Monarch (2022) s01e08 Episode Script
The Crown
1
Previously on Monarch
Nicky, is there anything
you haven't told us? Anything
that could help us find him?
Sure, go ahead, act like
everything is normal
when I haven't heard
from Dad in a month.
What if my dad needs help?
Luke does not trust you at all.
Guys like him should always
be suspicious of guys like me,
especially when they take
a liking to their sister.
Ace is the sweetest guy I've ever met.
I don't know what your
problem with him is.
I told you I didn't want
you around the Romans
outside of work.
You know who I am, don't you?
ALBIE: You know I had an affair
- a long time ago.
- Uh-huh.
That baby is Catt Phoenix.
- My daughter.
- I don't believe it.
Lies are the real Roman legacy.
A little girl is missing her father.
And we owe it to them
to get to the truth.
Whatever it takes.
And whoever it hurts.
[CHEERING, APPLAUSE]
[DEANA CARTER'S
"STRAWBERRY WINE" PLAYING]
He was working through college ♪
On my grandpa's farm ♪
I was thirsting for knowledge ♪
And he had a car ♪
Yeah, I was caught somewhere ♪
Between a woman and a child ♪
One restless summer ♪
We found love growing wild ♪
On the banks of the river ♪
On a well-beaten path ♪
It's funny how those
memories, they last ♪
Of strawberry wine ♪
And 17 ♪
The hot July moon ♪
Saw everything ♪
My first taste of love ♪
Oh, bittersweet ♪
Green on the vine ♪
Like strawberry wine ♪
Like strawberry wine. ♪
[CHEERING, APPLAUSE]
Can I be honest with you?
That depends if it's
a compliment or insult.
I was surprised that you called.
- I mean, I didn't realize we were
- Friends?
Well, I mean, I am happy to help
out an artist that I believe in.
Especially when it's, you know, you.
- [CHUCKLES] That's sweet.
- Good.
Because I'm trying like
hell to impress you.
Tell me, I mean, what's
what's the hesitation with us?
I mean, your Your
husband's been gone for
over two months now.
My kids.
Ace is still suffering from his anxiety.
And Tatum still misses her daddy.
Do you think you can be patient with me?
Well, if we're being honest
Yeah.
Yeah, I can.
Well, good. 'Cause you never know
what tomorrow's gonna bring.
[INDISTINCT RADIO CHATTER]
[DOOR CLOSES]
OFFICER: Expired tags.
Park rangers said it's been here
for two months.
Maybe longer.
You know that actor that
was married to Nicky Roman?
- The one who went missing a while back?
- Yeah.
We just found his ride.
ALBIE: I told you that no daughter
and granddaughter of mine are gonna
be living in a one-star motel.
Well, yeah, if that's
really who they are.
I mean, you don't think you're
being a little too trusting?
You don't think maybe you're
just being a little cynical?
NICKY: Well, maybe.
But I'm only 50% you.
The other half's Dottie Roman.
I'm trying to handle this how she would.
How's that?
By keeping my friends close
and my potential fake
sisters even closer.
Least till the DNA comes through.
I just want to know what Catt wants.
- In the meantime
- Yeah, yeah.
Not a word to Luke or
Gigi. No argument here.
Speaking of daughters,
how's your little girl doing?
I'm trying to take
her mind off her daddy.
There's a debutante competition
this weekend. Hopefully,
that'll distract her.
Her or you?
[CHUCKLES]
All right.
TATUM: Seriously, Mom, the Deb Ball?
Why do you care what Aunt Nellie
and a bunch of Austin snobs think?
I don't, but I care about us, and I was
looking forward to
spending some time together.
Okay, well, I have more important
things on my mind right now.
I know.
- Honey, I know.
- [SIGHS]
Come here.
I know you're upset about Dad.
You know, half the battle
in this world is facing
whatever comes our way
with strength and confidence.
It's what the Violet Crown's all about.
- You can do it, you can do it.
- All right.
- You can do it, you can do it.
- If you'll stop this harassment,
I guess I can try.
That's my girl. Might be fun.
Meet some new friends.
I have plenty of friends.
I mean ones without tails.
[HORSE NEIGHS]
Well, this really is a surprise, Earl.
Everything all right?
Georgina.
Do I need a reason to pop
by and see my favorite Roman?
Nicky lives up the road that way.
- [LAUGHS] You are too funny.
- Mm.
That's one of the reasons
everybody loves you.
- Oh, do they?
- Girl.
You know you are hotter
than a jalapeno's armpit.
So I am here to offer my humble services
as your beauty consultant/
spirit guide extraordinaire.
Okay.
Uh, I don't really have any
appearances coming up, so
- there's nothing I
- Oh! Oh, au contraire.
Nicky's pool party tomorrow
in honor of the Violet Crown.
- I'm not going to that.
- All right then.
Just remember, fame is
a fleeting, hungry bitch
who'll skip out on the check
the moment you stop feeding her.
Hmm?
You're going to that pool party.
Well, help yourself there,
Mr. District Attorney.
When I am governor,
I'm gonna issue an executive
order compelling you
to show me where you
hide the good stuff.
It's good to see you, but
I'm guessing you ain't here
for the free whiskey.
Wish I had better news.
We, uh, found your son-in-law's car.
Where?
The dirt overlook in the state park.
Working theory is that
Clive went for a hike
to blow off some steam before a flight.
Drank too much, and
got lost in the canyon.
So you think he's
Dead.
Sorry.
There is one more thing.
We found some blood in the car.
Blood?
- Mm-hmm.
- What, you think
something happened to Clive? Some
sort of foul play?
Yeah. I wouldn't go that far.
It was just a drop.
Maybe Clive cut himself shaving.
I don't know. Maybe it's nothing.
Anyway [TAPS GLASS ON BAR]
That's it.
- Thank you.
- Sure.
Hey, Albie?
I don't want you to worry.
DNA always tells a story.
So if that blood is something,
or there's more to
all this than we know,
it's gonna tell us.
All right?
I'll see you.
I mean, it is a shame to waste this look
on those Austin housefraus
when you should be out
- snaring a new man.
- Earl.
Don't "Earl" me.
That two-timing louse left months ago.
This all ain't gonna stay
this tight and perky forever.
I am not ready.
Not with Tatum obviously
missing her daddy.
Ooh, that man was
Pardon my French A turd.
You all deserve better.
Your mama always said
the only way to get over
a bad man is to get under a good one.
Mm.
She was so wise.
[LAUGHS]
Ladies, I'd like to welcome you all
to the Violet Crown.
Our voting board will be giving points
for proper etiquette, manners
and polite conversation.
We'll begin today's session with
my favorite time of the season.
Texas dip time.
You got this.
["FANCY LIKE" BY WALKER HAYES PLAYING]
Let's go, baby ♪
Ay, my girl is bangin' ♪
She's so low maintenance ♪
Don't need no champagne
poppin' entertainment ♪
Take her to Wendy's,
can't keep her off me ♪
She wanna dip me like
them fries in her Frosty ♪
- She'll get it.
- But every now and then ♪
Yep, she will.
With an upgrade, ay, ay, ay ♪
Okay.
It's time for the girls to practice
the opening waltz with their date.
Girls, we would like
to introduce you to Troy
and Thatcher.
Is this, like, a conspiracy?
Bougie like Natty in the Styrofoam ♪
Squeak-squeakin' in the
truck bed all the way home ♪
Some Alabama-jamma ♪
- She my Dixieland delight ♪
- Ma'am.
That's how we do, how we do ♪
I'll take your arm, Thatcher,
but it does not mean you own me
in any way.
- Got it?
- Of course.
That's how we do,
how we do, fancy-like. ♪
ALBIE: You had one job.
Clean the damn car.
Which I did.
And I didn't see any blood.
Well, guess who did? The cops.
- It must be Clive's.
- Yeah, well, we need
to be sure, so
Think back to that night.
Retrace your steps. What'd you do?
LUKE: Packed Clive's bags.
I took the car to the hiking trail.
I stashed the vodka
bottle like we decided.
What is it?
[SIGHS] Nicky.
Nicky, what about Nicky?
When that son-of-a-bitch
hit her, he split her lip.
Clive's car was at her house
and she didn't want Tatum
to see it when she woke up.
Nicky moved the car first.
All right, listen.
Your sister's got enough
on her plate right now,
so let's keep this between
us till we know more.
Damn.
No I don't want to be here ♪
What brings you here in
the middle of the day?
I need a favor.
I want you to talk to your niece.
She's acting out again.
Ooh, what is it this time?
Is it weed or boys?
Deb Ball.
Really.
Yep, she wants to
pull out and I want you
to talk to her, try and
get her to change her mind.
I mean, Lord knows why, but
- [CHUCKLES]
- She seems to respect
your opinion more than mine.
It's because you are the overbearing mom
and I'm the super-cool aunt.
But the Deb Ball, seriously?
I think it'll be good for her.
I'm surprised you're coming to me.
You remember how awful
that thing was for me?
I feel like a trussed-up turkey.
Your date comes from a long
line of Cantrell/Roman women
who have won the Violet Crown.
There's Mama and me
and my sister Nellie
and, of course, Gigi's beautiful sister
who was queen just
three years ago, isn't
that right, Nicolette?
Now, uh, darling, would
you mind just coming on?
Just put your arms around
Gigi, just like that.
Now, isn't that cozy?
Back off, jackass!
[LAUGHS]
I saw him a couple
years back at the mall.
Bald, goatee, cargo shorts.
[LAUGHS]
Oof.
Will you talk to her?
- Mm-hmm. Sure.
- Thank you.
Hey! Hey, hey, hey,
hey, where you going?
- What about our drink?
- I can't.
I got, I got to go meet someone.
Ooh, mysterious.
Who's the lucky date?
Is it Jamie or Wade?
Neither, unfortunately.
CATT: I'm surprised you called.
So what's the occasion?
- Albie told you.
- Mm-hmm.
And I know he doesn't look like it,
but my daddy is a very trusting man.
Some might say gullible.
- But that's not you.
- No.
So I suppose you got my DNA tested?
Mm-hmm, we're waiting on the results.
You're not the first person to show up
with your hand out claiming
to be a long-lost Roman.
Except I haven't asked for a thing.
And I'm very curious about that.
I understand revenge.
I understand greed.
I don't understand a woman
who doesn't want something.
It's not for me.
But my daughter
Come on, my daughter has real talent.
The Romans can provide
a life she deserves.
A life I cannot give her on my own.
Then I want to help.
We're having a Deb Ball pre-party,
and Ana can perform there.
It's not the Grand Ole Opry, but
it won't go unnoticed.
That's very kind.
One question.
- Why?
- Well, if you're my half sister,
that makes her family.
I want to do the best by Ana.
And if the DNA test says we are liars?
Then we sue you for
emotional distress and fraud.
You go to jail; our catalog spikes.
It's a win-win for the Romans.
Honey, in theory, I
could not agree more.
'Cause it's stupid and dated.
- Mm-hmm.
- Reductive, degrading.
Generally sucks ass.
Sometimes we do things
because it's important
to the people we love, you know?
And nobody loves you
more than my sister.
I know.
But just thinking about all those people
staring at me and judging me?
I get it, baby, believe me.
If you feel this strongly about it,
you just need to find a
way to make her hear you.
[HORSE NEIGHS]
You got a bullhorn I could borrow?
[CHUCKLES]
Sometimes is not what we
say, it's how we say it.
You just need to be honest
about who you are and say it
in a way that she can't ignore.
I think both of us
could use that advice.
[CHUCKLES SOFTLY] Thanks, Aunt Geeg.
But I know my mom and
sometimes it's just easier
to give her what she wants
without ever saying a word.
But, Mama, he grabbed my
If you cannot adjust your attitude,
then I will do it for you.
[EXHALES]
This whole thing is so not me.
I don't like boys.
I never have.
I like girls.
That's my truth.
Well, now that you've had your say,
I do not need to hear that
ever again.
You are a Roman.
Which means that you keep your truth
to yourself.
You understand me?
Yes, Mama.
Hi.
Hey.
What's he doing here?
Good to see you, too, Luke.
You said you wanted to meet
about Ace. Jamie's got good instincts.
This is a family matter.
We we barely know this guy.
We know enough. Spill it.
Ace
hasn't performed since the funeral.
And we just have to face it,
he is not ready for the pressures
of the big time, Nick, okay?
- There, I said it.
- Nothing's more important than
his mental health.
You know, I can't imagine it being easy
being the son of Nicky Roman.
Not to mention the grandson
of Albie and Dottie.
Those are some big shoes to fill.
Those your, uh, "instincts"
talking, hotshot?
I'm saying maybe it
shouldn't be all or nothing.
What if Ace had a low-key performance,
say, he sang at the Deb Ball?
NICKY: Well, that's a small event.
Small, and filled with adoring girls
in princess dresses.
You could even film it,
so when Ace crushes it
You release it and show
the world what he's about.
And what he can really do.
Luke, what do you think?
Yeah.
I think it'll work.
Well, great, that's settled.
Hey, Jamie, you, uh, you
wouldn't mind if I just
borrowed my sister for
just a moment, would you?
Yep.
What is it?
Do you really think it's a good idea
to be canoodling with
strangers right now?
Well, first of all,
we're not "canoodling."
Second of all, since when is
my private life any of your business?
Since we both know we
have secrets to protect.
Understood.
Um, but Jamie's a good guy.
There's nothing to be suspicious about.
Nicky, we're Romans.
We were raised to be suspicious
when there's nothing
to be suspicious about.
["FEELS LIKE A PARTY" BY LOCASH PLAYING]
[LIVELY CHATTER]
Feels like a party ♪
Feels like a damn good time to me ♪
A bunch of country girls ♪
And back road boys all here ♪
Hey. Oh!
Well, don't you look a picture?
Now don't forget to work the room.
And show the board that you're
the perfect hostess.
I'm gonna grab their
attention just like you said.
I'm proud of you.
That's the type of behavior
- worthy of the Crown.
- NICKY: Right?
["THE WEEKEND" BY
BRANTLEY GILBERT PLAYING]
Hey, tick-tock, I'm on the clock ♪
And I'm feeling like this job's ♪
-
- Just nine to fiving my life away ♪
It's like I'm back in school ♪
Will you excuse me?
Tailgating, it's all
up in the moonlight ♪
And by the way, it's payday ♪
Ana, you need to get ready to sing.
["TWO STEP" BY LAURA BELL BUNDY PLAYING]
I'm gonna do my two step,
do my, do my two step ♪
Step tonight ♪
I'm doing my two step ♪
Watch where you step ♪
Put you two steps behind ♪
Hard to get but you
want me to ride that ♪
I'm gonna do my two
step, do my, do my ♪
Do my two step. ♪
I love your bold new look
Thank you.
Where do you get the
confidence to be so revealing,
with your, you know, body?
Are you saying something's
wrong with my body?
'Cause I'm wondering where
you get the confidence
to be so revealing with your, um
stupidity?
[CHUCKLES, EXHALES]
["LET'S GIVE THEM SOMETHING
TO TALK ABOUT" PLAYING]
People are talkin',
talkin' 'bout people ♪
I hear them whisper,
you won't believe it ♪
They think we're
lovers kept under cover ♪
I just ignore it,
but they keep saying ♪
We laugh just a little too loud ♪
We stand just a little too close ♪
We stare ♪
Just a little too long ♪
Maybe they're seeing
something we don't, darlin' ♪
Let's give them
something to talk about ♪
- Something to talk about ♪
- Let's give them something ♪
- To talk about, baby ♪
- Something to talk about ♪
Let's give them
something to talk about ♪
How about love, love ♪
Love, yeah ♪
Let's give them something
to talk about, baby ♪
A little mystery to figure out ♪
Yeah, let's give them
something to talk about ♪
How about love, love, love ♪
Love, love. ♪
[CHEERING, APPLAUSE]
[CHEERING, WHOOPING]
How amazing was Ana?
[CHEERING, APPLAUSE]
As your host, I want to say
thanks for coming, so
I could show you all how
strongly I feel about the ball
and what it stands for.
[GUESTS MURMURING]
[GASPING]
What is wrong with you?
How could you embarrass me
- like that?
- Embarrass you?
You're not the one bowing
in six-inch heels
to a dude named Thatcher.
You have not wanted anything to do
with this ball since the beginning.
Yeah, because all of this
does not make me happy.
Rescuing horses does,
taking care of them,
because they don't have
anyone else who will.
[INDISTINCT CHATTER]
NICKY: Geeg, there you are.
Did you, did you tell her to do that?
GIGI: Of course not.
Well, I told her that she should try
to make you understand
how she was feeling.
Great, now all of Austin
knows how she feels.
Why, why would you do that?
You don't listen to her, Nicky.
It's my fault. I can see
why you two are so close.
Are you serious?
I was doing this to help you.
By turning my daughter against me?
How is that helping me?
I was trying to make
sure that she wouldn't
spend the rest of her
life resenting you.
'Cause I know what it's like to have
a mom who only cares about
looking normal instead of being normal.
Or how you look instead
of what you feel.
I thought you would do
a better job with your
kids than Mama did.
But I guess I was wrong.
[GIGI SIGHS]
NICKY: Hey.
I'm sure this is a
poorly-timed question,
- but are you all right?
- [SCOFFS]
Can you get me out of here, please?
Isn't this your house?
Rewind.
What I meant to say is "yes."
[DOOR CLOSES]
What did you do?
I
ordered every dessert on the menu.
Not the response I was going for.
I can't eat that.
I don't eat that.
Why not live a little?
Mmm!
Ooh.
Oh, it's so good.
Come on, try and let go.
- It's not as hard as you think.
- I beg to differ.
If I don't hold on tight to everything,
then it all falls apart My family,
my kids
my legacy.
[CHUCKLES]
But who takes care of you?
Clear water ♪
Let it wash all over me ♪
Let it wash all over me ♪
Let it wash all over me. ♪
ALBIE: Thanks for seeing me.
My door's always open, you know that.
So
[CLEARS THROAT] What's going on?
That blood you found
in Clive's car is mine.
What?
Clive was a hound dog, you know that.
The night he went
missing, I confronted him
about the way that he treated Nicky.
Things got physical.
How physical?
Well, I beat the hell out of him.
But, I mean, he was fine.
Wasn't nothing a couple
shots of whiskey wouldn't fix.
That drop of blood
now makes you the primary
suspect in his disappearance.
That's why you ain't gonna run it.
It's [LAUGHS] It's material evidence.
It's already in the system.
I can't just sit on it.
You can.
And you will.
Let me explain something here.
This case involves multiple
law enforcement agencies.
My hands are tied.
I suggest you figure
out a way to untie them.
What are you asking here?
You want me to just trash
my career, everything that I've built?
You have everything
you've built because of me.
Let's not forget who
owes who here, Tripp.
It has been 40 years.
When is the debt paid?
Paid when I say it's paid.
ANA: This is a pretty spot.
[CHUCKLES]
It's the man that you are ♪
And the woman that I want to be ♪
Take apart all my pieces ♪
Let 'em fall together naturally ♪
We don't have to
Oh.
I want to.
I definitely want to.
Is this your first time?
[BOTH CHUCKLE]
Um, it's okay.
I got you.
[CHUCKLES SOFTLY]
I'm on fire now ♪
I'm on fire now ♪
I'm on fire now ♪
I'm on fire now ♪
Fast hearts and slow towns ♪
Hey, Geeg.
Geeg.
All right. [CLEARS THROAT]
I'll sit here till you talk to me.
Can I get you something, madam?
A truce.
Look, I know you were
just trying to help.
And Tatum agreed to finish
the ball, so thank you.
But with everything that's
going on, I haven't exactly been
mother of the year.
It's a wonder, with
the role model we had.
No matter what you say, Mama
would never fly off the handle.
She'd always be in control.
It's easy when you don't have
the burden of a conscience.
You're a better mother
than she ever was anyway.
Even to me.
You remember what she did
the night I came out to her?
No.
You must've blocked that out.
NICKY: This isn't right.
DOTTIE: You don't get to tell me
what's right, Nicolette.
You can make me do
whatever you want, Mama.
I want to be just like
you, but Gigi's different.
She's a wonderful person, and
I won't let you break her down.
As rough as Mama was on you,
I never once saw you
stand up for yourself.
But you always stood up for me.
And as much as I hate that Violet Crown,
it reminds me how lucky I
am to have a sister like you
watching over me.
Hey. Hey.
And I always will.
Speaking of which,
that reporter at the pool party
- She was out of line.
- Yes,
but
fame, it gives you a kind of power
and it's very intoxicating.
You should enjoy it.
But you got to be
careful that you don't
What?
Turn into Mama.
Mm-hmm.
Oh. Yeah.
Wow.
[INSECTS TRILLING]
[CHUCKLES SOFTLY] This is a fairy tale.
[SIGHS] Are you sure
I'm not gonna fall asleep
and wake up back in Albuquerque?
It's all real.
And you're exactly where you belong.
Here.
With me.
Hmm.
We have to go to the Deb Ball.
If anyone deserves the Violet Crown,
it's you.
Seems like the Deb Ball
is important to both of us.
My family's counting on me.
Forget about the
pressure from your family.
Just go out there and be you.
And if you get nervous,
just look at me.
Sing to me.
'Cause when we kiss ♪
We get lost in the moment ♪
Where have you been? ♪
Could've used you a while ago ♪
Falling ♪
Darling ♪
- I wanted this ♪
- Oh.
A while ago ♪
- It's okay.
- I'm falling ♪
Darling ♪
I wanted this a while ago. ♪
I wobbled. I'm sorry.
Oh, honey.
No.
I'm sorry. I was so
worried about protecting
who we are, I forgot to
Look and see who you are.
I don't understand why
you love horses so much.
I just always loved the
same things as my mama did.
Maybe I just didn't have
the spine or the self-esteem
to push back like you do.
But you and Grandma had
an amazing relationship.
Yes, but
it was far from perfect.
I don't really think she
loved me just for being me.
I'm not gonna repeat that with you.
Now, give me those stupid heels.
Guess where they're going.
The strip club,
where they belong.
[GASPS SOFTLY]
I love you, Mama.
I love you more.
[CHUCKLES SOFTLY]
- Howdy.
- Hi.
How you doing?
Better now.
You look beautiful.
[CHUCKLES]
Hello.
Uh
Sorry to just show up like this.
I promise I'm not a stalker.
Usually.
[CHUCKLES SOFTLY]
I just wanted to say, um,
I shouldn't have lashed
out at you like that.
It's just that
I grew up feeling judged all the time.
And
with all this fame stuff suddenly,
it's all so tricky and
I'm still learning. I
[CHUCKLES SOFTLY]
You know, I think my readers
would love to know more about that.
Feeling guilty enough
to give me an exclusive?
Yes, I am.
Yeah. [LAUGHS]
NELLIE: And now tonight's musical guest,
Ace Roman.
[APPLAUSE]
[EXHALES]
[QUIET CHATTER]
[APPLAUSE]
- [PLAYING "THIS ONE'S FOR THE GIRLS"]
- [FEEDBACK BUZZING]
[MUSIC STOPS]
[AUDIENCE MURMURING]
Um
ACE: Uh
S-So, you all may
have noticed I don't
perform much.
My family makes a lot
of excuses to protect me.
The truth is
I have an anxiety disorder.
Honestly, it's [EXHALES]
gotten worse lately.
But music is who I am.
Someone I care about told me
that if I can just be myself,
everything will be all right.
- So here goes.
- [CHEERING, APPLAUSE]
[CHUCKLES]
This is for all you girls about 13 ♪
High school can be so rough ♪
Can be so mean ♪
Hold on to ♪
On to your innocence ♪
Stand your ground ♪
When everybody's giving in ♪
This one's for the girls ♪
Who've ever had a broken heart ♪
Who've wished upon a shooting star ♪
You're beautiful the way you are ♪
This one's for the girls ♪
Who love without holding back ♪
Who dream with everything they have ♪
All around the world ♪
This one's for the girls ♪
This one's for ♪
- All the girls ♪
- Oh, yeah ♪
This one's for the girls ♪
- This one's for ♪
- Yeah ♪
- All the girls ♪
- Yeah ♪
This one's for the girls. ♪
[CHEERING AND APPLAUSE]
[WHOOPING]
ACE: Thank you.
Yeah.
NELLIE: And now
our annual father-daughter dance.
Fathers, please join the
daughters on the floor.
Again, I am so sorry
I forgot about the
father-daughter dance.
Could wander through this life alone ♪
You were looking
round, maybe it's true ♪
You okay?
Scuse me.
I was looking for the most
graceful princess at the ball.
Then I saw my badass niece over here.
May I have this dance?
Turn around and I'll be right here ♪
ALBIE: Scuse me.
Would you mind?
Yes. Of course.
What do you say, darlin'?
Turn around, there's nothing to fear ♪
It would be an honor, Mr. Roman.
Okay.
Family finds you ♪
- Hey.
- Hi.
GIGI: Look at him.
Is it me or does the Deb Ball
make even less sense than it used to?
NICKY: You know Daddy.
A heart the size of Texas.
- Yeah.
- I'm just glad that ♪
I found you. ♪
NELLIE: And now
the moment we've all been waiting for,
tonight's winner.
Starting with the second runner-up
of this year's Violet Crown is
Cordelia Thorn Wallace.
[APPLAUSE]
The first runner-up
NICKY: What's going on, Marty?
The DNA results came back
on Catt Phoenix.
NICKY: And?
NELLIE: And the winner
of this year's coveted
Violet Crown is
Tatum Roman Grayson.
[CHEERING AND APPLAUSE]
The legacy lives on!
[QUIETLY]: I'm sorry.
Catt.
- Catt, wait.
- I should have known.
This whole thing was rigged.
I convinced myself
that Ana had a chance. But no.
You people always win,
and we get nothing.
I don't deserve it.
- [MURMURING]
- It's just because of my last name.
'Cause of who I am.
Honey [WHISPERING]
Um [CLICKS TONGUE]
my daughter is amazing.
She is strong and smart
and so compassionate.
But she isn't this year's
Violet Crown winner.
[PEOPLE MURMURING]
The real winner embodies
the grace and elegance
that this crown represents.
So the young lady deserving
of this year's crown
is Ana Phoenix.
[APPLAUSE]
[CHEERING AND APPLAUSE]
LUKE: Nick,
why would you do that?
Well, I thought we should
keep the crown in the family.
But I don't understand. [STAMMERS]
Uh
According to the DNA
results that I just got
on Catt Phoenix,
that woman's our sister.
Who am I to justify ♪
All the evil in our eye ♪
When I myself ♪
Feel the high ♪
Hey, sorry to bother you, boss.
Forensics is asking what we want to do
about the blood found
in Clive Grayson's car.
Have to lay ♪
In this bed I made ♪
If I die ♪
Before I wake ♪
Hope the Lord ♪
- Run it.
- Yes, sir.
Watch us all stand in line ♪
For a slice of the devil's pie. ♪
Previously on Monarch
Nicky, is there anything
you haven't told us? Anything
that could help us find him?
Sure, go ahead, act like
everything is normal
when I haven't heard
from Dad in a month.
What if my dad needs help?
Luke does not trust you at all.
Guys like him should always
be suspicious of guys like me,
especially when they take
a liking to their sister.
Ace is the sweetest guy I've ever met.
I don't know what your
problem with him is.
I told you I didn't want
you around the Romans
outside of work.
You know who I am, don't you?
ALBIE: You know I had an affair
- a long time ago.
- Uh-huh.
That baby is Catt Phoenix.
- My daughter.
- I don't believe it.
Lies are the real Roman legacy.
A little girl is missing her father.
And we owe it to them
to get to the truth.
Whatever it takes.
And whoever it hurts.
[CHEERING, APPLAUSE]
[DEANA CARTER'S
"STRAWBERRY WINE" PLAYING]
He was working through college ♪
On my grandpa's farm ♪
I was thirsting for knowledge ♪
And he had a car ♪
Yeah, I was caught somewhere ♪
Between a woman and a child ♪
One restless summer ♪
We found love growing wild ♪
On the banks of the river ♪
On a well-beaten path ♪
It's funny how those
memories, they last ♪
Of strawberry wine ♪
And 17 ♪
The hot July moon ♪
Saw everything ♪
My first taste of love ♪
Oh, bittersweet ♪
Green on the vine ♪
Like strawberry wine ♪
Like strawberry wine. ♪
[CHEERING, APPLAUSE]
Can I be honest with you?
That depends if it's
a compliment or insult.
I was surprised that you called.
- I mean, I didn't realize we were
- Friends?
Well, I mean, I am happy to help
out an artist that I believe in.
Especially when it's, you know, you.
- [CHUCKLES] That's sweet.
- Good.
Because I'm trying like
hell to impress you.
Tell me, I mean, what's
what's the hesitation with us?
I mean, your Your
husband's been gone for
over two months now.
My kids.
Ace is still suffering from his anxiety.
And Tatum still misses her daddy.
Do you think you can be patient with me?
Well, if we're being honest
Yeah.
Yeah, I can.
Well, good. 'Cause you never know
what tomorrow's gonna bring.
[INDISTINCT RADIO CHATTER]
[DOOR CLOSES]
OFFICER: Expired tags.
Park rangers said it's been here
for two months.
Maybe longer.
You know that actor that
was married to Nicky Roman?
- The one who went missing a while back?
- Yeah.
We just found his ride.
ALBIE: I told you that no daughter
and granddaughter of mine are gonna
be living in a one-star motel.
Well, yeah, if that's
really who they are.
I mean, you don't think you're
being a little too trusting?
You don't think maybe you're
just being a little cynical?
NICKY: Well, maybe.
But I'm only 50% you.
The other half's Dottie Roman.
I'm trying to handle this how she would.
How's that?
By keeping my friends close
and my potential fake
sisters even closer.
Least till the DNA comes through.
I just want to know what Catt wants.
- In the meantime
- Yeah, yeah.
Not a word to Luke or
Gigi. No argument here.
Speaking of daughters,
how's your little girl doing?
I'm trying to take
her mind off her daddy.
There's a debutante competition
this weekend. Hopefully,
that'll distract her.
Her or you?
[CHUCKLES]
All right.
TATUM: Seriously, Mom, the Deb Ball?
Why do you care what Aunt Nellie
and a bunch of Austin snobs think?
I don't, but I care about us, and I was
looking forward to
spending some time together.
Okay, well, I have more important
things on my mind right now.
I know.
- Honey, I know.
- [SIGHS]
Come here.
I know you're upset about Dad.
You know, half the battle
in this world is facing
whatever comes our way
with strength and confidence.
It's what the Violet Crown's all about.
- You can do it, you can do it.
- All right.
- You can do it, you can do it.
- If you'll stop this harassment,
I guess I can try.
That's my girl. Might be fun.
Meet some new friends.
I have plenty of friends.
I mean ones without tails.
[HORSE NEIGHS]
Well, this really is a surprise, Earl.
Everything all right?
Georgina.
Do I need a reason to pop
by and see my favorite Roman?
Nicky lives up the road that way.
- [LAUGHS] You are too funny.
- Mm.
That's one of the reasons
everybody loves you.
- Oh, do they?
- Girl.
You know you are hotter
than a jalapeno's armpit.
So I am here to offer my humble services
as your beauty consultant/
spirit guide extraordinaire.
Okay.
Uh, I don't really have any
appearances coming up, so
- there's nothing I
- Oh! Oh, au contraire.
Nicky's pool party tomorrow
in honor of the Violet Crown.
- I'm not going to that.
- All right then.
Just remember, fame is
a fleeting, hungry bitch
who'll skip out on the check
the moment you stop feeding her.
Hmm?
You're going to that pool party.
Well, help yourself there,
Mr. District Attorney.
When I am governor,
I'm gonna issue an executive
order compelling you
to show me where you
hide the good stuff.
It's good to see you, but
I'm guessing you ain't here
for the free whiskey.
Wish I had better news.
We, uh, found your son-in-law's car.
Where?
The dirt overlook in the state park.
Working theory is that
Clive went for a hike
to blow off some steam before a flight.
Drank too much, and
got lost in the canyon.
So you think he's
Dead.
Sorry.
There is one more thing.
We found some blood in the car.
Blood?
- Mm-hmm.
- What, you think
something happened to Clive? Some
sort of foul play?
Yeah. I wouldn't go that far.
It was just a drop.
Maybe Clive cut himself shaving.
I don't know. Maybe it's nothing.
Anyway [TAPS GLASS ON BAR]
That's it.
- Thank you.
- Sure.
Hey, Albie?
I don't want you to worry.
DNA always tells a story.
So if that blood is something,
or there's more to
all this than we know,
it's gonna tell us.
All right?
I'll see you.
I mean, it is a shame to waste this look
on those Austin housefraus
when you should be out
- snaring a new man.
- Earl.
Don't "Earl" me.
That two-timing louse left months ago.
This all ain't gonna stay
this tight and perky forever.
I am not ready.
Not with Tatum obviously
missing her daddy.
Ooh, that man was
Pardon my French A turd.
You all deserve better.
Your mama always said
the only way to get over
a bad man is to get under a good one.
Mm.
She was so wise.
[LAUGHS]
Ladies, I'd like to welcome you all
to the Violet Crown.
Our voting board will be giving points
for proper etiquette, manners
and polite conversation.
We'll begin today's session with
my favorite time of the season.
Texas dip time.
You got this.
["FANCY LIKE" BY WALKER HAYES PLAYING]
Let's go, baby ♪
Ay, my girl is bangin' ♪
She's so low maintenance ♪
Don't need no champagne
poppin' entertainment ♪
Take her to Wendy's,
can't keep her off me ♪
She wanna dip me like
them fries in her Frosty ♪
- She'll get it.
- But every now and then ♪
Yep, she will.
With an upgrade, ay, ay, ay ♪
Okay.
It's time for the girls to practice
the opening waltz with their date.
Girls, we would like
to introduce you to Troy
and Thatcher.
Is this, like, a conspiracy?
Bougie like Natty in the Styrofoam ♪
Squeak-squeakin' in the
truck bed all the way home ♪
Some Alabama-jamma ♪
- She my Dixieland delight ♪
- Ma'am.
That's how we do, how we do ♪
I'll take your arm, Thatcher,
but it does not mean you own me
in any way.
- Got it?
- Of course.
That's how we do,
how we do, fancy-like. ♪
ALBIE: You had one job.
Clean the damn car.
Which I did.
And I didn't see any blood.
Well, guess who did? The cops.
- It must be Clive's.
- Yeah, well, we need
to be sure, so
Think back to that night.
Retrace your steps. What'd you do?
LUKE: Packed Clive's bags.
I took the car to the hiking trail.
I stashed the vodka
bottle like we decided.
What is it?
[SIGHS] Nicky.
Nicky, what about Nicky?
When that son-of-a-bitch
hit her, he split her lip.
Clive's car was at her house
and she didn't want Tatum
to see it when she woke up.
Nicky moved the car first.
All right, listen.
Your sister's got enough
on her plate right now,
so let's keep this between
us till we know more.
Damn.
No I don't want to be here ♪
What brings you here in
the middle of the day?
I need a favor.
I want you to talk to your niece.
She's acting out again.
Ooh, what is it this time?
Is it weed or boys?
Deb Ball.
Really.
Yep, she wants to
pull out and I want you
to talk to her, try and
get her to change her mind.
I mean, Lord knows why, but
- [CHUCKLES]
- She seems to respect
your opinion more than mine.
It's because you are the overbearing mom
and I'm the super-cool aunt.
But the Deb Ball, seriously?
I think it'll be good for her.
I'm surprised you're coming to me.
You remember how awful
that thing was for me?
I feel like a trussed-up turkey.
Your date comes from a long
line of Cantrell/Roman women
who have won the Violet Crown.
There's Mama and me
and my sister Nellie
and, of course, Gigi's beautiful sister
who was queen just
three years ago, isn't
that right, Nicolette?
Now, uh, darling, would
you mind just coming on?
Just put your arms around
Gigi, just like that.
Now, isn't that cozy?
Back off, jackass!
[LAUGHS]
I saw him a couple
years back at the mall.
Bald, goatee, cargo shorts.
[LAUGHS]
Oof.
Will you talk to her?
- Mm-hmm. Sure.
- Thank you.
Hey! Hey, hey, hey,
hey, where you going?
- What about our drink?
- I can't.
I got, I got to go meet someone.
Ooh, mysterious.
Who's the lucky date?
Is it Jamie or Wade?
Neither, unfortunately.
CATT: I'm surprised you called.
So what's the occasion?
- Albie told you.
- Mm-hmm.
And I know he doesn't look like it,
but my daddy is a very trusting man.
Some might say gullible.
- But that's not you.
- No.
So I suppose you got my DNA tested?
Mm-hmm, we're waiting on the results.
You're not the first person to show up
with your hand out claiming
to be a long-lost Roman.
Except I haven't asked for a thing.
And I'm very curious about that.
I understand revenge.
I understand greed.
I don't understand a woman
who doesn't want something.
It's not for me.
But my daughter
Come on, my daughter has real talent.
The Romans can provide
a life she deserves.
A life I cannot give her on my own.
Then I want to help.
We're having a Deb Ball pre-party,
and Ana can perform there.
It's not the Grand Ole Opry, but
it won't go unnoticed.
That's very kind.
One question.
- Why?
- Well, if you're my half sister,
that makes her family.
I want to do the best by Ana.
And if the DNA test says we are liars?
Then we sue you for
emotional distress and fraud.
You go to jail; our catalog spikes.
It's a win-win for the Romans.
Honey, in theory, I
could not agree more.
'Cause it's stupid and dated.
- Mm-hmm.
- Reductive, degrading.
Generally sucks ass.
Sometimes we do things
because it's important
to the people we love, you know?
And nobody loves you
more than my sister.
I know.
But just thinking about all those people
staring at me and judging me?
I get it, baby, believe me.
If you feel this strongly about it,
you just need to find a
way to make her hear you.
[HORSE NEIGHS]
You got a bullhorn I could borrow?
[CHUCKLES]
Sometimes is not what we
say, it's how we say it.
You just need to be honest
about who you are and say it
in a way that she can't ignore.
I think both of us
could use that advice.
[CHUCKLES SOFTLY] Thanks, Aunt Geeg.
But I know my mom and
sometimes it's just easier
to give her what she wants
without ever saying a word.
But, Mama, he grabbed my
If you cannot adjust your attitude,
then I will do it for you.
[EXHALES]
This whole thing is so not me.
I don't like boys.
I never have.
I like girls.
That's my truth.
Well, now that you've had your say,
I do not need to hear that
ever again.
You are a Roman.
Which means that you keep your truth
to yourself.
You understand me?
Yes, Mama.
Hi.
Hey.
What's he doing here?
Good to see you, too, Luke.
You said you wanted to meet
about Ace. Jamie's got good instincts.
This is a family matter.
We we barely know this guy.
We know enough. Spill it.
Ace
hasn't performed since the funeral.
And we just have to face it,
he is not ready for the pressures
of the big time, Nick, okay?
- There, I said it.
- Nothing's more important than
his mental health.
You know, I can't imagine it being easy
being the son of Nicky Roman.
Not to mention the grandson
of Albie and Dottie.
Those are some big shoes to fill.
Those your, uh, "instincts"
talking, hotshot?
I'm saying maybe it
shouldn't be all or nothing.
What if Ace had a low-key performance,
say, he sang at the Deb Ball?
NICKY: Well, that's a small event.
Small, and filled with adoring girls
in princess dresses.
You could even film it,
so when Ace crushes it
You release it and show
the world what he's about.
And what he can really do.
Luke, what do you think?
Yeah.
I think it'll work.
Well, great, that's settled.
Hey, Jamie, you, uh, you
wouldn't mind if I just
borrowed my sister for
just a moment, would you?
Yep.
What is it?
Do you really think it's a good idea
to be canoodling with
strangers right now?
Well, first of all,
we're not "canoodling."
Second of all, since when is
my private life any of your business?
Since we both know we
have secrets to protect.
Understood.
Um, but Jamie's a good guy.
There's nothing to be suspicious about.
Nicky, we're Romans.
We were raised to be suspicious
when there's nothing
to be suspicious about.
["FEELS LIKE A PARTY" BY LOCASH PLAYING]
[LIVELY CHATTER]
Feels like a party ♪
Feels like a damn good time to me ♪
A bunch of country girls ♪
And back road boys all here ♪
Hey. Oh!
Well, don't you look a picture?
Now don't forget to work the room.
And show the board that you're
the perfect hostess.
I'm gonna grab their
attention just like you said.
I'm proud of you.
That's the type of behavior
- worthy of the Crown.
- NICKY: Right?
["THE WEEKEND" BY
BRANTLEY GILBERT PLAYING]
Hey, tick-tock, I'm on the clock ♪
And I'm feeling like this job's ♪
-
- Just nine to fiving my life away ♪
It's like I'm back in school ♪
Will you excuse me?
Tailgating, it's all
up in the moonlight ♪
And by the way, it's payday ♪
Ana, you need to get ready to sing.
["TWO STEP" BY LAURA BELL BUNDY PLAYING]
I'm gonna do my two step,
do my, do my two step ♪
Step tonight ♪
I'm doing my two step ♪
Watch where you step ♪
Put you two steps behind ♪
Hard to get but you
want me to ride that ♪
I'm gonna do my two
step, do my, do my ♪
Do my two step. ♪
I love your bold new look
Thank you.
Where do you get the
confidence to be so revealing,
with your, you know, body?
Are you saying something's
wrong with my body?
'Cause I'm wondering where
you get the confidence
to be so revealing with your, um
stupidity?
[CHUCKLES, EXHALES]
["LET'S GIVE THEM SOMETHING
TO TALK ABOUT" PLAYING]
People are talkin',
talkin' 'bout people ♪
I hear them whisper,
you won't believe it ♪
They think we're
lovers kept under cover ♪
I just ignore it,
but they keep saying ♪
We laugh just a little too loud ♪
We stand just a little too close ♪
We stare ♪
Just a little too long ♪
Maybe they're seeing
something we don't, darlin' ♪
Let's give them
something to talk about ♪
- Something to talk about ♪
- Let's give them something ♪
- To talk about, baby ♪
- Something to talk about ♪
Let's give them
something to talk about ♪
How about love, love ♪
Love, yeah ♪
Let's give them something
to talk about, baby ♪
A little mystery to figure out ♪
Yeah, let's give them
something to talk about ♪
How about love, love, love ♪
Love, love. ♪
[CHEERING, APPLAUSE]
[CHEERING, WHOOPING]
How amazing was Ana?
[CHEERING, APPLAUSE]
As your host, I want to say
thanks for coming, so
I could show you all how
strongly I feel about the ball
and what it stands for.
[GUESTS MURMURING]
[GASPING]
What is wrong with you?
How could you embarrass me
- like that?
- Embarrass you?
You're not the one bowing
in six-inch heels
to a dude named Thatcher.
You have not wanted anything to do
with this ball since the beginning.
Yeah, because all of this
does not make me happy.
Rescuing horses does,
taking care of them,
because they don't have
anyone else who will.
[INDISTINCT CHATTER]
NICKY: Geeg, there you are.
Did you, did you tell her to do that?
GIGI: Of course not.
Well, I told her that she should try
to make you understand
how she was feeling.
Great, now all of Austin
knows how she feels.
Why, why would you do that?
You don't listen to her, Nicky.
It's my fault. I can see
why you two are so close.
Are you serious?
I was doing this to help you.
By turning my daughter against me?
How is that helping me?
I was trying to make
sure that she wouldn't
spend the rest of her
life resenting you.
'Cause I know what it's like to have
a mom who only cares about
looking normal instead of being normal.
Or how you look instead
of what you feel.
I thought you would do
a better job with your
kids than Mama did.
But I guess I was wrong.
[GIGI SIGHS]
NICKY: Hey.
I'm sure this is a
poorly-timed question,
- but are you all right?
- [SCOFFS]
Can you get me out of here, please?
Isn't this your house?
Rewind.
What I meant to say is "yes."
[DOOR CLOSES]
What did you do?
I
ordered every dessert on the menu.
Not the response I was going for.
I can't eat that.
I don't eat that.
Why not live a little?
Mmm!
Ooh.
Oh, it's so good.
Come on, try and let go.
- It's not as hard as you think.
- I beg to differ.
If I don't hold on tight to everything,
then it all falls apart My family,
my kids
my legacy.
[CHUCKLES]
But who takes care of you?
Clear water ♪
Let it wash all over me ♪
Let it wash all over me ♪
Let it wash all over me. ♪
ALBIE: Thanks for seeing me.
My door's always open, you know that.
So
[CLEARS THROAT] What's going on?
That blood you found
in Clive's car is mine.
What?
Clive was a hound dog, you know that.
The night he went
missing, I confronted him
about the way that he treated Nicky.
Things got physical.
How physical?
Well, I beat the hell out of him.
But, I mean, he was fine.
Wasn't nothing a couple
shots of whiskey wouldn't fix.
That drop of blood
now makes you the primary
suspect in his disappearance.
That's why you ain't gonna run it.
It's [LAUGHS] It's material evidence.
It's already in the system.
I can't just sit on it.
You can.
And you will.
Let me explain something here.
This case involves multiple
law enforcement agencies.
My hands are tied.
I suggest you figure
out a way to untie them.
What are you asking here?
You want me to just trash
my career, everything that I've built?
You have everything
you've built because of me.
Let's not forget who
owes who here, Tripp.
It has been 40 years.
When is the debt paid?
Paid when I say it's paid.
ANA: This is a pretty spot.
[CHUCKLES]
It's the man that you are ♪
And the woman that I want to be ♪
Take apart all my pieces ♪
Let 'em fall together naturally ♪
We don't have to
Oh.
I want to.
I definitely want to.
Is this your first time?
[BOTH CHUCKLE]
Um, it's okay.
I got you.
[CHUCKLES SOFTLY]
I'm on fire now ♪
I'm on fire now ♪
I'm on fire now ♪
I'm on fire now ♪
Fast hearts and slow towns ♪
Hey, Geeg.
Geeg.
All right. [CLEARS THROAT]
I'll sit here till you talk to me.
Can I get you something, madam?
A truce.
Look, I know you were
just trying to help.
And Tatum agreed to finish
the ball, so thank you.
But with everything that's
going on, I haven't exactly been
mother of the year.
It's a wonder, with
the role model we had.
No matter what you say, Mama
would never fly off the handle.
She'd always be in control.
It's easy when you don't have
the burden of a conscience.
You're a better mother
than she ever was anyway.
Even to me.
You remember what she did
the night I came out to her?
No.
You must've blocked that out.
NICKY: This isn't right.
DOTTIE: You don't get to tell me
what's right, Nicolette.
You can make me do
whatever you want, Mama.
I want to be just like
you, but Gigi's different.
She's a wonderful person, and
I won't let you break her down.
As rough as Mama was on you,
I never once saw you
stand up for yourself.
But you always stood up for me.
And as much as I hate that Violet Crown,
it reminds me how lucky I
am to have a sister like you
watching over me.
Hey. Hey.
And I always will.
Speaking of which,
that reporter at the pool party
- She was out of line.
- Yes,
but
fame, it gives you a kind of power
and it's very intoxicating.
You should enjoy it.
But you got to be
careful that you don't
What?
Turn into Mama.
Mm-hmm.
Oh. Yeah.
Wow.
[INSECTS TRILLING]
[CHUCKLES SOFTLY] This is a fairy tale.
[SIGHS] Are you sure
I'm not gonna fall asleep
and wake up back in Albuquerque?
It's all real.
And you're exactly where you belong.
Here.
With me.
Hmm.
We have to go to the Deb Ball.
If anyone deserves the Violet Crown,
it's you.
Seems like the Deb Ball
is important to both of us.
My family's counting on me.
Forget about the
pressure from your family.
Just go out there and be you.
And if you get nervous,
just look at me.
Sing to me.
'Cause when we kiss ♪
We get lost in the moment ♪
Where have you been? ♪
Could've used you a while ago ♪
Falling ♪
Darling ♪
- I wanted this ♪
- Oh.
A while ago ♪
- It's okay.
- I'm falling ♪
Darling ♪
I wanted this a while ago. ♪
I wobbled. I'm sorry.
Oh, honey.
No.
I'm sorry. I was so
worried about protecting
who we are, I forgot to
Look and see who you are.
I don't understand why
you love horses so much.
I just always loved the
same things as my mama did.
Maybe I just didn't have
the spine or the self-esteem
to push back like you do.
But you and Grandma had
an amazing relationship.
Yes, but
it was far from perfect.
I don't really think she
loved me just for being me.
I'm not gonna repeat that with you.
Now, give me those stupid heels.
Guess where they're going.
The strip club,
where they belong.
[GASPS SOFTLY]
I love you, Mama.
I love you more.
[CHUCKLES SOFTLY]
- Howdy.
- Hi.
How you doing?
Better now.
You look beautiful.
[CHUCKLES]
Hello.
Uh
Sorry to just show up like this.
I promise I'm not a stalker.
Usually.
[CHUCKLES SOFTLY]
I just wanted to say, um,
I shouldn't have lashed
out at you like that.
It's just that
I grew up feeling judged all the time.
And
with all this fame stuff suddenly,
it's all so tricky and
I'm still learning. I
[CHUCKLES SOFTLY]
You know, I think my readers
would love to know more about that.
Feeling guilty enough
to give me an exclusive?
Yes, I am.
Yeah. [LAUGHS]
NELLIE: And now tonight's musical guest,
Ace Roman.
[APPLAUSE]
[EXHALES]
[QUIET CHATTER]
[APPLAUSE]
- [PLAYING "THIS ONE'S FOR THE GIRLS"]
- [FEEDBACK BUZZING]
[MUSIC STOPS]
[AUDIENCE MURMURING]
Um
ACE: Uh
S-So, you all may
have noticed I don't
perform much.
My family makes a lot
of excuses to protect me.
The truth is
I have an anxiety disorder.
Honestly, it's [EXHALES]
gotten worse lately.
But music is who I am.
Someone I care about told me
that if I can just be myself,
everything will be all right.
- So here goes.
- [CHEERING, APPLAUSE]
[CHUCKLES]
This is for all you girls about 13 ♪
High school can be so rough ♪
Can be so mean ♪
Hold on to ♪
On to your innocence ♪
Stand your ground ♪
When everybody's giving in ♪
This one's for the girls ♪
Who've ever had a broken heart ♪
Who've wished upon a shooting star ♪
You're beautiful the way you are ♪
This one's for the girls ♪
Who love without holding back ♪
Who dream with everything they have ♪
All around the world ♪
This one's for the girls ♪
This one's for ♪
- All the girls ♪
- Oh, yeah ♪
This one's for the girls ♪
- This one's for ♪
- Yeah ♪
- All the girls ♪
- Yeah ♪
This one's for the girls. ♪
[CHEERING AND APPLAUSE]
[WHOOPING]
ACE: Thank you.
Yeah.
NELLIE: And now
our annual father-daughter dance.
Fathers, please join the
daughters on the floor.
Again, I am so sorry
I forgot about the
father-daughter dance.
Could wander through this life alone ♪
You were looking
round, maybe it's true ♪
You okay?
Scuse me.
I was looking for the most
graceful princess at the ball.
Then I saw my badass niece over here.
May I have this dance?
Turn around and I'll be right here ♪
ALBIE: Scuse me.
Would you mind?
Yes. Of course.
What do you say, darlin'?
Turn around, there's nothing to fear ♪
It would be an honor, Mr. Roman.
Okay.
Family finds you ♪
- Hey.
- Hi.
GIGI: Look at him.
Is it me or does the Deb Ball
make even less sense than it used to?
NICKY: You know Daddy.
A heart the size of Texas.
- Yeah.
- I'm just glad that ♪
I found you. ♪
NELLIE: And now
the moment we've all been waiting for,
tonight's winner.
Starting with the second runner-up
of this year's Violet Crown is
Cordelia Thorn Wallace.
[APPLAUSE]
The first runner-up
NICKY: What's going on, Marty?
The DNA results came back
on Catt Phoenix.
NICKY: And?
NELLIE: And the winner
of this year's coveted
Violet Crown is
Tatum Roman Grayson.
[CHEERING AND APPLAUSE]
The legacy lives on!
[QUIETLY]: I'm sorry.
Catt.
- Catt, wait.
- I should have known.
This whole thing was rigged.
I convinced myself
that Ana had a chance. But no.
You people always win,
and we get nothing.
I don't deserve it.
- [MURMURING]
- It's just because of my last name.
'Cause of who I am.
Honey [WHISPERING]
Um [CLICKS TONGUE]
my daughter is amazing.
She is strong and smart
and so compassionate.
But she isn't this year's
Violet Crown winner.
[PEOPLE MURMURING]
The real winner embodies
the grace and elegance
that this crown represents.
So the young lady deserving
of this year's crown
is Ana Phoenix.
[APPLAUSE]
[CHEERING AND APPLAUSE]
LUKE: Nick,
why would you do that?
Well, I thought we should
keep the crown in the family.
But I don't understand. [STAMMERS]
Uh
According to the DNA
results that I just got
on Catt Phoenix,
that woman's our sister.
Who am I to justify ♪
All the evil in our eye ♪
When I myself ♪
Feel the high ♪
Hey, sorry to bother you, boss.
Forensics is asking what we want to do
about the blood found
in Clive Grayson's car.
Have to lay ♪
In this bed I made ♪
If I die ♪
Before I wake ♪
Hope the Lord ♪
- Run it.
- Yes, sir.
Watch us all stand in line ♪
For a slice of the devil's pie. ♪