When Mom Becomes a Murderer (2024) Movie Script
[mysterious music]
[hooting]
[panting frantically]
[ominous music]
Individuals who commit crimes
are not inherently evil.
They're often products
of their environment.
They could be struggling
with mental health issues,
trauma, addiction.
Instead of perpetuating
the cycle of violence,
we should focus on
rehabilitation
and restorative justice.
This means addressing
the root causes
of criminal behavior.
Creating opportunities
to heal and grow.
We argue against the motion
that an eye for an eye
is a suitable form of justice.
It fails to address
the complex human behavior
and-and the inequities
that exist within our society.
Instead, we should strive
for a justice system
that emphasizes compassion
and rehabilitation.
I yield my time.
[clapping and cheering]
Thank you.
And thank you to all
of our Erstwell competitors.
And now, if I may have
the judges' results, please.
Thank you.
And the champion
of this year's State High School
Debate League is...
[chuckles]
Rockwood High.
[squeals excitedly]
[cheering and clapping]
Yes!
[soft music]
Honey, I am so proud of you.
[chuckling]
Good job.
Oh, we have to take a photo
for the school's Instagram.
Oh, no, no, no, sorry.
No pictures online.
Come on, Mom.
You don't want a record
of my victory?
Honey, you know the rule.
The only safe digital presence
- is to have none at all.
- Yeah.
You know, I must be
the only kid in the world
- without social media.
- Oh.
[laughing]
Isn't he a little old for you?
Definitely not in high school.
I'm not either.
You just graduated last week.
So, as a principal, I...
I know I'm supposed
to remain neutral,
so I just wanted to say
that you killed it.
[laughing]
You killed it.
And I just got us a table
at Gino's to celebrate.
Ooh!
You guys go ahead.
I'll catch up with you.
- You sure?
- Mm-hmm.
- Mm-hmm.
- Okay, yep.
- Okay.
- Yep.
The bus leaves in five minutes.
Don't be late.
[indistinct chatter]
You're not actually
gonna talk to him, are you?
Why not?
I don't think he's gonna wanna
flirt with a girl
that his kid brother
just debated against.
If he thinks she's cute,
he might.
- Hi.
- Hey.
Hello.
Um, hello.
- Hey.
- Hello.
I'm Ellie.
I'm-I'm on the debate team.
- Yeah, I know.
- Yeah.
You just watched us debating.
[heart beating]
[wheezing]
You okay?
[wheezing]
You sure?
[wheezing]
[tense music]
[wheezing]
[panicked breathing]
What do I do?
Ellie, what do I do?
I'm gonna get your mom.
[wheezing]
Honey? Honey?
Try to relax.
Okay? I've got you.
Look at me, look at me, okay?
Breathe with me. Okay?
[inhales deeply]
In, one, two, three.
Out, one, two, three.
That's it.
Keep breathing slowly.
Here we go, here we go.
Okay?
[oxygen hissing]
That's it, that's it.
You see?
This is exactly why
you should stay close
to your mom.
Come on, come on, come on.
Let's get you outta here.
Nathan, can you grab her stuff?
- Yeah.
- Let's go.
[soft music]
[birds chirping]
- This one's nice.
- Yeah, she looks composed.
- That's going in my office.
- Okay.
When are you guys gonna stop
looking at those, do you think?
- Never.
- [chuckling]
- I think this one.
- Yep.
- Have at it.
- Yep.
This is going on the fridge.
[chuckling]
So, now that high school's done,
debate's done,
what are you gonna do
with your first day of freedom?
Um, Isla and I have some ideas.
Yeah, I had some ideas
for summer vacation once
and they promoted me
to principal
and they all went away.
- [sighs]
- Anyway,
Eleanor, do tell.
It's nothing, Mom.
Just like, stuff.
You know,
it's just that kids, you know,
once they graduate,
they can get a little...
out of control.
Less accountability,
less structure.
Mom, you're off duty.
No school counselor at home,
please.
I'd at least like to know
who you're hanging around with.
It's just Isla! Okay,
we were actually gonna celebrate
and we were gonna go to dinner,
you know,
celebrate our graduation.
Is that scandalous enough
for you?
Oh.
I heard that you had been
spending time with Nancy Meyers.
Yeah, I was just like,
helping her with final exams.
Well, she is a girl who knows
how to get into trouble.
Mom!
Like, I'm a debate kid.
I'm not like, a party animal.
So, you can trust me.
- Okay.
- Anyway,
we're gonna go
pick up some groceries.
- You wanna come?
- Okay, thrilling as that sounds
um, no, I actually have to
pick out an outfit for tonight.
Well, that... that'll take all day?
[both]: Yeah.
Oh yeah.
Yeah.
- But...
- Okay.
- Hey.
- Just the two of us.
- [throat clearing]
- Fun.
- [sighs]
- Sneaking into a bar?
I don't know about this, Ellie.
You saw how I was with that guy?
Yeah, we need this.
Well, I need this.
What is this?
Oh, my mom's mad
I'm going out of state.
She's trying to bubble wrap me.
A whistle,
pepper spray, and a keychain?
Press the button.
- My mom has one too.
- That's cool.
Seriously uncool.
[beeping stops]
- You leave in two weeks, yeah?
- Mm-hmm.
Yeah, so you don't want to...
build your confidence with guys?
You could find love in Paris.
- You'll get romanced in Rome.
- I'm going with my family.
It's not gonna be like that.
Besides,
I'm excited to see the museums
and the architecture.
Actually see history
before I go and study it.
[sighs]
Yeah, this is our problem.
We got our scholarships.
We worked hard.
We need to let go.
But the Roadhouse is sketchy.
Besides, they probably
won't even let us in.
No, I actually thought
about that.
So, um, I invited Nancy Meyers.
Yeah, she's got fake IDs.
- Nancy Meyers?
- Come on,
she's actually really nice
when you get to know her.
And you know what?
I think you guys
would have fun together.
No.
She's not like us.
Please come, Isla.
It wouldn't be the same
without you.
And I think you're gonna look
really hot in this dress.
I'm just gonna put this right...
Oh, so pretty!
Wow! So nice.
Okay, I'm only coming
to make sure that you don't get
into any trouble.
I'm trying this on.
And I'm not wearing that dress.
I'm going to get a soda.
[somber music]
Hey, Isla,
can you grab me a soda too
when you're down there?
Isla?
Okay, Isla,
I know you're not sure
about tonight
but you don't have to give me
the silent treatment.
Isla?
[screaming]
[ominous music]
Are you okay?
There... Someone was here.
- What?
- I don't know.
They rushed out so quickly,
I-I didn't see.
[startling]
Why is this door open?
Why are you coming
through the back door?
Why are you even back so early?
I forgot something.
What?
[suspenseful music]
[birds chirping]
- Anything?
- Well, there's nobody up there
and nothing's gone,
as far as I can tell.
It looks like they went through
some old photo albums
and papers.
My jewelry box was open.
Should we even call the police?
Well, I didn't notice
anything missing
and no one was hurt, right,
so I don't think we need to.
Okay, well uh,
let's just go grab our stuff
then.
Well, hold on.
You still wanna go out tonight?
Yeah. Isla was the one
who was spooked.
She needs cheering up.
And we're just gonna get ready
at her place.
Yeah, you know what?
You've worked hard all year.
This is a celebration.
Enjoy the night.
Okay.
Don't worry, honey,
she'll be fine.
[rhythmic music]
[overlapping chatter]
You need this.
You look too young.
I like your natural look.
The guys here won't.
[chuckles]
We can always
just watch a movie.
You need to chill, Tallulah.
Come on, this is gonna be fun.
Okay, but your dad's
the principal.
You're wearing
our school jacket.
- Somebody could recognize you.
- Look,
I'm not making you guys
do anything.
Either you're in or you're out.
But it'll be fun.
We wanted to spend
some one on one time together
before my trip.
Just the two of us.
We can just do that instead.
I need this, Isla.
But you're totally right,
I can't wear this.
Can you hold this?
[chucking]
[indistinct chatter]
Hi.
Okay, now I'm a little excited.
Just be cool.
- Right.
- [chuckles nervously]
And stop worrying
about your dad.
- Yeah.
- If anything,
it's your mom
I'd be more concerned about.
My mom?
Yeah.
She may be a counselor
but she's the one with issues.
Are we gonna chit-chat all day
or are we gonna head inside?
- Okay!
- [chuckles]
[tense music]
[beeping]
Just dinner with Isla, huh?
Let's go.
Both of you.
Let's go.
[ominous music]
[engine stops]
[sighs]
Talk to me, Eleanor.
Was this Nancy's idea?
No, it was mine.
What were you thinking?
I just wanted to get some...
practice.
Practice?
Talking to boys.
I'm going off to college soon.
How are we supposed to trust you
at a college out of state,
when you can't even
be safe at home?
- Mom, I'm going to college.
- Trust is earned, Eleanor.
It's Ellie.
But Eleanor means shining light,
which is what you are.
Don't dim that light.
I'm not Eleanor,
your little girl anymore, Mom.
I'm Ellie.
I can't wait to get outta here.
Wow.
[soft music]
[cellphone rings]
[dial tone]
Hey, Nance, sorry about tonight.
I told you it was your mom
you had to watch out for.
Listen, I met a guy
on my way home.
He and his buddies
are hanging out
at Gib's Lookout,
if you wanna come.
- I'm already here.
- My mom is so mad at me.
- He said he knew you.
- What?
Yeah, from debate?
Said you freaked out
when you tried talking to him.
Oh, my God. It's him.
Wow, I can't believe
he remembers me.
- Um...
- So, are you in?
[soft music]
- I'm in.
- Great.
Oh, by the way,
I'm wearing your jacket.
You left it in my car.
I'll keep it warm for you.
Oh yeah. Okay, thanks.
- See ya soon!
- Okay, see ya soon!
[]
No.
No. Too high.
[suspenseful music]
What are you doing?
Midnight study group?
[sighs]
I'm going to meet Nancy.
But there's no dive bars
this time.
Sneaking out
in the middle of the night
is not the way
to win back my trust,
especially not with Nancy.
Tell her you're not going.
Where were you meeting?
Gib's Lookout.
Go to bed.
We'll talk about this
in the morning.
[footsteps in the stairs]
[door closing]
[ominous music]
[car door closing]
[engine starts]
[insects chirping]
[sighs]
[cellphone rings]
Come on, Ellie,
I'm already here.
[sighs]
[ominous music]
[footsteps approaching]
[screams]
[birds chirping]
- Hi.
- Where'd you go last night?
Midnight study group.
That's funny.
I phoned Nancy's parents.
They hadn't heard from her
so I decided
- to try and find her myself.
- Mom!
Okay, did you?
If there was a party
at the lookout,
I certainly didn't see it.
So...
Honey, are you okay?
I just got a call
from the chief of police.
Nancy Meyers' body
was found this morning
What?
No, she... she's dead?
No, I-I saw her last night.
Like, we-we texted.
She can't... she can't...
- [wheezing]
- Honey, honey,
breathe, breathe,
breathe, breathe.
Breathe. Breathe.
Deeply.
[wheezing inhale]
And slowly.
That's it.
[wheezing]
What happened?
They don't know much
at this stage.
Uh, some local hickers
found her body on the rocks
below Gib's Lookout.
That's where she asked me
to meet her.
We should call the police.
Based on the evidence
they found at the scene,
they think this was murder.
No, no,
they honestly can't
believe that.
She must have slipped and fell.
Was she drinking last night?
Mom... Like, I know you think
she was some kind of monster
but...
They're not ruling out
anything at this point.
Oh.
Oh, God.
- You okay?
- Oh.
Why wouldn't she be okay?
She hated Nancy.
Eleanor,
that is a horrible thing to say.
[sobbing]
- Oh.
- Hey.
[shaky breathing]
[Marion]: I can't believe
this is happening again.
[Nathan]: It's not.
It's different this time.
We're gonna be okay.
[Marion]: What if the chief
questions me?
What if he questions Eleanor?
What if Eleanor finds out
about all of this?
[Nathan]: Stop, stop, stop.
Just take a breath.
[Marion]: Okay.
[car door opening]
[doorbell ringing]
Uh, Chief, um,
we weren't expecting you.
Yeah, I just have
some questions in regards
to some new evidence
that's just cropped up.
You mind if I come in?
- Um...
- [sighs]
Eleanor is really upset
about this whole situation.
Nancy was her friend.
I don't think
now is a good time.
It's fine, Mom. I-I wanna help.
Hey.
- Come on in.
- Thank you.
[sighs]
[kettle hissing]
Um, your coffee, Chief.
Shirley says
you're on to decaf now
so I made that.
Do you take sugar or...
Listen, I don't wanna take
too much of your folks' time.
I just got a few questions.
Does this necklace
look familiar?
Um...
It's mine.
Yeah, uh, we found it
at the lookout last night.
Near where we believe
Nancy was...
We found it at the lookout
and we ran it for prints
and they matched yours, Marion.
The break-in yesterday.
- It must have been taken then.
- Wait.
Wait, wait, you guys had
a break-in yesterday?
Did my people investigate?
We didn't think
anything was missing.
I mean,
Ellie's friend saw someone,
she thought
she saw someone but...
We-we didn't wanna
waste your time.
So, you didn't notice
it was missing?
It's an old necklace
I've had since I was a teenager.
I... I don't even
wear it anymore.
Where were you last night,
Mrs. Bevan?
Huh.
Are we under investigation here,
Chief?
This is a murder case.
I have to dot all the I's.
So, just tell me,
where were you last night?
Um, I-I picked up Eleanor
and then, drove her friend,
Isla, home,
and then, had cocoa
and went to bed.
Well, sadly,
your necklace wasn't
all we found at the scene.
We also found
a Rockwood High jacket,
and in the front pocket it had
an assignment
with your name on it.
I forgot. I-I left my jacket
in Nancy's car.
When did you leave Nancy?
About 10:00, I guess.
We saw on her phone
that you called her last night.
Yeah, she-she wanted me
to meet her at Gib's Lookout
but my mom wouldn't let me go.
Hmm.
Was she with anyone?
Yeah, um, there was this...
this guy I met
at the debate final
the other week.
Um, yeah,
she said she was hanging out
with him and his friends.
I... I think he was one
of the older brother's
- of the other team.
- Hmm.
Yeah, he-he seemed really nice.
Well, appearances
can be deceptive.
That's all the questions
I have for now.
Great. I'll...
I'll see you out, Chief.
Thank you.
- Ma'am.
- Thank you.
I wanna talk to you about
how I'm gonna deal with this
in terms of the children
at school.
Why did you lie?
- [door closing]
- What?
To the Chief,
I saw you go out last night.
I let the registration lapse
on the car.
What?
I-I know. I forgot to renew it
and I didn't wanna give
the Chief any reason
to dig deeper
into the car's exact whereabouts
last night.
He'd find out,
I'd get into trouble.
I mean, they could
impound the car, or worse!
Okay.
You lied.
I didn't have any information.
I didn't see anyone there.
What help would the truth be?
Eleanor, please, just...
give me a break on this one.
[soft music]
[birds chirping]
How ya holdin' up?
I just can't believe it.
I feel like there's more
that we should be doing,
you know?
She was our friend.
Not really.
She's dead, Isla.
I'm not being mean, I-I just...
she wasn't really our friend.
She got us in massive trouble
the other night.
It could have been
so much worse.
If they had found our fake IDs.
I can't lose my scholarship.
- My whole future depends on it.
- Okay, that-that was my fault.
Not hers.
Did they talk
to the college guy?
Yeah, the police said
they found him in his dorm.
I don't know,
they'll keep us updated.
I don't think
I can go to this memorial.
But your dad planned it.
We have to.
I know, I just like...
I just don't wanna see like,
all these people who hated Nancy
just pretending
to be sad she's gone.
[soft music]
Mom, Dad,
Isla and I are just gonna
head off together.
We'll meet you there.
I have a better idea.
[birds chirping]
I got Nancy into this.
What?
Don't be ridiculous.
She was always looking
for trouble.
Can we say
a little something for her?
Like our own private memorial?
Yeah.
[sighs]
You'll be missed, Nancy.
I know we didn't know
each other that long
but um, I'm glad we got
to become friends.
I promise to be more reckless
in my life.
[sniffles]
I... I do not promise that.
[laughing]
I don't know really know
what else to say.
To be honest,
you kinda scared me, Nancy.
And it scared me
that you and Ellie
suddenly became so close.
- Eleanor!
- [gasps]
What are you doing?
Get away from there!
Both of you!
We...
I wanted to do our own service
for Nancy.
Something personal.
No. No, not here.
Not while there's a killer
on the loose.
Police have the killer, Mom.
Chief Jones
just called your father.
That college kid
from your debate has an alibi.
What? How?
It doesn't matter, just come on.
Let's go, let's go.
Come home with me.
[soft music]
[door opening]
[sighs]
Oh, thank goodness.
Our little girl decided
it would be a good idea
to explore Gib's Lookout.
I just wanted
to say my own goodbye.
You need to stay home, Eleanor,
until this is all figured out.
This is serious!
You...
Try not to be so hard
on your mom, okay?
Between you and me,
she's going through a tough time
at work right now.
Somebody filed a complaint
against her
and she's been suspended
until they can investigate.
What? Who?
It's nothing to worry about.
Just it's a stressful time
for her
and then, losing Nancy
like that, you know,
we're all a bit rattled, okay?
Bring it in here, come on.
Come on.
And be good.
[sobbing]: Okay.
Oh, kid.
[soft music]
[insects chirping]
[Isla]: So, now your mom's
under investigation at school?
Yep, so she's gonna be around.
A lot.
Making sure I am stuck at home.
Well, is that really
such a bad thing?
We both could've gotten
really hurt
and besides, I'll come over
and we'll do popcorn and movies
like we said.
Yeah.
Well, my parents don't want me
going out on my own
but if I said I was meeting you
at the library for like...
like a college project,
that should work,
- right?
- But why?
Well, I mean, I
got Nancy into this.
Like, she was out
because I asked her to,
and it was a guy from debate
that took her to the lookout.
I wanna figure this out.
[sighs]
Hey, listen, this isn't
gonna be like last time.
Like, you know,
heading out with Nancy.
- Just you and me.
- Fine.
- Meet you there tomorrow?
- Hey, honey,
want some ice cream?
Mom, I'm on the phone.
Like, if you won't let me
have a lock,
- you could at least knock.
- Locks are a fire hazard,
you know that.
If you want ice cream,
it's downstairs.
I have to get outta here
before she suffocates me.
Okay. I will see you tomorrow.
[birds chirping]
Ah, ah, where are you going?
Mom, I'm just going
to the library with Isla.
Mom, we have pre-college reading
we have to do.
Okay, but don't be too long.
And let me know
if you need picking up.
- I will.
- [door opening]
- El... Oh.
- [door closing]
[birds chirping]
Okay, who are our suspects?
This feels kind of weird.
Come on, Isla.
The police have no leads.
We can't just sit back
and do nothing.
So, it had to have been
someone with access
to the necklace.
Yeah, um...
I'm sorry,
I really didn't get a good look
- at who was at your house.
- Okay.
And whoever sent the message
to Nancy
had to have been at the debate,
so it was me, you, my parents.
And like a million other people.
I mean, even if the guy
at the debate had an alibi,
like what about his friends?
Nancy said she was meeting him
and his buddies.
Maybe it was them.
Yeah, maybe he doesn't have
an alibi at all.
Maybe his friends
covered for him.
You think so?
Of course, they're his friends.
I'd cover for you
in a heartbeat.
Can I help with anything
today, dears?
Oh, uh, no. No, thank you.
Is that a school project?
- Yeah.
- It's the summer vacation.
You should be outside
enjoying yourselves.
Wish my mom agreed with you.
I hope you don't mind me
saying this
but I recognize you, don't I?
You're the principal's daughter.
- Guilty.
- Such a shame
about that awful business
with that poor girl, Nancy.
Were you friends?
Oh, honey,
I can't begin to imagine
what you're going through.
I'm so sorry for your loss.
Thank you.
Do they know what happened yet?
Not yet.
The police
are still investigating.
Well, listen,
I couldn't help but notice
you're scribbling
on loose scraps of paper
and I thought,
"What those ladies need
is a good notebook",
and we had some
just laying around
in the back office, so.
- Thank you. So kind.
- There you go.
Good luck with your project.
Thank you.
Cute.
All right, so...
did Nancy say anything
about these friends?
No.
A lot of kids in school
didn't like her.
Not liking her is different
than wanting her dead.
I have an idea.
Can you meet me later tonight?
Yeah, okay.
Okay.
[Isla]: I really don't know
about this.
How are we even supposed
to get inside?
I borrowed my dad's school keys.
I really don't like this, Ellie.
Don't worry,
there's no one here.
What do you expect to find
in her folder?
Motives for murder?
This isn't Clue.
If someone complained about her
that was also at the debate,
you don't think
that might mean something?
I thought that you decided
it was one of the college guys?
Uh, yeah, I just...
I don't know yet.
Wanna get as much info as I can.
[door opening]
Wait, I just heard something.
What? I didn't...
[indistinct chatter]
[door closing]
Okay, Ellie, that was so close.
We have to go.
It'll only take a minute.
[suspenseful music]
Ellie,
if we get caught,
we could be in serious trouble.
We have our scholarships
to keep.
We...
[sighs]
Keep lookout.
[sighs]
Okay, this is dangerous
and stupid.
Just let it go.
You're wasting your future
on a girl
that you barely even knew.
Then go, Isla.
I'm staying here.
See? It's locked.
[beeping]
[clicking]
Wow, for two people
who are so strict on safety,
my parents really use
my birthday for everything.
[sighs]
- [tense music]
- Someone's coming.
Just give me a minute.
It could be the janitors.
It's security!
Ellie, we don't have time.
We have to go!
[heavy breathing]
[indistinct radio chatter]
[frantic music]
[panting]
- Quick!
- I'm trying.
[grunting]
[panting]
And then, as if lying
and disobeying the rules
isn't enough,
you break into the school?
That's trespassing, Ellie,
that's a criminal offence!
You're lucky school security
called me and not the police.
And in the middle
of a murder investigation.
But that's exactly why I did it.
- I needed to try and help.
- Eleanor,
don't you get it?
Nancy spent the evening
with you and Isla.
She was wearing your jacket.
She texted you to join her.
Then they find my necklace
at the scene?
So?
So?
- What?
- [sighs]
So, we just think
it might be best
if you lay low
for a little while.
You think I look suspicious?
Of course we don't think
you're gonna hurt anybody
but there's
a murder investigation going on
and we don't want you or Isla
to get caught up in it.
We just wanna protect you.
No, no. No, don't do this.
No, no, it's okay. Let her go.
That's where you're gonna be
for the next week.
[sighs]
[door closing]
[sniffles]
[mysterious music]
[tense music]
Isla.
[]
[city rumble]
[cellphone ringing]
Hello?
So, how much trouble
did you get into?
Uh, they were okay.
I thought my dad
was going to explode.
He threatened to call off
the Europe trip this summer
but my sister managed
to calm him down.
Ellie, you okay?
Yeah. Yeah, I'm fine.
But at least we can put an end
to this whole
investigation thing, right?
I'm meant to be grounded,
but I think
my parents will let me out
if it's just to your place.
I can say
the principal's supervising us.
[chuckles]
Uh, I have
a mother-daughter hike tomorrow.
- Oh.
- Yeah, my hiking boots
need new laces.
It's like...
the only reason
my mom let me out of the house.
I could pick you up
from the mall later.
No, I won't be out long enough.
Um... raincheck?
[call beeps off]
- Oh.
- Oh, my gosh, I'm so sorry.
- Are you okay?
- Yeah, I'm fine.
I feel awful tough.
Uh, can I get you a coffee?
- I could use a coffee.
- All right.
[soft music]
- There you go.
- Thank you.
- Anything else?
- I'm Simon, by the way.
Hi. I'm Ellie.
Uh, how's the coffee here?
It's good. Yeah, it's nice,
it's really nice.
It's good beans, you know?
I only came to town yesterday
and uh...
number one priority
is finding good coffee.
Yeah, what brought you here?
Well, I'm a journalist
looking into the murder
of Nancy Meyers.
Yeah. You were about her age.
- Did you know her?
- I did.
Oh. Sorry.
Thank you.
Have you found anything?
Well, I spoke to the police
and there was a college kid
with an alibi, right?
Then they found
the counselor's necklace
at the scene
but haven't been able
to find anything about her
online.
Yeah.
"The only safe digital presence
is to have none."
Huh?
So, the counselor,
she's my mom.
She doesn't believe
you should have anything
about yourself online.
Like, no photos,
no socials, nothing.
She's into like,
online safety and all that.
What can I get for you?
Oh, um...
could I please get a latte?
Can I get an Americano, please?
Thank you.
So, have you found
anything else on the case?
Nancy was my friend.
Of course, but you know,
the counselor, your mom,
I've rarely come across anyone
whose past is just nonexistent.
Oh well, yeah,
she's definitely not involved.
[chuckles]
She's just...
Well, she's my mom.
Well,
I'd love to know more about her,
you know,
just to rule her out.
Uh, she's an only child.
She grew up on a farm out west.
That help solve your mystery?
Um...
Her parents died
before I was born so...
I'm not looking to pry,
I just...
She doesn't even have a photo
on the school site.
It just seemed strange to me.
I'm only in town
for a few more days
but you're the first person
that's been willing
to speak to me,
so if anything comes up,
literally anything,
feel free to reach out.
Yeah, and same to you.
Um...
I really wanna know
what happened to my friend.
Of course.
[mysterious music]
[sighs]
Marion Bevan.
Marion Brooks.
[pants]
[wheezing]
[shaky exhale]
[wheezing]
[tense music]
[wheezing]
[heavy breathing]
Where's my notebook?
[dramatic music]
Hello?
Hey, is somebody out there?
Please!
[wheezing]
[oxygen hissing]
[wheezing]
[dramatic crescendo]
Ellie, are you all right?
I think the door got stuck.
[wheezing]
[heavy breathing]
Did you take my notebook?
What? No, of course not.
I just had it.
Um, maybe you dropped it.
I just had it.
[birds chirping]
- [tense music]
- Hey.
Only me.
No need to jump.
- Are you okay?
- Sorry, I...
I met this journalist today.
I think he stole my notebook.
You met a journalist? Where?
Um, at a coffee shop.
I thought you were
just running out to get laces?
Well, who cares
if he stole your notebook?
The investigation's over, right?
I'm going to Europe soon
with my family.
I was hoping that this would be
our last big summer at home
together.
I didn't wanna spend it
being amateur detectives.
- Ellie.
- Why didn't you tell me
you reported Nancy for bullying?
That's supposed
to be confidential.
Well, I know, so.
I don't know,
maybe because she was a bully.
Because she treated me horribly
and you still hung out with her
anyway.
And you really didn't see
who broke into our house?
What is this?
Do you think
I had something to do with this?
I don't want to, but Isla,
my mom's necklace was taken
by someone only you saw,
and like,
supposedly didn't get
a good enough look at?
- I didn't.
- I know you knew
I was meeting Nancy there.
I texted you.
[shaky exhale]
You never liked her.
- Look.
- [sighs]
We are meant to be best friends.
We were meant to go for dinner
and have a movie night,
not come up
with conspiracy theories.
It's not a conspiracy theory.
So, I'm the big suspect
who killed Nancy,
is that it?
If you really wanna dig
into this,
there's someone
right under your nose
that you're missing.
What do you mean?
My parents told me
that it was Nancy
who made the complaint
about your mom.
That's why she's suspended.
- No, that's...
- It was her necklace the scene.
She knew where Nancy was going
to meet those guys
and she liked Nancy
a lot less than I did.
[mysterious music]
This is delinquent behavior.
But you know punishment
is not always the answer.
- But this is almost...
- Hang on a second,
I'll be right back.
[Marion]: All right, of course.
[suspenseful music]
[Nathan]: We tried your way.
[Marion]: She doesn't understand
how serious
the consequences are.
[Nathan]:
No one does at her age.
[Marion]: Isn't that
what we're supposed to do
as her parents?
[indistinct]
[insects chirping]
[beeping]
[suspenseful music]
Okay. History.
Gib's Lookout.
15 minutes.
That doesn't expire
for another month.
[keys jiggling]
[mysterious music]
Why aren't you dressed yet?
I totally forgot.
- [sighs]
- Well, get dressed quickly.
I will lace your boots.
Where are your new laces?
Uh, I forgot to get them.
What?
- Eleanor!
- I'm sorry,
I almost had an asthma attack
on the way.
That's why.
Oh.
Honey,
why didn't you say anything?
Actually, I'm still
not feeling great today.
Um, I think
a lot of walking around
won't really be good, so.
[sighs]
- Well, I...
- [sighs]
I don't wanna force you to go
but...
this is the club's last hike
and it's our last chance
to do this
before you leave for college.
This is important.
To me.
Okay.
Okay.
I have a feeling
that this is gonna be
our most memorable trip yet.
[soft music]
I have an old pair of boots
you can use for today.
I'll get them.
Get dressed!
[birds chirping]
So, you all should have
different checkpoints,
so make sure
you check your maps.
And of course,
don't forget your water.
- And...
- Hi!
- Oh!
- [panting]
Sorry, we're late.
Marion, you came.
I didn't think you would,
what with...
Oh, you're so brave.
What do you mean, Rachel?
Oh, you know, it's just gossip.
[sighs]
You know perfectly well
we have not been
officially questioned.
It's terrifying, though.
Isn't it?
Knowing that whoever did this
is out there?
And that they somehow had
your necklace?
So scary.
You know what's scary?
Is how much you're enjoying
all this information.
We'll see you
at the finish line.
All right, we'll see you
at the finish line.
[indistinct chatter]
[birds chirping]
Okay, so our first checkpoint
should just be
a few minutes this way.
You never really talk
about your past much.
- Huh?
- Your childhood.
Like, I don't really know
anything about it.
- Uh, it was uneventful.
- [chuckles nervously]
If you think it's boring here,
try living on a farm.
How did Grandma and Grandpa die?
Really, Eleanor?
We're kind of on the clock here.
You've never spoken about it.
Like...
Not like properly.
It was a car accident, okay?
Now, can we please
change the subject?
Okay.
Surely we have
other family though.
Like, we have cousins,
or like, uncles?
I would really like
to just focus
on beating Rachel right now.
It's a hiking club, Mom.
It's not really about winning.
- So...
- Well, it is to me.
[camera shutter snaps]
Okay, that's our first one.
Now, our second checkpoint
should be due south.
I just think it's weird
we never see any other family.
You know what?
I have an idea.
Come on, follow me.
Come on!
- Keep your knees up.
- This is like, not a path.
Well, it's a shortcut.
[mysterious music]
Um, what about friends?
Like uh...
Who was your Isla
in high school?
Mom?
Why the sudden interest
in my past?
Um...
Well, I met this guy
the other day,
he's a... a journalist.
What? A journalist?
What did you tell him?
Nothing.
Well, who is he?
He's probably nobody.
I don't know.
He-he seemed,
he like, gave me his card.
His card? Do you have it?
Eleanor.
Give it to me.
Right now.
[sighs]
Why would a journalist
talk to a teenager
- without their parents?
- I didn't say anything.
Not really.
Eleanor,
we have to be so careful.
Don't you understand that?
[sighs]
Come on.
[sighs]
Watch where you're stepping.
Yeah, we're supposed to be like,
meeting at the checkpoints, Mom.
This is like,
completely off trail.
Trust me.
- Are you mad at me?
- No!
I'm just a private person,
Eleanor.
I don't want other people
knowing my business,
- or yours.
- Yeah, I know.
You don't even have a photo
on the school website.
Like, something like that
is fine.
Why would anyone need
to see my photo online?
It's just best
to keep ourselves to ourselves.
- But I...
- No!
No buts, Eleanor.
Am I clear?
[sighs]
[somber music]
[insects chirping]
[birds chirping]
Mom, this is crazy.
Can't even see anyone anymore.
Are we lost?
Mom, can you please talk to me?
Hey, you'd never lie to me,
right?
What? No, of course not!
Look, stop bugging me
about the past.
I'll let you know
when the time is right.
[panting]
Oh, Eleanor, just breathe.
- Remember to breathe.
- I think I need to stop.
It's not long now.
Take the lead.
It's just straight ahead.
I'm right behind you.
Mom, I don't think
this is the right way.
[ominous music]
Mom?
It's the only way.
Keep moving.
Just keep going.
[pants]
[beeping]
A little further.
[dramatic crescendo]
[pants frantically]
Marion, Ellie,
I see you guys
are cutting the trails, too!
Smart.
You've almost caught up to us.
Come on, Mom.
Let's jog it to the finish line.
This is not over. Come on.
[soft music]
Hey! How'd it go?
We did not take home the win.
Rachel beat us in the end.
- Ah! Rachel.
- Mm-hmm.
Whoa there, kiddo.
- I wanna hear all about it.
- Uh...
Yeah, I'm just like,
so exhausted.
I think I'm just gonna
like, head up and rest.
Okay.
Me too.
Okay.
[insects chirping]
[mysterious music]
[dialing]
[cellphone rings]
Hello?
Hi, it's Ellie, uh,
from the caf.
- You gave me your card.
- Ellie, hi.
I'm so glad you called.
- Uh, are you doing better?
- Yeah, I just, um...
I feel like I'm losing my mind.
I just wanted to ask, um...
Have you made any progress
on the case?
Like, do you have
any more information about...
Like, what might
have happened to Nancy?
Who might have hurt her?
Look, I don't wanna
speak out of turn here.
- Just tell me.
- Okay, it's probably nothing
but I've been struggling
to find anything to write about,
so I looked up similar cases.
I found this other incident
and they're basically the same.
They're so close it's uncanny.
Okay, it was in Waterford,
25 years ago,
almost to the day, June 28th.
[door opening]
Maybe you could meet me tomorrw
at the same coffee place?
I have to go.
- [call beeps off]
- Ellie?
Hello? Are you...?
[]
[footsteps thudding]
[mysterious music]
[shaky breathing]
[birds chirping]
Oh, hey there, early bird.
- Got a minute?
- Well, um,
I have to do
some admin stuff for college.
Well, it'll just take a second.
Okay.
I'm just...
I'm wondering
how you're feeling.
How am I feeling?
Well, I know
this Nancy thing's hit you
pretty hard
so I'm just making sure
you're okay.
I'll be fine.
- I'll see ya tonight.
- Um, hey, hey...
You and your mom are okay,
aren't ya?
I-I mean,
I know she can be tough
but she's desperate
to spend time with ya,
so maybe you could ask her
to help you
- with some of your college stuff.
- Yeah,
this one I'm really supposed
to do by myself.
But um...
I'll ask her for the next one.
Okay. Okay, have fun!
[mysterious music]
[]
Do you need some help?
Uh, yeah, that'd be great.
There's like, so many papers
and I don't think the dust
is good for my asthma.
Ah. What is it exactly
that you're looking for?
Um, so it sounds kinda morbid.
I'm...
I'm actually...
I'm looking into a murder case.
Uh, it was in Waterford
about 25 years ago.
I know the date, it's June 28th.
Yeah, I assume
there's a newspaper article
about it, but...
it's driving me nuts,
there's like so many.
Well, this is
because you're looking
through the local archives.
And if it was in Waterford,
then you need to check
the national archives.
And they can only be accessed
on the library's
computer system.
Okay? You can follow me.
Okay, thank you.
- This baby has everything.
- Okay.
Detailed logs
of hundreds of newspapers
going back 80 years at least.
- Amazing.
- Yeah.
I'll be around
if you need anything else.
You know, it's funny,
I've just remembered,
your friend Nancy,
she was here
just a few days before...
She was? Why?
She'd just come out
of a counselling session.
She seemed really upset.
I only put two and two together
when I saw her photo
in the papers this morning.
She seemed so torn up that day.
I feel so sad
about what happened to her.
"The Marshall family
is grappling
with an unimaginable loss
after the death
of their youngest daughter,
Emma, aged 17.
The body of the young victim
was discovered
at the base of a cliff
on the morning of June 28th,
by some local hikers.
Law enforcement officials
have confirmed a suspect.
Close friend of the victim
is being pursued
in connection with the crime."
[mysterious music]
Mom.
[dramatic crescendo]
[mysterious music]
Isla?
[car door closing]
[engine starts]
[tires screeching]
[panting]
Hi, you've reached
Simon Marshall.
Leave a detailed message
and I'll get back to you.
Simon, it's Ellie. Um...
So I looked into the case
you mentioned.
Can you just call me back
when you get this?
[shaky breathing]
[mysterious music]
[elevator chimes]
- Miss Bevan.
- Chief Jones.
Thank you so much for seeing me.
Yeah, you said it was
about Nancy Meyers.
All right, please follow me.
Take your time, Miss Bevan.
It can be hard to talk
about things
that might
make you uncomfortable.
Maybe things that Nancy did
or things that you've done
that may be wrong.
But it's important
that you're honest with me
right now for Nancy's sake.
No, it's...
It's nothing like that. Um...
We know Nancy
could be prone to trouble.
I've had to take her
to her parents
a few times myself.
Yeah, she could be
a bit reckless but she...
but she was a good kid.
Really,
she worked hard on her exams.
Like, she wanted to do better.
It's natural
to wanna protect your friends.
It's not that.
And yourself, too.
[sighs]
Just read this.
The friend, Jane Service,
that's my mom.
I'm gonna look into this,
all right?
Will you wait for me
just outside?
Yeah, of course.
Thank you.
[overlapping chatter]
Miss Bevan.
[tense music]
I really appreciate you
coming in.
I understand
Nancy Meyers was your friend,
and I know
this must be hard on you.
But we spoke to your mom
and everything's been
cleared up.
Cleared up.
Yeah, you don't have
to worry about your mom
getting into any trouble.
I know it must be tough thinking
that you could lose Nancy
and then your Mom too,
but I don't want you to worry
about that, all right?
Once again, I'm so sorry
that Eleanor's wasted your time.
I promise,
she won't be any more trouble.
Ah, no trouble.
Losing a friend
is tough for anyone
but especially at this age.
You're very kind.
Well, I hope your suspension
gets cleared up too, Mrs. Bevan.
You've been doing wonders
for my boy, Kyle.
- Oh.
- [chuckles]
[ominous music]
[indistinct chatter]
What on Earth
has gotten into you?
I like to keep my life private.
I told you that
time and time again.
If you had any questions,
- take them directly to me.
- I did. I asked you.
You wouldn't tell me anything.
Oh, so because I didn't feel
like talking then
you decide
to sniff around in my past
and go to the police with it?
What else was I supposed to do?
Oh, it's unbelievable, Eleanor.
So, talk to me now.
Tell me now.
[sighs]
Okay, you wanna play detective?
Be all mature,
date college guys,
have all this freedom.
But the way you behaved today
was so incredibly immature.
It just shows me
you're not ready.
You're still a child!
Isn't that what you want?
If you had it your way,
I'd stay a child forever.
I'd never leave.
[sighs]
I wish that was the case.
[sighs]
[mysterious music]
Where's Dad?
He had an emergency
Board of Education meeting
- in Bakersfield.
- But he'll be home later?
I told him to stay the night.
- He can come back in the morning.
- What? Why?
These meetings
go on for hours, Eleanor.
He could get himself hurt
driving home so late.
Go on upstairs.
I'll be right behind you,
and then you and I,
we are gonna
sort this out tonight.
For good.
[somber music]
[dial tone]
- Ellie.
- Dad.
Sorry, the signal here
is terrible.
Um, you have to come home.
How'd you know?
Know what?
I've been sent
on a wild goose chase.
I got an emergency memo today
to head down to
the education board
and as soon as I get here, nada.
No emergency, no board meeting.
Th-there's no meeting?
Like...
Like someone sent you away
on purpose?
Yeah, probably
some high schooler pranking me.
Who knows?
Your mom took the message.
Look, I'm gonna grab
a bite to eat
and I'll be right back
on the road.
No, Dad, you have
to come back right away, Dad.
- Everything all right?
- Dad, look...
Listen, I think...
I think Mom wants to hurt me.
Ellie, I...
I can't hear you properly.
- [static interference]
- Dad?
Dad?
[ominous music]
[shaky breathing]
[Marion]:
Eleanor, we need to talk.
[thudding on the door]
Eleanor, I know
you went through my purse.
That journalist's card
is missing
and you took it, didn't you?
I know you did!
Lies after lies after lies,
Eleanor.
This is gonna stop.
I can't take this anymore.
I am reaching
my breaking point with you!
[thudding on the door]
[dramatic crescendo]
Eleanor, can you even hear me?
Fine. Fine. You wanna...
You wanna stay in there
the whole night?
That's fine.
That's not a problem.
I will be right downstairs
waiting for you, Eleanor.
I am not going anywhere.
Oh!
[pants]
[suspenseful music]
[grunts]
[tense music]
[panting]
[dial tone]
You've reached the voicemail
of Nathan Bevan.
[dial tone]
Hi. You've reached
Simon Marshall.
Leave a detailed...
[pants]
[oxygen hissing]
[wheezing]
[pants]
Honey!
Are you okay?
Please, I need your help.
Oh, sweetie, what happened?
Are you in trouble?
Oh, my goodness. Oh, sweetie!
[crying]: I'm sorry.
Oh, I'm sure whatever it was,
it's not as bad a you think.
I have a place nearby.
We could have a cup of tea.
We could talk about it.
Okay?
Okay.
[soft music]
Eleanor!
Are you ready to talk?
Eleanor?
Oh no. No, no, you didn't.
Eleanor,
you are in so much trou...
Oh!
Oh, Eleanor?
[somber music]
No.
No, no.
No.
No, no, no. No.
No. No.
[insects chirping]
So peaceful.
Oh, I do love it here.
I mean, that's the benefit
of having a mobile home.
I can take it wherever I like.
[chuckles]
[cellphone ringing]
You wanna talk about it?
Yeah, I'm afraid if I like,
say it out loud,
you'll think I'm crazy, so.
Try me.
I think...
My mom...
[shaky exhale]
I think my mom is a murderer.
Yeah, it sounds stupid
when I say it like that.
But um...
I've researched it and...
I think it's happened before.
Um...
someone died
when my mom was younger
and she was the suspect
and I think
Nancy found out about it
and complained to the school.
And I think my mom hurt her.
Well, you're safe here.
- Do you believe me?
- I do.
I tried to go to the police
but they didn't believe me.
My parents are like,
friends with the chief.
- My mom counsels his son.
- Okay,
let's just take it slow, okay?
Okay.
Tea makes everything better.
Oh, you've hurt yourself.
Oh, yeah. Oh.
Must've knocked it
climbing out of the house.
Well, you just sit tight
and I'm gonna get you
- something to help with that.
- Okay.
[cellphone ringing]
[sniffles]
Hello?
Thank God. Are you okay?
- So you spoke to my mom?
- What?
No, I'm sorry, Ellie,
I know we haven't spoken
for the last couple days
but I heard something
really weird and...
- What?
- That librarian, Carla...
Ellie, she doesn't work
at the library.
What do you... What do you mean?
She's been hanging around
but she doesn't work there.
When the librarians
asked her to move on,
she got really angry,
really aggressive.
How-how do you know that?
My sister was there today.
She was the one I dropped off
when you saw me.
I'm sorry.
I shouldn't have
driven off like that
but I was still mad
and I didn't wanna talk to you.
[mysterious music]
What happened, Isla?
She needed to print stuff
for our flights
and she saw them
arguing with her.
But that's not all.
Guess when Carla showed up?
When?
The morning Nancy died.
Is something wrong?
Ellie? Is that her?
- Are you with her?
- Um...
My friend, she's um...
She needs me.
I have to...
- Ellie, get out of there.
- I have to go.
[ominous music]
[dramatic crescendo]
I'm sorry,
I'm afraid
it's a little late for that.
[heavy breathing]
[somber music]
[pants]
Help!
Help!
- Oh, hush.
- Hey, can anyone hear me?
There's no sense
making a ruckus, so hush.
We're all alone out here.
You don't have to do this.
[crying]:
Please, I have a family.
My mom.
My dad.
But your dad's not here, is he?
He's in Bakersfield.
And then, your mom.
[panting breathing]
Is this about Nancy?
You really remind me of her.
She was also a good student.
Determined.
Oh, she could often be stubborn,
too.
But then, you're so young.
I wasn't expecting you
to remind me so much of her.
Nancy?
Of course not Nancy.
[tense music]
Emma.
[shaky breathing]
You're Emma's mom.
You know, I never trusted
the way your mom was with Emma.
Always putting thoughts
in her head.
Making her feel
like she was unhappy at home.
But we provided a warm,
loving family.
After your mother
took my girl away from me,
she just ran away.
Like a rat from a fire.
Do you know
how much I sacrificed
trying to find her?
And then to see
that she has
her own perfect family?
Why does she deserve that?
[crying]
- She doesn't.
- No! No!
No! No!
That's enough now.
It'll all be over soon.
[heavy breathing]
She's not answering her phone,
Nathan.
I was gonna tell her
the truth tonight
but I don't know
what's gotten into her.
I-I just don't!
[phone beeps]
Hang on a sec.
Hang on, Nathan, okay?
Isla's calling.
Isla.
Isla, are you with Ellie?
I'm... I'm sorry.
What did you say?
[dramatic crescendo]
- [shaky breathing]
- Carla, please.
It doesn't have to be this way.
You don't wanna hurt me.
You're not like that.
I can tell.
You were so kind at the library.
Emma would not have wanted you
to become a murderer.
Don't you talk about her!
You didn't know her.
Carla, please.
I have asthma.
[wheezes]
My inhaler...
is in my bag.
Can't breathe.
[wheezing]
I need...
[wheezing]
Please. Please.
[wheezing]
[coughs]
[wheezes harder]
[gasping]
[tense music]
Breathe with me.
Okay?
[inhales deeply]
In, one, two, three.
Out, one, two, three.
That's it.
Now keep breathing slowly.
[exhales slowly]
[dramatic music]
You can't run from this.
[frantic music]
[pants]
Hey! Hey!
Hey! Stop, please!
Please, please! Stop!
Hey, you have to help us!
This woman is trying to kill me!
[music suddenly stops]
Simon.
Oh, thank God, it's you.
The woman from the library,
she's trying to kill me.
Please, I just...
I need to get to the police.
[tense music]
Simon, open the door.
I didn't wanna do this.
I didn't want any part of this.
Simon...
What are you talking about?
She didn't mean to kill Nancy.
You have to know that.
You shouldn't have
given her your jacket.
That's on you.
- No.
- [shaky breathing]
We're not bad people,
we just want what's right.
We didn't just lose Emma.
Afterwards,
we lost so much more.
Our futures.
[wheezing]
Everything.
I couldn't believe it
when I saw you at the debate.
Even before I found
the charm bracelet,
I knew it had to be you.
She's your mother.
And Emma was my sister
and I was just a kid
when your mom took her from us.
[wheezing]
Ah!
This would be easier
if you'd stop fighting.
[grunting]
Ah!
[sighs]
Oh.
[tense music]
[panting]
[wheezing]
[breathing deeply]
[panting]
[ominous music]
[gun shot]
[gasps]
Just like your mother.
Always running away.
Although, I suppose
it's a bit poetic, isn't it?
I was just gonna shoot you
but my little girl fell
to her death,
and now...
Ma, I don't think I can do this.
You were meant
to finish this without me.
I wasn't involved.
You were involved
when you broke into their house.
When you took the charm necklace
and her notebook.
That was to confirm
who they were,
not to kill anyone.
She's just a kid.
She's older than Emma was
when she died.
We have to finish it.
It's like you said
after Nancy died,
this could be more
than an eye for an eye.
This could be justice.
Jane will not only
lose her daughter
but she'll go to jail
for the murders.
She'll finally get
the prison sentence
that she deserves.
It's for Emma, Simon.
It's time we finished this.
- You're right.
- No.
No!
No!
[screams]
Leave her alone!
Oh!
- Mom!
- Oh, my baby!
[screams]
[panting]
Go. Get away.
You move and your mother dies.
[ominous music]
- I can't.
- No, baby,
this is not your fault,
it's mine.
Now run!
You know what?
I'm glad you're here, Jane.
You should get to see this.
You know
I never meant to hurt Emma.
That's not true.
I just wanted her
to have a break from you.
We all saw the bruises
she tried so hard to hide.
How you made her feel
so little about herself.
She felt trapped!
That's because
you made her feel that way.
You put those thoughts
in her head.
No, no.
No, I thought the lookout
would be peaceful.
More lies!
No, I just wanted her
to get away from your home!
When I told her
I wanted to help her,
she got so angry.
She thought I was tricking her.
And you did! You did trick her!
No! It was reflex to move
when she went for me.
I never...
I never thought she'd...
She'd fall.
I never, I never...
- You liar. You pushed her!
- No.
No, I would never push Emma!
I loved her.
She was my best f-friend.
Carla...
Carla, please.
I miss her too.
You don't know the half of it.
- But you will.
- Wait, I'll go.
- I'll jump.
- No!
- Do it. Quickly.
- Mom.
- No.
- I just want you to know,
I'll always be your Eleanor.
Your shining light.
Do it.
Do it now!
Jump!
No. No.
Eleanor, no. No.
Eleanor, Eleanor, don't.
- Do it!
- Don't do it!
- [beeping]
- Ah!
[grunting]
My gun!
[screams]
[crying]: No!
- Oh, thank God.
- Mom!
[sobbing]
Oh, my baby.
[police sirens]
[soft music]
How did you find me?
I put a tracker on your phone.
I know, I'm sorry,
I shouldn't have.
No, you should.
I'm glad you did.
You know, when Isla called me...
[sighs]
...and said the name Carla,
I just knew.
So, I tracked your phone
to her trailer,
and when I saw Emma's photo...
Oh, I thought I was too late.
But then I heard you yelling.
- You saved me.
- No, but...
I trapped you too.
You know,
I always wanted to help Emma
get away
from her controlling parents.
I wanted to protect her
like I've always wanted
to protect you.
But when the police
started questioning you,
I got so scared that...
they would accuse you
of hurting Nancy,
just like they accused me
of hurting Emma.
And before I realized it,
I was...
becoming a controlling parent
myself.
You're nothing like Carla.
Oh, I don't know, honey.
I think if I lost you
I might've gotten crazy too.
[crying]: Can we go home?
Yep.
Yeah. Let's go.
[soft music]
That is the last one.
Watch yourselves.
Okay,
so what's the first stop?
Oh, there's
this really cute town
a couple hours away
that has amazing thrift shops.
And an old-fashioned drive-in
with a long overdue
popcorn movie night.
Sounds perfect.
So, you'll get Ellie
all settled in,
- and then Isla.
- Off to my college.
Oh, gosh.
I remember when you girls were
riding bikes down the street
and going to ballet lessons.
- And now, look.
- Oh yeah,
and now,
it's a road trip to college.
What could be better?
It's just the two of us!
- Best friends!
- Best friends.
[chuckling]
Oh, you packed
the pepper spray, right?
- Mm-hmm, and the whistle.
- Okay.
The tank is full.
You checked the tire pressure?
You sure you don't want us
to give this a little...
Honey. We talked about this.
Right, right. Old habits.
No, I appreciate it. Always.
I trust you. Always.
You could always
come with us, Mom.
We'll do like, a girls' trip.
- Could be fun.
- No, you know what?
This is your time
to get out there on your own.
[soft music]
[shaky exhale]
- I love you.
- Come on, Isla, bring it in.
- Yeah.
- Okay.
Have a great trip.
Okay, okay, drive safe.
- All right.
- Okay.
[car doors closing]
[engine starts]
[]
[birds chirping]
[mysterious music]
[hooting]
[panting frantically]
[ominous music]
Individuals who commit crimes
are not inherently evil.
They're often products
of their environment.
They could be struggling
with mental health issues,
trauma, addiction.
Instead of perpetuating
the cycle of violence,
we should focus on
rehabilitation
and restorative justice.
This means addressing
the root causes
of criminal behavior.
Creating opportunities
to heal and grow.
We argue against the motion
that an eye for an eye
is a suitable form of justice.
It fails to address
the complex human behavior
and-and the inequities
that exist within our society.
Instead, we should strive
for a justice system
that emphasizes compassion
and rehabilitation.
I yield my time.
[clapping and cheering]
Thank you.
And thank you to all
of our Erstwell competitors.
And now, if I may have
the judges' results, please.
Thank you.
And the champion
of this year's State High School
Debate League is...
[chuckles]
Rockwood High.
[squeals excitedly]
[cheering and clapping]
Yes!
[soft music]
Honey, I am so proud of you.
[chuckling]
Good job.
Oh, we have to take a photo
for the school's Instagram.
Oh, no, no, no, sorry.
No pictures online.
Come on, Mom.
You don't want a record
of my victory?
Honey, you know the rule.
The only safe digital presence
- is to have none at all.
- Yeah.
You know, I must be
the only kid in the world
- without social media.
- Oh.
[laughing]
Isn't he a little old for you?
Definitely not in high school.
I'm not either.
You just graduated last week.
So, as a principal, I...
I know I'm supposed
to remain neutral,
so I just wanted to say
that you killed it.
[laughing]
You killed it.
And I just got us a table
at Gino's to celebrate.
Ooh!
You guys go ahead.
I'll catch up with you.
- You sure?
- Mm-hmm.
- Mm-hmm.
- Okay, yep.
- Okay.
- Yep.
The bus leaves in five minutes.
Don't be late.
[indistinct chatter]
You're not actually
gonna talk to him, are you?
Why not?
I don't think he's gonna wanna
flirt with a girl
that his kid brother
just debated against.
If he thinks she's cute,
he might.
- Hi.
- Hey.
Hello.
Um, hello.
- Hey.
- Hello.
I'm Ellie.
I'm-I'm on the debate team.
- Yeah, I know.
- Yeah.
You just watched us debating.
[heart beating]
[wheezing]
You okay?
[wheezing]
You sure?
[wheezing]
[tense music]
[wheezing]
[panicked breathing]
What do I do?
Ellie, what do I do?
I'm gonna get your mom.
[wheezing]
Honey? Honey?
Try to relax.
Okay? I've got you.
Look at me, look at me, okay?
Breathe with me. Okay?
[inhales deeply]
In, one, two, three.
Out, one, two, three.
That's it.
Keep breathing slowly.
Here we go, here we go.
Okay?
[oxygen hissing]
That's it, that's it.
You see?
This is exactly why
you should stay close
to your mom.
Come on, come on, come on.
Let's get you outta here.
Nathan, can you grab her stuff?
- Yeah.
- Let's go.
[soft music]
[birds chirping]
- This one's nice.
- Yeah, she looks composed.
- That's going in my office.
- Okay.
When are you guys gonna stop
looking at those, do you think?
- Never.
- [chuckling]
- I think this one.
- Yep.
- Have at it.
- Yep.
This is going on the fridge.
[chuckling]
So, now that high school's done,
debate's done,
what are you gonna do
with your first day of freedom?
Um, Isla and I have some ideas.
Yeah, I had some ideas
for summer vacation once
and they promoted me
to principal
and they all went away.
- [sighs]
- Anyway,
Eleanor, do tell.
It's nothing, Mom.
Just like, stuff.
You know,
it's just that kids, you know,
once they graduate,
they can get a little...
out of control.
Less accountability,
less structure.
Mom, you're off duty.
No school counselor at home,
please.
I'd at least like to know
who you're hanging around with.
It's just Isla! Okay,
we were actually gonna celebrate
and we were gonna go to dinner,
you know,
celebrate our graduation.
Is that scandalous enough
for you?
Oh.
I heard that you had been
spending time with Nancy Meyers.
Yeah, I was just like,
helping her with final exams.
Well, she is a girl who knows
how to get into trouble.
Mom!
Like, I'm a debate kid.
I'm not like, a party animal.
So, you can trust me.
- Okay.
- Anyway,
we're gonna go
pick up some groceries.
- You wanna come?
- Okay, thrilling as that sounds
um, no, I actually have to
pick out an outfit for tonight.
Well, that... that'll take all day?
[both]: Yeah.
Oh yeah.
Yeah.
- But...
- Okay.
- Hey.
- Just the two of us.
- [throat clearing]
- Fun.
- [sighs]
- Sneaking into a bar?
I don't know about this, Ellie.
You saw how I was with that guy?
Yeah, we need this.
Well, I need this.
What is this?
Oh, my mom's mad
I'm going out of state.
She's trying to bubble wrap me.
A whistle,
pepper spray, and a keychain?
Press the button.
- My mom has one too.
- That's cool.
Seriously uncool.
[beeping stops]
- You leave in two weeks, yeah?
- Mm-hmm.
Yeah, so you don't want to...
build your confidence with guys?
You could find love in Paris.
- You'll get romanced in Rome.
- I'm going with my family.
It's not gonna be like that.
Besides,
I'm excited to see the museums
and the architecture.
Actually see history
before I go and study it.
[sighs]
Yeah, this is our problem.
We got our scholarships.
We worked hard.
We need to let go.
But the Roadhouse is sketchy.
Besides, they probably
won't even let us in.
No, I actually thought
about that.
So, um, I invited Nancy Meyers.
Yeah, she's got fake IDs.
- Nancy Meyers?
- Come on,
she's actually really nice
when you get to know her.
And you know what?
I think you guys
would have fun together.
No.
She's not like us.
Please come, Isla.
It wouldn't be the same
without you.
And I think you're gonna look
really hot in this dress.
I'm just gonna put this right...
Oh, so pretty!
Wow! So nice.
Okay, I'm only coming
to make sure that you don't get
into any trouble.
I'm trying this on.
And I'm not wearing that dress.
I'm going to get a soda.
[somber music]
Hey, Isla,
can you grab me a soda too
when you're down there?
Isla?
Okay, Isla,
I know you're not sure
about tonight
but you don't have to give me
the silent treatment.
Isla?
[screaming]
[ominous music]
Are you okay?
There... Someone was here.
- What?
- I don't know.
They rushed out so quickly,
I-I didn't see.
[startling]
Why is this door open?
Why are you coming
through the back door?
Why are you even back so early?
I forgot something.
What?
[suspenseful music]
[birds chirping]
- Anything?
- Well, there's nobody up there
and nothing's gone,
as far as I can tell.
It looks like they went through
some old photo albums
and papers.
My jewelry box was open.
Should we even call the police?
Well, I didn't notice
anything missing
and no one was hurt, right,
so I don't think we need to.
Okay, well uh,
let's just go grab our stuff
then.
Well, hold on.
You still wanna go out tonight?
Yeah. Isla was the one
who was spooked.
She needs cheering up.
And we're just gonna get ready
at her place.
Yeah, you know what?
You've worked hard all year.
This is a celebration.
Enjoy the night.
Okay.
Don't worry, honey,
she'll be fine.
[rhythmic music]
[overlapping chatter]
You need this.
You look too young.
I like your natural look.
The guys here won't.
[chuckles]
We can always
just watch a movie.
You need to chill, Tallulah.
Come on, this is gonna be fun.
Okay, but your dad's
the principal.
You're wearing
our school jacket.
- Somebody could recognize you.
- Look,
I'm not making you guys
do anything.
Either you're in or you're out.
But it'll be fun.
We wanted to spend
some one on one time together
before my trip.
Just the two of us.
We can just do that instead.
I need this, Isla.
But you're totally right,
I can't wear this.
Can you hold this?
[chucking]
[indistinct chatter]
Hi.
Okay, now I'm a little excited.
Just be cool.
- Right.
- [chuckles nervously]
And stop worrying
about your dad.
- Yeah.
- If anything,
it's your mom
I'd be more concerned about.
My mom?
Yeah.
She may be a counselor
but she's the one with issues.
Are we gonna chit-chat all day
or are we gonna head inside?
- Okay!
- [chuckles]
[tense music]
[beeping]
Just dinner with Isla, huh?
Let's go.
Both of you.
Let's go.
[ominous music]
[engine stops]
[sighs]
Talk to me, Eleanor.
Was this Nancy's idea?
No, it was mine.
What were you thinking?
I just wanted to get some...
practice.
Practice?
Talking to boys.
I'm going off to college soon.
How are we supposed to trust you
at a college out of state,
when you can't even
be safe at home?
- Mom, I'm going to college.
- Trust is earned, Eleanor.
It's Ellie.
But Eleanor means shining light,
which is what you are.
Don't dim that light.
I'm not Eleanor,
your little girl anymore, Mom.
I'm Ellie.
I can't wait to get outta here.
Wow.
[soft music]
[cellphone rings]
[dial tone]
Hey, Nance, sorry about tonight.
I told you it was your mom
you had to watch out for.
Listen, I met a guy
on my way home.
He and his buddies
are hanging out
at Gib's Lookout,
if you wanna come.
- I'm already here.
- My mom is so mad at me.
- He said he knew you.
- What?
Yeah, from debate?
Said you freaked out
when you tried talking to him.
Oh, my God. It's him.
Wow, I can't believe
he remembers me.
- Um...
- So, are you in?
[soft music]
- I'm in.
- Great.
Oh, by the way,
I'm wearing your jacket.
You left it in my car.
I'll keep it warm for you.
Oh yeah. Okay, thanks.
- See ya soon!
- Okay, see ya soon!
[]
No.
No. Too high.
[suspenseful music]
What are you doing?
Midnight study group?
[sighs]
I'm going to meet Nancy.
But there's no dive bars
this time.
Sneaking out
in the middle of the night
is not the way
to win back my trust,
especially not with Nancy.
Tell her you're not going.
Where were you meeting?
Gib's Lookout.
Go to bed.
We'll talk about this
in the morning.
[footsteps in the stairs]
[door closing]
[ominous music]
[car door closing]
[engine starts]
[insects chirping]
[sighs]
[cellphone rings]
Come on, Ellie,
I'm already here.
[sighs]
[ominous music]
[footsteps approaching]
[screams]
[birds chirping]
- Hi.
- Where'd you go last night?
Midnight study group.
That's funny.
I phoned Nancy's parents.
They hadn't heard from her
so I decided
- to try and find her myself.
- Mom!
Okay, did you?
If there was a party
at the lookout,
I certainly didn't see it.
So...
Honey, are you okay?
I just got a call
from the chief of police.
Nancy Meyers' body
was found this morning
What?
No, she... she's dead?
No, I-I saw her last night.
Like, we-we texted.
She can't... she can't...
- [wheezing]
- Honey, honey,
breathe, breathe,
breathe, breathe.
Breathe. Breathe.
Deeply.
[wheezing inhale]
And slowly.
That's it.
[wheezing]
What happened?
They don't know much
at this stage.
Uh, some local hickers
found her body on the rocks
below Gib's Lookout.
That's where she asked me
to meet her.
We should call the police.
Based on the evidence
they found at the scene,
they think this was murder.
No, no,
they honestly can't
believe that.
She must have slipped and fell.
Was she drinking last night?
Mom... Like, I know you think
she was some kind of monster
but...
They're not ruling out
anything at this point.
Oh.
Oh, God.
- You okay?
- Oh.
Why wouldn't she be okay?
She hated Nancy.
Eleanor,
that is a horrible thing to say.
[sobbing]
- Oh.
- Hey.
[shaky breathing]
[Marion]: I can't believe
this is happening again.
[Nathan]: It's not.
It's different this time.
We're gonna be okay.
[Marion]: What if the chief
questions me?
What if he questions Eleanor?
What if Eleanor finds out
about all of this?
[Nathan]: Stop, stop, stop.
Just take a breath.
[Marion]: Okay.
[car door opening]
[doorbell ringing]
Uh, Chief, um,
we weren't expecting you.
Yeah, I just have
some questions in regards
to some new evidence
that's just cropped up.
You mind if I come in?
- Um...
- [sighs]
Eleanor is really upset
about this whole situation.
Nancy was her friend.
I don't think
now is a good time.
It's fine, Mom. I-I wanna help.
Hey.
- Come on in.
- Thank you.
[sighs]
[kettle hissing]
Um, your coffee, Chief.
Shirley says
you're on to decaf now
so I made that.
Do you take sugar or...
Listen, I don't wanna take
too much of your folks' time.
I just got a few questions.
Does this necklace
look familiar?
Um...
It's mine.
Yeah, uh, we found it
at the lookout last night.
Near where we believe
Nancy was...
We found it at the lookout
and we ran it for prints
and they matched yours, Marion.
The break-in yesterday.
- It must have been taken then.
- Wait.
Wait, wait, you guys had
a break-in yesterday?
Did my people investigate?
We didn't think
anything was missing.
I mean,
Ellie's friend saw someone,
she thought
she saw someone but...
We-we didn't wanna
waste your time.
So, you didn't notice
it was missing?
It's an old necklace
I've had since I was a teenager.
I... I don't even
wear it anymore.
Where were you last night,
Mrs. Bevan?
Huh.
Are we under investigation here,
Chief?
This is a murder case.
I have to dot all the I's.
So, just tell me,
where were you last night?
Um, I-I picked up Eleanor
and then, drove her friend,
Isla, home,
and then, had cocoa
and went to bed.
Well, sadly,
your necklace wasn't
all we found at the scene.
We also found
a Rockwood High jacket,
and in the front pocket it had
an assignment
with your name on it.
I forgot. I-I left my jacket
in Nancy's car.
When did you leave Nancy?
About 10:00, I guess.
We saw on her phone
that you called her last night.
Yeah, she-she wanted me
to meet her at Gib's Lookout
but my mom wouldn't let me go.
Hmm.
Was she with anyone?
Yeah, um, there was this...
this guy I met
at the debate final
the other week.
Um, yeah,
she said she was hanging out
with him and his friends.
I... I think he was one
of the older brother's
- of the other team.
- Hmm.
Yeah, he-he seemed really nice.
Well, appearances
can be deceptive.
That's all the questions
I have for now.
Great. I'll...
I'll see you out, Chief.
Thank you.
- Ma'am.
- Thank you.
I wanna talk to you about
how I'm gonna deal with this
in terms of the children
at school.
Why did you lie?
- [door closing]
- What?
To the Chief,
I saw you go out last night.
I let the registration lapse
on the car.
What?
I-I know. I forgot to renew it
and I didn't wanna give
the Chief any reason
to dig deeper
into the car's exact whereabouts
last night.
He'd find out,
I'd get into trouble.
I mean, they could
impound the car, or worse!
Okay.
You lied.
I didn't have any information.
I didn't see anyone there.
What help would the truth be?
Eleanor, please, just...
give me a break on this one.
[soft music]
[birds chirping]
How ya holdin' up?
I just can't believe it.
I feel like there's more
that we should be doing,
you know?
She was our friend.
Not really.
She's dead, Isla.
I'm not being mean, I-I just...
she wasn't really our friend.
She got us in massive trouble
the other night.
It could have been
so much worse.
If they had found our fake IDs.
I can't lose my scholarship.
- My whole future depends on it.
- Okay, that-that was my fault.
Not hers.
Did they talk
to the college guy?
Yeah, the police said
they found him in his dorm.
I don't know,
they'll keep us updated.
I don't think
I can go to this memorial.
But your dad planned it.
We have to.
I know, I just like...
I just don't wanna see like,
all these people who hated Nancy
just pretending
to be sad she's gone.
[soft music]
Mom, Dad,
Isla and I are just gonna
head off together.
We'll meet you there.
I have a better idea.
[birds chirping]
I got Nancy into this.
What?
Don't be ridiculous.
She was always looking
for trouble.
Can we say
a little something for her?
Like our own private memorial?
Yeah.
[sighs]
You'll be missed, Nancy.
I know we didn't know
each other that long
but um, I'm glad we got
to become friends.
I promise to be more reckless
in my life.
[sniffles]
I... I do not promise that.
[laughing]
I don't know really know
what else to say.
To be honest,
you kinda scared me, Nancy.
And it scared me
that you and Ellie
suddenly became so close.
- Eleanor!
- [gasps]
What are you doing?
Get away from there!
Both of you!
We...
I wanted to do our own service
for Nancy.
Something personal.
No. No, not here.
Not while there's a killer
on the loose.
Police have the killer, Mom.
Chief Jones
just called your father.
That college kid
from your debate has an alibi.
What? How?
It doesn't matter, just come on.
Let's go, let's go.
Come home with me.
[soft music]
[door opening]
[sighs]
Oh, thank goodness.
Our little girl decided
it would be a good idea
to explore Gib's Lookout.
I just wanted
to say my own goodbye.
You need to stay home, Eleanor,
until this is all figured out.
This is serious!
You...
Try not to be so hard
on your mom, okay?
Between you and me,
she's going through a tough time
at work right now.
Somebody filed a complaint
against her
and she's been suspended
until they can investigate.
What? Who?
It's nothing to worry about.
Just it's a stressful time
for her
and then, losing Nancy
like that, you know,
we're all a bit rattled, okay?
Bring it in here, come on.
Come on.
And be good.
[sobbing]: Okay.
Oh, kid.
[soft music]
[insects chirping]
[Isla]: So, now your mom's
under investigation at school?
Yep, so she's gonna be around.
A lot.
Making sure I am stuck at home.
Well, is that really
such a bad thing?
We both could've gotten
really hurt
and besides, I'll come over
and we'll do popcorn and movies
like we said.
Yeah.
Well, my parents don't want me
going out on my own
but if I said I was meeting you
at the library for like...
like a college project,
that should work,
- right?
- But why?
Well, I mean, I
got Nancy into this.
Like, she was out
because I asked her to,
and it was a guy from debate
that took her to the lookout.
I wanna figure this out.
[sighs]
Hey, listen, this isn't
gonna be like last time.
Like, you know,
heading out with Nancy.
- Just you and me.
- Fine.
- Meet you there tomorrow?
- Hey, honey,
want some ice cream?
Mom, I'm on the phone.
Like, if you won't let me
have a lock,
- you could at least knock.
- Locks are a fire hazard,
you know that.
If you want ice cream,
it's downstairs.
I have to get outta here
before she suffocates me.
Okay. I will see you tomorrow.
[birds chirping]
Ah, ah, where are you going?
Mom, I'm just going
to the library with Isla.
Mom, we have pre-college reading
we have to do.
Okay, but don't be too long.
And let me know
if you need picking up.
- I will.
- [door opening]
- El... Oh.
- [door closing]
[birds chirping]
Okay, who are our suspects?
This feels kind of weird.
Come on, Isla.
The police have no leads.
We can't just sit back
and do nothing.
So, it had to have been
someone with access
to the necklace.
Yeah, um...
I'm sorry,
I really didn't get a good look
- at who was at your house.
- Okay.
And whoever sent the message
to Nancy
had to have been at the debate,
so it was me, you, my parents.
And like a million other people.
I mean, even if the guy
at the debate had an alibi,
like what about his friends?
Nancy said she was meeting him
and his buddies.
Maybe it was them.
Yeah, maybe he doesn't have
an alibi at all.
Maybe his friends
covered for him.
You think so?
Of course, they're his friends.
I'd cover for you
in a heartbeat.
Can I help with anything
today, dears?
Oh, uh, no. No, thank you.
Is that a school project?
- Yeah.
- It's the summer vacation.
You should be outside
enjoying yourselves.
Wish my mom agreed with you.
I hope you don't mind me
saying this
but I recognize you, don't I?
You're the principal's daughter.
- Guilty.
- Such a shame
about that awful business
with that poor girl, Nancy.
Were you friends?
Oh, honey,
I can't begin to imagine
what you're going through.
I'm so sorry for your loss.
Thank you.
Do they know what happened yet?
Not yet.
The police
are still investigating.
Well, listen,
I couldn't help but notice
you're scribbling
on loose scraps of paper
and I thought,
"What those ladies need
is a good notebook",
and we had some
just laying around
in the back office, so.
- Thank you. So kind.
- There you go.
Good luck with your project.
Thank you.
Cute.
All right, so...
did Nancy say anything
about these friends?
No.
A lot of kids in school
didn't like her.
Not liking her is different
than wanting her dead.
I have an idea.
Can you meet me later tonight?
Yeah, okay.
Okay.
[Isla]: I really don't know
about this.
How are we even supposed
to get inside?
I borrowed my dad's school keys.
I really don't like this, Ellie.
Don't worry,
there's no one here.
What do you expect to find
in her folder?
Motives for murder?
This isn't Clue.
If someone complained about her
that was also at the debate,
you don't think
that might mean something?
I thought that you decided
it was one of the college guys?
Uh, yeah, I just...
I don't know yet.
Wanna get as much info as I can.
[door opening]
Wait, I just heard something.
What? I didn't...
[indistinct chatter]
[door closing]
Okay, Ellie, that was so close.
We have to go.
It'll only take a minute.
[suspenseful music]
Ellie,
if we get caught,
we could be in serious trouble.
We have our scholarships
to keep.
We...
[sighs]
Keep lookout.
[sighs]
Okay, this is dangerous
and stupid.
Just let it go.
You're wasting your future
on a girl
that you barely even knew.
Then go, Isla.
I'm staying here.
See? It's locked.
[beeping]
[clicking]
Wow, for two people
who are so strict on safety,
my parents really use
my birthday for everything.
[sighs]
- [tense music]
- Someone's coming.
Just give me a minute.
It could be the janitors.
It's security!
Ellie, we don't have time.
We have to go!
[heavy breathing]
[indistinct radio chatter]
[frantic music]
[panting]
- Quick!
- I'm trying.
[grunting]
[panting]
And then, as if lying
and disobeying the rules
isn't enough,
you break into the school?
That's trespassing, Ellie,
that's a criminal offence!
You're lucky school security
called me and not the police.
And in the middle
of a murder investigation.
But that's exactly why I did it.
- I needed to try and help.
- Eleanor,
don't you get it?
Nancy spent the evening
with you and Isla.
She was wearing your jacket.
She texted you to join her.
Then they find my necklace
at the scene?
So?
So?
- What?
- [sighs]
So, we just think
it might be best
if you lay low
for a little while.
You think I look suspicious?
Of course we don't think
you're gonna hurt anybody
but there's
a murder investigation going on
and we don't want you or Isla
to get caught up in it.
We just wanna protect you.
No, no. No, don't do this.
No, no, it's okay. Let her go.
That's where you're gonna be
for the next week.
[sighs]
[door closing]
[sniffles]
[mysterious music]
[tense music]
Isla.
[]
[city rumble]
[cellphone ringing]
Hello?
So, how much trouble
did you get into?
Uh, they were okay.
I thought my dad
was going to explode.
He threatened to call off
the Europe trip this summer
but my sister managed
to calm him down.
Ellie, you okay?
Yeah. Yeah, I'm fine.
But at least we can put an end
to this whole
investigation thing, right?
I'm meant to be grounded,
but I think
my parents will let me out
if it's just to your place.
I can say
the principal's supervising us.
[chuckles]
Uh, I have
a mother-daughter hike tomorrow.
- Oh.
- Yeah, my hiking boots
need new laces.
It's like...
the only reason
my mom let me out of the house.
I could pick you up
from the mall later.
No, I won't be out long enough.
Um... raincheck?
[call beeps off]
- Oh.
- Oh, my gosh, I'm so sorry.
- Are you okay?
- Yeah, I'm fine.
I feel awful tough.
Uh, can I get you a coffee?
- I could use a coffee.
- All right.
[soft music]
- There you go.
- Thank you.
- Anything else?
- I'm Simon, by the way.
Hi. I'm Ellie.
Uh, how's the coffee here?
It's good. Yeah, it's nice,
it's really nice.
It's good beans, you know?
I only came to town yesterday
and uh...
number one priority
is finding good coffee.
Yeah, what brought you here?
Well, I'm a journalist
looking into the murder
of Nancy Meyers.
Yeah. You were about her age.
- Did you know her?
- I did.
Oh. Sorry.
Thank you.
Have you found anything?
Well, I spoke to the police
and there was a college kid
with an alibi, right?
Then they found
the counselor's necklace
at the scene
but haven't been able
to find anything about her
online.
Yeah.
"The only safe digital presence
is to have none."
Huh?
So, the counselor,
she's my mom.
She doesn't believe
you should have anything
about yourself online.
Like, no photos,
no socials, nothing.
She's into like,
online safety and all that.
What can I get for you?
Oh, um...
could I please get a latte?
Can I get an Americano, please?
Thank you.
So, have you found
anything else on the case?
Nancy was my friend.
Of course, but you know,
the counselor, your mom,
I've rarely come across anyone
whose past is just nonexistent.
Oh well, yeah,
she's definitely not involved.
[chuckles]
She's just...
Well, she's my mom.
Well,
I'd love to know more about her,
you know,
just to rule her out.
Uh, she's an only child.
She grew up on a farm out west.
That help solve your mystery?
Um...
Her parents died
before I was born so...
I'm not looking to pry,
I just...
She doesn't even have a photo
on the school site.
It just seemed strange to me.
I'm only in town
for a few more days
but you're the first person
that's been willing
to speak to me,
so if anything comes up,
literally anything,
feel free to reach out.
Yeah, and same to you.
Um...
I really wanna know
what happened to my friend.
Of course.
[mysterious music]
[sighs]
Marion Bevan.
Marion Brooks.
[pants]
[wheezing]
[shaky exhale]
[wheezing]
[tense music]
[wheezing]
[heavy breathing]
Where's my notebook?
[dramatic music]
Hello?
Hey, is somebody out there?
Please!
[wheezing]
[oxygen hissing]
[wheezing]
[dramatic crescendo]
Ellie, are you all right?
I think the door got stuck.
[wheezing]
[heavy breathing]
Did you take my notebook?
What? No, of course not.
I just had it.
Um, maybe you dropped it.
I just had it.
[birds chirping]
- [tense music]
- Hey.
Only me.
No need to jump.
- Are you okay?
- Sorry, I...
I met this journalist today.
I think he stole my notebook.
You met a journalist? Where?
Um, at a coffee shop.
I thought you were
just running out to get laces?
Well, who cares
if he stole your notebook?
The investigation's over, right?
I'm going to Europe soon
with my family.
I was hoping that this would be
our last big summer at home
together.
I didn't wanna spend it
being amateur detectives.
- Ellie.
- Why didn't you tell me
you reported Nancy for bullying?
That's supposed
to be confidential.
Well, I know, so.
I don't know,
maybe because she was a bully.
Because she treated me horribly
and you still hung out with her
anyway.
And you really didn't see
who broke into our house?
What is this?
Do you think
I had something to do with this?
I don't want to, but Isla,
my mom's necklace was taken
by someone only you saw,
and like,
supposedly didn't get
a good enough look at?
- I didn't.
- I know you knew
I was meeting Nancy there.
I texted you.
[shaky exhale]
You never liked her.
- Look.
- [sighs]
We are meant to be best friends.
We were meant to go for dinner
and have a movie night,
not come up
with conspiracy theories.
It's not a conspiracy theory.
So, I'm the big suspect
who killed Nancy,
is that it?
If you really wanna dig
into this,
there's someone
right under your nose
that you're missing.
What do you mean?
My parents told me
that it was Nancy
who made the complaint
about your mom.
That's why she's suspended.
- No, that's...
- It was her necklace the scene.
She knew where Nancy was going
to meet those guys
and she liked Nancy
a lot less than I did.
[mysterious music]
This is delinquent behavior.
But you know punishment
is not always the answer.
- But this is almost...
- Hang on a second,
I'll be right back.
[Marion]: All right, of course.
[suspenseful music]
[Nathan]: We tried your way.
[Marion]: She doesn't understand
how serious
the consequences are.
[Nathan]:
No one does at her age.
[Marion]: Isn't that
what we're supposed to do
as her parents?
[indistinct]
[insects chirping]
[beeping]
[suspenseful music]
Okay. History.
Gib's Lookout.
15 minutes.
That doesn't expire
for another month.
[keys jiggling]
[mysterious music]
Why aren't you dressed yet?
I totally forgot.
- [sighs]
- Well, get dressed quickly.
I will lace your boots.
Where are your new laces?
Uh, I forgot to get them.
What?
- Eleanor!
- I'm sorry,
I almost had an asthma attack
on the way.
That's why.
Oh.
Honey,
why didn't you say anything?
Actually, I'm still
not feeling great today.
Um, I think
a lot of walking around
won't really be good, so.
[sighs]
- Well, I...
- [sighs]
I don't wanna force you to go
but...
this is the club's last hike
and it's our last chance
to do this
before you leave for college.
This is important.
To me.
Okay.
Okay.
I have a feeling
that this is gonna be
our most memorable trip yet.
[soft music]
I have an old pair of boots
you can use for today.
I'll get them.
Get dressed!
[birds chirping]
So, you all should have
different checkpoints,
so make sure
you check your maps.
And of course,
don't forget your water.
- And...
- Hi!
- Oh!
- [panting]
Sorry, we're late.
Marion, you came.
I didn't think you would,
what with...
Oh, you're so brave.
What do you mean, Rachel?
Oh, you know, it's just gossip.
[sighs]
You know perfectly well
we have not been
officially questioned.
It's terrifying, though.
Isn't it?
Knowing that whoever did this
is out there?
And that they somehow had
your necklace?
So scary.
You know what's scary?
Is how much you're enjoying
all this information.
We'll see you
at the finish line.
All right, we'll see you
at the finish line.
[indistinct chatter]
[birds chirping]
Okay, so our first checkpoint
should just be
a few minutes this way.
You never really talk
about your past much.
- Huh?
- Your childhood.
Like, I don't really know
anything about it.
- Uh, it was uneventful.
- [chuckles nervously]
If you think it's boring here,
try living on a farm.
How did Grandma and Grandpa die?
Really, Eleanor?
We're kind of on the clock here.
You've never spoken about it.
Like...
Not like properly.
It was a car accident, okay?
Now, can we please
change the subject?
Okay.
Surely we have
other family though.
Like, we have cousins,
or like, uncles?
I would really like
to just focus
on beating Rachel right now.
It's a hiking club, Mom.
It's not really about winning.
- So...
- Well, it is to me.
[camera shutter snaps]
Okay, that's our first one.
Now, our second checkpoint
should be due south.
I just think it's weird
we never see any other family.
You know what?
I have an idea.
Come on, follow me.
Come on!
- Keep your knees up.
- This is like, not a path.
Well, it's a shortcut.
[mysterious music]
Um, what about friends?
Like uh...
Who was your Isla
in high school?
Mom?
Why the sudden interest
in my past?
Um...
Well, I met this guy
the other day,
he's a... a journalist.
What? A journalist?
What did you tell him?
Nothing.
Well, who is he?
He's probably nobody.
I don't know.
He-he seemed,
he like, gave me his card.
His card? Do you have it?
Eleanor.
Give it to me.
Right now.
[sighs]
Why would a journalist
talk to a teenager
- without their parents?
- I didn't say anything.
Not really.
Eleanor,
we have to be so careful.
Don't you understand that?
[sighs]
Come on.
[sighs]
Watch where you're stepping.
Yeah, we're supposed to be like,
meeting at the checkpoints, Mom.
This is like,
completely off trail.
Trust me.
- Are you mad at me?
- No!
I'm just a private person,
Eleanor.
I don't want other people
knowing my business,
- or yours.
- Yeah, I know.
You don't even have a photo
on the school website.
Like, something like that
is fine.
Why would anyone need
to see my photo online?
It's just best
to keep ourselves to ourselves.
- But I...
- No!
No buts, Eleanor.
Am I clear?
[sighs]
[somber music]
[insects chirping]
[birds chirping]
Mom, this is crazy.
Can't even see anyone anymore.
Are we lost?
Mom, can you please talk to me?
Hey, you'd never lie to me,
right?
What? No, of course not!
Look, stop bugging me
about the past.
I'll let you know
when the time is right.
[panting]
Oh, Eleanor, just breathe.
- Remember to breathe.
- I think I need to stop.
It's not long now.
Take the lead.
It's just straight ahead.
I'm right behind you.
Mom, I don't think
this is the right way.
[ominous music]
Mom?
It's the only way.
Keep moving.
Just keep going.
[pants]
[beeping]
A little further.
[dramatic crescendo]
[pants frantically]
Marion, Ellie,
I see you guys
are cutting the trails, too!
Smart.
You've almost caught up to us.
Come on, Mom.
Let's jog it to the finish line.
This is not over. Come on.
[soft music]
Hey! How'd it go?
We did not take home the win.
Rachel beat us in the end.
- Ah! Rachel.
- Mm-hmm.
Whoa there, kiddo.
- I wanna hear all about it.
- Uh...
Yeah, I'm just like,
so exhausted.
I think I'm just gonna
like, head up and rest.
Okay.
Me too.
Okay.
[insects chirping]
[mysterious music]
[dialing]
[cellphone rings]
Hello?
Hi, it's Ellie, uh,
from the caf.
- You gave me your card.
- Ellie, hi.
I'm so glad you called.
- Uh, are you doing better?
- Yeah, I just, um...
I feel like I'm losing my mind.
I just wanted to ask, um...
Have you made any progress
on the case?
Like, do you have
any more information about...
Like, what might
have happened to Nancy?
Who might have hurt her?
Look, I don't wanna
speak out of turn here.
- Just tell me.
- Okay, it's probably nothing
but I've been struggling
to find anything to write about,
so I looked up similar cases.
I found this other incident
and they're basically the same.
They're so close it's uncanny.
Okay, it was in Waterford,
25 years ago,
almost to the day, June 28th.
[door opening]
Maybe you could meet me tomorrw
at the same coffee place?
I have to go.
- [call beeps off]
- Ellie?
Hello? Are you...?
[]
[footsteps thudding]
[mysterious music]
[shaky breathing]
[birds chirping]
Oh, hey there, early bird.
- Got a minute?
- Well, um,
I have to do
some admin stuff for college.
Well, it'll just take a second.
Okay.
I'm just...
I'm wondering
how you're feeling.
How am I feeling?
Well, I know
this Nancy thing's hit you
pretty hard
so I'm just making sure
you're okay.
I'll be fine.
- I'll see ya tonight.
- Um, hey, hey...
You and your mom are okay,
aren't ya?
I-I mean,
I know she can be tough
but she's desperate
to spend time with ya,
so maybe you could ask her
to help you
- with some of your college stuff.
- Yeah,
this one I'm really supposed
to do by myself.
But um...
I'll ask her for the next one.
Okay. Okay, have fun!
[mysterious music]
[]
Do you need some help?
Uh, yeah, that'd be great.
There's like, so many papers
and I don't think the dust
is good for my asthma.
Ah. What is it exactly
that you're looking for?
Um, so it sounds kinda morbid.
I'm...
I'm actually...
I'm looking into a murder case.
Uh, it was in Waterford
about 25 years ago.
I know the date, it's June 28th.
Yeah, I assume
there's a newspaper article
about it, but...
it's driving me nuts,
there's like so many.
Well, this is
because you're looking
through the local archives.
And if it was in Waterford,
then you need to check
the national archives.
And they can only be accessed
on the library's
computer system.
Okay? You can follow me.
Okay, thank you.
- This baby has everything.
- Okay.
Detailed logs
of hundreds of newspapers
going back 80 years at least.
- Amazing.
- Yeah.
I'll be around
if you need anything else.
You know, it's funny,
I've just remembered,
your friend Nancy,
she was here
just a few days before...
She was? Why?
She'd just come out
of a counselling session.
She seemed really upset.
I only put two and two together
when I saw her photo
in the papers this morning.
She seemed so torn up that day.
I feel so sad
about what happened to her.
"The Marshall family
is grappling
with an unimaginable loss
after the death
of their youngest daughter,
Emma, aged 17.
The body of the young victim
was discovered
at the base of a cliff
on the morning of June 28th,
by some local hikers.
Law enforcement officials
have confirmed a suspect.
Close friend of the victim
is being pursued
in connection with the crime."
[mysterious music]
Mom.
[dramatic crescendo]
[mysterious music]
Isla?
[car door closing]
[engine starts]
[tires screeching]
[panting]
Hi, you've reached
Simon Marshall.
Leave a detailed message
and I'll get back to you.
Simon, it's Ellie. Um...
So I looked into the case
you mentioned.
Can you just call me back
when you get this?
[shaky breathing]
[mysterious music]
[elevator chimes]
- Miss Bevan.
- Chief Jones.
Thank you so much for seeing me.
Yeah, you said it was
about Nancy Meyers.
All right, please follow me.
Take your time, Miss Bevan.
It can be hard to talk
about things
that might
make you uncomfortable.
Maybe things that Nancy did
or things that you've done
that may be wrong.
But it's important
that you're honest with me
right now for Nancy's sake.
No, it's...
It's nothing like that. Um...
We know Nancy
could be prone to trouble.
I've had to take her
to her parents
a few times myself.
Yeah, she could be
a bit reckless but she...
but she was a good kid.
Really,
she worked hard on her exams.
Like, she wanted to do better.
It's natural
to wanna protect your friends.
It's not that.
And yourself, too.
[sighs]
Just read this.
The friend, Jane Service,
that's my mom.
I'm gonna look into this,
all right?
Will you wait for me
just outside?
Yeah, of course.
Thank you.
[overlapping chatter]
Miss Bevan.
[tense music]
I really appreciate you
coming in.
I understand
Nancy Meyers was your friend,
and I know
this must be hard on you.
But we spoke to your mom
and everything's been
cleared up.
Cleared up.
Yeah, you don't have
to worry about your mom
getting into any trouble.
I know it must be tough thinking
that you could lose Nancy
and then your Mom too,
but I don't want you to worry
about that, all right?
Once again, I'm so sorry
that Eleanor's wasted your time.
I promise,
she won't be any more trouble.
Ah, no trouble.
Losing a friend
is tough for anyone
but especially at this age.
You're very kind.
Well, I hope your suspension
gets cleared up too, Mrs. Bevan.
You've been doing wonders
for my boy, Kyle.
- Oh.
- [chuckles]
[ominous music]
[indistinct chatter]
What on Earth
has gotten into you?
I like to keep my life private.
I told you that
time and time again.
If you had any questions,
- take them directly to me.
- I did. I asked you.
You wouldn't tell me anything.
Oh, so because I didn't feel
like talking then
you decide
to sniff around in my past
and go to the police with it?
What else was I supposed to do?
Oh, it's unbelievable, Eleanor.
So, talk to me now.
Tell me now.
[sighs]
Okay, you wanna play detective?
Be all mature,
date college guys,
have all this freedom.
But the way you behaved today
was so incredibly immature.
It just shows me
you're not ready.
You're still a child!
Isn't that what you want?
If you had it your way,
I'd stay a child forever.
I'd never leave.
[sighs]
I wish that was the case.
[sighs]
[mysterious music]
Where's Dad?
He had an emergency
Board of Education meeting
- in Bakersfield.
- But he'll be home later?
I told him to stay the night.
- He can come back in the morning.
- What? Why?
These meetings
go on for hours, Eleanor.
He could get himself hurt
driving home so late.
Go on upstairs.
I'll be right behind you,
and then you and I,
we are gonna
sort this out tonight.
For good.
[somber music]
[dial tone]
- Ellie.
- Dad.
Sorry, the signal here
is terrible.
Um, you have to come home.
How'd you know?
Know what?
I've been sent
on a wild goose chase.
I got an emergency memo today
to head down to
the education board
and as soon as I get here, nada.
No emergency, no board meeting.
Th-there's no meeting?
Like...
Like someone sent you away
on purpose?
Yeah, probably
some high schooler pranking me.
Who knows?
Your mom took the message.
Look, I'm gonna grab
a bite to eat
and I'll be right back
on the road.
No, Dad, you have
to come back right away, Dad.
- Everything all right?
- Dad, look...
Listen, I think...
I think Mom wants to hurt me.
Ellie, I...
I can't hear you properly.
- [static interference]
- Dad?
Dad?
[ominous music]
[shaky breathing]
[Marion]:
Eleanor, we need to talk.
[thudding on the door]
Eleanor, I know
you went through my purse.
That journalist's card
is missing
and you took it, didn't you?
I know you did!
Lies after lies after lies,
Eleanor.
This is gonna stop.
I can't take this anymore.
I am reaching
my breaking point with you!
[thudding on the door]
[dramatic crescendo]
Eleanor, can you even hear me?
Fine. Fine. You wanna...
You wanna stay in there
the whole night?
That's fine.
That's not a problem.
I will be right downstairs
waiting for you, Eleanor.
I am not going anywhere.
Oh!
[pants]
[suspenseful music]
[grunts]
[tense music]
[panting]
[dial tone]
You've reached the voicemail
of Nathan Bevan.
[dial tone]
Hi. You've reached
Simon Marshall.
Leave a detailed...
[pants]
[oxygen hissing]
[wheezing]
[pants]
Honey!
Are you okay?
Please, I need your help.
Oh, sweetie, what happened?
Are you in trouble?
Oh, my goodness. Oh, sweetie!
[crying]: I'm sorry.
Oh, I'm sure whatever it was,
it's not as bad a you think.
I have a place nearby.
We could have a cup of tea.
We could talk about it.
Okay?
Okay.
[soft music]
Eleanor!
Are you ready to talk?
Eleanor?
Oh no. No, no, you didn't.
Eleanor,
you are in so much trou...
Oh!
Oh, Eleanor?
[somber music]
No.
No, no.
No.
No, no, no. No.
No. No.
[insects chirping]
So peaceful.
Oh, I do love it here.
I mean, that's the benefit
of having a mobile home.
I can take it wherever I like.
[chuckles]
[cellphone ringing]
You wanna talk about it?
Yeah, I'm afraid if I like,
say it out loud,
you'll think I'm crazy, so.
Try me.
I think...
My mom...
[shaky exhale]
I think my mom is a murderer.
Yeah, it sounds stupid
when I say it like that.
But um...
I've researched it and...
I think it's happened before.
Um...
someone died
when my mom was younger
and she was the suspect
and I think
Nancy found out about it
and complained to the school.
And I think my mom hurt her.
Well, you're safe here.
- Do you believe me?
- I do.
I tried to go to the police
but they didn't believe me.
My parents are like,
friends with the chief.
- My mom counsels his son.
- Okay,
let's just take it slow, okay?
Okay.
Tea makes everything better.
Oh, you've hurt yourself.
Oh, yeah. Oh.
Must've knocked it
climbing out of the house.
Well, you just sit tight
and I'm gonna get you
- something to help with that.
- Okay.
[cellphone ringing]
[sniffles]
Hello?
Thank God. Are you okay?
- So you spoke to my mom?
- What?
No, I'm sorry, Ellie,
I know we haven't spoken
for the last couple days
but I heard something
really weird and...
- What?
- That librarian, Carla...
Ellie, she doesn't work
at the library.
What do you... What do you mean?
She's been hanging around
but she doesn't work there.
When the librarians
asked her to move on,
she got really angry,
really aggressive.
How-how do you know that?
My sister was there today.
She was the one I dropped off
when you saw me.
I'm sorry.
I shouldn't have
driven off like that
but I was still mad
and I didn't wanna talk to you.
[mysterious music]
What happened, Isla?
She needed to print stuff
for our flights
and she saw them
arguing with her.
But that's not all.
Guess when Carla showed up?
When?
The morning Nancy died.
Is something wrong?
Ellie? Is that her?
- Are you with her?
- Um...
My friend, she's um...
She needs me.
I have to...
- Ellie, get out of there.
- I have to go.
[ominous music]
[dramatic crescendo]
I'm sorry,
I'm afraid
it's a little late for that.
[heavy breathing]
[somber music]
[pants]
Help!
Help!
- Oh, hush.
- Hey, can anyone hear me?
There's no sense
making a ruckus, so hush.
We're all alone out here.
You don't have to do this.
[crying]:
Please, I have a family.
My mom.
My dad.
But your dad's not here, is he?
He's in Bakersfield.
And then, your mom.
[panting breathing]
Is this about Nancy?
You really remind me of her.
She was also a good student.
Determined.
Oh, she could often be stubborn,
too.
But then, you're so young.
I wasn't expecting you
to remind me so much of her.
Nancy?
Of course not Nancy.
[tense music]
Emma.
[shaky breathing]
You're Emma's mom.
You know, I never trusted
the way your mom was with Emma.
Always putting thoughts
in her head.
Making her feel
like she was unhappy at home.
But we provided a warm,
loving family.
After your mother
took my girl away from me,
she just ran away.
Like a rat from a fire.
Do you know
how much I sacrificed
trying to find her?
And then to see
that she has
her own perfect family?
Why does she deserve that?
[crying]
- She doesn't.
- No! No!
No! No!
That's enough now.
It'll all be over soon.
[heavy breathing]
She's not answering her phone,
Nathan.
I was gonna tell her
the truth tonight
but I don't know
what's gotten into her.
I-I just don't!
[phone beeps]
Hang on a sec.
Hang on, Nathan, okay?
Isla's calling.
Isla.
Isla, are you with Ellie?
I'm... I'm sorry.
What did you say?
[dramatic crescendo]
- [shaky breathing]
- Carla, please.
It doesn't have to be this way.
You don't wanna hurt me.
You're not like that.
I can tell.
You were so kind at the library.
Emma would not have wanted you
to become a murderer.
Don't you talk about her!
You didn't know her.
Carla, please.
I have asthma.
[wheezes]
My inhaler...
is in my bag.
Can't breathe.
[wheezing]
I need...
[wheezing]
Please. Please.
[wheezing]
[coughs]
[wheezes harder]
[gasping]
[tense music]
Breathe with me.
Okay?
[inhales deeply]
In, one, two, three.
Out, one, two, three.
That's it.
Now keep breathing slowly.
[exhales slowly]
[dramatic music]
You can't run from this.
[frantic music]
[pants]
Hey! Hey!
Hey! Stop, please!
Please, please! Stop!
Hey, you have to help us!
This woman is trying to kill me!
[music suddenly stops]
Simon.
Oh, thank God, it's you.
The woman from the library,
she's trying to kill me.
Please, I just...
I need to get to the police.
[tense music]
Simon, open the door.
I didn't wanna do this.
I didn't want any part of this.
Simon...
What are you talking about?
She didn't mean to kill Nancy.
You have to know that.
You shouldn't have
given her your jacket.
That's on you.
- No.
- [shaky breathing]
We're not bad people,
we just want what's right.
We didn't just lose Emma.
Afterwards,
we lost so much more.
Our futures.
[wheezing]
Everything.
I couldn't believe it
when I saw you at the debate.
Even before I found
the charm bracelet,
I knew it had to be you.
She's your mother.
And Emma was my sister
and I was just a kid
when your mom took her from us.
[wheezing]
Ah!
This would be easier
if you'd stop fighting.
[grunting]
Ah!
[sighs]
Oh.
[tense music]
[panting]
[wheezing]
[breathing deeply]
[panting]
[ominous music]
[gun shot]
[gasps]
Just like your mother.
Always running away.
Although, I suppose
it's a bit poetic, isn't it?
I was just gonna shoot you
but my little girl fell
to her death,
and now...
Ma, I don't think I can do this.
You were meant
to finish this without me.
I wasn't involved.
You were involved
when you broke into their house.
When you took the charm necklace
and her notebook.
That was to confirm
who they were,
not to kill anyone.
She's just a kid.
She's older than Emma was
when she died.
We have to finish it.
It's like you said
after Nancy died,
this could be more
than an eye for an eye.
This could be justice.
Jane will not only
lose her daughter
but she'll go to jail
for the murders.
She'll finally get
the prison sentence
that she deserves.
It's for Emma, Simon.
It's time we finished this.
- You're right.
- No.
No!
No!
[screams]
Leave her alone!
Oh!
- Mom!
- Oh, my baby!
[screams]
[panting]
Go. Get away.
You move and your mother dies.
[ominous music]
- I can't.
- No, baby,
this is not your fault,
it's mine.
Now run!
You know what?
I'm glad you're here, Jane.
You should get to see this.
You know
I never meant to hurt Emma.
That's not true.
I just wanted her
to have a break from you.
We all saw the bruises
she tried so hard to hide.
How you made her feel
so little about herself.
She felt trapped!
That's because
you made her feel that way.
You put those thoughts
in her head.
No, no.
No, I thought the lookout
would be peaceful.
More lies!
No, I just wanted her
to get away from your home!
When I told her
I wanted to help her,
she got so angry.
She thought I was tricking her.
And you did! You did trick her!
No! It was reflex to move
when she went for me.
I never...
I never thought she'd...
She'd fall.
I never, I never...
- You liar. You pushed her!
- No.
No, I would never push Emma!
I loved her.
She was my best f-friend.
Carla...
Carla, please.
I miss her too.
You don't know the half of it.
- But you will.
- Wait, I'll go.
- I'll jump.
- No!
- Do it. Quickly.
- Mom.
- No.
- I just want you to know,
I'll always be your Eleanor.
Your shining light.
Do it.
Do it now!
Jump!
No. No.
Eleanor, no. No.
Eleanor, Eleanor, don't.
- Do it!
- Don't do it!
- [beeping]
- Ah!
[grunting]
My gun!
[screams]
[crying]: No!
- Oh, thank God.
- Mom!
[sobbing]
Oh, my baby.
[police sirens]
[soft music]
How did you find me?
I put a tracker on your phone.
I know, I'm sorry,
I shouldn't have.
No, you should.
I'm glad you did.
You know, when Isla called me...
[sighs]
...and said the name Carla,
I just knew.
So, I tracked your phone
to her trailer,
and when I saw Emma's photo...
Oh, I thought I was too late.
But then I heard you yelling.
- You saved me.
- No, but...
I trapped you too.
You know,
I always wanted to help Emma
get away
from her controlling parents.
I wanted to protect her
like I've always wanted
to protect you.
But when the police
started questioning you,
I got so scared that...
they would accuse you
of hurting Nancy,
just like they accused me
of hurting Emma.
And before I realized it,
I was...
becoming a controlling parent
myself.
You're nothing like Carla.
Oh, I don't know, honey.
I think if I lost you
I might've gotten crazy too.
[crying]: Can we go home?
Yep.
Yeah. Let's go.
[soft music]
That is the last one.
Watch yourselves.
Okay,
so what's the first stop?
Oh, there's
this really cute town
a couple hours away
that has amazing thrift shops.
And an old-fashioned drive-in
with a long overdue
popcorn movie night.
Sounds perfect.
So, you'll get Ellie
all settled in,
- and then Isla.
- Off to my college.
Oh, gosh.
I remember when you girls were
riding bikes down the street
and going to ballet lessons.
- And now, look.
- Oh yeah,
and now,
it's a road trip to college.
What could be better?
It's just the two of us!
- Best friends!
- Best friends.
[chuckling]
Oh, you packed
the pepper spray, right?
- Mm-hmm, and the whistle.
- Okay.
The tank is full.
You checked the tire pressure?
You sure you don't want us
to give this a little...
Honey. We talked about this.
Right, right. Old habits.
No, I appreciate it. Always.
I trust you. Always.
You could always
come with us, Mom.
We'll do like, a girls' trip.
- Could be fun.
- No, you know what?
This is your time
to get out there on your own.
[soft music]
[shaky exhale]
- I love you.
- Come on, Isla, bring it in.
- Yeah.
- Okay.
Have a great trip.
Okay, okay, drive safe.
- All right.
- Okay.
[car doors closing]
[engine starts]
[]
[birds chirping]
[mysterious music]