Strung (2026)

[bunniefuu]

[orchestra warming up]

[metallic click]

[audience applauding]

[applause ceases]

[orchestra begins playing

dramatic music]

[breathes deeply]

[chuckles]

Voice: Laila!

Laila...

[breathing deeply]

[whimpers, gasps]

[gasps]

[playing shakily]

[inaudible dialogue]

[gasps]

[audience murmuring]

[gasps]

[dramatic music resumes]

[gasping]

[gasping for air]

[sharp gasp]

[gasping continues]

[sighs]

-Man 1: Boo!

-[audience murmuring]

-Man 1: Come on, people...

-Laila...

-Man 3: Shut up!

-Laila.

Woman: Stop!

[echoing] What happened

to your hand?

What happened to your hand?

[screams]

[gasps]

[breathing heavily]

[dramatic theme playing]

[knocking on door]

[rap music playing]

[sighs] Mm-mm...

You're young. You're fine.

You're single.

And you've been practicing

all damn day.

One drink.

Well, I have an audition

coming up.

Is it with the Phil?

No. It's, uh, some session work.

Okay. So how about you audition

for some d*ck instead?

-[laughs]

-'Cause that's the only

-session work you need, girl.

-Uh... Uh-uh.

No, no. I can't.

Uh-uh, uh-uh, uh.

Listen, when you get

your own place,

you can practice as much

as you want all night.

But as long as you live

under my roof,

you live under my rules.

-Oh, wow.

-Okay? Get your a*s up.

Get ready. We going out.

We're getting drunk.

Come on, b*tch! Come on.

[sighs]

Move that a*s, sistah.

[dramatic theme playing]

[clicks tongue]

[rap song playing]

[crowd cheers]

All right, ladies.

Cheers to making mistakes.

Hopefully I make a big one.

[Monique laughs]

[Jasmine chuckles, inhales]

-Mm...

-Uh-oh. I know that face.

For real. Mm-mm...

You know, I'm guest teaching

in the morning.

No problem. Most of these dudes

won't last five minutes.

-[laughs]

-At all. Okay.

But seriously, Lai,

you know we love you.

-And we support you.

-Mm-hm.

Girl, you working too damn hard.

-You gotta live a little bit.

-Mm.

-[music picks up]

-[crowd cheering]

Jasmine: b*tch, yes!

-Come on.

-That's our jam. Come on.

-Come on, please.

-No, I'm good. I'm good.

Girl, see, you're too good.

That's your problem.

[Monique] Let's go.

Jasmine: Get another drink.

Loosen up.

[classical theme playing]

[cell phone buzzes]

[hums quietly]

-Thank you.

-Waitress: You're welcome.

-[resumes humming, faintly]

-[man chattering indistinctly]

[jazz theme playing]

Waitress: More coffee, hun?

All right.

[sighs]

[chuckles]

Mm...

[coin clinks]

[Nat King Cole's "The Very

Thought of You" playing]

Hm... Hm...

[chuckles]

[chuckles]

The very thought of you

[chuckles]

[sighs]

And I forget to do

The little ordinary things

That everyone ought to do

I'm living in

A kind of daydream

I'm happy as a king

And foolish

Though it may seem

[inaudible dialogue]

To me that's everything

-Laila: You're crazy.

-Okay...

There's moments

I can give you compliments.

[both laugh]

It's just about the energy

you give, you know.

All right.

[both laugh]

You'll never know...

Hey. Is something wrong?

It's just,

I don't usually do this.

Right. Of course not.

I didn't mean

to presume you did.

Well, maybe another time, Laila.

Your eyes in stars above

It's just

The thought of you...

Or... [chuckles]

maybe just this once?

[inhales through teeth]

...my love

[chuckling]

[song continues playing]

[moaning softly]

[panting]

It's just The thought of you

[panting continues]

The very thought of you

My love

[song ends]

[slow theme playing]

"Marcus."

[slow theme continues]

-[applause]

-[Laila chuckling]

Thank you. [chuckles]

You all have the potential

to be incredible musicians.

And learning to play well

with others

can create something magical.

You both did amazing work today.

[school bell ringing]

I'm so proud of you, all right?

Hope I get to come back

again. Bye.

-[chuckles]

-That was really beautiful.

Sorry to startle you,

but I was in the hall,

and when you started to play,

I had to stop and listen.

Thank you.

-Audra Jelani.

-Laila Calloway.

Oh, your playing

is extraordinary.

[chuckles]

A-are you with the Philharmonic?

Hm. [inhales]

No. I wish.

They hold auditions once a year.

I made it to

the second round twice.

But with talent like yours...

I'd say third time's a charm.

Do you believe in fate

or serendipity, Laila?

I came here to meet with someone

about tutoring my granddaughter,

and sadly, I was stood up.

So were you looking for a tutor?

Yes, a full time live-in

music tutor for Zuri.

Her mother's nearing full term,

and with the new baby coming,

she'll have less time

to devote to Zuri's needs.

And we need somebody

who's focused on her.

Especially with her recital

coming up in a few weeks.

Respectfully, Ms. Jelani,

I am extremely flattered,

but you don't even know me.

[smacks lips softly]

I tell you what.

Why don't you come

to our home and meet Zuri?

We'll have tea.

[whimsical theme playing]

[gates squeak]

-[gates rattle open]

-Oh...

Oh, sh*t. Okay.

Security:

Good morning, Ms. Calloway

Audra: Laila...

So glad you made it.

So, were my directions

clear enough?

Oh, they were very easy.

-Oh, great.

-I made it straight here,

and I was...

Well, welcome.

-Oh, it's gorgeous.

-Oh.

Yes. It's remarkable, isn't it?

-[chandelier chiming]

-Yes...

Custom made in Italy.

This house

belongs to my daughter,

but this is the one piece

that's my design.

[laughs]

[sighs softly]

[suspenseful theme playing]

Zuri. Come down and meet Laila.

Ooh

Hi.

Oh...

Let's have that tea

we talked about.

[chuckles]

-Laila: Thank you.

-You're welcome.

It's a Malawian blend.

Mmm. It's delicious.

Mm...

Are you seeing anyone?

Hmm?

I don't mean to pry.

I'm just wondering about

other commitments.

Just my music.

True artist.

And what about family?

Any siblings?

Just me.

Well, a few things

you should know.

Mm-hmm...

This is a hypoallergenic house.

All clothing

must be natural fibers.

So we'll provide your uniform.

And most importantly, we don't

allow any non-organic foods.

Zuri has many allergies that

could send her into anaphylaxis.

And we keep allergy pens

in the kitchen, just in case.

[sighs]

Her mom is very protective.

[suspenseful theme playing]

[exhales]

Audra: Imani.

Imani, I have someone

I want you to meet, darling.

[chuckles]

Imani...

This is Laila Calloway.

She's, um, here for

the tutoring position.

Hi. It's so nice to meet you.

[sighs]

[smacks lips softly]

Pretty.

Thank you.

Your home is

absolutely exquisite.

-And I am just so honored...

-Mm... Come.

To be here. I will make sure

not to let your family down.

I can't wait to work

with your daughter.

It's really gonna...

-Have a good session.

-Yes.

-Please. Come.

-[Imani breathing deeply]

Zuri is Imani's

by her first marriage.

-Uh-huh.

-She was modeling in New York

and she met this rap artist

named RGB.

Perhaps you've heard of him?

Laila:

RGB? Reginald Garvey Bell?

-[laughing]

-Laila: Yes, of course.

Everybody knows who he is.

-He was... [giggles]

-Uh, talented. Yes.

But unfortunately, he couldn't

overcome his upbringing,

you know...

-[speaking indistinctly]

-Gangs, drugs.

And he overdosed.

It happened on Zuri's

fourth birthday.

So we try not to talk about him.

Of course. I understand.

Good.

My son in law

is a music manager.

He worked with Reginald.

In fact, that's how he

and my daughter met.

I am sure that he would

be anxious to hear you play.

He's very well connected

at the Philharmonic.

-Really?

-Mm...

[practicing on piano inside]

Uh, let's meet your

potential student, shall we?

[chuckles]

[piano practicing continues]

Zuri, stop playing, please.

Zuri, stop playing, now.

Take off the mask.

You first, Gram.

[whimsical theme playing]

[exhales softly]

[chuckling]

Zuri: No.

Audra: Um...

Zuri, this is Laila,

a remarkable musician, who

I hope we'll be seeing more of.

Hi, Zuri.

Say hello, Zuri.

If you die in your dreams,

you die in real life.

Did you know that?

No, I didn't.

Be careful what you dream.

[resumes practicing]

C minor.

C minor.

[plays different chord]

F minor.

[plays different chord]

C minor.

[plays different chord]

Or you can go C minor,

F minor, G7.

[playing chords]

But, oh, no, you're still dying.

D flat major back to C minor.

[continues playing chords]

Once you master triads, you can

build any harmony you want.

Every chord tells a story.

It's up to you what you want

the music to say.

[solemn theme playing]

[exhales softly]

[chuckles]

Mmm.

Jasmine: g*dd*mn.

-And you get to live here, too.

-Laila: Mm-hm.

Their daughter Zuri

needs special assistance,

and it's just easier that way.

Jasmine: Girl, look at this.

Half of these songs

came out after he passed.

We gonna level up

Make sure you elevate

Let's just level up

He's more popular now

than he was alive.

-And?

-And I'm just worried.

That type of money,

that makes people crazy.

Okay. Well,

for what they paying me,

I will deal with crazy.

Twenty-five hundred a week.

Car payments, student loans,

the couch surfing...

And you know,

that was never a problem.

I know, but it's...

just this job will allow me

to pay off debt and teach music.

It's the perfect opportunity,

for now. So don't worry.

Well, I only worry

'cause I love you.

I know, but it's also Zuri.

I really connected

with her today.

I can tell

she's... brilliant and...

and curious. And...

And she reminds you

of Anaya, hm?

Girl... You know your sister

would be so proud of you.

And Zuri's very lucky

to have you.

You know that. [pats arm]

Uh, Dre turn the game off

and wash up.

And give me those Hi-Chews.

[dramatic piano music playing]

[chuckles]

[practicing]

[suitcase clattering]

[grunts]

-Your keys.

-[gasps]

[chuckles] Oh, hi. I'm Laila.

I'm Zuri's new piano tutor.

[chuckles]

I need your keys, not your hand.

Yeah. Um, sorry about that.

-[keys jangling]

-[exhales]

[whimsical theme playing]

-[chuckles]

-I'll make certain

it's properly maintained.

Laila: Yeah, just try not

to clean the rust off.

It's the only thing keeping

this baby going.

[giggles]

And quite a bit of luck,

I would imagine. Hmm.

Hm.

[whimsical theme continues]

[sighs] Okay.

Hm?

Hi. I'm Laila.

Femi. Come.

I take you to your room.

Thank you.

You are in the guest house.

[giggles]

[whimsical theme continues]

[Femi groans]

You want to play?

You go outside.

Day, night, it doesn't matter.

Used to be a recording studio.

The walls, the windows,

all soundproof.

No one will hear a sound.

Ooh!

[bright theme continues]

[gasps]

-Thank you.

-Mm.

Where's your room?

Only the nanny stays here.

The nanny and them.

[laughing]

Oh, I'm just the piano tutor.

Hmm-mm...

You're hungry, tutor?

[chuckles softly]

No, thank you.

You want anything, you ask.

Otherwise, you stay out.

Kitchen is my place.

And everyone in this house,

they know their place. Hm?

Hmm.

[door closes]

[squealing, giggling]

[mellow theme playing]

Thank you, Jesus.

Hoo!

[exhales deeply, laughs]

[suspenseful theme playing]

Oh, hey, Zuri.

[dramatic piano theme playing]

[alarm clock beeps]

[dramatic piano theme growing]

Hey. Why'd you stop?

You were playing

really beautifully.

Okay, we're gonna try it again.

This time, let the music flow

right through you, okay?

Tutoring Zuri will be

your primary focus,

but you'll be responsible

for other odds and ends

from time to time.

Odds and ends?

Audra: Yes.

Helping out here and there.

Laila: Hmm... I see.

You excited to see

your teachers?

Kinda...

[dramatic piano theme continues]

Laila:

Breathe and allow the notes

to just flow

through your fingers.

Okay? Your turn.

Oh, Laila.

Imani likes her green drink

after her nap.

Please put that back

in the refrigerator.

Laila: Nice finger work.

We'll also need to pick

a great recital piece for you.

Audra: Ambition

is nothing to hide from.

The line between prosperity

and poverty is razor-thin.

Believe me, I've been there.

That's it. So good, Zuri.

Audra: You have to take your

opportunities where they come.

[exhales deeply]

You'll get your shot.

[Vivaldi's "The Four

Seasons (Spring)" playing]

[sizzling]

[pepper mill crunches]

Good morning, Femi.

Femi: Mm-mm...

Audra asked if I could help

with the service.

Mm. How it starts.

I wonder what she's gonna

ask you to help with next.

-Okay. Apron. Second drawer. Mm.

-Okay.

-Is that for Zuri?

-Mm-hm.

[Nat King Cole's

"I Got Love" playing]

I got love

Written all over...

Hold on a second.

Let me see.

What is that?

It's Zuri's breakfast.

Femi told me to...

I don't care what Femi said.

You're serving it, aren't you?

What is it?

It's, um...

It's vegan pancake

with coconut cream,

berries and a banana.

Well done, Laila.

Put the plate down.

Of course.

Oh...

[chuckles]

-Imani.

-It's all right.

My green drink, please.

Audra: Zuri, you know the rules.

No devices at the table

and take the mask off

-so you can eat...

-I'm so sorry.

This beautiful breakfast.

Thank you.

Is there anything else you need?

Mm-mm.

...written all over His face

I got L-O-V-E

Written all over the place

Mm...

[doorbell rings]

Mm... Sounds like Daddy's home.

-Femi: How was your trip?

-Audra: Oh,

Laila, have Femi prepare

another plate for Marcus.

Marcus: Something smells good.

Smells good to be home.

[laughs] Yeah.

[Femi laughs]

Marcus: What's this?

[Marcus speaks indistinctly]

-[laughs]

-I got love

Marcus: You know

what you're doing, girl.

You know what you're doing.

-[music distorts, slows]

-Written all over my face

Marcus: Oh, you don't miss,

Femi. You don't miss.

I got L-O-V-E

[music resumes normally]

What a remarkable case

I truly like

The way you spell

And, dear

Your penmanship is swell

You got Femi making faces now?

...V-E

-All over my face

-[giggles]

-He's got love

-I got love

Written all over...

Take that off.

I like it.

She looks like a Dahomey Amazon.

Marcus:

I see we have a new warrior.

And who might you be?

-All over

-[gasps]

My face

Hi. Hello. How are you?

[gasps]

[shatters]

Imani: For Christ's sake.

I just had the floors redone.

Femi? Femi?

Audra: Imani.

Marcus, this is Laila,

the new nanny.

Not the best first impressions.

I'm so sorry.

Nice to meet you, Laila.

Don't worry. It's all right.

Mistakes happen.

Baby, how was your trip?

Marcus: Not too bad.

Yeah. Hi.

[Marcus moans, kisses]

And how is that group you were

chasing? Did you close the deal?

Still playing hard to get,

but they'll come around.

-What is their issue?

-I'm so sorry.

-[Femi speaking indistinctly]

-They've seen your roster

and the success you've had

with the back catalog.

Mother, please.

-He's a genius.

-Mother, please.

He just got back.

-Please, please.

-All right.

[chuckles] Babe,

why don't you sit down

and have breakfast with us.

Marcus:

Thanks, but I'm not hungry.

I had something on the plane.

All I need is a shower

and a kiss from you.

-Mmm...

-Mmm...

-[both kissing]

-[Marcus moaning]

Oh...

[Marcus continues moaning]

Enjoy.

[towel thwacks]

[clicks tongue]

[Imani sighs]

[suspenseful theme playing]

Marcus: What are you doing here?

What do you want? Money?

I mean, h-how did you

even find me?

Are you serious?

Your mother in law hired me

to tutor Zuri. Okay?

-This is insane.

-I didn't know, I swear.

So you expect me to believe

that this is all just

some weird coincidence?

Well, guess what?

It doesn't matter.

Because I quit, right now.

I knew this job

was too good to be true.

-Hold on. Just...

-Let me go!

Wait, just hold on.

No one knows about this.

No one has to find out.

You're married.

-Look, I'm sorry.

-Hmm-hmm...

Okay? I made a mistake.

A mistake?

Look. If you want to quit,

I-I won't stand in your way.

It's just... Imani's been

unsettled recently.

-Hm...

-And if you leave now,

she'll be suspicious.

Hm...

I'm afraid of what

she might do to herself.

To the baby...

Is Audra paying you all right?

-Mm-hmm.

-I'll double it.

Please, please, stay a few days.

[gasps, inhales]

Zuri, what have I told you

about sneaking up

on people, huh?

I heard whispering.

We were, um, discussing

your mom's baby shower.

I asked if Laila

could help plan it.

You said I could help plan it.

Well, I thought, maybe

you could use an assistant.

Isn't that right, Laila?

[breathes heavily]

At your service, mademoiselle.

[suspenseful theme playing]

Well, I'll, uh,

leave you to it, then.

It's okay.

I don't need much help.

But I think, maybe, you will.

[people vocalizing]

What the f*ck?

[music box playing

faintly in background]

[music box grows louder]

-[smacks against glass]

-[gasps]

[hissing]

Oh, hell no!

[cell phone ringing]

[breathing nervously]

Hey, girl. What's up?

Hey, girl. Listen.

Okay, so it says here

that they auctioned

a Basquiat for $30 million.

Is that for real?

They white people rich.

Mind your business!

I'm just trying

to live vicariously

through you. Okay?

-[scoffs] Mm-hm?

-Anyway,

-how is the champagne life?

-It's complicated.

Complicated? Good or what?

Well, remember, um,

I told you about that guy

I met at the diner?

Yes. The most interesting

man alive.

Yes.

The "best sex you ever had" guy?

[laughs] Yes.

Torpedo d*ck?

Jasmine! [laughs]

What about him?

[sighs] Okay, well, um...

Turns out he lives here.

He's the husband.

Jas?

-[laughing]

-Yes!

One week with the other side

and you already wildling!

I love this. I didn't think

you had it in you.

I can't even hold you.

What happened to being

worried about me? Hm?

That was before I saw this

beautiful-a*s Black man.

g*dd*mn! I just know he packing.

Nah, he's married is what he is.

Which goes against my policy.

She probably knows all about it.

These rich people,

they be freaky as hell.

I'm telling you.

I'm on the clock Jas.

Girl, you're f*cking the boss!

You can do

whatever you want, okay?

I mean... Brin!

Mind your business

and eat your croissant.

[doorknob rattling]

Leaving all these flakes

on the ground.

I'm not vacuuming that.

-Hold on.

-What? What's wrong?

[footsteps receding]

You okay?

-Lai.

-Let me go.

Lai! Did you...

[phone disconnects]

The girls don't know how to say

a proper goodbye.

-That's just rude.

-[camera shutter clicks]

[door opens]

[suspenseful theme playing]

Hello?

Hello?

Hello?

[woman groans loudly]

[woman sobbing]

[suspenseful theme

turns dramatic]

[sobbing continues]

Imani.

Is everything okay?

Yeah. Everything's fine.

I'm just, um, making space.

Mother insists I wear

the new season,

and Marcus has seen me

in half of these already so...

What do you think of Marcus?

He's, uh... He's, uh... He's...

Yeah, I know.

He's beautiful, and he's rich.

Women claw each other's eyes out

for men like him.

-Do you have a man?

-No.

A woman?

-[laughs]

-[laughs]

No.

Sexy little thing like you.

You should be enjoying

yourself with whoever you want.

True love is dangerous.

It's terrifying.

[sobs quietly]

If it's not,

then what's the point?

Have you ever been choked

during sex?

[grunts softly]

Mm-mm.

It's the best orgasm

you'll ever have.

Mmm...

Have Femi drop these off

at Goodwill.

I won't hear the end of it

if Mother sees them.

[sighs]

[chuckles]

[sighs]

[buckles unlatch]

[dramatic theme playing]

[sighs]

[gasps]

[chandelier chiming]

-Zuri: F sharp.

-Laila: Mm-hm.

-Zuri: D... F sharp.

-You got it!

You are a natural. Give me some!

[chuckles]

[Zuri breathing heavily]

[dramatic theme playing]

[playing a mid-tempo tune]

I don't think I know this one.

Is this a Zuri original?

[door closes]

[Zuri playing a scale]

So that song you were playing,

it was beautiful.

I'd love to hear you play

that song again.

It could be our little secret.

[dramatic theme playing]

[playing song]

[Laila chuckles]

[Laila playing

improvised accompaniment]

[both chuckle]

[Laila exhales]

That was so beautiful, Zuri.

Thank you for sharing that

with me.

It also makes me feel

kind of sad.

How does it make you feel?

Less alone.

[dramatic piano theme playing]

Hi, Miss Jelani.

I was wondering

if I could ask you something?

Of course!

And please call me Audra.

[chuckles]

[clicks tongue]

Yes, uh, it's about Zuri.

I was wondering about play dates?

Oh, we don't do that.

Our focus is more on

Zuri's education

and her self-actualization.

Yes, but socialization

is just as important

and I worry about her.

We don't pay you to worry.

[chuckles]

[tender theme playing]

She's had a hard time

these past few years.

I don't suppose

she's mentioned anything to you

about her biological father?

-Memories, anything like that?

-No.

She's the one who found him.

[sighs] Oh, my God.

She was uncommunicative

for months,

but then after

a few months of counseling,

she started

to come out of her shell,

speaking in her own unique way.

That mask seemed to help.

Her father gave it to her

as a wall hanging,

but she seems to treat it

like a...

Kind of like a security blanket.

[chuckles]

[chuckles]

I don't think

that's what it is, Miss Jelani.

Respectfully,

I think it's more of a shield.

Something that she wears

to protect herself

when she feels

something is... wrong.

Well...

I'd have to say that she

has been wearing it

less frequently,

so she must be feeling

more protected.

Perhaps thanks to you.

Laila, we all appreciate you,

but sometimes it's hard to watch

someone come in and connect

when we've been struggling,

especially Imani.

You know what?

Why don't you join us

for dinner tomorrow night?

Having us all together

like family

might just be

the thing everyone needs.

Would you?

-Of course.

-Fantastic.

You know,

Fridays we dress for dinner,

so I'll find something for you.

I'm so excited!

[violin playing]

[tutor speaking in Korean]

[in English] This is my book.

Would you like to read it?

[speaking in Korean]

[in English]

Practice your tenses. Okay?

[speaks in Korean]

[computer chimes off]

Ahh...

I was hoping to catch

your tutor.

The group I'm trying to sign

has a lyric I need translated.

Can you help me out?

It's, um, it's that one

right there.

I made a...

Oh, hang on, smarty-pants.

Um... [mutters to self]

Laila, would you mind

transcribing?

-Sure.

-Thanks.

I made a mistake.

And now she's...

gon... gone!

My heart is broken

and I can't go on.

That's really sappy.

[laughs] There's something

lost in translation, sure.

But it's less about the words

and more about

how they make you feel.

Did you, uh, get all that?

Yes.

Thank you.

Have a great day, Zuri.

I'll have a few recital pieces

to practice when you get home.

Okay?

[dramatic theme playing]

Okay. Bye.

Bye!

[melancholic theme playing]

[engine revs]

[gasping]

[The Sunset Sound & Shelby

Lynne's "Misty Moon" playing]

Marcus: How'd you find this?

Imani: Did you see

the options they sent you?

Audra: I give up,

so I called the florist.

They're coming in,

and the catering.

Outside tonight

In this restless city

Oh, you look beautiful.

Hi, sorry.

I hope I'm not too late.

Not at all.

-Laila: Thanks.

-Lovely.

I fished it out of the pile.

It would be a shame to let it

go to waste, don't you think?

Oh, that presentation

is marvelous.

Marcus: Beautiful.

Family,

please enjoy your dinner.

-Thank you.

-Thank you Femi, it's lovely.

-Femi: Of course.

-Audra: Mmm...

I smell the scallions.

Is something wrong

with your food, baby?

I like when Laila makes it.

Hm.

-Can we just say grace now?

-Yes. Yes.

Heavenly father,

we thank you for this meal

and the blessings before us.

Watch over this family and

guide our thoughts and actions.

Help us recognize

our transgressions

and give us strength to be

faithful in our commitments.

Fill our hearts

with love and humility

that we may serve others

selflessly and honor your name.

Audra: Give us

grateful hearts, O father,

for all thy mercies,

and make us mindful.

Laila.

Grace circles the table.

[smacks lips] I...

I didn't know. I'm, I'm sorry.

It's okay.

May we walk in your wisdom.

Cleanse me from my sins

and restore me to your grace.

[unsettling theme playing]

Cleanse me from my sins.

Cleanse me from my sins.

And restore me to your grace.

And restore me to your grace.

[breathes deeply]

Hm.

In your name we pray.

-Amen.

-Amen.

-Imani: Amen.

-Zuri: Amen.

[quietly] Amen.

Bon apptit.

[unsettling theme continues]

Imani: Laila.

-Zuri: Laila?

-Imani: Laila.

-Zuri: Laila.

-Cleanse me from my sins.

-Zuri: Laila.

-[giggles]

Imani: Cleanse me from my sins.

Zuri: Laila.

Any siblings?

-Just me.

-[gasping]

-[gasps]

-Imani: Laila.

[screaming]

[sighs]

Zuri: Be careful what you dream.

[door slams shut]

[giggles] And this one,

Pianissimo...

[whispering] it means very soft.

[normally] You know,

they kind of trade off

like a game of hide and seek.

You know hide and seek, right?

Sure. They play it at school

sometimes.

It's all rather silly, though.

My mom says it's important

to be mature.

To be a child is to be a victim.

Well, it's okay to enjoy

still being a kid.

[bee buzzing]

You still got a few years left.

-Ah! [panting]

-[grunts]

-[grunts] Get away!

-It's okay.

It's just a little bee!

-Get away!

-Okay. All right.

We're gonna go inside. Come on.

-Zuri: Get away from me!

-Come on. It's all right!

I can promise you, those bees

are way more scared of you

-than you are of them.

-[loud buzzing]

-Aah! It stung me!

-Hey, hey, let me see.

Oh, God!

-[wheezes]

-Oh, God.

Okay, okay! Zuri. Come on.

Sit right here!

It's okay! It'll be okay!

[Zuri gasping]

[ominous theme playing]

[heartbeats]

[wheezing]

Okay. Okay.

Okay. Okay. Please. Please.

Okay.

Zuri!

[ominous theme swelling]

[heart beats faster]

[Laila whimpering]

-[plunger hisses]

-[massive, deep inhale]

[ominous theme ebbs]

-[breathing heavily]

-[Laila sobbing]

It's okay.

I'm right here.

Audra: Relax. She'll be okay.

Although she will be okay,

in future,

have an allergy pen on you

at all times.

-Thank you doctor, we will.

-Thank you.

-Thank you.

-Doctor: I'm glad you called.

[sobbing]

Hey, hey.

Hey. It's all right.

I didn't mean

for her to get hurt.

She's gonna be okay.

She wanted to go outside,

and I didn't think...

Outside? Without our

permission? You did this?

-I'm sorry. I thought...

-You're sorry?

-I was helping her...

-You thought what?

-She had allergic reaction...

-What?

-We don't pay you to think!

-Imani, the baby!

Jesus Christ!

You're not Zuri's family!

Do you understand?

You're not even her friend!

We pay you

to spend time with her!

You're the help, Laila!

Do you understand that?

The f*ck are you thinking?

-Imani!

-Do you understand that?

-Imani!

-What?

Stop it!

[Laila sobbing]

[huffs]

f*ck!

[door opens]

-[door slams shut]

-Okay.

[chuckles] Come on, Laila!

[screams, giggles]

[Anaya giggling]

Jasmine [on phone]:

That sounds really scary, Lai.

Laila: It was.

I was so worried.

Jasmine [on phone]:

Now I'm getting worried

about you again.

Jas, I'm okay.

Jasmine [on phone]: You're

getting too caught up, Lai.

She's not Anaya!

You don't owe these people

anything.

I can't just leave her.

[sighs]

Zuri: Sorry about Mommy.

Sometimes she gets mad and,

and does bad things, but...

She doesn't mean to.

[chuckles] It's okay.

She was just worried.

I was too.

And your grandma and your dad.

We're just all happy

that you're okay.

Marcus isn't my real dad.

My real dad died

when I was little.

I know.

[Laila inhales deeply]

I'm sorry.

Thank you for helping me.

[sighs]

I will always take care of you.

[dramatic theme playing]

[Laila sobs]

[slow jazz music playing]

-[doorknob clicks]

-[music volume drops]

Hey.

Hey.

Can I get you a drink?

[door closes]

I shouldn't.

Just this once?

[chuckles]

[chuckles]

[bottle squeaks, pops]

[liquid pours]

[bottle thumps]

-Thank you.

-You're welcome.

Ah.

Half inch tape. Reel to reel.

That's what RGB

made his recordings with.

I'm sure Zuri's told you

all about them.

No, actually.

It's over 1000 hours.

You know, once he got

his own studio,

he insisted on

recording everything.

Part of his genius, I guess.

His voice is still with us.

And even in death...

his legacy lives on.

Marcus, I'm sorry for your loss.

That's what the whiskey's for.

[glasses clink]

Until things blow over.

Imani's in one

of her dark seasons.

She's going through a lot,

you know.

You don't need

to make excuses for her.

I just wanted to protect

Reggie's legacy.

Look after his people.

He was my guy.

And family

was everything to him.

And with my own child

on the way,

I understand that now

more than ever.

[sighs]

[glass thuds]

I lost someone too.

My sister.

She would have been Zuri's age.

She had asthma.

They didn't know

how severe until, uh...

She died before the ambulance

even got there.

Died in my arms.

So... [exhales]

Today with Zuri...

My God.

I can't imagine.

[machine beeps, music

stops, tape flapping]

[sighs]

Good night.

[door closes]

[chuckles]

[dramatic theme playing]

I know this is wrong...

but being with you was...

the first time I felt anything

in a long time.

When I close my eyes...

all I see is you...

[dramatic theme playing]

Us that night.

[sighs]

[sighs]

God.

Why didn't I meet you first?

But Imani...

Don't worry about Imani.

I only want you.

[Coco Jones' "AEOMG" playing]

Sit me on the counter

Neighbors need a preview

You could Romeo me

I'ma Juliet you

Bet you wanna make me

Your wife

Bet you got a big appetite

[gasps]

Fresh up out the shower

But it's gettin' filthy

Usin' all my vowels

Legs up on the ceiling

[panting]

Talkin' 'bout A-A, E-E

Oh, my God

A-A, E-E, oh, my

It's never too much

Never too much

Never too much

Never too much

Never too much

Never too much

Never too much, never

Too much

Baby, don't take it

Easy on me

Know I want more

So keep it coming

'Cause it's never too much

Never too much

Never too much

Never too much

A-A, E-E, oh, my God

A-A, E-E Oh, my God

A-A, E-E, oh, my God

[both panting, moaning]

Down to waste my time

I'm up in your city

We could rendezvous

Now we're on a mission

Turn the music up for me

[Laila gasps]

You know I can sing on it

No crowd

Fresh up out the shower

But it's gettin' filthy

[panting continues]

Usin' all my vowels

Legs up on the ceiling

Talkin' 'bout A-A, E-E,

Oh, my God

You gon' make me

Fall in love

[mirror squeaks]

[ominous theme playing]

[gasps]

[ominous theme ebbs]

"You make me feel alive."

-[chuckles]

-[school bell rings]

-So, did you have a good day?

-Yeah.

Did you know that under the fur,

tigers have striped skin?

Oh, I didn't know that.

Each pattern is unique.

Kind of like a fingerprint.

Okay, so don't tell me

you're gonna try to get

a pet tiger now, are you?

[both chuckle]

No, I don't think my snake

would like sharing a closet

with a tiger.

-But tigers are cool.

-Hey. Hey, hey. Come on.

Their stripes are like

camouflage

that mimics vegetation.

This helps them better navigate

their surroundings.

And not only does it help them

to ambush prey,

but also to avoid danger.

-Zuri! Zuri!

-Hey, no, just get back!

Somebody, get her off me!

Somebody help us! Please!

Just let me say hello, please!

-Somebody help us!

-Zuri!

-Guard: That's enough.

-Woman: Zuri!

Let me say hi!

-Get off of me! Zuri!

-Erik: Get out!

[speaking indistinctly]

Laila: Who was she?

Marcus: We don't know yet.

We're trying to find out.

Look, Reg meant a lot

to a lot of people.

His music's powerful, and

sometimes it makes folks crazy.

[door opens]

What happened?

An incident at the school.

I didn't ask you. What happened?

Someone tried to

get Zuri's attention,

but Erik handled it

and everything is okay.

-Why didn't you come and get me?

-Because, um...

-We didn't want to wake you.

-Wake me?

[sighs]

[scoffs]

Imani: Zuri.

Baby, could you come here?

[dramatic theme playing]

Can I hug you?

[chuckles]

Mommy is really trying.

And I promise you,

I'm gonna be better, okay?

I promise you.

-Can I take this off?

-No.

[Imani clears throat]

[sighs] Laila, could you

draw me a bath, please?

No. I can do that.

I asked Laila.

Of course.

[unsettling theme playing]

[water splashing]

Imani: Mmm...

Mmm...

Could you help me

with my legs, please?

Just there.

-Thank you.

-Sure.

Marcus used to do this for me.

We used to take baths together.

Couldn't keep his hands

off of me, heh.

He used to make me

these little origami figures

with love notes in the folds.

He used to do a lot of things.

I didn't want you here,

you know.

I told them I didn't need help,

but Marcus and Mother

insisted, so...

[Imani exhales]

[sharp inhale]

Oh, the baby's kicking.

Come here. Come here.

[chuckles awkwardly]

Imani: Wait.

[unsettling theme continues]

[chuckles awkwardly]

[laughing] You feel that?

[both chuckle]

I'm sorry I snapped

at you back there.

It's okay.

I was just really scared.

I see so much of Reg in Zuri.

Life is so fleeting, you know?

The people you love

could be gone in an instant.

Yeah.

You could be gone in an instant.

-Ugh. sh*t. I dropped my ring...

-It's okay, I got it.

Your hair. Your hair.

It's okay.

Here it is.

[Metronome ticking]

[breathing audibly]

[piano playing]

[continues ticking]

[plays discordant notes]

Zuri, I am so sorry.

You now have my full,

undivided attention.

Are you okay, Laila?

-Zuri...

-[ticking stops]

I want you

to listen very closely.

Sometimes when you feel

something is wrong...

it's okay to be extra careful...

and to trust your instincts.

The Zulu believed that instincts

were a guide

from ancestral spirits.

[chuckles sadly]

Yes. That is a very good way

to think about it. [sighs]

What if something feels off

but you don't know why?

Then you do everything in

your power to protect yourself.

And you listen

to those ancestors.

What are the ancestors

telling you?

[sighs]

[violin playing]

[sighs]

[chuckles]

[mellow theme playing]

Laila: What are we doing?

[Laila hums]

[Laila panting]

You can't answer that, can you?

[both panting]

I know this is complicated.

[sighs, panting]

But whatever this is...

Don't stop.

[panting] Don't stop.

Don't stop.

It's real, Laila.

Real is worth fighting for.

There's a jazz standard called

"Never Let Me Go."

It's gonna be played

at the baby shower.

You know it?

Mm-hmm.

And we wanted the band

to play it, but I thought...

Go on.

My friend from the Phil

will be there.

[chuckles]

Hmm?

And I think that

you should play it.

The violin solo.

[chuckles]

It'll be a great opportunity.

Your own private show, basically.

Oh, my God, Marcus. Thank you.

[chuckles]

-Mmm.

-[kiss]

You deserve it.

[jazz music playing]

[people chattering indistinctly]

Femi: These are presents.

Let's put them here.

-Audra: Oh, honey, you made it.

-Guest: Audra.

You did... All the gifts are

over there. Please get a drink.

-Okay.

-[camera shutters clicking]

Oh, that's beautiful. Yes.

[Audra chuckles]

Aww. Give them

that Vogue pose, darling.

Zuri, smile.

Oh! Thank God

she doesn't have the mask.

Oh, hello. I'm so...

[sighs]

-Hey.

-Hey.

-Is that really her?

-It sure is.

She's your ticket.

-What if I'm not ready?

-You've never been more ready.

[chuckles]

-I'll introduce you. Come on.

-Okay.

Marcus: This is your shot,

Laila.

Meet the moment.

[band continues

playing jazz music]

[all applaud]

Thank you.

Ladies and gentlemen.

It's my great pleasure

to introduce

a very special couple.

Let's celebrate

their new addition.

And help me welcome

to the dance floor,

Marcus and Imani Walker.

Audra: There they are!

[chuckles]

-[guests cheer and whistle]

-[man shouts out indistinctly]

Host: And now you're in

for a real treat.

We have the lovely

Laila Calloway on her violin.

Imani: Mm-hmm...

[heartbeats]

[heart beats faster]

[ominous theme playing]

But with talent like yours...

I'd say third time's a charm.

[playing beautifully]

[playing discordant notes]

[smooth trumpet

playing over violin]

[shuddering]

[sinister theme playing]

[gasping]

[chuckles]

[huffs angrily]

[silverware clatters]

Laila: How could you do that?

-How could you do that to me?

-Erik: Stop it.

-Why?

-Get ahold of yourself.

-What is wrong with you?

-[Erik grunts]

You're sick. This is bullshit!

Erik: Calm down.

[dramatic theme playing]

Whoa! Sorry about that,

everyone. Band, please.

[playing jazz music]

Please come and join

this beautiful couple

[chuckles] on the dance floor.

Cheers.

Yeah.

[breathing heavily]

[jazz music fades]

[sniffles]

You really disappointed me,

Laila.

Imani had her suspicions,

but I didn't think

you were capable until now.

We'll find a way to tell Zuri.

She'll be heartbroken, you know.

You have this week to finish

preparing for her recital,

before we part ways.

I really thought better of you.

You owe us.

You owe Zuri.

[scoffs]

[sobs]

It's for the best.

This place kills you

or makes you wicked.

[discordant notes play]

[sighs]

[cell phone chimes]

[sighs]

[message chimes]

[message chimes]

[dramatic theme playing]

Laila: I found her address.

She wants to meet.

[Jasmine sighs]

Jasmine: Girl,

are you sure about this?

Laila: There's something

going on in that house.

It's Zuri.

I feel like she's trying

to tell me something.

Like, she's in danger.

And I'm the only one in

that house who could hear her.

[Laila sighs]

Look, I know it sounds crazy...

[seat belts click]

But I at least want to hear

what she has to say.

-You got my back, right?

-Yeah, b*tch.

[sarcastically] Always.

-So no more f*cking.

-Laila: Jasmine!

Charmaine:

Reg had a after-school program.

It was his heart and soul.

[rapping indistinctly]

His way of staying connected

to the community, you know?

[audience cheering]

I was on the board,

took care of the financials.

A few months after he passed...

they called to say

the rent check bounced.

Now, he had a trust set up.

Enough money to run

that place for years.

Decades. Come to find,

it got amended.

But they wouldn't tell me why

or by who.

Toxicology report said he...

died of an overdose.

Overdose?

-That's bullshit, I say!

-[ice in glass rattles]

Reg was scared somebody

was trying to steal his money.

Money that was meant for Zuri.

He said if anything happened,

he left something

in the house to prove it.

-What did he leave?

-Well, he wouldn't say.

That business.

All them people around him

had him so paranoid,

he didn't even trust

his own mother.

I know how this sounds,

but I promise you.

[sobbing] My son did not die

of no overdose.

Imani k*lled him.

[serious theme playing]

Okay.

Charmaine: Laila.

Jasmine: Thanks for

the sweet tea. Come on.

-Laila, wait, please!

-Thanks for having us.

Laila! Imani can't get

around that trust.

Laila, come on.

Whatever Reg left in that house,

you need to find it first.

For Zuri's sake, I beg you.

I'll do what I can.

Girl, that b*tch is crazy.

Mamas never believe their kids

are doing drugs.

I bet even Snoop Dogg mama

is in denial.

Lai.

You don't actually believe

all that stuff she was saying, right?

-No.

-Okay, so tell your face.

And please get

my a*s home quick.

-I need to hold my crystals.

-[Laila sighs]

[car door closes]

[mid-tempo music playing]

I ain't got it all

Figured out

Two chains

One watch still on

n*gga'ed out

RGB, AMG, yo Tearin' it out

n*gg*s wanna k*ll you

For your dreams

Before you live 'em out

'Cause if you die in your

Dreams, you die for real

Like the wall's closing in

That's how it feels

I could tell something off

It don't feel right

I know snakes move in silence

But they will bite

Now if you die in your dreams

You die for real

Like the wall's closing in

That's how I feel

I could tell something off

It don't feel right

I know snakes move in silence

But they will bite

I said, it's RGB

Nothin' harder than me

[suspenseful theme playing]

[breathes deeply]

[chandelier chiming]

[ominous theme playing]

Okay.

[breathing deeply]

[music box playing]

[breathing rapidly]

[hissing]

-Hey, little guy. Hey.

-[lid clatters against wall]

[breathing rapidly]

I'm not gonna hurt you.

Oh, I'm not gonna hurt you.

Be still.

[hisses]

Stay still.

[gasps]

Oh, sh*t.

-[hissing]

-[gasping]

Just stay right there.

Just, just stay there.

Whoo! [gasping]

Whoo!

[panting in relief]

[box playing music]

[button clacking,

music continues]

[music stops]

[tender theme playing]

[tender theme grows suspenseful]

[door closes quietly]

Audra: There was a time

you couldn't wait

to get this over with.

And now you're hesitating.

It doesn't suit you.

Marcus: I'm not hesitating.

I'm being cautious.

I just don't like

what we can't control.

We have to find out

what she knows.

Audra: I agree.

Loose ends are a m*therf*cker.

And then we do

what needs to be done.

Marcus: Just like we planned.

Good.

Because soon you'll have the son

I always promised you.

And we'll be

a real family, okay?

Okay.

Okay.

And I'm grateful.

Mmm...

[inhales sharply]

[Marcus moans softly]

Show me how grateful.

Show me. Show me!

[unsettling theme playing]

-[whispering] Yes.

-[kisses]

[moaning] Oh, God.

[moaning]

[Audra moans indistinctly]

[both moaning]

-Choke me.

-[gasps]

Choke me, yes... [gasps]

[Audra moans]

[Marcus laughs]

[on voice mail] Hi, it's

Jasmine. Leave a message.

[buttons clacking]

[message chimes]

Should you be in here?

It's my house. Isn't it?

But Imani...

She's... resting.

Hmm.

You going somewhere?

I was just, heh, getting

ready to pick up Zuri

and have our last lesson.

No lesson tonight.

Zuri has a... after-school thing

with friends.

She'll be home late.

Well then, it, uh...

looks like

I have the night off, huh?

Hmm...

Hmm.

[breathes deeply]

Audra needs your help

in the kitchen.

[violin jangles and thuds]

It's dinner time.

[Ledisi's "What A Difference

A Day Made" playing]

What a difference A day made

[chuckles softly]

I should change.

No.

Join us. It's our last meal.

Sit.

Brought the sun

And the flowers

Mm, where there

Used to be rain

My yesterday Was blue, dear

Audra: It's been so long

since I prepared a meal.

The main course

will be ready shortly.

My lonely nights

Are through, dear

Uh-huh.

Since you said You were mine

Laila: No, thank you.

[exhales sharply]

Audra: Oh.

Hm.

There's a rainbow Before me

Skies above...

Mm.

...can't be stormy

[cell phone vibrating]

Since that moment...

Laila, you know the rules.

No devices at the table.

[chuckles] Yes.

It's heaven when you

Mmm.

Find romance on your menu

We wanted to talk to you

about Zuri.

So, has she talked to you at all

about her biological father?

She actually

doesn't talk about him.

It wouldn't be

a violation of her trust

for you to share

something with us.

Come on, Laila.

All we wanna know

is what Zuri

has told you about Reg.

What she's told me? Yeah.

[Laila clears throat]

Yes, what she's told me, um...

[gulping]

[inhales sharply]

Yeah.

She has told me

that her dad gave her

that mask that she wears,

and that he loved

African history.

She also told me

that she doesn't really

think about him very much,

that she barely remembers him,

and how she thinks of you...

as her father now.

[slams hand on table]

[dish clatters]

Cut the bullshit.

We know that you met

with Charmaine.

Was that Zuri's idea? Or yours?

[groans]

[dishes clatter]

[dramatic theme playing]

Oh...

You don't have

much more time, Laila.

Mm-mm.

Tell us what Zuri knows.

You wouldn't want her

getting hurt, now, would you?

Zuri doesn't know anything.

What did Charmaine tell you?

[phone clatters]

-Hm?

-[laughing nervously]

-What did you find?

-[whimpers]

Tell us what you found.

[inhales sharply, gasping]

She's innocent.

Please don't hurt her.

I could never hurt her, dear.

[grunts, inhales sharply]

I pay people to do it for me.

[gasps]

What did you find?

[echoing] What did you find?

Look in her violin case.

Same place she keeps

her little love notes.

Why are you doing this?

Reg was selfish. Shortsighted.

Mm-hm.

He left everything to Zuri.

And we stand to inherit nothing.

My son gets nothing.

And I made that m*therf*cker.

So you used me.

[chuckles]

We needed someone

Zuri would trust

and Imani would hate.

[laughing]

When it's all over,

Imani will tell the story.

And there'll be no doubt.

[ominous theme playing]

Audra: It's simple.

You saw a pathway of excellence

through our family.

You were obsessed with Marcus,

and slept with him

under the same roof

of his pregnant wife.

And when he

finally rebuffed you,

you lost control

and tried to attack her

at her very own baby shower.

Dozens of prominent

community members

-saw it and witnessed it.

-Imani.

You wanted revenge.

You wanted to hurt Imani

by taking away the one thing

that she really loved.

You were more than negligent

with Zuri.

Our family doctor

will attest to that.

And when that attempt

didn't work...

I've got dinner.

You purposefully fed Zuri food

that you knew

she was deathly allergic to.

Laila made it special for you.

And tragically, Zuri died.

That's a good little girl.

The guilt was just too much

for you to bear.

I made a mistake.

And now she's gone.

My heart is broken.

[distorted laugh]

[echoing] And I can't go on.

Audra:

Such beautiful handwriting.

And sadly tonight...

you tragically took

your own life.

[seagulls crying]

[phone chiming]

Audra: Dinner is over.

-And the child?

-It's done. Now hurry up.

[phone disconnects]

[seat belt unbuckles]

[suspenseful theme playing]

[exhales loudly]

[whimpering]

[grunting]

[gasping, coughing]

[seat belt unbuckles]

[grunting]

[button beeps]

See I believe in money

Power, and respect

First you get the money

Then you get

The muthafuckin' power

After you get

The f*ck' power

Muthafuckas will Respect you

The key to life

Money, power, and respect

Whatchu' need in life

Money, power, and respect

When you eatin' right

Money, power, and respect

Help you sleep at night

You'll see the light

It's the key to life

Money, power, and respect

Whatchu' need in life

Money, power, and respect

When you eatin' right

Money, power, and respect

Money, power, and respect

Money, power, and respect

Ayo my whole clique

'Bout it, 'bout it

[seat belt clicks]

Truck, step out, the wh*res

Wanna crowd around it

[yells]

[screaming]

Come on!

[Erik shouting in pain]

[panting sharply]

[gasps]

-[yells]

-[screams]

Laila: Please!

Get away from me!

-[gasps]

-[screams]

[gasping]

-[grunting]

-[continues screaming]

Erik: You f*cking b*tch!

[groans loudly]

[Erik groaning]

[squishing]

[panting]

How you like my Prius now?

[gasping]

[dashboard chiming]

[engine revs]

Zuri. I'm coming, Zuri.

[tires squeal]

[door opens]

[dramatic theme playing]

[door closes]

Zuri.

Oh, my God. Zuri. Zuri.

Zuri, please. Please, don't die.

Laila!

Oh, my God.

Are you okay?

Audra brought me dinner

but something didn't feel right,

so I trusted my instincts.

You listened to the ancestors.

Uh-huh.

I took two bites

and stashed the rest.

-She hates my mask.

-[chuckles]

I'm gonna go find

your mom, okay?

And we're gonna get out of here.

Do you have anywhere

you could hide?

[men chattering indistinctly

on speakers]

Man 1: With all due respect,

you don't know

what you're talking about.

Man 2:

I'm talking about my money.

Marcus:

That was a routine amendment.

-I can walk you through it.

-What did I tell you?

-Marcus: Reg.

-Reg: No changes.

That's what I said.

Marcus: I'm looking after

your legacy here.

Reg: Zuri is my legacy.

Marcus: She's 3 years old.

What if something

happens to you,

or, God forbid, to her.

-Reg: The f*ck you just say?

-Reg, listen.

Reg: Why are you so worried

about me all of a sudden, huh?

I ain't going nowhere.

You haven't been

yourself lately.

Reg: Are you trying

to gaslight me?

-Reg, you're paranoid.

-Reg: And you fired.

Are you sure you wanna do this?

Reg: I just did.

Get the f*ck out of my sight.

This is Reginald Garvey Bell.

October tenth, 2020.

Something's been off.

I wasn't sure until now,

but if you're hearing this,

maybe I ain't around no more.

Something happened to me,

and it was Marcus Walker

that did it.

[gasps, exhales]

Reg: Follow the money.

[tape flapping]

[gasps]

[suspenseful theme playing]

[gasping]

[stifled, ragged breaths]

[muffled gasp]

[shushes]

Listen. It's not my fault.

I would never hurt Zuri.

I was trying to save her.

Audra, she...

It was supposed to be

about the money,

and no one was supposed

to get hurt.

[discordant notes play]

But I saw you two... together.

She blackmailed me.

Threatened to hurt Zuri

if I didn't go along.

I-I had to please her.

Laila, you gotta believe me.

You believe me, don't you?

Uh-huh. Uh-huh.

Uh-huh.

[gasps]

[grunts]

-[Laila grunts]

-[discordant notes play]

-[screams]

-[discordant notes play]

[Laila gasping]

[choking]

-[discordant notes play]

-And for what it's worth,

I was starting to like you.

-[scratches]

-[Marcus screams]

Hey.

[Laila screams, grunts]

[both grunting]

Oh, is this the hand that

makes all that pretty music?

-[howling scream]

-[Marcus laughs]

[gasps]

-[panting]

-[Laila continues screaming]

[dramatic theme playing]

-[Marcus grunting]

-[Laila gasping]

[choking]

[yells]

[grunts]

[Laila coughing]

[gasping]

Where's Zuri?

Where is Zuri?

[footsteps approaching]

We have to find Zuri.

She can't be far.

[breathing raggedly]

[suspenseful theme playing]

[breathing heavily]

Imani: What?

-[g*n c*ck]

-[gasping]

Laila, you are wasting my time.

You couldn't save your sister.

And you can't save Zuri.

You keep Anaya out of this.

But she's a big part

of the narrative.

That's why we chose you.

Because if you let

your own little sister die,

what's another

little Black girl?

f*ck you, you

old miserable b*tch!

Oh!

[Laila yelps]

Miserable b*tch?

[howling scream]

[gasps]

[clothes hangers rattle]

Here!

Aah! sh*t!

[grunts]

[Zuri groans]

Mommy! Mommy!

I'm coming, baby!

[Zuri screams]

I'm coming!

Marcus: Come on!

-Zuri: Get off of me!

-Get your a*s, Z.

-Zuri.

-Please!

Zuri, it's okay.

-Come on.

-[groans]

I ain't playing with you.

-[Zuri groans]

-Audra: Come here.

You thought

you could outsmart me?

It's okay.

What now?

There's more food on the stove.

Force feed her if you have to.

We have to make this look right.

[panting]

What is it?

That's your granddaughter.

Your own blood.

How could you?

I used to be sweet like you.

Doing people's laundry,

doing people's dishes,

waiting on rich people

hand and foot.

And I vowed that

no member of my family

would ever want

for anything ever again.

-We need to rethink all of this.

-Shut up!

I gave my daughter

every opportunity,

education, exposure,

financial security,

only to watch her fall

flat on her face

in love with that ghetto trash.

So, no, this one?

-This one is no kin to me.

-Audra.

But the birth of my grandson

will bring a new legacy

of excellence,

and its name will be Jelani.

You...

You already have the money.

How could you k*ll

an innocent child?

'Cause loose ends

are a m*therf*cker.

-[yelps]

-[grunts]

[dramatic theme playing]

-[grunts]

-[body thuds]

[whimpering]

Does she make you feel

alive now, Marcus?

Hmm!

I can't hear you.

-Imani: Zuri!

-[all gasp]

Zuri!

[gasps] Mother. [whimpers]

Imani.

Oh! Mother, what did you do?

What did you do?

What did you do?

-Oh, sweetheart.

-What did you do?

They were trying to hurt Zuri,

and I stopped them.

But don't worry,

Mommy will make it all right.

What did you do?

[dramatic theme continues]

Be careful! The baby.

-Don't worry, Mommy will...

-Look at me. Zuri.

Audra: Just stay where you are.

Listen, I'll come up there

and get you. Don't move.

I'm gonna come and get you.

-Imani: Zuri.

-I'm gonna come and get you.

Run!

-[grunting]

-[Audra groaning]

f*ck! f*ck you, b*tch!

[dramatic theme swells]

[Laila grunting]

[Laila groaning]

Imani: Mother!

[glass shattering]

[screams]

-[whimpers]

-[screaming]

[glass shatters]

[breathing heavily]

Holy sh*t.

[electricity crackles]

Zuri! Zuri, baby.

Zuri: Mommy!

Baby. Oh, my God. Oh, my God.

-Mommy.

-Are you okay? Let me see.

Let me see. Are you okay?

Mm-hmm.

Oh, my God.

[dramatic theme playing]

[siren wailing in distance]

[siren sounds]

[voice speaking indistinctly

over police radio]

[police officers

speaking indistinctly]

Officer: Are you okay?

Ma'am, are you injured?

[dramatic theme playing]

[piano music playing]

[baby babbling]

[quietly] Yes.

Charmaine:

That's my granddaughter.

[enthusiastic applause]

Yes, I know, that's right,

Zuri, with your Beethoven a*s.

-[laughs]

-Period.

Good job, baby girl.

Imani: That's my baby, y'all.

[unsettling theme playing]

[gasps]

[unsettling theme ends]

Jasmine: Laila.

Laila, are you okay?

Uh-huh.

[dramatic theme playing]

[sighs]

[dramatic theme continues]



I... I can't sleep Never

You're on my brain Forever

On me like a fever

Don't wanna have

To let you go today

I can't sleep When you're

Out at night What if

You don't come back?

I know you'll

Pop your pills

So you can numb the pain

Hold my breath

Until I'm turning blue

Bite my tongue

Till it's bleeding truth

I close my eyes

Till I'm next to you

They don't know everything

That we been through

One telephone

So I never miss your call

I wanna be there for you

Through it all

Don't ever wanna

See you fall

I worry about you

I care, I do

You are never by yourself

There's no you

There's no one else

I worry about you

About you

[singer vocalizing]

Spinnin' out of control

Tryin' to feel something

Unpredictable

One day, you're good

The next, you're in the hole

What are you Escaping from?

Are you hidin'?

You're safe with me

Bless your heart, no

You don't have to run

Hold my breath

Until I'm turnin' blue

Bite my tongue

Till it's bleedin' truth

I close my eyes

Till I'm next to you

They don't know everything

That we've been through

One telephone

So I never miss your call

I wanna be there for you

Through it all

Don't ever wanna

See you fall

I worry about you

I care, I do

[lyrics fading,

ominous theme plays]

...about you

About you

[singer vocalizing]

I worry about you

[dance music playing]

That's me

Everything makes me

Want some more

Said more and more And more

Said it makes me want

Some more

Every little thing

That you do

Said it makes me want

Some more

More and more

Say you got a man

Baby, not anymore, hey

I need some more

And some more

Every little thing that

You do makes me want more

A little more and more

Every little thing that

You do makes me want more

Both hands Around your waist

It look good

But how's it taste?

I'm too close

With my mistake

But every little thing that

You do makes me want more

We should be on

Some beach right now

You look good, baby

You look sexy right now

Go ahead, turn that thing

Right round

And it's soft, make me wanna

Sink my teeth, bite down

We could leave

And cleave right now

Every meat, cut that body

On T right now

Can't tell me nothing'

Is your thing right now

Girl, you the hottest thing

In the streets right now

I know you look like you

Should come with a warning

Look like everything

I ever wanted

So good We need to record it

Can't wait to run it back

In the mornin'

I need some more

And some more

Every little thing that

You do makes me want more

Baby, make me want Some more

Baby, make me want Some more

[The Sunset Sound & Shelby

Lynne's "Misty Moon" playing]

Outside tonight

In this restless city

A night bird is singing

A mournful tune

Alone he's cooing

So soft and pretty

Haunted by the misty moon

Upstairs the shuffle

Of feet in rhythm

Young lovers dancing

They sway and swoon

He moves in close and

She's right there with him

Glowing in the misty moon

You came to me so lovingly

So tenderly and true

And now I'm left here

Suddenly

With nothing

But the ghost of you

Awake, I lie

With my eyes wide open

Who knows why

You had to go so soon

Somewhere I'll see you again

I'm hopin'

Underneath

The misty moon

Ooh



[song ends]

[music box playing]

[music fades]