Original subtitles

We have a common goal here.

Lacey McCullough.

I need information.

Details.

What do you know about her?

What do you need me for? I thought you were the FBI.

Okay.

So what can you tell me? What is it you think I can do for you?

We are trying to build an airtight case.

We need as many people as we can behind this. I know you're not exactly allies

with Miss McCullough.

Of course not. Trust me.

I want Lacey McCullough just as much as you.

Maybe more.

Well, then I need evidence.

Testimony. Something for this investigation.

Don't you think if I had anything, I would give it to you?

Don't waste my time.

So what do you want to know?

Well, we all know you're in the running to be a Supreme Court judge.

So it's especially important if you can help in any way.

That depends on how bad you want to take her down.

And I'm sure we can agree there's way more than what's included in this little

file.

I'm listening.

So it's all about strategy.

She's only as smart as her last move.

Excuse me.

Oh, shit.

What is it?

Turn that off.

Governor Barkley is part in a group of incarcerated individuals, one of whom is

Antoinette McCullough. This is part of the governor's new initiative to

introduce change into the community.

Coming to you live from the Holy Spirit Community Center, this is Tracy Michelle

Nelson. Son of a bitch.

No more talking about it.

The way it is, the way it is.

It's no mystery.

There's no getting around it.

When you're here, when you're here.

We got chemistry.

Don't forget to remember.

Don't forget to remember.

Don't forget to remember.

And welcome to the Holy Spirit Community Center.

It is my great pleasure and honor to present to you Governor Barclay and his

family.

The center is a great example of the hope of this community and investment in

our young people.

And it is something to celebrate.

What you see behind me?

Sweetie pie.

It's not just a community center that you all deserve.

Here he go.

Still recycling the same old bullshit from 20 years ago.

You sound surprised.

You can't trust him.

No further than you can see him. Never could have.

What's his story anyway?

Let's just say he had his hand in a shitload of mistakes we made.

He ain't always been a governor, but he's always been a grimy snake.

Oh, in that future, he's talking about building.

He's just talking about himself.

Because what he doesn't tell you is he'll either destroy you or put you in a

position to destroy yourself.

Just like he did with Tony.

When you're a child, you do things that children do.

You're impulsive, perhaps a little selfish, thinking and walking and acting

if there are no consequences.

There's more to the story.

My mother, you, fears.

What happened between all of you? But then there comes a time when you have to

grow up and say, fuck it, to all that childish shit.

It's time you knew the truth.

The whole truth.

Okay, girl, you got us out here. What's all this about, really?

Yeah. Ladies, between the five of us, our reach is long enough to control

aspect of this city.

We're going to take over L .A.

And how do we do this when I'm in office?

By using the systems that use us.

Money laundering, deal brokering, by any legal, or...

Illegal means necessary.

A little bit of power goes a long way.

And we document everything here.

Names, dates, receipts. Every single detail needs to be tracked so we all

know what goes on and can use it if we need to.

So what's the plan?

We use our specialties.

Floyd? You handle everything involving the law. The judicial system is your

expertise. Lawyers, judges, FBI, CIA, and the entire police force.

Do what's necessary to bend the law.

Just don't break that bitch.

I got you on that one.

Sears, you are going to be the mayor, next governor, and there is no doubt in

our minds that you are going to be the first.

Black woman president.

That's right.

Since politics is your lane, you are going to make laws and create policies

affect every single human being in this country. With you in position, our

community will benefit greatly.

And I'll continue to use my influence as the first lady.

I'll make sure our paper adds up.

But most importantly, I'll make sure we are kept well beneath the radar of the

IRS.

Your ass know you can balance a bank book down to the last.

Exactly.

That's what I do.

And walls, you are the queen of nightlife.

You are always in the know, and you have the trust of the 1 % and the hood.

Nothing and no one makes moves in L .A. without you knowing first.

So keep your ear to the streets.

This way, we will always be one step ahead of everyone.

In this town.

And her.

This is where it gets tricky.

Because public opinion is shaped by news, television, magazines,

newspapers. We will use your influence in mass media to control the masses.

But because we need you to stay in power at all costs, we will never be

photographed together and we will not meet in person. And you will communicate

with us by phone only.

You will be a voice going forward. Got it?

Got it.

We need a headquarter. Oh, yeah.

Somewhere we can bring the elite, get them loose and talking.

Exactly. And our headquarters will be underground.

Only the most influential and powerful people in Los Angeles will be able to

attend. It's by invite only with an exclusive membership fee.

Every power broker in L .A.

will come here and indulge in their darkest proclivities.

And when they do, we will own them.

From this point on, since I'm invisible, I'll take ownership of the dungeon.

It just got real.

And we can also use our spouse's talents.

Rev can handle philanthropy and religious influence.

And Ben is a brilliant coder, so he'll handle technology.

By putting all these power moves into play,

We are going to take over this city.

Motherfucking brilliant.

Yeah. Jesus.

God is within her. She shall not fail.

We all know the challenges of Los Angeles.

Come on, man.

To meet those challenges, we need real leadership and solution.

And that solution, I have.

Vote Sears for mayor.

An advocate you know, with results you can trust. That's what I'm talking

We need a toast. We need a toast.

Sears, you are an inspiration.

I know I speak for all of us when I say how proud we are of you. You represent

everything this city needs.

We love you.

We support you and we are so blessed to call you our friend and our sister.

To Sears. To Sears!

I know that's right.

Oh my God.

Don't make me cry.

Bitch, don't cry.

Drink.

See you on the ride.

inspirational ensemble, get us ready for the word, amen?

And now, to bring us our message this morning, our very own Pastor

McCullough.

Give God the glory this morning.

I mean, that's good for me.

It might be even good for the choir.

I need you to give God the glory this morning.

Okay.

Now we're picking with grief.

Saints, I need you to turn to see your Bible to 1 Corinthians 13.

When you get it, please say amen.

Amen.

And it reads, when I was a child, I spoke as a child.

I understood as a child.

I thought as a child. But when I became a man, I put away childish things.

Now, in this example, Paul is referring to the ways of our childhood as an

immaturity to be left behind.

Now, family, I want you to know that this is often a source of division among

God's people.

It's time to put aside our childish ways, our fighting, our arguing over

monetary gain.

Can I get an amen?

Can I get a hallelujah?

It's time to grow up in the faith by following the way of love and to hold

other accountable to God and to each other.

Amen. Can I get an amen?

Hallelujah.

That's what I'm talking about. You know why?

Great sermon today.

That's what I'm talking about, Rev. Yeah, I appreciate that, Sloan, but you

I can't take credit for it. I'm just a messenger for the Lord.

See? And that's exactly why the community loves you now. A man of God

the work of God before himself?

You don't see that every day, Rev.

We're getting there.

Maybe in a few more years, I'll be able to expand like I want. God willing?

God willing.

Same old Rev.

Gentlemen,

I apologize if I'm intruding.

No, not at all, Councilman Barclay.

Everybody's welcome in the House of the Lord.

All right.

If you don't mind, I would just like a word with you, Reverend.

Of course.

Come on.

Give us a moment.

Yeah, I could do that.

I'll be right outside.

Let me know if you need anything.

I won't take up too much of your time. I know you're a very busy man, growing

your church and all.

I mean, we are looking to expand, but that's a little ways in the future. The

future is exactly what I want to talk to you about.

I have been made aware of your interest in a certain property for the relocation

of your church.

I want you to know you have my full support.

Hell, I have my resources. Anything else you need to ensure that that transition

goes as smoothly as possible?

Of course I'm interested.

But that property is on track to go to the Marzini's.

Well, I'm sure you and I can come up with a more amicable agreement.

If you can come up with the money for the city permits, well, I can guarantee

that property will be yours.

And why is that, Councilman?

Well, let's just say I have a vested interest in this community,

as well as you and your influence.

in this mayoral election.

I would greatly appreciate your support, Reverend.

Why me?

Well, man, if your theme in this community would hold a major impact with

minority vote, I'm sure you understand.

Think it over.

I'm sure you'll come to the mutual understanding of the benefits that it's

to have.

You have a blessed day, Reverend.

Do I want to know what that was about?

Okay, you two.

Enough playing. Time for bed.

Aw, Dad.

Aw, Dad.

Give your mom a kiss.

Night, Mommy.

Love you, Mommy.

Good night, babies. Love you.

So Carlson let Barclay came by the church this morning.

For what?

Well, he wanted to give us an opportunity to purchase the city permit

new church location.

And? What do you mean?

I mean, what the hell does he want?

A man like Barclay isn't exactly giving handouts.

Well, he said all we have to do is vote for him in the mayoral election.

Oh, well, we know that's not happening.

Do we?

Yes.

You know we're voting for Sears. That's not even a question.

I'm just saying I think you need to think about the offer.

What is there to think about?

You're asking me to consider betraying a woman who's like a sister to me, and

for what? To support that white man who doesn't even like us coloreds?

I'm asking you to think about the bigger picture.

Think about what this means for our family, for the church, for the

We can grow quicker. Being more acceptable will mean we'll be more

God's purpose.

But this could cost Sears the election.

This will benefit everyone, including Sears.

Think about the impact we can make.

And when we get more resources, we can put them behind her.

Yeah, but you don't know Sears.

She's not going to be that understanding.

So you think she's going to talk about what she knows to blow up the plan?

No, she wouldn't do that.

Her name is in the book and all of her involvement with the Power Five.

She knows I know that information, and she can't risk it getting out.

Then we have nothing to worry about.

You're right.

So say we support Barclay as our candidate.

He pulls some strings to get us the permits.

But how are we going to pay for them?

Don't worry about it. We'll figure something out.

The pension.

Huh? The police department's pension.

Since I'm over the accounting, I can just move a little from the

fund.

No one would notice a few cents missing.

Then we can fulfill our end of the bargain.

We can get the permits and buy the property.

We'll put it right back.

You guys got a great idea.

Yeah, this is, keep going. Just keep going.

How's it going over here?

Fabulous. Amazing.

What do we got?

Oh, my gosh.

That's insane.

Oh, my gosh.

Yes, yes, lots of money. Keep going, girl.

Hey! Can I talk to you for a minute?

Of course.

Keep up the good work.

What's wrong?

Rev and I are going to back Councilman Barclay in the mayoral election.

What the fuck are you talking about?

Where is this coming from? Remember where you are, Sears.

It's not what you think.

We talked it over, and Barclay is going to get us city permits for a new

property for the church.

Yeah, I know where I am, and I still don't give a fuck. You're just going to

push me to the side so that you two can get a new church?

It's not like that.

Then make it make sense, Tony.

Because it sounds exactly like that.

We are looking at the bigger picture.

What big... your picture?

Betrayal? No.

I mean, you're just a greedy, selfish bitch.

And here I am buying into all this sista talk.

Look, Sears, I'm trying to reason with you. Now, I'm sorry that this is not

working out like we had hoped, but if you can't see how this is going to be

better for all of us, then maybe you're the one being the selfish bitch.

My whole life, I dreamt of this ever since I was a child.

I worked my ass off.

You know this.

You are the first lady.

What's the scripture?

Say you are my sister.

That I may do well because of you.

My life may be spared because of you, for your sake.

Mr. Barclay, how do you feel about that?

Oh, you know, the community is very lovely. I'm very happy to be here.

Well, it was an extremely close election, but we have a winner and it is

Barclay. We go live now to the celebration.

It's Corbin.

I just came across something I think you're going to want to see.

I have evidence that suggests someone's been stealing thousands of dollars from

the police pension.

Mm -hmm.

What? So that's how she was able to afford the city permit.

Well?

Let me check.

Okay.

I think you're right. What do you mean, think? I just showed you the hard and

fast evidence.

Tony McCullough stole thousands of dollars from the police pension.

I see.

Well,

we need to do something about this.

Let me handle it.

Are you sure? I mean, this is your friend we're talking about.

Ex -friend.

And yes, I'm very sure.

I need to handle this myself.

Right.

Sure.

I understand.

That makes sense.

I'll let her know.

Thank you.

Sorry, babe.

Shit. The lawyer said with the mountain evidence in this investigation, it's

just not looking good.

What the hell are we going to do?

I don't know.

I can't believe this shit.

We're really about to go to prison.

Tony, we're jumping the gun right now. They haven't even made our arrest yet,

and we still haven't had the trial.

But it's all there. The lawyer was right.

It's only a matter of time before they come and get us. And buying this?

Sure as hell doesn't make us look innocent.

And to think, all of this because of that bullshit with Barclay.

So wait, this is my fault?

Did I say that?

Seems like you're the one that's accusing me of getting us into this

It was your idea to get the money for the permit.

You just didn't get it back fast enough.

Yes, it was my idea.

And you want to know why?

Because I'm the one that always has to come up with all the solutions.

I'm the one who actually has to execute your bright ideas because you love to

make a plan without thinking about how it affects others, just like Sears.

Now, wait a damn minute.

We both want it. No.

You wanted, and like always, I wanted to give you what you wanted, only for it

to backfire on me.

You never take responsibility for your actions.

You always want to make excuses and blame others.

When it was you.

We can figure this out, babe.

We just gotta think smart.

What other choice do we have?

Fifteen years.

That's the minimum.

What about Lacey and Daniel? They can't lose us.

And they won't.

John 10, verse 11.

I'm a good shepherd.

And a good shepherd gives his life for his sheep.

I'll confess.

What? I'll tell them it was my idea.

That won't matter. I'm the one that actually did it.

I'll confess.

I can't let you do that.

If you go down for this, it'll ruin everything we fought for.

Our family, this church.

How will it look to the community if the pastor goes to prison?

They don't have anything on you.

They don't even have proof that you knew what I was doing.

There's nothing to convict you other than your association with me.

So, I'll tell them it was all me.

And I acted alone.

Hey, babe, I've got to tell you, Sloane's going to come by after work.

Okay.

Antoinette McCullough, you're under arrest for embezzlement and fraud.

Anything you say or do can be held against you in the counter -law. You

right to an attorney.

What do you mean?

I didn't do anything.

Whoa, whoa, whoa, hold on, hold on. What's going on here? What's going on?

Tony, don't say a word.

Mom! Lacey!

It's okay, baby. Don't worry.

I don't know what's going on, but I guarantee you, I'm going to find out.

worry. I'm going to make sure she's okay.

Any coffee if you want it? Thanks, Lacey.

Sit down for a minute.

How you holding up?

It's been hard.

I know, honey.

Listen, Tony's conviction destroyed all of us, especially you, Daniel, your

father.

But know this, we are doing everything in our power to get her out. I just wish

there was more that I could do.

There is.

You can continue to be focused and determined.

I don't want your emotions about all of this to distract you from your goals.

You are smart, baby.

And you don't need to get sidetracked.

You are Tony's child.

And don't you forget it.

Help our girl out and send us up.

Hey. No touching, ladies.

It's good to see you two.

How are you?

I've been better.

I would kill for a decent shower and a bed that doesn't feel like concrete.

We are working with your lawyer on your appeals.

But, honey, these things take time.

Well, I've got plenty of that, so... How is Lacey?

Trying to be strong, like you. Can you guys just do me one favor?

Can you please just watch out for my family?

Especially my babies. I know this is killing them.

Absolutely. You know you don't have to ask us that.

15 years.

is a long time.

I just hate that my children are in the middle of this.

Everything I did, I did because I wanted to make a better way for them, and now

look at me.

It's going to be all right.

You'll be all right.

Read any good books lately?

Yeah, but nothing to hold my interest.

I'm surprised.

Usually, There's a good one or two.

You would think so, right?

I guess we haven't found anything worth reading since we started the book club.

But we'll keep you posted if we find something juicy.

Tony, there's something I think you should know.

I think Sears has something to do with your investigation.

I can't prove it exactly, but after what happened with the election and her

connections at the precinct...

If Sears had anything to do with this, you better hope I serve every bit of

sentence.

Ah, Professor McCullough.

Please, have a seat.

Appreciate you agreeing to meet with me. Of course.

Reverend Barrington McCullough calls requesting a meeting.

Must be dire.

I'm sure you heard what happened to my wife.

Of course.

I do hate that for her.

We need your help. My help.

She, we, my wife and I, we're just trying to make sure that we can afford

permit for the building.

This is all just one big misunderstanding.

I don't know how I can help you, Reverend.

You owe us.

We helped you get in the office.

We endorsed you as our candidate.

I believe I've expressed my gratitude.

Didn't you get the property for your church, like I promised?

Listen, this is my wife, and I can't have her sitting in prison over this.

Please, I know there's something you can do or someone you can call. As far as

I'm concerned, our business is complete.

Now, I'm sorry you wasted your time. Governor Barclay, have a good day,

Reverend.

It's a very big day for my baby girl.

All grown up.

She graduated from law school.

Man, I'm so proud of her.

To Lacey. To Lacey. To Lacey.

To Lacey.

To Lacey.

Damn,

girl. You ever take a break?

A break?

What's that?

Let me help you.

I want the best to celebrate.

And what are we celebrating?

Your graduation.

I feel bad that I missed it.

You know, me and Hannibal had that vacation thing planned for a minute.

How did you know I needed this hole?

Because I know you.

Thank you.

Still working on Tony's case?

Yeah.

So far, I can't find anything to overturn her conviction.

Lace, I know when she thought she got what she wanted.

Is that an insult or a compliment?

Both.

I guess you're right.

Family is all I have.

Ever since he was sentenced, my dad has thrown himself into the church. And

Daniel, Daniel's just out of control.

And what about you?

I'm just trying to do what I can for Tony.

No, I mean you.

Like, how are you feeling?

Honestly, I'm scared, though.

I'm scared of failing my mother, of failing myself.

If I can't do this, then what is there for me?

You need to stop worrying about yourself, Lace.

There's a lot of things in life.

I just don't want you to wake up one day and have any regrets.

I don't want to have any regrets.

Do it!

What is this?

Where did you get this? Does it matter? Who are these people?

What have you all been doing?

Lacey, you do not need to be worried about this. This is none of your

It involves my mother, so it is my business.

It's complicated.

Tony wouldn't want us getting you mixed up in this.

My mom would want my help.

And if there's anything in there that could possibly get her out of jail, then

need to know.

Please.

Let me take this off your hand.

Ooh, child.

I'm glad she found it and not the police.

This represents rebirth.

This represents the future.

Thank you.

Some people don't like change because it interferes with how they think, how

they grew up, what they were taught.

And like an idiot, they keep on doing the same things over and over,

expecting a different result.

Hopefully, one day they realize they need to be smart about shit, move

different, because whether they like it or not, Change is coming.

So, it's better to be prepared.

Either that, or learn the hard way.

I can't even hear the sound.

Don't know what's come over me.

I'm suffocated by the smoking mirror. I got to pray to make my vision clearer.

I want to go. Won't be surprised if you say you don't get it.