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