To Kill A Stepfather - 2023

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Nicole learns that her stepfather, whom she hasn't seen in years, suffered a deadly fall down the stairs at the family home and that her estranged mother has been arrested for his murder. As she begins to investigate what happened, she discovers that not everything is as it seems.

Director
Peter Sullivan
Writers
Robert Dean Klein, Jeffrey Schenck, Peter Sullivan
Stars
Alex Camacho, Kelly McCart, Jamel King

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Transcript
00:00:00Calm down!
00:00:01Don't you dare tell me to calm down!
00:00:03How much did you have to drink today?
00:00:05Don't you do that!
00:00:07I told you what I want!
00:00:09I am not having this conversation right now!
00:00:11You stay out of the way for me, Matthew!
00:00:13I'll do as I damn well please, this is my house!
00:00:16I'll kill you!
00:00:19911, what's your emergency?
00:00:21Matthew?
00:00:24Matthew!
00:00:26Matthew!
00:00:27Okay, we'll send someone over immediately.
00:00:30Oh no, no!
00:00:33Oh no!
00:01:01Miss Nicole?
00:01:03Jack!
00:01:04How are you?
00:01:06A plea deal?
00:01:07You must be joking.
00:01:09Involuntary.
00:01:10Time served.
00:01:12Right.
00:01:13Send the paperwork over to my office and we'll have it wrapped up by the end of the day.
00:01:18I'm getting another call.
00:01:19I gotta run.
00:01:20Just send them over.
00:01:21Bye.
00:01:22Miss Nicole?
00:01:23Jack!
00:01:24How are you?
00:01:25A plea deal?
00:01:26You must be joking.
00:01:28Involuntary.
00:01:29Miss Nicole?
00:01:30Nikki?
00:01:31Riley?
00:01:36Matthew's dead.
00:01:37Wait, what?
00:01:38When?
00:01:39Last night.
00:01:40Oh my god, Riley!
00:01:44They're saying...
00:01:46They're saying that he was murdered.
00:01:49Matthew?
00:01:50Murdered?
00:01:51The cops have been here all morning.
00:01:53Riley?
00:01:56Look, I know how you feel about coming home.
00:01:59If you knew, you wouldn't ask.
00:02:02I need you, Nikki.
00:02:04I feel so alone.
00:02:07Look, even if I wanted to come back, I can't.
00:02:09I just finished up a big case.
00:02:11My desk is covered with five months' backlog.
00:02:14Well, else am I supposed to call?
00:02:17What about Mom?
00:02:19How's she doing with all this?
00:02:21She's the one that they arrested.
00:02:25The Beverly Hills resident was charged with murder
00:02:27after the vehicle she had been driving struck and killed
00:02:3020-year-old USC student John Clayton last year.
00:02:34Defense attorney Nicole Ray held a press conference
00:02:36following yesterday's verdict of not guilty.
00:02:39What happened to John was an unfortunate and horrible accident.
00:02:43But I stand here today heartened by the fact that
00:02:45the jury decided not to compound that tragedy
00:02:49by depriving the community of both a wife and mother.
00:02:52Not to mention a philanthropist who has done so much
00:02:55for the city of Beverly Hills.
00:02:58Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen.
00:03:00We'd like to welcome you on board side number one.
00:03:02Excuse me.
00:03:04Are you that lawyer from TV?
00:03:07Yes, actually I am.
00:03:09I think it's horrible what you did.
00:03:12That woman should have gone to prison for killing that nice young man.
00:03:15Shame.
00:03:17It was lovely to meet you.
00:03:56Nikki.
00:03:57Hi.
00:03:58Oh, God.
00:04:00I know it wasn't easy for you to come here.
00:04:02You have no idea.
00:04:04But thank you.
00:04:06So what are we looking at exactly?
00:04:08Well, it all started when the neighbors called 911
00:04:11because they overheard Mom and Matthew arguing.
00:04:15Mom told me she's drinking again.
00:04:18Damn it, Mom.
00:04:20The cops said they found her standing over his body
00:04:23at the bottom of the stairs.
00:04:25Let me guess, she doesn't remember.
00:04:29No.
00:04:30Look, I know she can be a handful, but
00:04:34you don't think that she could have actually killed him, do you?
00:04:39Has she talked to anyone yet?
00:04:41Yeah, she's been in there with Charlene all morning.
00:04:44Charlene McManus?
00:04:47Deputy Charlene McManus.
00:04:50I told you, she really needs your help.
00:04:56And if I asked you for one good reason
00:04:59why I should risk my reputation on that woman...
00:05:03Because you're not doing it for her.
00:05:06You're doing it for me.
00:05:10Please.
00:05:15Better get in there before she buries herself any deeper.
00:05:21My name is Nicole Ray. I'm here on behalf of Catherine Rafferty.
00:05:24And you are?
00:05:26Her lawyer.
00:05:33Yes?
00:05:36The lawyer's here to talk to her.
00:05:39Now?
00:05:41Your lawyer's here.
00:05:43I didn't order a lawyer.
00:05:47No.
00:05:48If you don't mind, I need a few moments to confer with my client.
00:05:51That won't be necessary.
00:05:52And if you would, a copy of her file.
00:05:54I'm confused. Are you her attorney or not?
00:05:57She is not.
00:06:01She's all yours.
00:06:11What happened, Mom?
00:06:15I can't help you if you don't tell me what's going on.
00:06:17I didn't ask for your help.
00:06:19They're going to charge you with murder.
00:06:21You could be looking at life.
00:06:23With no parole.
00:06:24And that's assuming the DA doesn't seek the death penalty.
00:06:29Are you even listening to me?
00:06:31Mom?
00:06:35What do you want me to say?
00:06:37What do you want me to say?
00:06:40That I'm so blessed the famous Nicole Ray took time out of her busy schedule
00:06:45to come down here and help dig one of the little people out of trouble?
00:06:51Why are you here?
00:06:53I promised Riley.
00:06:54Ah.
00:06:56Your sister.
00:06:58Silly me.
00:07:00Here, I thought I was the one in trouble.
00:07:03Did you kill him?
00:07:06You did not just ask me that.
00:07:08It's a yes or no question, Mom.
00:07:10Look, I'm aware of how you feel about me.
00:07:12Copy it first.
00:07:13But to accuse me of something like that?
00:07:15Yes or no!
00:07:17Go to hell.
00:07:19I don't need this.
00:07:20Makes two of us.
00:07:22Nice to see you too.
00:07:24Nikki.
00:07:25No, I can't force someone to hire me.
00:07:26You know she's stubborn.
00:07:27I'm sorry, it was a mistake to get your hopes up.
00:07:29Can you try again?
00:07:30You do know the definition of insanity, right?
00:07:32Yes.
00:07:34For what it's worth, I'm sorry it didn't work out.
00:07:36Okay, well, do you have to leave right away?
00:07:38Rye.
00:07:40Can you at least wait until after Matthew's wake?
00:07:43It's going to be so late.
00:07:44I'm sorry.
00:07:45I'm sorry.
00:07:46I'm sorry.
00:07:47I'm sorry.
00:07:48I'm sorry.
00:07:49I'm sorry.
00:07:50I'm sorry.
00:07:51I'm sorry.
00:07:52It's going to be small, just a few people at the house.
00:07:55When?
00:07:56Tomorrow.
00:07:58Miss Ray?
00:07:59Yes?
00:08:00The deputy asked me to give you this.
00:08:01The paperwork you requested.
00:08:02Great, thanks.
00:08:06Please?
00:08:08Fine, but just until after the wake, then.
00:08:10I'm gone.
00:08:11How about I give you a lift back to Mom's house?
00:08:13I rented a car.
00:08:14Besides, I am not staying at that house.
00:08:17She's not even going to be home.
00:08:18I'll give you a call as soon as I get settled, okay?
00:08:20Promise.
00:08:24It is good to see you again.
00:08:50I love you.
00:08:51I love you.
00:08:52I love you.
00:08:53I love you.
00:08:54I love you.
00:08:55I love you.
00:08:56I love you.
00:08:57I love you.
00:08:58I love you.
00:08:59I love you.
00:09:00I love you.
00:09:01I love you.
00:09:02I love you.
00:09:03I love you.
00:09:04I love you.
00:09:05I love you.
00:09:06I love you.
00:09:07I love you.
00:09:08I love you.
00:09:09I love you.
00:09:10I love you.
00:09:11I love you.
00:09:12I love you.
00:09:13I love you.
00:09:14I love you.
00:09:15I love you.
00:09:16I love you.
00:09:17I love you.
00:09:18I love you.
00:09:19I love you.
00:09:20I love you.
00:09:21I love you.
00:09:22I love you.
00:09:23I love you.
00:09:24I love you.
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00:09:41I love you.
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00:09:46I love you.
00:09:47I love you.
00:09:48I love you.
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00:09:50I love you.
00:09:51I love you.
00:09:52I love you.
00:09:53I love you.
00:09:54I love you.
00:09:55I love you.
00:09:56I love you.
00:09:57I love you.
00:09:58I love you.
00:09:59I love you.
00:10:00I love you.
00:10:01I love you.
00:10:02I love you.
00:10:03I love you.
00:10:04I love you.
00:10:05I love you.
00:10:06I love you.
00:10:07I love you.
00:10:08I love you.
00:10:09I love you.
00:10:10I love you.
00:10:11I love you.
00:10:12I love you.
00:10:13I love you.
00:10:14I love you.
00:10:15I love you.
00:10:16I love you.
00:10:18Dammit, Mom.
00:10:32They're crying out.
00:10:35Hey!
00:10:36Some of us are trying to think in here!
00:10:39Go to hell, lady!
00:10:40Yeah, you too.
00:10:47♪♪
00:10:54♪♪
00:11:01♪♪
00:11:06♪♪
00:11:11♪♪
00:11:18♪♪
00:11:23Hey.
00:11:24Hi, it's Nicole.
00:11:25Yeah.
00:11:25Listen, could you do me a favor?
00:11:28Could you tell me what the temperature was
00:11:30in Eastboro night before last?
00:11:32About 1030?
00:11:35Really?
00:11:35No.
00:11:36I don't miss the humidity at all.
00:11:40You too.
00:11:41Bye.
00:11:43♪♪
00:11:48♪♪
00:11:51Sure.
00:11:54Nikki?
00:11:55What's wrong?
00:11:56I've been going over the police reports.
00:11:58And?
00:11:59I don't think they were alone.
00:12:00What do you mean?
00:12:01The night Matthew died,
00:12:02I think there was someone else in the house.
00:12:04How do you know that?
00:12:06The window's in the photo.
00:12:08Look.
00:12:10They're closed.
00:12:11Exactly.
00:12:12But Mom never closed the windows in the living room
00:12:14because the house doesn't have...
00:12:15Doesn't have central air, exactly.
00:12:16So why would they close the night Matthew died?
00:12:21Someone else did it.
00:12:22Exactly.
00:12:24And whoever it is,
00:12:26is setting Mom up for murder.
00:12:28♪♪
00:12:33This is a little problematic right here for...
00:12:37Excuse me.
00:12:38You're fired.
00:12:39Who do you think you are?
00:12:41Her attorney.
00:12:42Just ignore her, Chuck.
00:12:43She's with me.
00:12:45Don't worry.
00:12:45I'm sure there's plenty of ambulances
00:12:46for you to chase down in county.
00:12:49Excuse me?
00:12:49She's already been set up for murder.
00:12:51She doesn't need to be sent up the river, too.
00:12:57Had enough of these dead-end cases anyway.
00:13:01Enjoy the loss.
00:13:04Made the headlines.
00:13:06Congratulations.
00:13:07There goes your impartial journey pool.
00:13:10Why are you still here?
00:13:12Riley said you were leaving.
00:13:13Because as much as it pains me to admit it,
00:13:18you need me.
00:13:19I needed you ten years ago.
00:13:21Funny, I could say the same thing about you.
00:13:24Oh, you are just like your father.
00:13:26He never knew when to quit, either.
00:13:28But he did know,
00:13:29What?
00:13:30In the summer.
00:13:31We always left the windows open.
00:13:33Of course.
00:13:34The house doesn't have air conditioning.
00:13:36Exactly.
00:13:37So why were they closed the night Matthew died?
00:13:41And since Matthew was lying at the bottom of the stairs
00:13:44at the time,
00:13:45I'm guessing he didn't close them, either.
00:13:48Are you saying it wasn't just a fall?
00:13:51I'm saying what if the police are right?
00:13:54What if they're wrong?
00:13:56I'm saying what if the police are right?
00:13:59What if someone did push him down those stairs?
00:14:01It just wasn't you.
00:14:03Who was it, then?
00:14:04The same person who closed those windows.
00:14:06Probably when they used them to leave.
00:14:08Which would explain why the doors had remained locked from the inside.
00:14:11Wait, how do they know who used my door?
00:14:15Fortunately for you,
00:14:16one of the few things Matthew did to update the house
00:14:18was installing smart locks.
00:14:19Which means they know anytime someone came in,
00:14:22and if anyone went out.
00:14:23Matthew did that for Riley.
00:14:24She kept forgetting her keys.
00:14:26I thought it was stupid myself.
00:14:28Yeah, well, it doesn't help your case
00:14:30until you consider the window.
00:14:32I don't remember there being anyone else in the house.
00:14:35Your blood alcohol content was .23,
00:14:37so I doubt you would have remembered your name.
00:14:39I had one bad night, one.
00:14:41Be honest.
00:14:42You've had a lot of bad nights over the years.
00:14:44Over the years, yes.
00:14:46But I had changed.
00:14:48Maybe if you had stayed in touch,
00:14:50you would have known that.
00:14:53So what am I supposed to do?
00:14:56Hire me.
00:14:58No, I can file a petition to see what fingerprints
00:15:00they pulled off the windowsill.
00:15:02That'll at least find the last person who touched it.
00:15:04Can't the public defender get that information?
00:15:07Who, Chuck?
00:15:08It's too much work.
00:15:10No.
00:15:11He'll just make a plea deal and move on to the next charity case
00:15:14who needs a lawyer to do the bare minimum.
00:15:16Well, if it's as bad as you say, maybe.
00:15:19Well, if it's as bad as you say, maybe.
00:15:22Maybe I should make a deal.
00:15:25Sure.
00:15:28If you feel like you've thrown your life away enough already.
00:15:31Well, what would I be looking at?
00:15:32Life in prison.
00:15:33As opposed to?
00:15:34Death.
00:15:38And as tempting as that sounds,
00:15:42I owe Riley her mother back.
00:15:45Her mother.
00:15:47Admit it.
00:15:49You need me, Mom.
00:15:59I'd ask you where it's going, but I know you two all too well.
00:16:02Look, I don't know how,
00:16:03but I'm going to scare up another suspect for Matthew's murder.
00:16:06I like your mother, Nikki.
00:16:08I really do.
00:16:09But between the argument, the threat of violence,
00:16:11and her claim not to remember.
00:16:14Lucky for her,
00:16:15unwinnable cases happen to be my specialty.
00:16:19You should know officially the Chief wants to close the case.
00:16:22And unofficially?
00:16:26I'll look into it if you do.
00:16:29I appreciate that.
00:16:32Now if you'll excuse me, I have a week to attend.
00:16:45What happened?
00:17:16I was starting to worry you weren't going to make it.
00:17:26How's Mom?
00:17:28As warm and welcoming as ever.
00:17:30I have no idea how you ever lived with her.
00:17:33She changed.
00:17:35Matthew was a good influence.
00:17:37No one's that much of a miracle worker.
00:17:40Maybe if you visited or, I don't know, called every once in a while,
00:17:44you would be able to see that.
00:17:46It's easy for you to say.
00:17:48She didn't stumble and drunk to your high school graduation.
00:17:51You didn't almost miss your college interview
00:17:54because she was out busy getting a DUI.
00:17:57It's okay.
00:17:59Fair enough.
00:18:01Let's just focus on Matthew for the afternoon.
00:18:04Deal?
00:18:06I'll be honest.
00:18:08I'll be honest.
00:18:10I barely knew him.
00:18:12Well, let's change that.
00:18:16Yeah.
00:18:18Okay.
00:18:19I'll introduce you. Come on.
00:18:30Sadie.
00:18:33This is Sadie.
00:18:35Sadie.
00:18:36Nikki.
00:18:37Uncle.
00:18:38Oh, the other stepdaughter.
00:18:40Sadie works at the tavern.
00:18:42I am sorry for your loss.
00:18:45He was a very kind man and he always spoke so highly of you.
00:18:51Really?
00:18:52Big time lawyer from the big city.
00:18:56Every time news of one of your cases hit the internet,
00:19:00he must have shared it with the whole town.
00:19:03That's sweet.
00:19:06It's so good to finally meet you.
00:19:08It's nice to have a face with a name.
00:19:16I don't know any of these people.
00:19:19Okay.
00:19:21Pastor Atkins, he preaches at the church that Matthew took Mom to.
00:19:26Mom went to church?
00:19:28Sing in a choir.
00:19:30They both do.
00:19:32Well, did.
00:19:35Um, you remember the neighbors from the street?
00:19:39Um, that's Frank.
00:19:42Frank and Matthew used to play pickleball together every Saturday morning.
00:19:46Seriously?
00:19:47Yeah.
00:19:48Matthew's actually really good. He has a trophy upstairs.
00:19:56Wyatt, Matthew's brother.
00:19:59Wyatt.
00:20:01Hi.
00:20:03I'm Nicole.
00:20:05Nicole's stepdaughter.
00:20:08Yet here you are defending his killer.
00:20:11We'll just have to see what the jury says.
00:20:13I'll have to wait.
00:20:15I know she'd better off where she is.
00:20:18Excuse me. I'm gonna go get a drink.
00:20:21Hi.
00:20:31You must be Nicole.
00:20:33I am.
00:20:35Kirk Holloway.
00:20:37I was your dad's...
00:20:39What?
00:20:40Your stepdad's business partner.
00:20:43Hi.
00:20:44Matthew said you're quite the lawyer.
00:20:46Even if your choice of clients is questionable.
00:20:50Frankly, Mr. Holloway, my choice of clients is my business.
00:20:56I respect that.
00:20:59Not a fan of your own whiskey?
00:21:03I never actually had a taste for it myself.
00:21:06I was just looking for an excuse to get a minute to myself.
00:21:12I know the feeling.
00:21:14It's a bit awkward, huh?
00:21:17Being here in this house again.
00:21:20After...
00:21:23You know...
00:21:26For your mother to do something like that.
00:21:28She hasn't been convicted of anything.
00:21:31Are they looking at other suspects?
00:21:34Why? You got someone else in mind?
00:21:41You know...
00:21:43Matthew used to tell me about the fights that he and Kate were having.
00:21:47They were happening more frequently, getting more volatile.
00:21:51He was becoming concerned.
00:21:54About my mother?
00:21:56About all of it.
00:21:58Her temper, her drinking.
00:22:02I can't stop thinking...
00:22:06Maybe if I'd said something sooner...
00:22:14I'm gonna say hi to some people.
00:22:16Sorry for your loss.
00:22:26I see you met Kurt.
00:22:28Odd duck.
00:22:30Seems pretty convinced Mom's guilty.
00:22:33Yeah, well...
00:22:34She wasn't really fond of him either.
00:22:37Oh?
00:22:38Everybody knew that the distillery was Matthew's baby.
00:22:42So what does that make Kirk?
00:22:44An overpaid math nerd?
00:22:48Anyways, anytime the distillery actually showed a profit...
00:22:51The expenses had a convenient way of suddenly growing.
00:22:55And you think the overpaid math nerd is the culprit?
00:23:00I mean, hell...
00:23:01If it was up to him, they would have cashed out years ago.
00:23:07Now one of us should make a speech before it gets too late.
00:23:12I told you, I barely knew him.
00:23:14Okay, well...
00:23:15Only one of us is a professional shyster, so...
00:23:20I'm assuming that's supposed to be a compliment?
00:23:23Always.
00:23:28My sister and I would like to thank you all for being with us here today.
00:23:32When your father dies of cancer, while you're young...
00:23:36It's easy to assume that no one can ever follow in his footsteps.
00:23:41And then Mom met Matthew.
00:23:44Kind.
00:23:46Supportive. Funny.
00:23:48The kind of positive influence that could make a real difference.
00:23:52And he was more than just Mom's new husband, he was...
00:23:55An important part of the community.
00:23:58An entrepreneur.
00:24:00Part of the church choir.
00:24:03And as I hear it, he had quite the backhand at pickleball.
00:24:08More importantly, however...
00:24:11He was a father figure.
00:24:14And I'm sure if he could see us now, he'd be smiling.
00:24:19Feeling all the love and appreciation in the room.
00:24:24And...
00:24:27I know my mother wishes she could be here to thank you all in person, too.
00:24:33Anyone who knows this family knows that my mother and I have had a challenging relationship.
00:24:39So...
00:24:41Despite whatever issues the two of us might have, as both her daughter and attorney...
00:24:46I'd like us all to remember that she's still a grieving widow.
00:24:50Mourning the loss of her husband.
00:24:53And so...
00:24:55On behalf of the entire family, I'd like us all to raise a glass of Matthew's very own Rafferty Rye.
00:25:02To his memory.
00:25:04We love you.
00:25:06And we miss you.
00:25:08May you rest in peace.
00:25:52Seriously? What do they think, I'm gonna make a run for it?
00:25:55I wouldn't recommend it.
00:25:57Makes them feel palatial.
00:26:00She's doing her job.
00:26:01What she should be doing is looking for who really killed my husband.
00:26:04This is just a preliminary hearing. No one's on trial yet.
00:26:07Hopefully it won't even get that far.
00:26:09Hopefully?
00:26:10Knowing these small towns, my guess is we'll get a prosecutor used to chasing taggers and shoplifters.
00:26:16Is that...?
00:26:22Bobby, you didn't tell me he still lived here.
00:26:24He never asked.
00:26:26So, district attorney.
00:26:29Yeah, what can I say? Some of us opted for the small pond.
00:26:32Which is why I'm surprised you actually took your mom's case.
00:26:34Everyone's entitled to a decent defense.
00:26:36That they are. And from what I hear, you charged quite a pretty penny for it, too.
00:26:40Well, if you're interested, I could always put in a good word for you at the bar.
00:26:43Well, unfortunately, I like to see criminals pay for their crimes and not their attorneys.
00:26:47And I prefer to see justice reserved for the guilty, not the innocent.
00:26:51Same old Nikki.
00:26:53Guess some things never change.
00:27:00All rise.
00:27:08Good morning.
00:27:09Good morning, your honor.
00:27:10Good morning, your honor.
00:27:15No, stand up.
00:27:17We have gathered here for the arraignment of Catherine Rafferty.
00:27:22Ms. Rafferty.
00:27:24Ms. Rafferty.
00:27:26In pursuant to Penal Code 19.01, you've been charged with a Class A felony.
00:27:31Murder in the first degree and the death of Matthew Rafferty.
00:27:35Counselor, has your client read the criminal complaint?
00:27:38They have, your honor.
00:27:39And are they aware of the mandatory sentencing requirements should they be found guilty?
00:27:43Which is no less than life in prison without the possibility of parole.
00:27:47They are.
00:27:48Very well.
00:27:50Ms. Rafferty, in the charge of first degree murder, how do you plead?
00:27:54Not guilty.
00:27:56What? Really?
00:27:59Order.
00:28:03A little louder, if you please.
00:28:05Not guilty.
00:28:08Very well.
00:28:10The trial is set for 9 a.m. Monday the 25th.
00:28:17Three weeks from today.
00:28:19Your honor, the defense moves to request bail for the defendant until the trial.
00:28:23The people object, your honor.
00:28:25Your motion is denied, Ms. Ray.
00:28:27Then the defense moves to request that the defendant be placed under house arrest until the trial.
00:28:32Also denied, Ms. Ray.
00:28:36Now, if there are no further matters to be discussed, this hearing is hereby adjourned.
00:28:46All rise.
00:28:52It's good to see you again, Nikki.
00:28:54Looks like you'll be seeing even more of me now.
00:29:02So now what happens?
00:29:03Now? We get started on your defense.
00:29:17Mmm, it's good.
00:29:35So, let's see your taste for fine dining. Hasn't changed.
00:29:37When in Rome.
00:29:40So what are we drinking?
00:29:41Club soda.
00:29:43Okay.
00:29:45I'll take a beer.
00:29:46You got it, Nick.
00:29:47Thanks.
00:29:48As much as I'd love to sit and reminisce, I have a trial to prepare for.
00:29:55What are you really doing here, Nick?
00:29:56She's my mother.
00:29:58So, in other words, you think this little altruistic exercise in futility will somehow make up for years of hatred and resentment?
00:30:04And she's innocent.
00:30:06Okay. We both know that's not true.
00:30:08You know what your problem is?
00:30:09I only have one?
00:30:10Self-confidence.
00:30:11Funny. I was going to say the same thing about you.
00:30:13Marital spat. Heat of the moment.
00:30:16I could see involuntary manslaughter. Maybe even second degree.
00:30:21But murder in the first?
00:30:23She threatened to kill him.
00:30:25She was drunk.
00:30:26Doesn't mean she didn't mean it.
00:30:27I think I know my own mother.
00:30:30Did she tell you anything useful about that night?
00:30:32You know me better than to ask something like that.
00:30:35I just wondered if she happened to mention the distillery.
00:30:37Matthew's Distillery.
00:30:39Her distillery.
00:30:41Oh, you haven't reached that part of your discovery yet.
00:30:43Well, thank you.
00:30:46Lucky for you, I'm going to share in the lead.
00:30:50I'm all ears.
00:30:53Six weeks ago, Matthew Rafferty amended his will, cutting his partner out completely.
00:30:58Kirk.
00:31:00That leaves everything to your mother, including the distillery.
00:31:03So, she gets a new business and he files for unemployment.
00:31:06It's a small town craft distillery.
00:31:08By the time you deduct expenses, Kirk's unemployment check is probably worth more.
00:31:13You're right. The distillery was losing money.
00:31:15But the land that the distillery was sitting on?
00:31:17That's a different story.
00:31:21The rumor is, Matthew was in the process of selling it to a developer when he passed.
00:31:26Then how much would a property like that go for?
00:31:30Ballpark? 1.5?
00:31:32That's a hell of a ballpark.
00:31:34That's a hell of a motive.
00:31:38Your turn to share.
00:31:41Shoot.
00:31:44Do you ever regret what happened between us?
00:31:48Our relationship?
00:31:51Leaving.
00:31:54We occupied two different worlds.
00:31:57We always did.
00:32:00I just took my leaving to realize it.
00:32:05Well, like you said, you have a child to prepare for, so we'll get to it.
00:32:12It was nice seeing you.
00:32:15Tell your mom I said hi.
00:32:17Uh-huh.
00:32:27It's Nicole. I was just wondering, have you got any results back on the fingerprints on the window?
00:32:34Anyone other than my mother?
00:32:38Not in the system.
00:32:41And what about the autopsy?
00:32:45Is it possible that those injuries could have been caused by a...
00:32:49I don't know, maybe he fell?
00:32:53Dammit.
00:32:55This is absolutely not good news for my case.
00:32:59Thanks anyway.
00:33:16When were you going to tell me about the distillery?
00:33:20The distillery? What?
00:33:22My husband had just died. I didn't think that was important.
00:33:25Do you expect a jury to believe that?
00:33:27It's the truth.
00:33:28It's a motive!
00:33:30You honestly think I would kill my husband for a tiny craft distillery?
00:33:34No, but you mined for 1.5 million dollars.
00:33:39Matthew handles all of that stuff. Besides, it was Riley's idea to change the will.
00:33:46She never trusted Kirk.
00:33:48Okay. Look, if this is going to work, you and me, we're gonna have to do a better job communicating.
00:33:55Well, I was all set to go with the public defender.
00:33:58Are you really so proud that you can't even recognize when you need help?
00:34:02Or is it you're so proud you think everyone needs you?
00:34:06Well, I guess the apple didn't fall too far from the tree then, did it?
00:34:12Yeah, you're right.
00:34:15But seriously, Mom, you can't hold anything back.
00:34:18No matter how insignificant, how inconsequential you think it is, I need it all.
00:34:25Promise.
00:34:28Promise.
00:34:29Good. Because this will pours gasoline all over our dumpster fire of a case.
00:34:35What about those fingerprints?
00:34:37They weren't a match for anyone in the system.
00:34:39And the autopsy showed that the fall was not accidental.
00:34:46Great.
00:34:48Mom, I have to ask.
00:34:51Did you push Matthew down those stairs?
00:34:53Of course not.
00:34:54Did you do anything that might have inadvertently caused him to fall downstairs?
00:34:58No.
00:34:59Would you even remember it if you had?
00:35:05Do you think I've forgotten what it was like?
00:35:09When you'd start drinking at lunch and forget to pick me up from school?
00:35:13When you'd be out all night long and then you'd come home and forget how you even got there?
00:35:17Because I sure as hell have not.
00:35:19So do you actually think I'm capable of something like that? You're my daughter.
00:35:22No, I am your lawyer.
00:35:35If you don't believe me, maybe the court will.
00:35:40What are you talking about?
00:35:41When I take the stand, I will just tell them I passed out on the couch.
00:35:45I don't know what happened to your stepfather.
00:35:47You don't seriously think I'm going to let you testify?
00:35:50I have every right to clear my name.
00:35:52You get up on that stand, it's like handing Bobby O'Donnell a loaded gun.
00:35:58I've got nothing to hide.
00:35:59They will find something, and when they do, they will crucify you.
00:36:04How do you know?
00:36:05Because that's what I would do.
00:36:15If it was up to him, they would have cashed out yours ago.
00:36:18No, but you mined for 1.5 million dollars.
00:36:21What about those fingerprints?
00:36:22They weren't a match for anyone in the system.
00:36:24Did you push Baffi down those stairs?
00:36:26Of course not.
00:36:27Did you do anything that might have inadvertently caused him to fall downstairs?
00:36:31No.
00:36:47Could you tell Bobby Nicole Ray is here to see him?
00:36:49Sure.
00:36:50Have a seat.
00:36:58You just couldn't stay awake, could you?
00:37:00Maybe I was just curious to see what Eastboro's district attorney's office actually looked like.
00:37:06Cushy.
00:37:08Although the view's probably not as nice as the one from your high-rise.
00:37:11Who said my office was in a high-rise?
00:37:13It's not?
00:37:14No, it is.
00:37:15I was just curious.
00:37:17Well, you really want to be impressed?
00:37:19Come on back. I'll give you the tour.
00:37:26This is where the magic happens.
00:37:33Wow.
00:37:37So why are you really here?
00:37:39You're not even going to offer me a cup of Sanka first?
00:37:44Let me guess. You asked her about the inheritance.
00:37:47I didn't realize you took on a losing case.
00:37:48I asked about the inheritance. And now I'm about to poke some serious holes in your case.
00:37:55Good luck with that.
00:37:57I need the witness statements.
00:37:59The reports were in the discovery.
00:38:01I want the actual transcripts.
00:38:03Why? You already know they're harmful to your case.
00:38:05That's not up to you to decide, is it?
00:38:12Didn't your mother ever tell you not to ask questions you don't want to hear the answers to?
00:38:16Must have slipped her mind.
00:38:21Helen and Harold Mullins.
00:38:24There. That wasn't so hard, was it?
00:38:29You should know that I've secured convictions on less than the piece of paper in your hand.
00:38:32Then I'm sure you won't mind if I reach out and verify the information in here.
00:38:37Wait, did you just accuse me of doctoring their testimony?
00:38:40Please, don't be so sanctimonious.
00:38:43You wouldn't be the first district attorney to bend the rules to win a case.
00:38:47And you wouldn't be the first defense attorney to shield their client with a smokescreen of red tape.
00:38:51I guess I'll just have to find out, won't I?
00:38:55Fine. You want to talk to him? Be my guest.
00:38:58Although, I should warn you, Helen wasn't necessarily the biggest fan of your mother.
00:39:03Sounds an awful lot like bias to me.
00:39:05You don't need me to remind you how difficult your mother was to love.
00:39:10No, that's right. I don't.
00:39:13Did I strike a nerve?
00:39:16Thanks for the file.
00:39:18Anytime.
00:39:21Did you forget something?
00:39:23Isn't this the moment when you wish me luck and tell me how much I'm going to need it?
00:39:27Would it change your mind?
00:39:29Not an inch.
00:39:31I'm going to catch my breath.
00:39:42Who is it?
00:39:43Helen Mullins?
00:39:45My name is Nicole Ray. I'm representing-
00:39:47Hi.
00:39:48I know who you are.
00:39:50Hon, who is it?
00:39:51Kate's daughter.
00:39:52You can call me Nicole.
00:39:55Want to come in? I just made some coffee.
00:39:57I only need a moment of your time.
00:39:59Have you told everything we know to the police?
00:40:01Yes, I've read the transcripts of your conversation.
00:40:03Then why are you here?
00:40:05Have you seen this man?
00:40:13You two happen to be the only witnesses we have.
00:40:16Unfortunately, we're not too keen on sticking our noses where they don't belong.
00:40:19Is that why you called the police the other night? Because you didn't want to stick your nose where it doesn't belong?
00:40:23I called the police because I was concerned for Matthew. Not that it did much good.
00:40:28They were fighting.
00:40:30They were always fighting.
00:40:32Can you just take another look? Please.
00:40:36Have you seen him around the house?
00:40:38Kirk? Sure. He and Matthew worked together.
00:40:42What about the night he died?
00:40:43No. It was just Matthew and your mother.
00:40:46You mean it was just the two of them that you could hear?
00:40:55Thank you for your time.
00:40:58You know, now that you mention it, there is one thing I do remember hearing her shout that night.
00:41:04And what was that?
00:41:06She said, I'm going to kill you.
00:41:23Miss Ray?
00:41:24Harold.
00:41:26Please forgive my wife. She means well.
00:41:30Sometimes she can be stubborn as an ox.
00:41:34I know the type.
00:41:36Now, you didn't hear this from me.
00:41:39A couple months back, I was more on the line.
00:41:43Your mother was at work.
00:41:45Let's just say that Matthew wasn't alone.
00:41:49Another woman.
00:41:52Was Matthew having an affair?
00:41:54I didn't ask.
00:41:56You're the first and only person that I mention this to.
00:42:00I don't suppose you have a name?
00:42:06Could you at least tell me what she looked like?
00:42:09A little younger than your mom.
00:42:11Blonde hair.
00:42:14If my mother had found out, that certainly would have given them something to fight about.
00:42:18Yes, it would. Yes, it would.
00:42:21Good luck.
00:42:34Are you crazy? You threatened to kill him?
00:42:37I was angry. I didn't mean it.
00:42:39You didn't mean it when you said it or when you actually did it?
00:42:42I don't even remember saying it.
00:42:44Unfortunately for you, your neighbor does.
00:42:46And I'm sure she'll be more than happy to share it with the jury.
00:42:49Yeah, that sounds like Helen.
00:42:51Along with Matthew's affair.
00:42:53They know about that?
00:42:55So you did know?
00:42:57Yeah.
00:42:58You seriously didn't think I would find out?
00:43:01I'm sorry. I just didn't see the point in ruining his reputation.
00:43:05The prosecution will.
00:43:07Okay, fine, fine.
00:43:10Matthew had been cheating on me for months, okay? Are you happy?
00:43:14A while back, I happened to find some e-mails on his computer.
00:43:19What happened?
00:43:22He'd been spending a lot of late nights at work and texting on his phone all the time.
00:43:27I was suspicious.
00:43:29Go on.
00:43:31The letters were romantic.
00:43:34I confronted him about it. He swore he'd stop.
00:43:37But he didn't, did he?
00:43:40The night Matthew...
00:43:43I had found more letters on the computer.
00:43:46That's when you two were fighting.
00:43:48But that time, he did end it.
00:43:51I watched him. He sent the texts right in front of me.
00:43:54And?
00:43:55He said she didn't take it well.
00:43:58Do you know who it was?
00:44:00No. Frankly, I didn't want to know. I just wanted it to be over, end of story.
00:44:05Why is it that every time I pursue a lead to clear your name,
00:44:10all I do is uncover another motive?
00:44:14And when did you start drinking again?
00:44:17My husband of 15 years was having an affair on me.
00:44:20Excuse me if I wanted a drink.
00:44:22A drink?
00:44:26A few.
00:44:30I lost count.
00:44:33Yeah, I lost count.
00:44:37Okay.
00:44:41All right.
00:44:44Let's just go back to that night.
00:44:46You confronted him about the UCR.
00:44:49Yeah. We were arguing.
00:44:51That would seem like hours.
00:44:54And then I sat on the couch. No, I laid on the couch.
00:45:01I don't remember what happened after that.
00:45:03Please, try.
00:45:05My head was spinning.
00:45:08I think he said he was going upstairs to go to bed.
00:45:11And this whole time, you two were alone?
00:45:13I think so.
00:45:15Think. At any point, was there anyone else in the house?
00:45:27Maybe.
00:45:28Maybe?
00:45:30I don't know. Like who?
00:45:31Kirk, maybe?
00:45:33Kirk?
00:45:34Losing half the profits from that real estate sale would be enough to make anyone jealous, don't you think?
00:45:39Yeah.
00:45:42Tell you what. You think about it.
00:45:45Where are you going?
00:45:46I'm going back to the house to see if the police missed anything.
00:45:54Nicole, on a scale from 1 to 10, how screwed do you think I am?
00:45:59Twelve.
00:46:15Brian?
00:46:18You here?
00:46:47I'm here.
00:47:17I'd be glad just to be sad and thinking of you.
00:47:23How much have you had to drink?
00:47:25Oh, here we go again. The same failure.
00:47:28I don't want to do this right now. I never want to do this.
00:47:45That's how you got in.
00:48:14I'm sorry.
00:48:43I'm sorry.
00:48:59Brian?
00:49:10Brian, is that you?
00:49:34Brian?
00:50:03Hello?
00:50:19Hey, Nikki. It's me.
00:50:22Riley.
00:50:24Yeah, I'm over at the house. Where are you?
00:50:26I'm getting ready to head to work.
00:50:27What time are you leaving?
00:50:29Shouldn't be too much longer.
00:50:31What the hell?
00:50:35Nikki? Nikki, what happened?
00:50:38Can I call you back later?
00:50:40Um, sure.
00:50:42Okay, bye.
00:51:10I'm glad I caught you. Do you got a sec?
00:51:13Is it about Mom's case?
00:51:15Did you know Matthew was having an affair?
00:51:19Wait, what?
00:51:21Apparently it had been happening for a while. You really didn't know?
00:51:24No.
00:51:27Absolutely not.
00:51:29Did Mom know?
00:51:31Yeah.
00:51:33Another motive.
00:51:35Apparently they grow on trees around here.
00:51:41What happened? Did he tell her?
00:51:44She found some emails on his computer.
00:51:46I was just over at her house. I found one of them myself.
00:51:48Do I even want to know what it said?
00:51:50The usual, thinking of you, stuff like that.
00:51:54You think she did it?
00:51:56I was thinking Kirk, but now, who knows?
00:51:59Look, I know she's not the best person, but...
00:52:03I truly don't think that she's capable of doing such a thing.
00:52:05You mean, you don't think she'd be capable of doing such a thing when she's sober?
00:52:09In either state, Nikki.
00:52:11Twelve hours ago, I would have agreed with you. Now, who knows?
00:52:17I guess I was just hoping that maybe you had heard something, or maybe you knew who the woman was.
00:52:22No.
00:52:24I'm sorry.
00:52:29Look, my shift is about to start. Can we talk about this more tomorrow morning?
00:52:33Burning the midnight oil, huh?
00:52:35Welcome to the glamorous world of medicine.
00:52:38I'll be at the motel, if you think of anything.
00:52:42Sounds good.
00:52:47Bye.
00:52:59Hey!
00:53:29Oh, my God.
00:53:59I spoke to the manager. Said the housekeeper reported her key stolen a couple days ago.
00:54:04This just proves that someone is trying to stop my investigation.
00:54:09Anyone giving you any trouble lately?
00:54:11Matthew's brother isn't exactly a fan.
00:54:13Wyatt.
00:54:15I'll tell you what, I'll give him a call and find out where he was tonight.
00:54:18And maybe Kirk Holloway.
00:54:21For your mother's sake, I hope you're as good at being a lawyer as you are making enemies.
00:54:25I don't suppose this place has a security camera?
00:54:29You know, I'd feel better if you weren't alone. Is there anyone you can call? Maybe Riley?
00:54:32No, she's still at work. But I'll be fine. Really.
00:54:37In the meantime, I'm going to run prints on this. Maybe we'll get lucky.
00:54:41Can you compare them to this?
00:54:44Do I even want to know where you got this from?
00:54:47You said you'd take a look if I do.
00:54:51Do you have a rest?
00:54:52I will. When my mother gets out of jail.
00:54:56If I ever get in trouble, I know who I'm going to call.
00:54:59Thank you, Charlene.
00:55:22Is this Nicole?
00:55:23It's Charlene.
00:55:25Got some news?
00:55:26Actually, I do. We looked into Wyatt.
00:55:29And?
00:55:30Thought it might interest you to hear that Mr. Rafferty was a no-show for work last night.
00:55:35What about the prints from the bottle?
00:55:37No match. Not the photo or the window at your mother's house.
00:55:41Damn it.
00:55:48Hey, you want some unsolicited advice?
00:55:51This is my favorite kind.
00:55:53From my experience, I've learned that these things usually come down to one of two things.
00:55:58Passion or money.
00:56:24John Merting?
00:56:26You don't know me, but my name is Nicole. Nicole Ray.
00:56:30Oh. What's that? Sorry about your stepfather.
00:56:35If you have a moment, I would just love to ask you a few questions about his will.
00:56:38Actually, I'm running late for a client meeting.
00:56:41Besides, I don't think I'm going to be able to make it.
00:56:44I don't think I'm going to be able to make it.
00:56:46I don't think I'm going to be able to make it.
00:56:49Actually, I'm running late for a client meeting.
00:56:52Besides, it's a little soon to probate, don't you think?
00:56:55Oh, no, no, no. I'm not interested in contesting it. I'm representing my mother in the murder trial.
00:56:59Well, that's out of my area of expertise.
00:57:02Well, I was just wondering, if something were to happen to my mother, what happens to the will?
00:57:06Let me guess. You went to one of those big fancy law schools, huh?
00:57:12UV.
00:57:14And did they teach you about attorney-client privilege there?
00:57:17They did. As a legal matter, yes, but as a family member inquiring about family business,
00:57:23I believe it falls under the category of nosy stepdaughter.
00:57:32I suppose it wouldn't hurt if I'm a few minutes late.
00:57:36Nosey stepdaughter?
00:57:40In a very particular filing system.
00:57:43Let's see. Rafferty. Rafferty. Ah.
00:57:47Matthew Rafferty.
00:57:50Hmm. Six weeks ago, Matthew redrafted his will, naming your mother as his primary beneficiary.
00:57:56Because he didn't trust his partner.
00:57:58Correct.
00:57:59Now, let's say my mother gets convicted for Matthew's murder.
00:58:02It's the Slayer Statute. That would prevent her from inheriting one penny of Matthew's estate.
00:58:06In which case?
00:58:08Goes to the next beneficiary.
00:58:10Goes to the next beneficiary.
00:58:12So, theoretically, someone could have killed Matthew and framed my mother so that they could collect the inheritance instead.
00:58:19That's some four-dimensional chess right there.
00:58:22Guess I'm looking for Eastboro's very own Bobby Fisher.
00:58:25I don't suppose this next beneficiary would happen to be Matthew's brother Wyatt, would it?
00:58:31Let me see.
00:58:37Actually, no.
00:58:41It's your sister.
00:58:58Riley.
00:59:00I'll catch up with you.
00:59:02Uh, sorry I haven't called you back. I've just been slammed with patients all day.
00:59:06But, um, is something wrong?
00:59:09I'm gonna ask you a question, and I need the truth.
00:59:12Okay, well now you're scaring me.
00:59:14Where were you the night Matthew died?
00:59:16Excuse me?
00:59:17I think you heard me.
00:59:18I don't understand, though.
00:59:20Please, just answer the question.
00:59:23I was home.
00:59:24Can anyone verify that?
00:59:25Me, not unless you want to subpoena my smart TV's browsing history.
00:59:29Did you go over to Mom's house that night?
00:59:32Hold on, you think I have something to do with what happened?
00:59:35You're the one who insisted Matthew change the will.
00:59:38Well, yes, but to benefit our mother.
00:59:41Unless she gets convicted of Matthew's murder.
00:59:43In that case, what do you know? It all goes to you. 1.5 million dollars.
00:59:48You're serious?
00:59:49Money like that would go a long way in clearing up those debts, don't you think?
00:59:53Okay, first of all, that's insane.
00:59:56Secondly, why on earth would I insist that you, who works at one of the most well-known firms in the country,
01:00:03come out here and represent Mom if I really wanted her to lose?
01:00:07Because you didn't think I'd actually come.
01:00:10And you have to admit, as far as alibis go, it isn't a bad one.
01:00:13After all, calling a lawyer from, quote, one of the most well-known firms in the country,
01:00:17would go a long way in making it appear you weren't secretly trying to throw the case.
01:00:23Screw you.
01:00:24Is that a denial?
01:00:26That's a get the hell out of my face.
01:00:28Riley. Riley!
01:00:37It's Riley. Leave a message.
01:00:39Hey, it's me. Look, I'm so sorry I accused you like that.
01:00:43It's just... it's my job to ask the hard questions, you know?
01:00:49That... I guess I'm just exhausted.
01:00:54Please call me.
01:01:07I'm sorry.
01:01:37First the hotel room, now this? It can't be random.
01:02:04Did you get a look at the driver?
01:02:06No.
01:02:07It happened too fast.
01:02:09License plate?
01:02:10No.
01:02:11I don't know what you want me to do. Put out an APB on a black SUV?
01:02:15Nick, we've known each other for a long time.
01:02:20And believe me when I tell you that Matthew Rafferty was loved by a lot of people in this town.
01:02:25Any of whom would love to see your mother punished.
01:02:30Look, just hang in there, okay?
01:02:33The sooner the trial's over, the sooner things will calm down.
01:02:36Once she gets convicted, you mean?
01:02:38You said it. Not me.
01:02:51Fish and chips?
01:02:53Thanks.
01:02:55Long day?
01:02:56Long week.
01:02:59Anything new with the case?
01:03:01Unfortunately, no.
01:03:03Well, for what it's worth, I miss both your mom and Matthew.
01:03:07And if you ever want a friendly face to talk to...
01:03:11I appreciate that.
01:03:14Usual?
01:03:15Thanks.
01:03:19Well, Charlene told me what happened. She sounded worried about you.
01:03:22She's just eager to get the case wrapped up.
01:03:25We all are.
01:03:26You're not the one with a mother sitting in jail.
01:03:30Who until a few days ago you hadn't spoken to in years.
01:03:32She's still entitled to a defense.
01:03:34Look, I just don't want to see anything happen to you.
01:03:38It's going to take a lot more than some amateur intimidation to stop me from digging.
01:03:42Well, just be careful where you dig.
01:03:45Towns like this have a lot of landmines.
01:03:48Do you always look out for your opposing counsel like this?
01:03:53What can I say? I must be getting sentimental in my old age.
01:04:00But if you do plan on presenting another theory for Matthew's murder, I'd do it soon.
01:04:04Because if this does go to trial, you and I both know this does not end well for your mother.
01:04:10Now you want to save my mother?
01:04:13Truthfully, I'm more interested in saving your reputation.
01:04:17Aren't you the hero?
01:04:20Voluntary manslaughter. Fifteen years.
01:04:28A plea deal?
01:04:30All drawn up and ready to go.
01:04:31All you have to do is get your mother to sign it.
01:04:34Fifteen years? That'll make her, what, 75?
01:04:38Well, at least she'll have a few years to spend with her future grandkids.
01:04:41I don't think that's going to happen.
01:04:43I don't think that's going to happen.
01:04:45I don't think that's going to happen.
01:04:47At least she'll have a few years to spend with her future grandkids, instead of sitting behind bars.
01:04:58Involuntary manslaughter. Five years.
01:05:02Nick, this is a textbook case of crime of passion.
01:05:04And you're assuming that the killer isn't still out there.
01:05:06I can't serve justice on a hunch.
01:05:08But what they did to my hotel room.
01:05:11The hotel the cops get called to at least two to three times a week.
01:05:15This town is full of people who just want to see your old woman pay.
01:05:19You mean they want to see my old woman hung?
01:05:21And that's your jury pool?
01:05:26Fifteen years.
01:05:29I'd seriously consider it if I were you.
01:05:32Well, well, well.
01:05:34Coleray.
01:05:38How about a whiskey, sweetheart?
01:05:39I think you've had enough.
01:05:42Why don't you just back up, buddy?
01:05:44No one here wants any trouble.
01:05:46No trouble?
01:05:48Just wanted a few words with our lawyer friend of yours.
01:05:50Okay.
01:05:52Well, I said back up.
01:05:56Whatever you say.
01:05:59Counselor.
01:06:03Fuck!
01:06:05Hey! Come on, guy!
01:06:12Your mother deserves a chair for what she did to my brother.
01:06:16And I'm thinking, maybe I'll just hurt someone important to her instead.
01:06:26Hey, hey, hey, that's enough! That's enough!
01:06:28How about a ride down to the station to cool off?
01:06:35Everybody okay?
01:06:36Fine.
01:06:37Bobby?
01:06:38Never better.
01:06:39Good.
01:06:41Let's go.
01:06:49Wyatt's fingerprints were a match for the photo.
01:06:51Plus, guess what kind of car he drives?
01:06:53Black SUV.
01:06:58So he's the one who's been trying to intimidate me?
01:07:01Guess he took his grief too far, but don't worry, he's not going to be bothering you again.
01:07:05We've got plenty of charges to keep him busy here for a while.
01:07:08What about the fingerprints from the house?
01:07:09None of the prints that we collected the night of Matthew's murder matched his.
01:07:13So it wasn't Kirk or Wyatt.
01:07:16I'm just glad no one got seriously hurt.
01:07:19Me too.
01:07:22Fifteen years.
01:07:24Voluntary manslaughter.
01:07:27If I plead guilty.
01:07:29That's usually how plea deals work.
01:07:32But I could go to trial and get nothing.
01:07:35Or you could get thirty.
01:07:37But you're a good lawyer.
01:07:38That doesn't matter if I can't fight the facts right in front of us.
01:07:42You want facts?
01:07:43How about the fact that my husband's killer is still out there?
01:07:46You mean the killer we're not getting any closer to finding.
01:07:50At least with this deal you'll get a few decent years.
01:07:55A few decent years?
01:07:58Is that the best Nicole Ray can do?
01:08:01I didn't get liquored up and fight with my husband.
01:08:05I didn't tell the cops I can't remember what happened.
01:08:07I'm not the beneficiary of a million dollar will.
01:08:11And I sure as hell didn't come back here to this crappy small town after all these years just to lose.
01:08:22And do you have any idea what's been happening to me out there?
01:08:26Ever since I got here.
01:08:28I have been harassed.
01:08:29My motel room has been broken into.
01:08:31Matthew's brother tried to run me off the road.
01:08:34And now my own sister is mad at me.
01:08:38If it's so bad, why are you doing this?
01:08:42Because I thought maybe for once there was something I could do to actually make you happy.
01:08:48Or something you could do so you feel better about yourself.
01:08:51You needed me.
01:08:52No. You want me to need you. There's a difference.
01:08:57As I recall I was all set to go with Chuck.
01:09:01It was your idea to take this case over.
01:09:03And now that it's not going the way you want, you're just ready to cash in your chips and go home.
01:09:07Well, no.
01:09:09I'm going to fight.
01:09:10And if you are not going to fight with me, if you are not going to be in my corner, then I'm going to find someone who will.
01:09:16You're saying I should just quit.
01:09:18No, I'm saying you're fired.
01:09:21You're serious.
01:09:23Officer!
01:09:26We're through here.
01:09:27Alright then. Let's go.
01:09:33Come on.
01:09:40Fine.
01:10:00Go on, I'll catch up.
01:10:02Nicole, what a surprise.
01:10:03About a sec?
01:10:04Of course. Come on in.
01:10:05No, no, no. I'm not staying. I just, I just wanted to come by and say goodbye.
01:10:11Goodbye?
01:10:12I presented the deal to my client, advised her to take it, and she fired me.
01:10:19Wait.
01:10:21Your mother fired you?
01:10:22She'd rather take her chance in court.
01:10:25Without you?
01:10:27She doesn't feel I'm, quote, in her corner.
01:10:31So, she's going to go with a public defender?
01:10:33Yeah, maybe Chuck can do a better job.
01:10:35Chuck hasn't seen the inside of a courtroom in over a year.
01:10:37It's just like riding a bicycle.
01:10:38It's nothing like riding a bicycle.
01:10:39What do you want me to say?
01:10:41Yes, she's being stubborn, but I can't just wave a magic lawyer wand and change the woman's mind.
01:10:48You have to. You can't just give up.
01:10:50Give up?
01:10:51You act like you're the only lawyer that's had a stubborn client.
01:10:55You don't know my mother like I do.
01:10:57But I do know this case, Nikki.
01:10:59You've seen the evidence. You've read the witness statements.
01:11:04She doesn't need Chuck. She needs a miracle.
01:11:07She needs you.
01:11:09So now you care about my mother?
01:11:11Actually, I don't.
01:11:12I think she's a murderer and frankly deserves to rot in prison for what she did.
01:11:18Then why aren't you celebrating?
01:11:23Because I care about you, Nikki.
01:11:26And the old Nikki, the Nikki that I went to school with, would have never walked away from a challenge. Ever.
01:11:32Well, the old Nikki didn't have a murderer for a mother. Allegedly.
01:11:41Well, there is one thing I'm disappointed about.
01:11:43You're disappointed?
01:11:47I won't be able to go up against you in court.
01:11:50All that we both know, I would have won.
01:11:52Yeah. Possibly.
01:11:54Probably.
01:11:56You always did enjoy a good fight.
01:11:59Well, hey, if you ever feel like relocating out west, my offer still stands. Seriously.
01:12:08I appreciate that.
01:12:10Of course. That's assuming that your legal skills are better than your bar fighting skills.
01:12:15Hey, if Charlene hadn't interrupted us, I would have had him.
01:12:18Mm-hmm.
01:12:22Well, I, uh...
01:12:26I better get back to the hotel. I need to pack.
01:12:30Before they charge me another day.
01:12:38See you around, counselor.
01:12:41See you around.
01:12:45Nikki.
01:12:48Do you ever think about why things never worked out between us?
01:12:53Probably because I always enjoyed a good fight.
01:12:56Ouch.
01:12:59Good luck.
01:13:14Come in.
01:13:19Come in.
01:13:26So it's true.
01:13:28You're leaving?
01:13:29She fired me.
01:13:32Look, Rye, about yesterday, I...
01:13:35What's this?
01:13:37The footage from my doorbell camera.
01:13:38So that you can see that my car was parked in front of my house all night long and that I never left.
01:13:44Look, I'm sorry. Okay? I just...
01:13:47I ran out of places to look and I got desperate.
01:13:52Actually, I think it was a pretty smart theory. So...
01:13:56I mean, too bad I didn't think of it sooner. So...
01:13:59Too bad.
01:14:03So what happens now?
01:14:05She's someone else's problem.
01:14:08You mean the public defender?
01:14:09Maybe he'll be able to convince her to sign the deal.
01:14:11Do you think she did it?
01:14:13I don't know.
01:14:15Maybe no one did it.
01:14:17Maybe there never was another person in the first place.
01:14:19Maybe the autopsy was wrong and Matthew just fell.
01:14:25I wish I could change your mind about leaving.
01:14:28You could always come to California.
01:14:31Free rent.
01:14:34What, and give up my cushy position sponge-bathing patients at Eastboro General?
01:14:38I'm sure there are plenty of patients to sponge-bathe in L.A.
01:14:48If things go the way that I think that they will, Mom's gonna need all the support she can get.
01:14:54So...
01:14:56Yeah.
01:15:01Don't be a stranger.
01:15:03I won't.
01:15:05I won't.
01:15:11I've got a six o'clock out, so tell Jerry I'll be back at the firm in the morning.
01:15:15Yeah, I'm headed to the airport now.
01:15:19You really want to know?
01:15:21Put it this way, I've got enough material to keep my therapist busy for the next year and a half.
01:15:28Okay. Talk to you tomorrow.
01:15:30Bye.
01:15:34Bye.
01:15:40Video doorbell.
01:15:50The missus wouldn't be happy about me talking to you again.
01:15:54Lucky for you, she's at bingo.
01:15:56Good.
01:15:58Because I need a favor.
01:16:04Well, what do you know?
01:16:07Harold, you're a lifesaver.
01:16:10Why? I crack this case?
01:16:15It had to be you.
01:16:18Wouldn't even be fun, just to be sad, thinking of you.
01:16:27You know what, Harold?
01:16:29I think you actually did.
01:16:35Hey.
01:16:37I'm at my mother's house.
01:16:39Would you mind stopping by?
01:17:04Hello?
01:17:35Hello?
01:17:57Coming!
01:18:05Hello?
01:18:17Come on in.
01:18:19I was surprised to hear from you.
01:18:21Well, you were friends with my mom and Matthew, and I needed that friendly face.
01:18:28I have just the thing.
01:18:30Took it from work.
01:18:32Don't tell anyone.
01:18:34My lips are sealed. I'll get some glasses.
01:18:45I can't find my mom's bottle opener.
01:18:48Oh, don't worry. I brought one.
01:18:52What happened with you and your mom, anyway?
01:18:55I thought things were better between you two.
01:18:57Tried to get her to take a deal.
01:19:00I guess that means she didn't want it.
01:19:03Well, it's complicated.
01:19:07So, you still don't have any other suspects?
01:19:12No.
01:19:14So, you still don't have any other suspects?
01:19:17No.
01:19:18You still don't have any other suspects?
01:19:23Like I said, it's complicated.
01:19:27Right.
01:19:31Care to do the honors?
01:19:34It's your house.
01:19:36Well, technically it's my mother's house.
01:19:45What should we drink to?
01:19:46Something uplifting for once.
01:19:52Anyone special in your life?
01:19:54Actually, I just went through a breakup.
01:19:58Oh.
01:20:01Was it bad?
01:20:03Well, let's just say it was complicated.
01:20:08To complicated relationships.
01:20:11Cheers.
01:20:17You looking for this?
01:20:25It had to be you.
01:20:27Was that like your special song or something?
01:20:30I don't know what you're talking about.
01:20:34The locket?
01:20:36The messages he wrote you, quoting the lyrics from the song?
01:20:39And then the neighbor's description.
01:20:42A little younger than your mom.
01:20:44Blonde hair.
01:20:46He saw us?
01:20:48Just took me a while to connect the dots.
01:20:52How long were you two sleeping together?
01:20:55A couple of months.
01:20:58Give or take.
01:21:00Matthew had been coming in and out of the tavern.
01:21:04A lot.
01:21:06Started innocent.
01:21:08He'd flirt a little.
01:21:10I'd flirt a little back.
01:21:12Smile led to a touch on the shoulder.
01:21:16Led to an invitation.
01:21:18Huh. You get the idea.
01:21:22Congratulations.
01:21:24You wanted to find the killer.
01:21:26And you did.
01:21:46Nicole?
01:21:57Nicole?
01:22:06Come on, Nicole.
01:22:09I don't want to hurt you.
01:22:11I swear.
01:22:13Of course.
01:22:16I didn't want to hurt Matthew either.
01:22:21But he left me no choice.
01:22:43No!
01:22:56Drop your weapon!
01:23:00I said drop the weapon!
01:23:06I got your text.
01:23:08Yeah.
01:23:13SIREN
01:23:20Nikki?
01:23:22Are you okay?
01:23:23Yes.
01:23:24Where is she?
01:23:25With Charlene.
01:23:27We've got your phone, Sadie.
01:23:30We know all about your relationship with Matthew Rafferty.
01:23:33How he finally ended things after his wife found the latest messages.
01:23:37And judging from your text that you sent,
01:23:39I'm guessing that didn't make you too pleased with either one of them.
01:23:43You already confessed to Nicole Ray an hour ago.
01:23:46Might as well come clean for the record now.
01:23:49At first I was just going to talk.
01:23:52Smooth things over.
01:23:56And then after seeing them together,
01:24:01seeing the way she treated him,
01:24:04and that he chooses her over me,
01:24:09yes, I was angry.
01:24:13And yes, I killed him.
01:24:18He deserved it.
01:24:25Oh, Mom.
01:24:33For never doubting me.
01:24:35Even when I was doubting you.
01:24:37I was just doing my job.
01:24:39No.
01:24:41Or being my daughter.
01:24:47Now, there are going to be some changes around here.
01:24:52Charlene is getting me into a treatment program.
01:24:55And I'm even going to pick up some shifts at the old diner.
01:24:59Now, I am fully aware that this is going to be a journey.
01:25:03But I will get there.
01:25:05I promise.
01:25:07One step at a time.
01:25:10I owe it to the both of you.
01:25:13And to Matthew.
01:25:16You don't have to do it alone, Mom.
01:25:18You'll always have us.
01:25:21Does that mean that you're going to be sticking around for a little while?
01:25:24Well, the firm's waited this long.
01:25:27I'll see why they can't wait a few more days.
01:25:29In the meantime, I was hoping that I could stay at the house.
01:25:33Yes.
01:25:35Yes, of course.
01:25:37You are always welcome.
01:25:39Good.
01:25:41Because I plan on stopping by a lot more often.
01:25:45Or you could move back permanently.
01:25:48Open up a little firm in town.
01:25:52Like Mom says, one step at a time.
01:25:54Okay.
01:25:56Interesting.
01:25:58Now, how about a lift home?
01:26:00Home.
01:26:07Okay.
01:26:09Okay.