reminds me.
Do you remember nancy?
Yeah, you probably don't,
Because it's been almost two
years since you broke her heart
And stole her life savings.
Well, nancy is now a
manager at parkway motels.
Ever heard of them?
Did you know they actually
take a digital snapshot
Of every single
one of their guests?
For security purposes.
It's over, nicholas.
You're not going to fool
or hurt anyone else again.
Officer: Him right there!
Back up or I'll kill her.
Ashley.
Woman: You can't run,
nicholas. You're surrounded.
- Just let her go.
- My name is not nicholas.
It's marco, stop
calling me that,
And back the hell up!
Grant: Ashley, do
what he says, okay?
Ashley, just stay calm,
okay? We're coming to get you.
We're coming to get
you. Just stay calm.
(whimpering)
(thudding) it's locked!
(ashley grunting)
Stop struggling!
(ashley whimpering)
Okay... Okay.
Just stop.
Okay, okay.
Okay, over here.
- Over here.
- No!
- Sit down!
- No!
(panting)
- Give me your hands.
- No!
Give me your hands!
Stop!
(panting)
- This is useless.
- Shut up.
What do you think you're doing?
Marco: Shut up.
- Shut up!
- This is pointless.
- You're trapped here.
- Shut up!
Shut up! Shut up!
Shut up!
(whimpering)
You never stop talking, do you?
Hmm?
- That's better.
- Grant: Ashley!
- (banging at door)
- ashley!
Marco: Okay.
- Now...
- Please just stop.
What did I say, hmm?
Okay.
Stay here, or I'm gonna
cut your throat, all right?
Grant: Open it.
Grant: Ashley I'm coming.
(thudding)
(groaning)
I'm gonna take you home,
And we're going to
make a little video.
Where you're gonna tell
everybody this was your idea
Because you're just
a bitter, dejected--
Because I rejected you.
And you're gonna tell
everybody that I'm actually
A really good guy,
that I'm a gentleman.
And it's all gonna be fine.
Hmm?
"my sweetest gloria,
my moon and my stars.
"I promise you,
this just is the start
"of our wonderful adventure.
"let me spoil you."
- Put that down.
- Are you kidding me?
You even stole
the lines off a book?
You couldn't even come up
with your own lies, you creep?
Nicholas: No, no, you
wouldn't understand it.
It worked on you.
"happy birthday, to
my dear nicholas."
So you do have
something you care about
More than yourself, huh?
Ashley, put that down right now.
Is this really how
you see yourself?
Some third rate cover model?
You're pathetic.
It's about love. Okay?
That is what all you women want,
but none of you know what it is.
You all proved that today.
Okay.
I'll put it down. Sure.
(grunting)
(grate clattering)
See? We're getting out of here!
All right.
(banging at door)
(chuckling)
You're not going anywhere.
Ashley, what are you doing?
- Stay right there.
- Put that down right now.
Ashley, that is irreplaceable.
- That is very special to me.
- Don't!
- Ashley--
- don't move!
- Ashley.
- Don't come close to me.
Ashley! Just put...
Ashley. Ashley. Ashley!
No! No! No!
(thudding)
(grunting)
(grunting)
(shouting)
- (thudding)
- grant!
He's in here!
Right here.
Get his arm.
Ashley.
- Ashley, are you okay?
- I'm okay.
Okay.
Okay.
- I just wanna go home.
- Okay.
Come on.
Well, that was a lot messier
And more frightening
than you promised, ashley.
I know.
And we couldn't have done it
without you, jacqueline, so...
Thank you, and I'm really
sorry for all the trouble.
Oh, please.
I haven't had this much
fun since the mid-1990s.
(chuckling)
And the publicity?
They will be gossiping
about this night for years.
(chuckling) I guess so.
Tess, you're here!
Yeah. You know me, I'd never
miss a restaurant opening.
Are you okay? I mean,
shouldn't you be in the hospital?
Oh, and miss all this fun?
But really, I'm okay.
I'm okay thanks
to you and to grant.
And to all of you.
(sighing)
Now, who wants to
buy this hostage a drink?
(chuckling)
Grant: Ash? Check this out.
Someone just wrote a
new article about your mural.
- Really?
- Yeah, look.
"it was the perfect backdrop
to a memorable evening
"of fine dining and high drama."
(laughing)
Sounds pretty accurate to me.
Yeah, I guess any
publicity is good publicity.
Well, no, babe,
People are starting
to take notice.
It's a really great start.
Yeah. Yeah, you're right.
Yeah.
(chuckling) you're not
still reading that, are you?
Oh yeah, I'm just
getting to the juicy part.
See, when you actually
immerse yourself in one of these,
- They're kinda riveting.
- Oh, really?
Okay. Do you want
some alone time then?
A little private
moment with the book.
All right.
Get back here!
It's not that riveting.
(dog barking in distance)
(woman giggling)
(sensuous giggling)
Group: Surprise!
Roger?
Ashley, what are you doing home?
What am I doing...?
I'm throwing my
husband a birthday party.
Wow.
Ash...
Wait, ashley... Ashley, wait!
Five years, ash. Five years.
You can't just end
it over some fling.
It just did.
Happy birthday.
(hitting table)
(ship's horn sounding)
I just got the most
interesting call.
Oh?
From none other than
mrs. Jacqueline james.
(gasping) the restaurateur?
Yes! She wants to meet.
She's renovating
an old location,
And she's interested
in one of my murals.
Ah! She saw the work
you did at bodega's?
I guess so!
-Aw, that's amazing!
-Right?
Ashley, it's so nice to hear
you get some good news.
I know.
Tess: You know, I can't
believe it's been a year
Since you and roger split.
Since I left him, you mean.
Yes. One whole year since
you were brutally robbed
Of the ability to trust
another human being.
Eh, I wouldn't go that far.
- I mean, I trust you.
- Yeah.
I trust my dad. I trust
the weather guy on tv.
Oh, no, don't trust
the weather guy.
-No, he lies.
-(chuckling)
I do think you should start
dating again, though, you know,
- Just for practice.
- Uh-uh.
So, I'm on this new
dating app, and...
Pass. I'm good.
Look, they're a lot better
than they used to be, I swear.
What's your kickback?
10% off my subscription
for every new referral.
Hmm. Okay.
And you, um, you may
have already signed up.
What?! Tess! What did you do?
I just-- I took some of your
pictures and I plugged them in,
And then... Voila!
Voila what?
Don't tell me I've
already gotten messages.
Obviously, yeah.
You're breathtaking.
Wait, what photo did
you use? Let me see that.
It's cute.
Oh my-- tess!
No. Okay, you know
what? I don't want to see it.
Just purge the account
in some digital fire.
I'm not interested.
- Are you sure?
- Yes.
We have both put a
lot of work into this.
Have you been
replying on my behalf?
No, no! I would never.
I just, you know, provided a
door for others to knock on.
It is up to you if
you want to answer.
Yeah, no.
I don't know.
No, no.
Fine.
(music plays softly)
I...
(sighing)
Fine.
"spiritual vegan." okay.
"I'm an open book,
ask me anything."
Sure you are, buddy.
Hmm.
Hello, marco.
(app chiming)
(phone chiming)
What?!
come together...
Jacqueline: It is so
nice to meet you, ashley.
I'm jacqueline.
Don't mind the dust,
the kitchen's been closed
- For the renovations.
- Wow, what a space,
Yeah, my pride and joy.
Passed down for
three generations.
But, like everything in life,
We must adapt to the
times or be left behind.
Which is why I rely
on the talent of youth
When we're redecorating.
Now, I am picturing one of
your mixed media pieces here.
- Filling the pace.
- Okay.
I am having some
electrical upgrades done
While you complete the mural,
If you can meet
the deadline, that is.
I am scheduled to reopen
the first of the month.
First of the month. Um...
Tight, but yes, I can do it.
Wonderful. How
soon can you start?
Uh, actually I'd love
to get started right away
- If possible.
- Fantastic.
- Grant?
- Mm-hm?
This is ashley morris.
She's gonna be
working here with you.
- Hi.
- Hey.
Here is a key, you
can just let yourself out.
And, uh...
I can't tell you how excited I
am to see the finished product.
- Thank you.
- Thank you.
Grant: I can
never find my tools.
(rattling) crazy.
- Oh.
- (cell phone chiming)
Grant: I pack my own back
and I can even find my own tools.
Excuse me.
(giggling)
Is it a wrong number?
No. Sorry.
My friend signed me up on
this new matchmaking site,
So now I get a...
Little dopamine jolt every
time my phone dings.
- Sounds exhausting.
- Yeah.
- And horribly addicting.
- Yeah.
It's a waste of time anyway.
Romance is my curse.
Okay, okay, now you
just sound like a defeatist.
(chuckling)
I have a feeling that things are
gonna turn around for you soon.
Thank you.
(clearing throat)
Ashley, hey. You there?
- Marco?
- Ashley?
Can you hear me? I think
we have a bad connection.
- Oh.
- Okay.
Hey. I think-- yep!
- There you are.
- Hi.
Marco: And you look beautiful.
Wow.
Your pictures do
not do you justice.
Thank you. You too.
I mean, you look
nice. I like your suit.
Marco: Oh, this old thing?
No, this is a job requirement.
It's a uniform like any other.
Where are you right now?
I'm just at the
office, it's-- it's boring.
To be honest, I wish...
I wish I did something more
like what you do for a living,
You know, working
with your hands,
Crafting your own designs.
Oh, you make me sound
like some avant garde artist.
I'm basically just a
glorified tile setter.
Ashley, you sell yourself short.
I've seen your
portfolio, remember?
Your work is stunning.
Thank you.
You know,
I've gotta admit, this whole
thing feels a little strange.
I mean, dating someone I've
never actually met in person.
Don't get me wrong,
I've been really enjoying
Our conversations.
But they don't quite replace
the real thing, do they?
Yeah.
Which is why, I, um--
All right, I'd like you to
indulge me in something, okay?
Okay.
Close your eyes.
Ashley: Okay. (giggling)
Marco: Now, I want you
to picture that we're at
A charming little
bistro in paris.
Just down the slope
from montmartre.
There's a table
right in the back.
- Can you see it?
- I think so.
There's a candle flickering.
You can feel its warmth
against your skin.
We dimly recall having ordered,
But we don't
remember what or when.
The conversation is flowing,
the wine keeps coming.
And you and I can stay there
at this little place we created
As long as we want.
(birds chirping)
Tess (on phone): And
you fell asleep together?
What are you, 16?
Is he gonna invite you
to the sock hop next?
No! We just lost track
of time, you know?
He was telling me
about his childhood,
And I told him about my mom,
And, you know,
losing her so young.
That was like, our
fifth night in a row.
- It's crazy.
- Hey!
- Oh no, roger is here.
- Tess: At the restaurant?
I gotta go, I'll call you back.
Who's that guy, ashley?
Did you find a new partner?
You didn't think I'd hear about
you poaching my commissions?
Roger, we don't work
together anymore, remember?
And if you were up for this job,
I'm only finding
out about it now.
I'm just trying to put food
on my table too, ashley.
I didn't know you'd
be my competition.
We're not competitors.
We do very different work.
I'm not letting you steal
anymore gigs from me.
- I'm warning you.
- I'm not stealing.
- What is this?
- It's a letter from my lawyer.
Demanding you to stop
using our company's name.
- You agreed to this.
- I changed my mind.
(door banging open)
What was that about?
Nothing.
Just... It's fine.
Roger and I used to own
this business together,
And after our divorce, we
agreed I'd keep the name
As long as I'd buy him out.
I guess he's already
running out of patience.
Grant: Are you-- are you okay?
Yeah, yeah, I'm fine.
It just makes me so angry
that he thinks he can just
Force his way back into
my life still, you know?
- Anyway, let's go.
- Okay.
Ashley: Well, well.
If it isn't santa claus!
- Oh, it's arrived!
- Yes!
- That's wonderful.
- Marco, I...
I can't accept this,
this is too much.
I just want you to feel
comfortable on your trip.
You said the restaurant
had to be empty
For the painters
this weekend, right?
It's my chance to fly
you out here to see me.
Honestly, after the
day I had today, I mean,
A weekend getaway
sounds amazing.
Oh, no, it's something
with your ex again?
Um, roger?
You know what,
it doesn't matter.
Let's talk about
something more exciting.
Like, how am I going to
come all the way from rockport,
Massachusetts to the
beautiful island of little inagua?
Well, ashley, that's a...
That's a good question.
My secretary will book
you a first class fare.
A car will come and pick you
up to take you to the airport,
And all you need to do is pack.
Let me spoil you.
Okay. Sounds great!
(giggling)
(cell phone ringing)
- Is something wrong?
- (marco sighing)
Yeah, I gotta take this.
Okay.
Marco: Ashley, I have to go,
but I will see you so very soon.
Yeah, sure, see you soon!
(hitting key to end call)
(squealing)
(giggling)
(sighing)
(cell phone ringing)
(ringing continues)
Marco?
Ashley, hey.
Hi, it's really late here.
Sorry, is everything okay?
Listen, I'm so sorry
to call you like this,
But, um, seems like I've
had a bit of a setback.
I was robbed tonight.
Oh no!
Oh, I'm so sorry.
Are you all right?
Marco: Yeah, yeah, I'm fine.
They didn't get
into the safe, but...
They did steal my
main hard drive,
Which my secretary
informs me has passwords
To all my accounts.
Oh my god.
Marco: Now I'm gonna be
on the phone with the banks
All weekend trying to
access these accounts.
And I can't believe it,
But it looks like I'll have
to delay our vacation.
(sighing)
That's awful.
I mean, I wish it could still
work, it's just a few days.
Port fees are due tomorrow.
And I've been told
that even a slight delay
In material shipments
and I'll be out of work.
It's the cost of doing
business on an island.
Yeah.
So, do you want to reschedule?
Ashley, this was my
only vacation window
For weeks, or months.
I was so looking
forward to seeing you.
Yeah. Me too.
But hey, we still have
our video calls, right?
And we can try
again in a few months.
Um...
I mean, is there
anything I can do?
What are these port fees?
That's the irony, it's the--
the money's not even the trifle,
It's the timing that's crucial.
I see.
So how much do
you need right now?
$8,000.
(exhaling)
$8,000?
I mean, um...
If I loaned you some money,
You think you can get it
back to me by, like, next week?
Ashley, no. No.
No. Thank you so much,
but I can't let you do that.
Not even if it's
for a good reason.
- I mean, I want to help.
- Ashley.
- No.
- It's okay.
It's fine, it's
temporary, right?
And then we can sort
it out when I'm there.
I mean, trust me, I could
really use a vacation right now.
(sighing)
Okay, but only-- only because
I want to see you so badly,
And only because I know
you'll get that money back
In no time, okay?
Alright, I'm sending
you the account number.
Okay.
Thank you, ashley.
Thank you for trusting me,
And for being a true romantic.
This is only the start of
our wonderful adventure.
Good night.
(sighing)
(sighing)
(clearing throat)
There she is!
Clarissa!
Wow, you look incredible.
No, it's so good to see you.
Hey, have you given
any more thought
To our little rendezvous?
I promise, this
is just the start
Of our wonderful adventure.
(chuckling)
What the hell were
you thinking, ash?
(sighing)
(phone line rings)
Automated
recording: We're sorry,
The number you have
reached is not in service.
Please check the number
or try your call again.
What?
(phone line rings)
Automated
recording: We're sorry,
The number you have
reached is not in service.
Please check the
number or try your--
Tess: Ashley?
Are you home?
It's that bad, is it?
(sniffling)
I mean, it's not even
about the money,
But it's about all the lies
and all the time invested.
You know, all the
stupid mind games.
I mean, it's also
about the money.
Yeah, so, how much
did you loan him?
$8,000.
(coughing)
I don't understand.
Didn't he buy you lavish gifts?
A designer bag?
No, that was a cheap fake, tess.
I can't believe I fell for that.
I mean, I'm such an idiot. God.
All I wanted in my life was
just a little adventure, you know?
And look at me now.
(sighing)
We should go to the police.
Ashley: I did.
They put me on hold
for like, 45 minutes
And then they finally
took my statement.
And they're like, "you can call
back any time after Tuesday
"to file a report."
- And that's it?
- Yeah.
I mean, I wasn't exactly
given the impression
That online romance scams
are a priority these days.
I can't-- I can't...
I let him in, I just...
I let him distract me
From my life, from my career,
from my common sense.
I mean, what was I thinking?
I just... I just want
to forget about it all,
Like it just never
happened, you know?
Thank you.
I need to check one thing.
So, is he?
Not under his name.
Marco's not coming up anymore.
What if I try searching...
He's still active.
Oh, the nerve of this guy!
Why hasn't he been banned yet?
Well, I reported
marco's account,
This is a different one.
Look, different name. Antonio.
Oh, so we report him again.
What if this just the
tip of the iceberg?
What if there's more? Hold on.
Look, here's
another one! Thomas!
Tess: Oh, and here
he is on seek and date
- And lovelife.Com.
- Wow.
This guy is a
heartbreak factory.
It's like he's
automated this crap.
Are you kidding me?
This guy is on every website?!
Look, he's using
different names,
Same cheesy pickup lines!
I mean, how many other
ashleys are out there?
Dozens, hundreds?
This is crazy.
You know what? What am I
even doing wasting my time?
He doesn't even deserve it.
Yeah, but...
They do.
All the other women
he's been scamming.
The people that came before you,
The ones that are
gonna come after.
Guys like this bank on
their victims doing nothing.
Yeah, because it's so
damn humiliating to admit
You've been made
a fool of, you know?
You know what? You're right.
He shouldn't get away with it.
I should do
something about this.
Yeah, I can help!
Okay, I'm gonna get in touch
with some of these women.
- Really?
- Yeah.
Maybe the police can't
do anything about it,
But if we raise a
big enough stink,
The dating sites
will take notice.
Reputation means
everything to these guys.
Okay, but where
do we even start?
Where does everything
start? The internet.
We're going to make an
example out of this guy
For all the other fakes,
Liars, and
manipulators out there.
Con games have consequences.
Beautiful dorothy. How are you?
Hey, have you given
any more thought
To our little rendezvous?
These video conversations,
they've been exciting,
They've been,
exhilarating, but I just...
I really want to be near
you. I want to be close to you.
I want to touch you, I want--
I want to dance with you.
Dorothy, I want to spoil you.
What's wrong?
Hey, is it something
with your big sister again?
Dorothy, we talked about this.
You need to start
standing up to her.
Thomas, I'm sorry
to have to do this.
But there's something
I have to ask you.
Sure, anything.
Um, is this you?
I mean, I can see some
similarities in the jawline,
Yeah, but no, come on,
I'm better looking
than that guy.
(chuckling)
You can't ask me to disbelieve
my own eyes, thomas.
I know this is you.
The warnings are
all over the internet.
My own daughter-in-law
sent me the links.
You're notorious.
I trusted you, thomas.
I confided in you. How
could you do this to me?
You-- what kind of monster--
(call ending)
"if you have been the victim
of notorious romance scammer
"and con artist marco
pastori, aka david best,
"aka fabio torrance..."
(sighing)
"please send your testimonials
to scammerstopped.Net, or contact
"the rockport, massachusetts
police department."
(slamming phone down)
Ashley.
Bitter ashley.
(rock music playing)
(humming)
Wow. It's almost done.
Yeah!
You know, I've got to admit,
I'm going to be a little
sad once I move on
'cause I was just starting
to appreciate your playlist.
Aww.
One more day of touch-ups,
And let it all
set, and that's it.
I just really hope jacqueline
will like the finished product,
- You know?
- Oh, she's gonna love it.
Are you kidding
me? It's fantastic.
I hope so. But it does
look good, doesn't it?
And you met a tight deadline.
She's gonna be thrilled.
So, why don't you look happy?
Oh, I am. I am.
I'm happy, I just...
I've got a lot on
my mind, that's all.
Just going through a little
bit of a financial hardship
Due to some bad choices
I made, but other than that,
- I'm fine.
- I'm sorry to hear that.
Yeah, and you know, all the
legal stuff with my ex-husband
Looks like it might drain
every penny I make on this, so...
Well, I'm gonna be sure
to put your name out there
Wherever I end
up next. Absolutely.
I mean, once people see this,
The offers are gonna
come pouring in.
- Really?
- You'll see.
Oh yeah. It's great work.
Thank you.
Not that this is any
sort of consolation,
Or anything like that, but I
was just about to head out
For a celebratory slice of pie.
- Don't make fun of me.
- (giggling)
Um, just...
You're more than welcome
to join me, if you want.
I mean, if you don't
have other plans.
It would be my treat.
You know what?
A slice of pie sounds just
about perfect right now.
- Yeah.
- Great.
- Let's do it.
- Let's do it.
When was the last
time you had pie?
- I actually don't remember.
- A long time ago, then.
Yes. (laughing)
(indistinct chattering)
Ashley.
Bitter ashley.
(indistinct chattering)
Ashley: For real.
(engine starting)
(chuckling)
(thudding)
(exhaling)
Hmm.
Bitter ashley.
Let me spoil you.
(clattering)
(grunting)
(pieces clattering)
(shouting)
(panting)
(rockabilly music
playing on stereo)
(ashley laughing)
Mmm.
So?
What's the verdict?
Fluffy, yet crusty.
With just the right
amount of cardamom.
Mm-hmm.
But I can't in good conscious
Say it's the best banana
cream pie I've ever head.
(inhaling sharply)
Okay, well, if you tell me
where this other glorious
Slice of pie is right now,
I promise I won't
tell a soul. I promise.
Sadly that family
recipe was lost
During my great migration
out of north dakota.
Many, many moons ago.
So, uh, you still
thinking about that?
About what happened?
I suppose I'm thinking
about a few things.
Just life, you know?
And how we meet people,
And how they
just enter our lives
At the strangest times,
And how trust is literally the
glue that holds it all together.
I mean, once that's gone,
Then you've just got dust.
Yeah.
That's, uh, pretty heavy.
(laughing)
- My brain...
- It's all right.
That's all right. I
didn't mean that.
Sometimes I just, uh...
Grant: What? What is it?
I.. I just--
I thought I saw someone I know.
Nothing, sorry. It was nothing.
Are you sure? 'cause it
didn't seem like nothing.
Yeah. (clearing throat)
I think I've just been working
a little too hard this week.
I'm starting to lose my mind.
Yeah, you and me both.
But no, like, what you
were saying about trust,
I... I totally agree, you know?
Just the way the world works,
it puts people on our paths
In some very serendipitous
way, you know?
And you just...
You don't know why,
You've just gotta
go with it. You know?
(rattling)
(thudding)
Bitter, bitter ashley.
(scoffing)
Well, it's nice to finally
meet the real you.
(smashing)
(keys jingling)
- Thank you.
- You're so welcome.
This was nice, grant.
I'm sorry we
had to cut it short.
No, no problem.
Um, would you like some coffee
For your drive home, or...?
Uh...
You know, it's--
I'd love to, but it's
getting pretty late.
I mean, we both just finished
tough deadlines, and...
You know, I'm sure you
want to get your rest, right?
Yeah. Okay.
Well, I guess I'll, um,
I'll see you later.
Yeah. (chuckling)
- Good night.
- Sounds good.
- Okay.
Actually, ashley--
You know what? Coffee
sounds really nice right now.
- Okay.
- Yeah.
(laughing quietly)
She likes it.
(ashley laughing, chattering)
Ashley: It'll be
great, hopefully.
Well, this is me.
Grant: This is incredible.
- It's beautiful.
- Mm-hmm.
Grant: Absolutely.
You live here?
Yeah, it's actually
my great aunt's place.
Grant: Wow, lucky you.
(giggling)
A lot of character, a lot of...
Yeah, a lot of history.
A lot of history.
That was unexpected.
Well, I love a surprise.
Don't you?
I do.
(floorboards creaking)
What? What is it?
Nothing. Nothing.
You okay?
Yeah, yeah.
Um...
Let's go upstairs.
- Wait.
- What?
I forgot.
Is it regular or decaf?
(giggling)
(floorboards creaking)
What? What?
- What is it?
- Did you hear that?
Hear what?
I just heard
something downstairs.
- Do you want me to take a look?
- Yeah. Please.
Of course.
(wind gusting)
- Grant?
- Yeah.
- You need to see this.
- What?
Oh my god...
Oh my god!
Grant: It's just the
glass, it's the glass.
They could still be here.
We should call 911.
Okay, let's do it outside.
(birds chirping)
(knocking frantically)
- Tess.
- Ashley, what happened?
Someone broke into
my house last night.
- Oh, what? Are you okay?
- I think so.
I mean, luckily I wasn't alone.
Oh. Oh?
- Grant was here.
- Oh, okay.
Well, where is he now?
He's gone ahead
to the restaurant.
I mean, the poor guy
stayed up with me all night.
Oh, that's good. Did
they take anything, or...?
That's the strange part.
They didn't take anything.
I don't know. You know what?
- You wanna just come inside?
- Okay. Yeah, of course.
Who would do
something like this?
I don't know, but
the crazy part is,
They were still here
when I got home.
I mean, things could have
gone much worse, tess.
And they didn't take anything,
so this wasn't a robbery?
No, I guess not.
I mean, this was the only
thing that was damaged.
- It's broken.
- Oh.
So...
This was personal.
You don't think roger
could have done it?
I mean, who else
would have a reason?
I know. I mean...
Look, roger's done
some awful things,
But I can't imagine
him being capable
Of doing something
like this, you know?
- What next?
- Well, the police said
They'll still question
him either way,
So we'll see what
comes of it. But...
I don't know. I don't know.
Whatever happens, you're
not staying here alone tonight.
Why don't you come stay
with me for a few days?
I really don't
want to stay alone,
But I also don't want to
impose on you like that.
I know how much
you like your space.
Oh, okay, alright.
I will make my
chicken parm sliders.
Thanks, tess. I owe you.
(cell phone chiming)
What is it?
Oh, great.
Something is up at
the restaurant. It's grant.
I gotta go. Come on.
Grant? Everything alright?
I just got off the
phone with the police.
- Jacqueline is on her way.
- Why?
- (gasping) - this
is how I found it.
Ashley, I'm so sorry.
How could someone do this?
They broke everything!
If you were to start right
away, do you think maybe
You could have this
done before the opening?
'cause what I could do is I
could source the materials,
I could ask favors
for you, if you need.
Ashley: I-I mean...
Replacing the materials
alone could take... Weeks,
And then having
to redo all this.
Yeah.
Wait, was this the only damage
that was done, nothing else?
No, they, uh, they
got my tool bag,
Which is like, about
three grand worth of gear.
Oh, I'm sorry.
But I didn't see
anything else. Just, um...
I mean, nothing like this.
You know what? They didn't
even check the cash register.
I think this was personal.
Roger.
- It has to be.
- Wait...
You think your ex would
do something like this?
- You think he's this petty?
- I don't know!
I mean, it's something I'm
gonna have to ask him myself.
This is... This is insane.
It's okay, you don't have to
do that, I'll take care of this.
- It's fine.
- Jacqueline: I'm here!
Show me the damage.
Oh my god, it's true.
- Was anybody hurt?
- No.
- What did they take?
- Well, apparently
They took grant's tools, but
the cash register wasn't touched
And nothing else
was stolen. Just...
Oh, this beautiful work.
Ruined.
Oh, that is such a violation.
I think I can still make
this work if I could just
Have a little more
time, I can fix this.
You really think
you can fix this?
Yes, if you could
just give me...
- Just another two weeks or so.
- Another two weeks?
- I needed this ready by Friday.
- I know.
I have my
reputation on the line.
I have made commitments.
I...
No, I'm sorry, ashley.
You know I'm a fan, but I
cannot simply leave a wall bare.
We'll just have to
get a print instead.
- Jacqueline...
- Maybe a watercolor...
Laminate, or something.
Your services will
no longer be needed.
Phillip, can you
get me the number
Of that wallpaper prodigy?
Hey.
(knocking)
(ringing doorbell)
(banging)
Ash, what are you doing here?
Ashley (on mic): You just
couldn't stand the thought of me
Being happy, could you? You
had to do something to ruin it.
I mean, how could
you even do that?
That's just full-on
cruel. I mean, wait,
Was that you last night too, at
my house, trying to scare me?
Seriously, what the hell is
wrong with you? It's just...
You know what? Forget it.
Just give me back the tool bag.
We can figure out
the rest with the police.
What's this tool bag everyone
is trying to talk to me about?
What?
Roger (on mic): I just
talked to the cops about it.
And I will tell you the
same thing I told them.
I was at stever's
birthday bash last night
And I've got eight guys
willing to corroborate it.
Now if you don't mind, I'd
like to get back to my day.
Ashley (on mic): Roger, please.
Are you telling me the
truth, it really wasn't you?
Roger: Yes, ashley,
I am. It wasn't me.
You didn't destroy my mural?
Somebody destroyed your mural?
They just said it was
a break and enter.
- Are you okay?
- Don't.
Don't even try to
comfort me right now.
That is way out
of your jurisdiction.
Roger: Fine, screw it.
We'll save it for the lawyers.
(knocking at door)
Who the hell are you now?
Look, whatever your problem is,
Go figure it out
someplace else, all right?
(groaning)
What the hell? Are you
serious right now, pal?
I'm not your pal.
(blow landing)
You're going to jail for this!
(groaning)
(coughing, groaning)
Wait, wait, wait.
What is this about?
Is this over cash?
You want cash?
I've got nothing.
I've got a work truck.
There's keys on the table.
Take them.
(groaning)
(panting)
You are going to
tell me everything.
Every secret. Every shame,
every turn on, every turn off,
Everything about
your little marriage
With ashley morris, okay?
By the end of our little
talk, I want you and I
To feel like husband and wife.
- What?
- Okay.
Okay. Okay. Okay. Okay.
Okay, okay.
(breathing heavily)
This is a nice place.
Tess: And you believe him?
I mean, he seemed pretty
shocked by the news, so...
Well, if it wasn't
roger, who could it be?
Tess, I have this
strange feeling
That it might be marco.
No, ashley, no. That
guy is long gone.
Besides, he's probably hiding
out in a basement somewhere
Like the pathetic
little troll his is.
- I hope so.
- Guys like that
Are both lazy and cowards, okay?
He's not gonna come after you.
Trust me.
Yeah, but who would
do something like that,
Knowing how much it
would hurt me, you know?
I don't know.
Oh. What did mrs.
Jacqueline james
Say about the
restaurant break-in?
- I think she fired me.
- What?!
She was already
looking for a replacement.
Oh, ashley, I am so sorry.
It's fine.
You know, maybe
it's for the best.
I mean, I'm back to
tiling bathroom stalls
And laundry nooks,
And high school locker
rooms, if I'm lucky.
And, um, you know, restaurants
were a big step up, so...
Oh, hey, maybe you could have a
new career as a scammer catcher.
(giggling)
Not to bring him up
again, but our website
Still keeps getting
hits, every few days
There's like, a new story.
I feel like we did the
whole country a favor
By exposing marco.
Ashley (on mic): Part
of me still thinks back
To all those nights that
we stayed up sharing
- Intimate stories.
- Tess: No.
Throw those memories
in the trash with marco.
Besides, what
happened with grant?
Ashley: Grant...
(car door closing)
(water running)
(doorbell ringing)
Ashley?
Ashley?
Hello?
Hey, tess.
(gasping)
Ah, look, I'm sorry for
barging in on you like this.
- You don't know me, I'm marco.
- (kettle whistling)
We have a friend
in common. Ashley.
(kettle whistling)
Listen, what's about
to happen, it's not me.
I don't want to
do it. Just know,
It's ashley's fault.
(whistling furiously)
Grant? Hi.
Did you do all this?
Yeah, I started sweeping
just after you left,
So I guess I got a
little carried away.
So I decided to
make myself useful.
Check it out.
Ashley: Oh my gosh.
Grant: First I wanted
to make sure that I found
All the right pieces,
and then I started seeing
How it was looking all
smashed up together like that,
And I just-- I
thought it looked cool.
Yeah, it's like the
japanese pottery art.
You know, how they
take something broken
And they turn it into
something beautiful?
- Yeah.
- Kintsugi.
Kintsugi, oh yeah,
I know exactly what
you're talking about.
Grant, this is...
Thank you so much.
- This is unbelievable.
- You're welcome.
I mean, I just wish it
happened before I was fired, so--
No, you're not fired. No.
Don't worry about jacqueline.
People usually get fired
like six or seven times
- Before it actually sticks.
- (chuckling)
- What?
- Yeah, I think I've been fired,
- Like, three times now.
- Really?
I think once she sees
this on a grander scale,
She's-- she's gonna
change her tune.
- I hope so.
- It's true.
- I don't know, I just...
- (cell phone ringing)
(ringing continues)
- Sorry, one second.
- Yeah.
Hello?
This is she.
Okay.
Thank you. Thank
you for letting me know.
What was that?
Roger was attacked last night.
- What?
- It was the hospital.
I don't know what
happened, they didn't...
Look, I've gotta go.
I'll be back, okay?
Of course, yeah, yeah. Yeah.
- Ashley: Are you okay?
- Roger: I'm fine.
I've been hurt worse
than this roller blading.
You don't look fine.
Did the hospital prescribe
anything to you for the--
You know what, actually,
what about an ice pack?
You need an ice pack
right there for the swelling.
- (groaning)
- sorry, sorry.
I'm okay. Look, ashley,
I owe you an apology.
Now that's the
concussion talking.
Ash, I need you to
listen to me, okay?
- Really listen.
- Okay.
I had a lot of time to think
last night at the hospital
Just lying there.
I'm ashamed of the
way I acted with you.
Fighting you, getting
the courts involved.
It's the opposite of
what you are to me.
I'm not your enemy.
I don't want you to worry
about all that anymore, okay?
You can keep the company name.
It was yours to
begin with, anyway.
That means a lot,
roger. Thank you.
You're welcome.
So, did you see who did this?
Sure I saw who did this.
Not that I knew
him, or anything.
- But he sure knew you.
- Knew me?
He was acting crazy,
He was asking me all
these questions about you.
He said to tell you,
"marco is coming."
Oh.
Now she knows.
What do you want, you psycho?
Like there aren't enough
podcasts out there?
- You and ashley are close?
- Like sisters.
What do you want?
I just want my life back.
I want my livelihood back.
I want my reputation back.
I wouldn't mind being
able to hold my head high
In my hometown.
Can you give that to me?
Did you have any
of that to begin with?
You know, they say
a man's reputation
Is the most important
thing he has.
More important than his
words, his deeds, it outshines us,
It lives on after he dies.
I know this woman.
This is dorothy.
Why do you have this photo?
Book club.
(chuckling)
You were plotting
against me, too?
Hmm?
You were trying to destroy me?
You were trying to--
You know, they say a woman's
reputation is her inner beauty.
God, could be anymore
sexist? What are you gonna do,
Spank me with a briefcase and--
(yelping)
I could destroy your
reputation the same way
You and ashley did mine.
(chuckling nervously) oh my god.
All that time lying
to her, spying on her.
You're obsessed.
She's gotten under
your skin, so...
You should probably shut up now.
Okay.
Here's what we're gonna do.
(sighing)
Read that.
"my name is tess parks,
I've known ashley--"
Smile.
Smile!
"my name is tess parks,
"I've known ashley
morris for a very long time.
"she is a ruthless liar
and master manipulator
"out to ruin the life of
every man she meets."
Okay.
Now what we're going to do
Is make a little video
Where you are going to say that,
And you're going to tell
the whole world the truth
About the real ashley
morris, your best friend.
- (door creaking
open) - ashley: Tess?
You home?
(water running)
Tess?
(water running)
Ow.
Tess, I'm standing
in your kitchen
Wondering where
the hell you are.
Call me back, please.
(sighing)
(cell phone ringing)
Finally, I've been
calling you all morning.
Where are you?
Marco: Ashley.
- Where is tess?
- (marco chuckling)
You think you could attack me
and I wouldn't defend myself?
What is this, revenge?
Is that why you're here?
This has nothing
to do with revenge.
Then what do you want, marco?
I want my reputation back!
I want you to publicly retract
all the lies you told about me.
I want everyone to
hear you confess.
Reputation? How?
I can't, it's long gone. I mean,
You can't put an explosion
back in the bomb, marco.
So there's no way
to convince you?
(muffled yelping)
- How about now?
- (phone chiming)
Oh my god, tess!
No, no, no, no! Please!
What are you doing?
Let her go, marco!
She goes free the moment
that you admit publicly
That you lied about me.
(whimpering)
I can't! How would I do
that? I mean, it's not just me!
What do you want me to
do, like, I'm not the only one
Telling my story. There
are hundreds of us out there.
Do you realize that?
Please let her go, please.
She's done nothing to you.
Marco: She helped
destroy my reputation!
She's done nothing?
She couldn't do anymore!
Ashley: I don't know what
you want from me, seriously.
I don't... (whimpering)
Look, um,
I'll do what you
want, okay? I'll...
Just please don't
hurt her, okay?
Um, you want-- you want public
attention, that's what you want?
I'll do it, okay?
Um, maybe we can...
We can go somewhere together
in public for everyone to see.
What are you talking about?
Look, um, the restaurant, okay?
They're having a grand
opening tomorrow night.
Okay, and we can
go there together,
Like a real date, okay?
And everyone
will see us together
And see what a
gentleman you are,
And that's what you
want, right? That's what...?
That's what...
No, you're trying to trick me.
You think that I'm just some...
...Stupid little boy
asking you out for pie.
No, I'm not a fool, ashley.
(whimpering)
I swear, I will do
it. Please, I will.
I'm not lying, just promise
me you'll let her go, please.
Marco?
Marco?
Are you there?
Okay, okay.
We'll do it your way.
But if I see even one
cop there, just one,
You will never see
your friend again.
So, how's tomorrow
night at eight o'clock?
Yeah, yeah, tomorrow
night. Eight o'clock, yeah.
(sobbing)
- Grant?
- Hey.
Are you okay?
- No.
- Come here.
No, I don't know what to do.
I don't know what to do.
- (crying)
- it's all right.
It's okay. It's okay.
Talk to me.
I know who's behind
all the break-ins.
He's been stalking me,
the guy I told you, marco,
The one I met online.
- It's him!
- Right.
And he's the one who attacked
roger, and now he has tess!
(stammers) w-what do
you mean he has tess?
He just-- he took
her! He just took her.
He took her
somewhere, I don't know--
- I don't know where.
- Did you call the police?
No, I can't, I mean, he
said he'd hurt her if I do.
I don't know what to do.
He told me if I do
anything, he'll hurt her,
So I don't know if I
should call the cops,
I don't know if
that's... (sniffing)
This is all my fault. I
shouldn't have done this.
I shouldn't have gone
after him like that,
As if revenge was going
to make me feel better.
No, no, no, it wasn't
about revenge.
It was about justice, right?
We can't let
people do this to us,
Use our trust against
us like that, right?
Yeah, but...
I mean, what have I done?
I don't know what to do now.
Like, it's just...
It's like, one thing after
another, you know?
It all started the night
we went out for pie,
And it's... It's, um...
- That's the night--
- what?
The night we
went out for our pie.
Mm-hmm.
- He...
- Ashley?
(breathing shakily)
Let's, uh, let's play
some music, yeah?
- Just to lighten the mood.
- Sure.
I'm just really depressed.
(playing rock music)
Do you...
Do you think he's
listening to us?
I know he's been
listening to us.
What do you want to do?
I have a plan.
But first we need
to take out the trash.
...The smoking gun
this life's for having fun
blood blister
(clattering)
blood sister
Jacqueline: Ashley?
(gasping)
I can't believe what
you've done here.
The cracks and imperfections
give it such character.
Yeah.
Like old dried leather
in the desert sun.
Was this your plan all along?
Oh, no. No, this
was all improvised.
It's like that
japanese pottery art.
Kisumi, I believe it's called.
Kintsugi.
Jacqueline: That's the one.
Yeah.
Oh, I only wish
it wasn't too late.
I've already cancelled
the reservations.
The reopening has
been postponed,
I've resigned myself
to sucking up the loss.
Well...
Actually, um,
Grant and I might have an
idea how you can fill this place,
If you're willing to
open tomorrow night
From a private,
one-time seating.
Look, jacqueline, I'm
not the one who broke into
Your restaurant and
violated your pride and joy,
But if you help me,
If you give me a chance
to set this straight,
I can deliver you the
son of a bitch who did.
I never had any doubt.
(chuckling)
(sighing)
(clearing throat)
Ashley, ashley, I
am begging you,
You can't go through with this.
You don't know what
this guy is capable of.
Yes, you're still
gonna be in public,
But you're still gonna be alone.
Not if you're there with me.
I... I can't, I won't.
I just, I can't watch you put
yourself in danger like this.
You need to call the police.
Ashley: But then what's
going to happen to tess?
I mean, how could I live
with myself if she gets hurt?
I'm sorry, grant.
I've made up my mind, okay?
I'm doing this,
with or without you.
Well, I'm sorry, ashley.
It's gonna have to
be without me, then.
I'm done.
- Goodbye.
- Grant!
Grant!
Poor bitter ashley.
Always being let down.
Well, I'll show her what
a real man looks like.
(door slamming)
Good evening, welcome.
Your table is waiting.
Hello, good evening.
Thank you for coming.
- Hi.
- Hi.
Hello, welcome.
Thanks for coming.
(cell phone chiming)
Good evening, we
have you right over here.
Ashley.
- Hi.
- In person, finally.
Wow, you look incredible.
Thank you.
Well, I'm here,
In public,
With you, for everyone to see.
So... Where's tess?
She's okay.
For now. The rest is up to you.
If you hurt her--
Don't be so pessimistic here.
Just give me your hand.
- What?
- I said give me your hand.
Was that so hard?
You smell like cheap motel soap.
You're hurting me.
I'm just...
I was just trying to calm you.
Hey, fine. Whatever.
- Just...
- (liquid pouring)
Pretend like you're having fun.
To you.
- To me?
- Yeah.
(glasses clinking)
For showing me how naive I was
About how the world works.
- I showed you that?
- Yes, you did.
And so much more.
She is a ruthless liar
and master manipulator,
Out to ruin the life of
every man she meets.
My name is tess parks.
I've known ashley
morris a very long time.
(thudding at door)
...Ruthless liar and
master manipulator.
- (thudding)
- (grunting)
- (whimpering)
- tess?
- How did you find me?
- Ashley did.
With some help.
(groaning)
- You all right?
- Yeah.
Yeah, is she okay?
Yeah, she's fine. She's fine.
I'll tell you more on
the way. Come on!
(soft jazz playing)
You don't like your wine?
Trying to keep my mind clear.
Hmm.
You haven't been on many
dates, have you, marco?
Well, I mean,
I seduce women
for a living, ashley.
"seduce." sure.
I mean, any idiot
can seduce someone.
You just need to be
shameless enough to lie
And tell people what
they want to hear.
A pathetic grift.
I mean, it's not like you're
earning a person's respect,
Or having someone
fall in love with you
Or call you their friend.
You know, it requires
empathy and honesty
To build a rapport.
But unfortunately you're way
too scarred and too stunted
To make that connection.
Hmm.
Well, you would know.
Years of therapy trying
to fix that broken marriage.
The pills, the depression.
Blaming everybody around you.
Never taking the time
to really look inwards,
At the real problem.
I know you spoke to roger.
- I'm sure he told you plenty.
- Yeah, he did.
He told me the divorce
really took a toll on you
At the end there.
You lost the car,
you lost the house,
You lost every one of
your friends, except for one.
Tess says hi by the way.
Go to hell, you creep.
Keep your voice down.
It scares you, doesn't it?
People staring at you.
- Laughing at you.
- Shut up.
You know what, you think
you can intimidate me?
I know everything about you?
All of your flaws.
You don't even
know my first name.
Oh, yeah?
But I do know your first name.
Nicholas.
How?
Maybe I've done
some digging too.
Nicholas boczek.
Born January 23rd, 1982,
In a town called red
bank in new jersey--
- (cutlery clanging)
- shut up!
(whispering) I'll kill you.
You'll kill me?
Okay.
Are you going to kill us all?
And what is this?
This is your legacy, nicholas.
All your conquests.
Here to meet the real you!
Well, the ones who
were able to make it here
On such short notice, of course.
The many, many others
send their coldest regards.
So, what, you
guys started a club?
You guys-- do you guys
meet every Sunday night
And bad mouth the man
who broke your heart?
This is not funny.
Dorothy, you let her rope
you into this? Come on.
How are the
grandkids, by the way?
- Bite me, thomas.
- Hey.
So this is how you think
you're gonna win? Hmm.
Ashley, I will make
tess disappear.
We've already won, nicky.
Do you realize where you are?
We're in a room with you
where you have no control.
Where we get a good laugh at you
The way you've been
laughing at us this whole time.
Whatever. I'll just disappear.
There's a new site,
There's a new face,
there's a new name.
Maybe I'll date one of your
daughters in the future, hmm?
Or a lonely niece, so you
guys can all get together
And exchange sob
stories. Just the gals.
You think this is a joke?
You're not gonna be
able to do any of that.
You see, you managed to dupe
a very interesting group of women.
Clarissa, for instance,
She's spent over 12
years, working for one of
The most respected forensic
accounting firms in the state,
And boy, they are savage when
it comes to tracking wire fraud.
And indra, well, let's just
say she knows a few folks
Who just love a good
excuse to doxx a scammer.
Great profile
password, by the way.
"hot lady slayer 85."
Hilarious.
I mean, with the amount of
talent standing in this room,
I'll be shocked if you're
able to show your face
On any social media
platform ever again.
That's, of course, if you're
not already on your way to jail
For kidnapping and assault.
You let me go or tess rots.
Tess, right. That reminds me.
Do you remember nancy?
Yeah, you probably don't,
Because it's been almost two
years since you broke her heart
And stole her life savings.
Well, nancy is now a
manager at parkway motels.
Ever heard of them?
Did you know they actually
take a digital snapshot
Of every single
one of their guests?
For security purposes.
It's over, nicholas.
You're not going to fool
or hurt anyone else again.
Officer: Him right there!
Back up or I'll kill her.
Ashley.
Woman: You can't run,
nicholas. You're surrounded.
- Just let her go.
- My name is not nicholas.
It's marco, stop
calling me that,
And back the hell up!
Grant: Ashley, do
what he says, okay?
Ashley, just stay calm,
okay? We're coming to get you.
We're coming to get
you. Just stay calm.
(whimpering)
(thudding) it's locked!
(ashley grunting)
Stop struggling!
(ashley whimpering)
Okay... Okay.
Just stop.
Okay, okay.
Okay, over here.
- Over here.
- No!
- Sit down!
- No!
(panting)
- Give me your hands.
- No!
Give me your hands!
Stop!
(panting)
- This is useless.
- Shut up.
What do you think you're doing?
Marco: Shut up.
- Shut up!
- This is pointless.
- You're trapped here.
- Shut up!
Shut up! Shut up!
Shut up!
(whimpering)
You never stop talking, do you?
Hmm?
- That's better.
- Grant: Ashley!
- (banging at door)
- ashley!
Marco: Okay.
- Now...
- Please just stop.
What did I say, hmm?
Okay.
Stay here, or I'm gonna
cut your throat, all right?
Grant: Open it.
Grant: Ashley I'm coming.
(thudding)
(groaning)
I'm gonna take you home,
And we're going to
make a little video.
Where you're gonna tell
everybody this was your idea
Because you're just
a bitter, dejected--
Because I rejected you.
And you're gonna tell
everybody that I'm actually
A really good guy,
that I'm a gentleman.
And it's all gonna be fine.
Hmm?
"my sweetest gloria,
my moon and my stars.
"I promise you,
this just is the start
"of our wonderful adventure.
"let me spoil you."
- Put that down.
- Are you kidding me?
You even stole
the lines off a book?
You couldn't even come up
with your own lies, you creep?
Nicholas: No, no, you
wouldn't understand it.
It worked on you.
"happy birthday, to
my dear nicholas."
So you do have
something you care about
More than yourself, huh?
Ashley, put that down right now.
Is this really how
you see yourself?
Some third rate cover model?
You're pathetic.
It's about love. Okay?
That is what all you women want,
but none of you know what it is.
You all proved that today.
Okay.
I'll put it down. Sure.
(grunting)
(grate clattering)
See? We're getting out of here!
All right.
(banging at door)
(chuckling)
You're not going anywhere.
Ashley, what are you doing?
- Stay right there.
- Put that down right now.
Ashley, that is irreplaceable.
- That is very special to me.
- Don't!
- Ashley--
- don't move!
- Ashley.
- Don't come close to me.
Ashley! Just put...
Ashley. Ashley. Ashley!
No! No! No!
(thudding)
(grunting)
(grunting)
(shouting)
- (thudding)
- grant!
He's in here!
Right here.
Get his arm.
Ashley.
- Ashley, are you okay?
- I'm okay.
Okay.
Okay.
- I just wanna go home.
- Okay.
Come on.
Well, that was a lot messier
And more frightening
than you promised, ashley.
I know.
And we couldn't have done it
without you, jacqueline, so...
Thank you, and I'm really
sorry for all the trouble.
Oh, please.
I haven't had this much
fun since the mid-1990s.
(chuckling)
And the publicity?
They will be gossiping
about this night for years.
(chuckling) I guess so.
Tess, you're here!
Yeah. You know me, I'd never
miss a restaurant opening.
Are you okay? I mean,
shouldn't you be in the hospital?
Oh, and miss all this fun?
But really, I'm okay.
I'm okay thanks
to you and to grant.
And to all of you.
(sighing)
Now, who wants to
buy this hostage a drink?
(chuckling)
Grant: Ash? Check this out.
Someone just wrote a
new article about your mural.
- Really?
- Yeah, look.
"it was the perfect backdrop
to a memorable evening
"of fine dining and high drama."
(laughing)
Sounds pretty accurate to me.
Yeah, I guess any
publicity is good publicity.
Well, no, babe,
People are starting
to take notice.
It's a really great start.
Yeah. Yeah, you're right.
Yeah.
(chuckling) you're not
still reading that, are you?
Oh yeah, I'm just
getting to the juicy part.
See, when you actually
immerse yourself in one of these,
- They're kinda riveting.
- Oh, really?
Okay. Do you want
some alone time then?
A little private
moment with the book.
All right.
Get back here!
It's not that riveting.