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Come on.

Babe, stop!

She keeps-she keeps calling. She's not going to stop.

She's not going to stop. I gotta get it.

- Neither am I. - I gotta get it.

Oh.

Yeah?

This could have been an email.

What, an extra 30 minutes?

Yeah, yeah. Yeah, yeah.

Tell him I'm fine with that.

Okay. All right.

I'll check in with you after. Bye.

Was that about the signing?

They limited the seating

for the book reading but

opened up the signing to the public.

So expecting millions of fans

from the book fair to show up, huh?

You don't think they will?

- Oh no doubt. - Exactly.

Who wouldn't want a taste of this?

Oh, oh, oh, give me some more.

Oh...

Let me see... let me see what time it is.

Let me see.

Oh...

Okay, babe.

I gotta go. I gotta go get ready.

No, no, no. We'll get ready together.

Oh.

Get in the shower together, huh?

Me first?

Okay. I'm right behind you.

♪ Time's up, it's going down

♪ Guess who got the crown

♪ Baby tap in

♪ we can go another round

♪ Come on lemme hear that fire we breathing ♪

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

- You're welcome. - All right, let's taste it.

Mhm.

Babe, this is amazing.

- You are welcome. - Mmm.

You know, if I didn't get so damn nervous

before these things, I'd fight you for the bacon.

Wish you were coming with me.

I would if I could, baby,

but we're so close to launching Cargo USA.

I just didn't think I'd be going back to Chicago this soon.

Yeah.

But you know what?

This investor's meeting could be a big game-changer.

Yeah, but I was sold on your app five minutes into your pitch.

Well, that's because you wanted to love all up on this.

This is true and you will be great.

Thank you. You too.

All right, babe, I am out of here.

Okay. Good luck.

Thank you.

And I will see you la...

Ooh, ooh, ooh!

- Careful. - Okay. That's it.

I can't take the mess anymore.

We really need to finish unpacking these boxes.

Well, listen, do what you can tonight.

I'm back tomorrow.

I'll deal with the rest, I promise.

- Alright. Deal. - Alright.

- Alright, baby. Love you. - Love you.

- And don't forget the trash. - Deal with the trash, yeah.

♪ Get your money up.

♪ Gotta get it tight.

♪ Get your money up.

♪ Get your mind right.

I was torn.

The girl from Saint Margaret's who wanted to please

knew that this was wrong, but not just wrong,

but seventh of the Ten Commandments wrong.

Yet he had touched her under the table.

He had come on to her, and Lord,

it felt so good to be wanted, to be desired.

So there was that terrible choice again.

Every part of her ached for him,

craved his hands, his scent, no matter how wrong,

no matter that he was married to her best friend from college.

Thank you.

Thank you so much.

Thank you.

Hi.

Thank you.

Oh, my god, I thought you couldn't make it.

Oh, girl, you gotta be tripping. You think I would miss this?

Oh my god, how long can you stay?

There's a little line there.

Well, I can I take you to SRC for lunch

once you are done with all of your adoring fans.

Mmhmm. Now, can you sign my damn book?

Oh, you bossy today.

It's a long day. This is to Candy. There you go.

- C-a-n-d-y. - Okay.

- All right, here we go. - Thank you, sis.

I love you.

I love you, too.

- Bye, baby. - Bye.

You aren't letting this best-selling stuff

- go to your head, are you? - Girl...

Look, it's just good to be back

- I get to see you. - Yeah.

- Get to hang out. - Mmhmm.

- I'm excited about this weekend. - Mmhmm.

Finally get to meet my guy.

I know! And he is fine, hm.

He's most definitely easy on the eyes.

Girl, I know.

Him, dipping in and out of our FaceTime calls is not enough.

I can't believe y'all been together, what, two years now?

Like two and a half.

Oh my god, I owe Richard a big-ass thank you

for getting your butt back to Atlanta.

How's it going?

- You know, it is going. - Hmm.

His business is slowly getting off the ground.

Mmhmm.

His app should be done by the year's end, so yeah.

Thank God it's been a long-time coming

since he's been working on that thing

since before y'all met.

- Girl since 1776. - 1776.

He needs some independence, and so do you.

- You so silly. - I know.

Hey, we darn near lived here when we were at Spelman.

Good thing these walls can't talk.

'Cause they for sure...

We were so messy back then.

Not all of us.

- Please don't start. - Okay.

Oh, excuse me, can we please have

two sparkling apple juices in champagne flutes?

Best I can do are wine glasses.

That's alright.

What are we toasting to?

Oh, girl, don't be so modest.

It's not every day that the former editor

of the Spelman Messenger is now a two-time.

New York Times best-selling author.

This is for you.

For me.

- Yay! - Yay.

- Okay. - Mmhmm?

- Total disclaimer. - Yeah.

I was really feeling the pressure

when the first book came out and did so well.

I was thinking

maybe it's just lightning in a bottle

and I'll never do it again,

because you never know, you know?

No. And this is a worthy follow-up because every chapter

just got more and more... I got so hot and bothered

and frisky...

Wait a minute, my book had you feeling like that?

Mmhmm!

Everything's still good with you and the hubs?

Mmhmm.

- What? - Mhm.

- Uh... - What?

Remember when I told you how I was looking forward

to Byron and I having more time together

now that the twins are at Howard?

Yeah.

Well, that's not exactly what happened.

I mean, this man, he's working more.

He is playing in a rec league with the guys at night.

He is going solo fishing on the weekends,

and all of this would be fine with me if he was

handling business in the boudoir.

- The boudoir? - That's what I call it.

That's what we're calling it now?

Yeah.

I mean, our sex life is not non-existent,

but it's going extinct.

Maybe he's just going through manopause.

You know, I've handled my fair share of divorce cases

where sex was at the center of the split.

Y'all are never getting to that point.

Anyway, I don't- I don't want to talk about this.

We are here to celebrate you, so can you please

just catch me up on everything happening in Melodyland.

Okay. Well,

you pretty much know everything.

- Um, work is good. - Good.

Obviously, I'm happy with the way things are going.

Mmhmm.

- I like the new house. - Good.

No.

- I love the new house. - Good, good.

It's just that...

- I love being with Richard. - Yeah.

Um, but ever since we moved here,

he's been getting busier and busier.

He doesn't want to share anything.

He doesn't want to talk to me about the business.

Maybe because it's not completely funded yet.

Do you think he's intimidated by your career?

No.

I know he loves me.

I know he's dealing with a lot of pressure.

But, I mean, if he's ignoring you

or hiding stuff from you...

I think it's more just couples back and forth.

And then you know me, I'm probably just in my head.

Okay. Nope.

You could have taken that.

Yeah, that wouldn't have been awkward.

I mean, when have I ever said anything about...

Mel, we were so great together, the three of us.

Don't you ever miss the Spel's Bells?

Come on. Mel, you're back.

You and Monica should be able to find a way to get past this.

I think that if Monica wanted to keep in touch,

she would have done it a long time ago.

She smiled at me,

knowing she intended to destroy me.

I smiled back, knowing she had grossly

underestimated my will to survive.

Smile pretty, they say, as if smiles can be trusted.

What's up?

Essence wants to do an interview

for their Q2 edition.

They love the fact

that you're both the face of the skincare line

but also a board certified dermatologist.

They want your take on the current viral beauty products

popping up on social media.

Full feature, not just one column?

Of course.

And cover mention online too?

- Yes. - Then I'm in.

Bye.

Done already?

Sebastian's out today, so I'm cheating and I'm skipping arms.

Shh. Don't tell him.

My lips are sealed.

Thank you.

Oh, I can't thank you enough for those samples you gave my mom.

It really helped clear up her skin.

And she reordered the whole set online.

Oh, good. If she has a flare-up,

please let me know.

Okay.

Wow, he is fine.

I bet he'll be interested. Do you want his number?

Nope.

Yes, he is handsome, but he looks too much like my ex.

Just because they look alike don't mean they're the same.

You ain't wrong, Shayla, but I'm not chancing it.

Adios.

Bye.

♪ Out of this world

♪ Somewhere you never been

♪ out of this world ♪

♪ What you didn't know you need, ♪

♪ out of this world ♪

♪ Beyond your wildest dreams

♪ Out of this world ♪

♪ Ooh na, na, na, na, oh, na, na, na ♪

♪ oh, na, na, na, na oh, na, na, na ♪

Really? Oh, I should have bet the under.

He never remembers.

Richard?

Babe, are you home?

You've reached Richard.

Please leave a message and I'll get back to you.

Hello, Richard's office.

Hey, it's Mel. Is Richard there?

Uh, no, he's not here right not.

He's not there? Is everything okay?

Did the meeting get cancelled or something?

Which meeting are you referring to?

The invest...

The investors meeting he was having today?

Oh, maybe that's next week.

You know what? I probably got it confused.

Can you do me a favor?

If he comes back to the office, can you have him call me?

Yeah, absolutely.

Okay, great. Thanks. Bye.

Hi, boo.

Oh, hey, baby.

How was your day?

Ten out of ten. Just like you are.

How was your day off?

How was lunch with Mel?

Oh, it was good. Really good.

Oh, good.

Her man still trying to be the next Bruce Wayne?

- As if. - Well, you know what I meant.

Well, you know, his app is about to drop,

so he does have a shot

at getting some of that billionaire Batman money.

You should ask him when we go to dinner on Saturday.

That's this weekend? Crap.

You are adorable, but please don't do that.

You know we're going to dinner with them on Saturday.

I put it on the calendar.

Oh, baby, I honestly forgot I signed up

for that Olympic Tri in Tuxedo Park,

and there's no refunds.

Babe, I checked with you before I-I committed.

I mean, Mel lives here now.

It's not like we can't pop over there some other night.

That's not the point.

I wanted a chance for us to go out together.

What do I have to do to get time with you, babe?

I'll make it up to you, I promise.

How?

I would like some specifics.

We'll take a drive up and see the twins at Howard.

We'll make a weekend of it.

And you just said how much you missed doing their laundry,

so it's a win-win.

But in the meantime, we could always...

In the meantime, I smell something amazing in the oven,

and I am starving.

So am I.

What?

Were you waiting for me to come home to eat?

Look, I had a long day.

I just want to eat, put my feet up

and watch the end of the Braves game.

Yeah, that, um... that sounds awesome.

♪ Another day another breath As I float and wonder ♪

♪ Take a rest as it gets colder ♪

♪ All my friends are hang in round ♪

♪ Safety comes in numbers

Aww.

Hey, baby.

"Hey"? Really?

I'm sorry I didn't call back.

I've been so freaking busy.

You've been drinking. I can smell it on you.

Yeah, well, the day didn't go exactly as I hoped,

so I needed to blow off some steam.

What happened?

Look, I don't really want to talk about it.

I'm gonna go to bed.

Oh, no, no.

You owe me an explanation, alright?

Oh, and I know there was no investors meeting.

I spoke with your assistant. You lied to me.

Yes, there was. He didn't schedule it,

I did.

I just didn't want the partners to know

until bridge financing closed.

You know how many times funding has fallen through?

The meeting got cancelled, and I just needed

some alone time to think, that's all.

Then why not just say that?

A simple text would have been enough.

- You know how worried I was? - Okay.

Listen, you're right. I'm sorry.

Now, can we just please move on?

Move on? Un-huh.

No. Uh-uh. That's all I get?

Yes.

What?

Heavens sakes, stop nagging me!

You're not my mother.

I'm not trying to make you feel like that.

Babe

how long have I been working on this?

My life, our future.

Alright, it all ties into this for me.

I just wanted to see your face

when I looked out at the reading.

I thought it would be nice.

I get that, I get that. I wanted to be there, too.

But listen,

we are so close to the finish line,

and it's going to take every little bit of me

to get this company off the ground.

So for the next few months, just be supportive.

And after that...

I moved to Atlanta because of the opportunities

you claim were waiting for you here.

I invested seed money, help get the business off the ground,

paid for the offices, but you don't feel supported?

I don't understand. Make me understand that.

See, I didn't realize we were keeping score.

It's funny,

because I don't recall forcing you to give me a single dime.

You believed in this app just as much as I did.

And we were in this together.

But now that I need you in my corner

more than I'm in yours, it's too much to ask?

I didn't mean it like that. That's not how...

Why are you so selfish?

- I'm selfish?! - Yes.

I'm selfish?!

What makes me selfish?!

You're selfish because I come home after a hard day,

and where's the comfort? Where's the love?

No. Instead you want to trap me in some petty-ass argument.

It's not petty to be concerned! It's not petty to worry!

If you had just a little bit of consideration for me

and return any of my calls, any of my texts,

we wouldn't even be having this conversation now!

You see this

this right here is exactly why women your age end up alone.

Because can't nobody tell you nothing.

You don't listen.

I'm here trying to tell you what I need, alright?

Did you say "women my age"?

Yes!

Yes, you're so desperate for control

but still, you don't understand it!

In my industry, we got setbacks, alright?

I'm not some old ass lady writing little stories

for single women to feel better about being alone.

What the hell did you just say to me?!

I am on the cusp of making an impact.

But you-you can't see the vision.

Oh, no, no, no, no. I see it.

Woo, woo, do I see it.

I see you're getting the hell out of my house.

You ain't serious.

Oh, I see it very clearly.

I see you leaving the house that I bought

with the money from my little stories.

I see it, yeah.

Look, babe, I shouldn't have said that.

- No, I heard. - I'm just drunk.

No, you don't-you don't mean it.

Listen, we both said things that we wish we could take back.

No.

We're just fighting. Let's just go have makeup sex.

Alright? And we'll be...

We'll start fresh in the morning.

Don't flatter yourself. Get out.

Are you for real?

I can't do this anymore. I'm not doing this anymore.

I thought moving back here,

you would change and things would be different.

But you know what? Get out.

- You're gonna regret this. - You promise?

- Yeah. - Promise?

When you wake up all alone tomorrow morning.

- Oh, yeah? Promise? - And for the rest of your life,

- you're going to regret it. - Okay. Anything else?

Yeah.

I don't need this.

Oh, yeah, I don't either.

I need you to leave. That's what I need you to do.

- Oh, you know what? - I'll be back for my stuff.

Ain't no stuff to get.

The Hampton Inn is right down the street.

Oh, oh, they got breakfast.

Crispy bacon just like you like it.

Mel? Richard? You hear me?

Y'all better open this door!

Richard, I'm coming for you!

Oh, it's you.

Richard! Richard!

Hey, you in here, Richard?

What are you doing?

What do you mean, what am I doing?

You called me, woke me up out of a sex dream saying this man

has done something crazy, so the cavalry is here!

Give me that.

He's already gone.

Oh. Oh! Honey, no!

Oh, sweetie pie.

Come on. Give me my bat. Let's go.

No, no, no. Give it to me.

Okay. I'm so mad. I want to punch something.

Well, don't look over here.

I'm not Apollo Creed's sparring partner.

It's not even him I'm upset with.

I'm pissed at myself.

You know?

I allowed that man to totally disrespect me.

Which is why he thought he could say

whatever he wanted to say to me.

Why are you just telling me this now?

Every time we talked about him,

you made it sound like you were so happy.

Because I made excuses for him.

I allowed that

man-child to basically use me to fund his entire lifestyle.

And for what?

Wait a minute. Tell me you did not invest.

Half of the advance of my next book.

Okay. All right. No, no, no.

Okay. Okay. Okay. Here tequila, tequila.

Here you go. A little bit of that,

and then we're gonna take a deep breath. Okay?

Well, I said a hit. Not to the head.

Good Lord girl. Now let's breathe.

Breathe in. Breathe out.

What else did you invest in?

Just clothes, shoes and jewelry.

He needed to look good for his meetings.

Mmhmm. Yeah, he needed to look good.

They were with big tech companies.

Sure.

And this-his app is really good.

I believe in its potential and his potential.

You know, he always talked about the future with us.

You know, we're going to do this

and we're going to do that together.

I thought I found my husband.

Oh, honey.

I didn't care about the money, I didn't care.

Okay, I was happy,

like, the happiest I've ever been in my life.

Okay. I'm gonna say one thing.

The sex...

It's just... the man.

- The things that man could do. - You know what...

It was everything.

It must be nice.

He was everything.

Well, at first.

But then he got comfortable.

Like... like real comfortable.

He could be so mean sometimes.

But he always knew how to, you know, smooth it over.

Mhm.

And I always let him.

Aargh!

Okay. Alright. Okay.

Tell me something.

What?

Did he take all his stuff when he left?

No.

Hm.

Why?

You'll see. Follow me.

- Follow you? - Yeah. Come on.

So what's next? We burn it?

Burn it? Girl, no.

We gonna sell it online and get some of your money back.

Ooooh!

♪ Shorty in the club

♪ Get it down low, let it go ♪

♪ Shake it, go, go, go

♪ Shake it, go, go, go. ♪

♪ Shake it, go, go, go!

♪ She comin' back to my place ♪

♪ Dancin' all night in my space creepin' up on my case ♪

♪ Get it on the bed, let me see you vibrate ♪

♪ Take it from the back to the side ♪

♪ From the top to the bottom let me ride ♪

♪ All I wanna do is get it on with you ♪

♪ All I wanna do is get it on with you ♪

♪ She be makin it clap it Make it boom, boom, boom ♪

♪ And she make it go bang bang bang ♪

♪ All I wanna do is get it on with you ♪

♪ All I wanna do is get it on with you ♪

♪ Shorty in the club Get it down low ♪

♪ Let it go, go, go

♪ Let it go, go, go

♪ Shorty in the club Get it down low ♪

♪ Let it go, go, go Let it go, go, go ♪

♪ Shorty in the club. Get it down low... ♪

Well, you're not gonna get all your money back,

but you'll get some.

Amen.

And please tell me that this bottle wasn't full

before the night began.

No I only had like...

Two.

You had seven.

You know, after all this,

I never thought I'd have the nerve to put him out.

Hm. You gonna be all right here tomorrow by yourself?

Girl, he ain't crazy.

He ain't crazy and he's not the type, so.

Okay, well, I just wanted to ask

because, you know, I can always leave this bat.

- Oh, the bat! - Yes.

Seriously? You know, I was supposed to go to work tomorrow,

but, you know, I don't have to go to work tomorrow.

Girl, go to work.

Okay, how about this?

How about I'll text you

every three hours and let you know I'm okay.

Okay.

I'll be fine.

I know, honey, I know, but you gotta remember that, uh,

it's gonna take a little time.

Just, um

sooner or later, all this anger is gonna

wind down and that's when

all the hurt's gonna start to flood in.

So can you just promise me, Mel, that when it does

that you'll just try to remember

that you're still loved.

And you're not alone, honey. You'll never be alone, okay?

Mhm. You know, I had my reservations

about moving back here.

- I'm so glad I did. - Oh.

I'm so glad you're here.

Me too, honey.

You should go though. Time to go to work.

I know I should go, but I kind of feel like Olivia Pope

would want us to finish this, even though it's not red wine.

Damn right.

Mmhmm. Okay.

Now, you promise me this.

That you will delete everything from your phone

that has his name on it, and that you will not call him.

Girl, he wasn't out the driveway before I blocked that ass.

You don't believe me?

Uh-uh. I'm gonna leave you a little bit of incentive, okay?

If, in a couple of months, you have not called him,

I will treat us both to a mani and pedi

at Heavenly Body Day Spa.

Okay.

I'll do us one better than that.

Well, do better then.

A couple of months from today when I haven't seen him...

Mmhmm.

I'm gonna treat us to a full day at Heavenly.

Okay.

- Pinky swear. - Pinky swear, yes.

Sisters...

Sisters before misters.

Yay!

Smooth.

Ooh, girl, no, no. That's way too much.

That's way too much.

You look worse than that dude

James Franco played who cut off his arm.

I'm gonna fire you one day.

You need me.

Well. Hello, beautiful...

Ooh, friend.

Oh. What kind of night did you have?

A long one.

Here.

Thank you for this. What are you doing here?

Oh, I have a meeting around the corner in 20 minutes.

I thought I'd drop by

and see if want you to have lunch later.

Lunch would be great. Um, SRC?

Of course.

So...

Byron finally putting in the work.

Oh, I wish.

- Well, what kind of weekday... - Mm-mm.

What kind of weekday party

were you at that I wasn't invited to?

It wasn't a party, I was just helping

helping a friend.

Oh, please, just go ahead and say Mel.

I have more friends...

Fine. It was Mel.

Well

is she alright?

You could ask her yourself.

Can you just cut it out and tell me she's okay?

She's not.

What the hell, Mel? This is my house, too.

Why are you banging on my door like that?

I'm banging because you're not opening the door.

My name's on the title.

Take your s♪♪♪ and find someplace else to stay.

Oh Mel, open the door. I ain't got time for this.

I'm losing my patience out here.

I told you when you called. What did I tell you?

Your stuff is going to be waiting for you

right over there.

That is not all my stuff, Mel.

Everything you paid for is right there.

I promise you that.

Mel.

Mel, can we please be adults about this?

Stop banging on my door!

Can we please be adults about this?

Oh, I'm sorry.

Women my age, we don't know how to be anything else.

Look, I'm done!

Do not make a scene.

- A scene? - Don't do that.

A scene? You ain't got no problem embarrassing me,

throwing my stuff out like I'm some bum.

But now you're concerned about how things look?!

Open the door!

Oh. I'm sorry. I got something for you.

I forgot to pack these.

I found them hidden in your drawer.

Look, I wasn't hiding them, all right?

Come on, Mel, let's not let this stupid fight

where we both out of line

ruin two amazing years together.

Past due.

Oh, no. So over.

All right. Let me at least see if you packed up all my stuff.

I'm not playing with you.

Don't make me call the police.

That's cute. Come on.

Stop playing.

Is everything all right?

Yeah. We're good.

I was asking her.

He was just leaving, but thank you.

Oh.

Oh, ain't this cute.

The neighbor.

Oh, this ain't over.

- Hey. - Hey.

- Oh, I'll be right back. - Okay.

I've been holding it for the last five blocks.

All right, honey.

- Hi. - Oh, hey, girl.

So, um, how was your meeting?

Oh, it was good.

I told you how my contract with the fulfillment house

is getting ready to expire, right?

Yeah.

It's just so we're considering switching suppliers.

It's not that there's a problem, per se,

it's just that, you know,

the price point is just really high.

Candy, what are you looking at?

Nothing. Nothing.

Um, remember how I told you earlier, um,

how I was feeling about Mel's situation.

Well, she's just been on my-my mind ever since.

- Oh, yeah, girl. Me, too. - Yeah.

You know, I just keep thinking about Mel,

and it's so weird that she would let

a man take advantage of her.

I mean, you know how vigilant she is.

Then I just think it's got to be killing her

how much time she wasted, you know, you said it was,

like, two years,

and then she uprooted her life and moved back to Atlanta.

And if I know,

I would be down bad if that were me.

But I just can't imagine how hurt she must feel.

- Mel, um... - Mel?

Before you say anything.

No, no. You seem to have said enough.

I didn't know she was going to be here.

I didn't know you were going to be here.

Listen, I just thought since we're all in Atlanta,

we could get you two together and you could bury the hatchet.

I don't appreciate being blindsided.

- Neither do I. - I just thought,

since we're all here, so we could just, you know...

So what? It's not like she sought me out to apologize

after how you treated me.

Oh, wait a minute. Hold on.

We both said things that I think we should apologize for.

- Rewriting history. - Mel...

Excuse me, ladies. Is everything okay?

Yes.

Can I get you started with a basket of fries?

- Yes. - No, thank you.

Mel, can you just sit down?

You know what, I'm gonna go.

Okay, so a table of two, then?

No, no, it's a table of three.

Mel, if you just sit down.

Look, you need your friends. Let us be there for you.

This is what you call being here for me by putting

my business in the streets?

This is you being my friend, Candice?

Okay. Government name, I hear you.

Ladies, we have some lunch specials that you might like.

Oh, my god!

Ain't nobody ordering right now!

Why are you yelling at him?

I'm not yelling at him!

No, I'm out of here.

Okay, so a table for one?

So you just can't read the room, huh?

We're not reading rooms today?

Water?

Water's good.

Mel!

Hey!

Mel!

I was young, okay?

And my stupid bell never went off.

I didn't listen to my better angels.

But you knew from day one.

And I married him anyway.

I gave up everything for him.

Even my career, my friends.

I let him isolate me.

And by the time I woke up and realized

that you were right...

I was too ashamed to ask for help.

I wanted to reach out after the divorce, Mel,

but the way that we left things?

You mean the way you cut me out.

Yes.

The only reason that Candy

told me anything is because she knew that I wouldn't judge you.

She knew that I would understand.

I didn't judge you back then either.

Real friends are supposed to be able

to say anything to each other.

And real friends should be able to apologize to each other

and-and rebuild a burnt bridge.

I'm gonna need some time. I...

I can't deal with either of you right now.

I can't do it.

Oh, my knees!

Oh! She's coming! Go, go, go!

Ribs.

Well, it looked like

the two of you got some things off your chest.

It was messy as hell.

That was not cool.

I know, but the two of you are so damn stubborn.

What was I supposed to do?

How about some drinks, ladies?

We're running a special, two for one on the milkshake.

My gosh, you are relentless!

Monica!

Goodbye, Candy.

Your bell is ringing.

Couldn't you just bring some water?

You know what I've been through.

Uh, water. Yes, water.

This cardio.

So much cardio.

♪ Yeah, yeah

♪ Yeah, yeah

♪ He come home late

♪ But it ain't no way

♪ He ain't eat all day

Ah!

Oh!

Oh my gosh.

Are you okay?

Oh.

Yeah, I just kind of lost my balance.

Oh, gosh.

Oh, thank you so much.

More like you got distracted by the "do-it-in-the-window" kids.

With the who?

Our exhibitionist neighbors.

Oh, god. You've seen them too?

Yeah. They're nasty.

HOA fines them at least twice a month. Here.

Oh, gosh.

Oh, thank you so much.

Yeah, first time I saw them, I almost ran over a damn dog.

You know, a little heads up would have been nice.

It's a weird thing to bring up to a stranger.

Fair point.

Are you gonna be good?

Yeah, I'm gonna be good. Thank you.

Okay.

Oh, I really should have made an effort

to meet the neighbors when I moved in.

We haven't spoken, and considering everything

we've just been through.

- Yeah? - Yeah.

I'm sorry.

- I'm Mel. - Greg.

Nice to meet you, Greg.

You scored on this Victorian.

- Yeah. - The nicest in Grant Park.

She's a beauty.

Thank you. It's a real fixer-upper

but I've had my eye on it for a while.

So how long have you lived on the block?

Three years.

Oh. Nice.

Yeah. It's a great neighborhood.

You know, in spite of the occasional flashing.

Right, yeah.

I still got some work on the house, though.

Um, I guess you work at Trusty Hardware?

I own Trusty Hardware.

Nice.

About 10 years ago, I opened up my first store.

Wow. Congratulations.

Thank you.

Yeah.

What about you?

Well, I'm a writer. Well, an author.

I got to get used to that. An author.

- Author? - Yeah.

You're not disappointed I don't recognize you.

I'm not a big reader.

Oh, no. No. It's okay. It's okay.

So, um, what do you do around here for fun?

What do you do?

You promise you won't laugh.

See, now I'm like...

Okay, wow.

During COVID, I discovered my love of puzzling.

Puzzling. So you're over there putting puzzles together.

It's oddly calm and very zen.

You should try it sometime.

Yeah.

Oh.

Excuse me. I gotta take this.

Oh, well, sure, I understand. Yeah.

- Well, nice meeting you. - You as well.

Hi. Greg speaking.

Mel,

I know I asked a lot of you in the past,

but it was all for the future we were building together.

Come on, baby. We make each other better.

I love you so much.

And I don't want to lose you.

I know you're still pissed, but I just want to clarify.

We were not talking trash about you.

And I know I probably shouldn't have told Monica

your business, but she cares about you.

You sucker punched us.

I know. I shouldn't have tried to force a reunion,

but listen, all I can do is sympathize.

Monica knows exactly what you're going through.

You should talk to her.

I'll think about it.

Okay. I am so sorry.

I love you, sis.

Love you too.

Okay - Bye.

Thanks for coming.

Surprised you asked.

I'm still unpacking the house, and I, uh...

I found these.

Our trip to Cabo.

Yup.

That was our last girls trip before you got married.

Mel...

I don't want to rehash anything.

Honestly, I turned around and let a man use me, too.

Just in a different way.

I mean, we chose to see the best in them.

That's what you're supposed to do.

Love has you slow on the uptake,

even when it's right in front of your face.

Yeah.

Listen, Mel, I know you must feel...

Dumb.

Stupid.

I was gonna say diminished.

I mean, I know I did after the divorce for years, but...

But you're still a force to be reckoned with.

And if that man has you doubting that

for any reason, please don't.

Thank you.

You know, I still can't believe I lost this sombrero.

It was my favorite.

What-what? Lost?

No, no, no, no. You tossed it.

- What? - Yes.

You were puking up tacos and tequila in it.

No, I didn't.

- Yes, you did. - Mm-mm.

Yes.

Remember, I was the designated driver that night.

You and Candy were crushing shots of Don Berto back to back.

Like crush, crush.

I'm sorry.

I have no recollection of that. I do not believe that.

Well, that's how you know a good time was had by all.

Everybody.

I missed you.

I missed you, too.

You know, I read your books,

and you are one hell of an author.

Thank you. Thanks.

Oh, and your skincare line? It's...

You have not tried it.

I have not.

But I will now.

There she is.

Do you have the Lopez file?

Monica, I am so slammed.

I cannot be guilt-tripped right now.

Can you please wait till I'm off work.

Rude.

Well, hello to you too.

I'm sorry girl. Hi.

Hi.

Listen, I just wanted to tell you that Mel...

I just heard my name.

You're clearly talking about me again.

I'm so happy to see you two together,

but I really can't do this right now

because I have a big client coming in.

All right.

Well, we were just going to ask if you wanted to meet

at Spelman Rail Company for lunch, but alright.

No, clearly you're too busy, so we'll get you another day.

Wait a damn minute.

Does this mean that the Get Fresh crew

is back together in full effect with the...

We. Are. Working.

Put it in, put it in, put it in.

Alright.

Spel's Bells forever!

- Sisters before misters! - Oh, god, there she goes.

Oh, you guys, I did this. This was me. Yeah.

I know you better than you know yourselves.

- Remember that. - Oh my gosh. Goodbye.

You can say thank you or I love you or I'll never do it again.

Go on and moonwalk out with that truth I just left you.

Go on and go, girl.

Oh, gosh.

You never said thank you!

Noah, I need the Lopez file!

And don't call HR because I'm yelling again.

♪ I walk in a room

♪ got that oh, oh, boom ♪

I needed this spa day. Thank you, Mel.

It's the best bet I ever made.

Shoot. Thank the ex.

I kept the proceeds from our nefarious online sale.

And, ladies, that has been our checkbook.

Ah.

Wow, it's hard to believe it's been so long.

Mmhmm. I love it.

You know what I love?

I love that Mel has never said his name.

And you also haven't seen any pictures of him.

She cleaned everything out once they broke up.

- And I never will. - Mmhmm.

It's not worth mentioning.

You know what, cheers ladies.

- Cheers to that. - Yes.

Cheers. Yeah.

[Can I'm almost done.

Can you two imagine what our 19-year-old

Alpha Kappa Kappa Spelman selves would think

if they could see us now. Right?

They'd wonder what the hell we were doing.

Paying $200 to have someone rub cherries

in papaya juice all over our faces.

We used to drink that crap

along with drugstore vodka, just for fun.

Oh, don't remind me.

That fun led to me being transported.

To this day, I can't look at a handle of vodka

without hugging some porcelain.

- So, Candy. - Mmhmm?

You're the only one of us

getting a little something, something.

Is Byron still the legend?

If only.

I just can't seem to get him

to bring that big old thing out to play anymore.

Well, sometimes you just got to switch it up.

You know, give him a bigger hint.

Oh, I got it.

How about you just make him jealous

so he remembers what he's got.

A-ha.

Well, enough about me.

What's going on with you and that new man

you've been giving your little cookies to?

- Huh? - You hear me.

Listening.

Y'all know I don't kiss and tell.

Since when?

So new guy. What does he do?

He has his own company.

But listen, I don't want to spill the tea

because it's only been two months.

And if it all goes well,

you all will meet him at my birthday party.

So, does he wear blue suits?

Because you've been dreaming about that man

in blue suits for years.

Mm.

Actually, he doesn't, but that's all I'm going to say.

At least tell us, have you seen the package?

Thank you. I wanted a modesty cloth.

- A modesty? - Mmhmm.

That ship has sailed.

Let's do this every six months.

- And birthdays. - Mmhmm.

All in favor?

I.

Okay. Okay. Monica, come over here.

- What? - And Mel. Come on.

Just come on, come on. Don't fuss with me. Come on.

So it's enough of this Matcha mess.

It's time for something that will truly heal your soul.

Oooh!

Mmhmm.

- You rock. - Yes, Don Berto.

Nothing but the best for my girls.

Okay. Wait, wait, wait.

Hold on. Wait.

Spel's Bells forever!

Yes!

That's smooth, ahhh!

I mean, this tequila is so darn good.

It's like the Lord made wine, and then he said

I got something for you. I'm gonna make tequila.

You can't put God with this.

'Cause this is sinning.

Let's not put Jesus in this.

Oh my gosh.

Oh, I have something, too.

What you got? What you got?

Oh, my gosh.

You look so naughty.

- No, you didn't. - Let me turn this down.

- Turn this down. - Oh, thank God, turn it off.

What is it?

Oh, I mean, oh yes.

♪ Cash Money Records.

♪ Takin' over for the 99 into 2000 ♪

♪ Girl, you workin' with some back yeah ♪

♪ just fat, yeah

♪ Make Lil' Woadie spend his cash, yeah ♪

♪ his last, yeah

♪ Girls frown when you pass, yeah ♪

♪ They mad, yeah

♪ You could ride in the Jag yeah ♪

♪ with that head ♪

♪ You could smoke or buy a bag, yeah ♪

♪ of grass, yeah

♪ Got money I can flash, yeah

♪ And trash yeah

♪ I'm a Big Tymer playa, yeah gun sprayer, yeah ♪

♪ Playa-hata-flipper yeah grave fill a, yeah ♪

♪ Like I be slangin' wood, yeah Out of the hood, yeah ♪

♪ Let it be understood, yeah it's all good, yeah ♪

♪ Got a gang schemin' large yeah, on the hard, yeah ♪

First London, then Milan, then Paris.

It's our first major overseas marketing push.

Wow. You've gone all Fenty.

Oh, you're gonna be great

because you've been prepping for this for six months.

Uh-huh.

How long will you be gone?

Uh, just one month.

But I'll be back from a big birthday.

Then we get to meet the mysterious Mr. C.

Yes. I just don't want to do it yet, 'cause it's so new.

But when I come back, you guys will meet him.

Why do you keep doing that?

Because you were doing it wrong.

She's been very bossy lately.

Goes right there.

Go on.

♪ I'm doing my dance all across the map. ♪

♪ Get rockin'. R-O-C-K-I-N-G. ♪

♪ And I suggest you don't mess with me. ♪

♪ I can feel it when you walk

♪ Even when you talk.

♪ It takes over me.

♪ You're so dandy

♪ I wanna know, can you feel it too ♪

♪ Just like I do?

Oh, I love that song.

Okay. I know Monica likes to make an entrance,

but who is an hour late to their own party?

Guys, it's her birthday.

She can be late if she wants to.

I just want to say that it's so wonderful that we're all here

celebrating together. Who would have thought?

Me. That's who... me.

And you didn't even thank me, I did this.

We get to meet the mysterious Mr. C.

She probably was just waiting to make sure

everything was serious. You can't blame her.

It took three months?

- Three months is not that long. - It's not that long.

Do you think she bagged some foreign dignitary?

Or an actor or something?

That's why they kept it quiet.

Right.

I'm gonna grab a drink. Y'all want?

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

You look so pretty.

I know. Thank you.

So let me ask you this.

Are things getting better in the boudoir?

Oh, gosh. You know, maybe I'm wrong

for wanting more,

because Byron's a great dad, and he's reliable.

So maybe this is just the natural progression

towards death parting.

Okay, that's, like super bleak.

Listen, Byron's not lonely, only I am.

So I just have to find a way to fix it.

So I'm going to spend more time with my friends

and maybe a vibrator or two.

- You have one? - I'm gonna get one.

- But you're married. - It don't matter.

You cannot get a vibrator if you're married...

- I got needs! - Oh, my gosh!

All right, y'all, now listen up.

We love her in America, but now they love her in Europe.

The empress of epidermis.

The queen of collagen, the regent of retinol.

She's our lady of the hour.

So please, put your hands together

and give it up for the beautiful, the talented,

our birthday girl, Monica Andrews.

Here comes Mr. C.

Holy... It's Richard.

Your ex is Mr. C.?

I didn't know.

Do you think I'd be at this party if I knew she was

going to throw a grenade in our faces?

She's just throwing him in your face like this.

Mel and Richard broke up before Monica and Mel made up.

I doubt he knew that you were college friends.

I'm sure y'alls pics are all over Monica's house.

You are not helping.

I didn't know!

What's she gonna do?

Do you want to get fired?

Here they come.

Monica. Happy birthday.

Oh. Thank you.

So, guys, please allow me

to introduce you to Richard finally.

This is Candy and Noah.

Hey, uh, where's Mel?

- She's in the bathroom. - Oh.

You know, you look familiar.

Do you frequent The Spike?

Have we met before?

You look familiar, too. But no, I don't think so.

Are you sure about that?

Well, if we did, it was a long time ago.

Uh-huh.

So-so where did you two meet?

At the gym.

Yeah. You know, it's like we met,

and I just felt this instant connection

and we've been inseparable ever since.

When, you know, you know.

Uh-huh.

Now you guys can see

why I've been spending all my time with him.

Okay.

Okay.

Okay.

Baby...

I have never been more sure of anything

or anyone in my life.

I love you, Monica.

Will you marry me?

Yes! Oh my God! Of course!

Oh, honey.

She said yes!

Hey you guys, happy birthday to me!

Oh my gosh.

There you go.

Thanks.

Just let me know when you're ready to order.

Okay.

- Hey. - Hey.

How are you feeling?

I heard that you got sick at the party.

I'm fine.

Oh, thank you for this.

Ooh. Twice on the lips, straight to the hips.

You only live once so whatever.

Mhm.

Mmm. Oh, my gosh, that is so good.

I didn't leave the party because I was sick.

Okay, I'm going to give you the benefit of the doubt here.

Because after everything we've been through,

I don't believe that you would hide the fact

that you're dating my ex.

Wait, what?

Your new fiancé, the man I spent

the last two and a half years with

who is leeching off of me.

Now he's doing the exact same thing to you,

which makes sense.

I mean, your business is massively successful.

Okay. Hold on.

I mean, I mentioned you to him.

He seen pictures of us in my yearbook.

He knows that we're friends.

Okay, okay, I got it.

It's just there has to be a rational explanation.

I mean, I could see him thinking

that maybe I wouldn't give him

a fair chance if I knew the history between you two.

And now that you do?

Well, obviously, it's not ideal.

And I can see you're uncomfortable

seeing your ex with me.

He is playing you.

Okay, look.

I get it. You supported him.

And now another woman is reaping the benefits.

Are you serious right now?

He lied to you about knowing me.

He never said that.

I'm the one who wanted to wait to have him meet everybody

because I wanted to be sure about how I felt about him.

I said that.

Really? And what did he say?

He knew that you were gonna be at the party.

There was no way of getting around that.

So clearly he was okay with you knowing.

I can't believe we're having this conversation again.

It is not the same thi...

Damn it.

Mel, I've waited a really long time to trust somebody again.

To love somebody again.

I'm sure.

Listen, just because he was that way with you,

it doesn't mean he can't change.

Men can grow.

And I am not saying this to hurt your feelings, Mel,

but men act differently with different women.

And

you know, I'm not saying I made him a better man,

but maybe he wanted to be better for me.

Wow.

The delusion is strong.

With the ex, but this?

Whew.

Green is not your color.

Jealousy does not look good on you, Mel.

Thank you for the shake.

I felt bad the first time,

but it is clear to me that you cannot accept that I am happy.

Ask him if he has any savings.

Oh, no, no, no, better yet, ask him about his car.

You're mad he put a ring on it.

You hate

that he picked me instead of you.

FYI, I put his ass out.

Oh, your ring?

Cracker Jacks?

Oh, my bad. It could be cubic zirconia.

Hey, baby.

Hey, Richard.

Uh-oh. What's up?

Just met up with Mel today.

Okay. I knew this conversation had to happen eventually.

Talking to her just

brought some things into focus that have come up

in the short time that we've, uh, known each other.

Baby, you know, time don't matter with relationships.

I mean, we love each other.

I asked you to marry me, and you said yes.

She invested in your startup also, didn't she?

Monica, I never asked you for that money, right?

You offered it to me after you heard the pitch

and reviewed my business plan.

Yeah, but you also asked me for my business contacts,

one of which you're meeting with to discuss Cargo USA.

She really got in your head, huh?

This is why I was waiting to tell you.

Because I want you to see me for who I really am

before she could cast doubt on my character.

So.

Us meeting at the gym

wasn't really a coincidence, was it?

Of course it was.

Alright, you and Mel weren't even talking back then.

Oh, I see, with me, you could get money

and a slap in her face for putting you out.

So I was revenge and also funding for your app.

Don't do that.

Don't twist the narrative to make it become something

it ain't, alright?

Don't-don't make this beautiful thing between us

about some bitter woman.

We just went to your place

for the first time a week ago,

and when I Googled the address, it was an Airbnb.

I was renting it temporarily from a friend, that's all.

What does it even matter anyway?

I spend most of my time here.

How are you doing on them car payments?

Alright. I'm gonna go

before I say something that I regret,

because it's obvious to me that you're not in a position

to have a mature conversation,

so I'm going to be the bigger person and leave.

I never thought I would marry again.

And when you asked, I was shocked, but I said yes

because I was willing to risk it all.

Then what are we doing?

We don't need to be arguing about this.

Don't-don't do that.

Don't let her make you doubt yourself, Monica.

It's fake.

It's all fake.

Yeah, well, I woke up from this dream that you sold me.

Look, I'm sorry, I'm sorry. It's not a dream, alright?

I'll make it up to you. Just don't do this.

- Please pack your stuff. - Monica...

I want you out of my house by tomorrow night.

And when I say please, I'm being polite.

I'm not asking.

Monica. Mon...

I gave myself grace

over what happened last time because I was young and stupid.

So it's understandable, but...

I can't fall back on that now, though, can I?

I know how charming and manipulative Richard can be.

And you don't want to know how much money that man got from me.

I even invested in his company.

How much?

Over 100 K.

Oh, Mel.

I- I'm sorry.

I'm such an idiot.

Monica, all I want is for you to be

in a safe and loving relationship.

And, yeah,

I was waiting on a ring,

and it hurt more than I thought seeing you get it.

And I know it's going to take a while

for me to get over this pain, but...

I'm a survivor.

And there's nothing wrong with you.

You are a force to be reckoned with.

I'm sorry.

I'm sorry, too. I'm so sorry.

I'm so sorry.

♪ Saw the signs.

♪ When you turn around, look back at it... ♪

♪ Dancing on me intimate

♪ bottom line.

♪ There is nothin' bout you innocent ♪

♪ and I'm just like you in a sense ♪

♪ Oooh, ooh, body moving just the way I like ♪

♪ You...

Well

if it isn't The Peach State's very own Toni Morrison.

If only.

Oh, I see someone finally got around to reading.

Did they run out of puzzles at Toy Town?

I preordered the paperback.

I wanted to get the first one off the press.

I really enjoyed it.

That's nice.

Lemonade?

I made it fresh. You want a glass?

- Yeah. - Great.

There you go.

- Yeah. - Thanks.

You're welcome.

So, are you working on your next opus?

More love, loss and heartbreak?

Mm. Something like that.

And how are you doing since Mr. Wrong moved out?

Oh.

Still thinking about getting that dog?

Who said anything about a dog?

I was kind of hoping you would get one.

Oh, we could co-parent.

I wouldn't have to feel guilty about leaving the dog alone.

How are you feeling about pugs?

I feel like I'm not ready

for another relationship yet, at my age...

At your age, it just makes you all the more attractive.

Well, I think bulldogs are cute, so.

Good morning.

Hi. Good morning.

Hi. Are you Melody Joan Montgomery?

Yes.

Oh my god.

Wow. You, uh-you've just been served.

What?!

Hey, buddy.

Hey.

"Thanks for everything, Clarence."

Who's that?

Byron, what are you doing here?

I told you I had to take my car in,

and I had to come and borrow yours.

Oh, right.

Oh, Byron, these are gorgeous, I love them.

They're nice and you should let Clarence know that.

Oh.

This guy is insufferable.

Who is he?

He's opposing counsel on one of my cases.

Are you in the habit of accepting gifts

from other men?

I don't accept anything from any other man.

But yes, I get noticed

and I refuse and come right home to you.

Even though I can't remember the last time

you bought me flowers or did something

to surprise me.

You know I love you.

Babe, it is hard to tell these days.

Are you being serious right now?

Yes.

Okay. I can admit things have been a little...

A little

less than hot and spicy lately.

Byron, we barely touch each other anymore.

We're living like-like roommates.

It's not like I don't try to initiate it.

Oh, come on, we have sex.

I mean, we could have a little more.

A lot more. Soooo much more.

Do you have to be that loud?

I don't think they heard you on the fifth floor.

Look, I gotta get to work.

And for the record,

I bought you this Bonsai tree.

So, did it work?

I don't know.

I mean, sending yourself flowers was brilliant.

I know I should have spent more money on them, though.

That's a small bouquet.

- It's small. - Yeah.

And your penmanship is garbage.

Well, I'm working on it.

You gotta work on it. Go. Just go.

- Just go. - Okay.

Come on. Pick up, pick up.

Ugh.

Okay. This cannot be legal, right?

We weren't even together long enough for common law marriage.

He wants more.

Can you please sit down? You're making me nervous.

Now, the state of Georgia does not recognize

common law marriages, so he's just claiming

that he significantly contributed to the development

of Karma Has No Secrets,

and thus should get half of your revenue.

What the hell? Can he do that?

I'm going to do the best I can to make sure that he cannot.

But you know, I don't know.

He could have a case and you get the right jury.

He's a charming SOB.

He could charm a juror.

You know what this is about?

This is about Monica dumping him.

That's what this is about.

Absolutely.

He's a narcissist.

She was supposed to be his sugar mama,

and now he's pissed and broke.

This is insane.

He's a grown man.

He can get a job.

Okay, Mel, I need you to let me talk to his attorney.

And whatever you do, do not call,

text, email or pull up on that dude.

And this-this urge you have to commit murder,

can you find a legal way to channel it?

Why are you throwing stuff at me?

I ain't done nothing to you.

Hey, girl. You busy?

Good. I'm picking you up. Bye.

Ugh.

Shayla, where is he now?

He's still hitting the free weights.

But I don't know for how much longer.

I'll text y u when he heads out.

Okay, great. Thanks.

We're still good.

This is so wrong.

But it feels so right.

No, but do you remember I told you I came home from work

and I caught him paying off that tow truck driver,

but he swore that his accountant had missed a payment.

But then when you mentioned all those unpaid bills,

I just figured there's better than a 50/50 chance

that a bank was trying to repossess his car.

And I was right!

Okay, okay, look.

We're going to have to keep this between us,

because if Candy finds out...

She's going to kill us.

Why?

It is 100 percent legal what we're doing.

Is it?

Yes. Mel listen, we deserve this.

And I'm tired of men stepping on us, okay?

I need tangible repercussions.

I want them to feel it. I want them to taste it.

I think I actually want to make him bleed just a little bit.

Okay, well, I want him to cry.

Yes!

Bye, bye!

Oh, my god.

There's like a sweet cream-colored Bentley

getting towed in the parking lot right now.

What?

Was it a convertible?

Yeah.

No, no, no, no, no!

Wait, wait, wait, wait! Whoa! Stop!

That's my car, man! Come on!

Damn it!

Are you serious? You did this?

Loser!

I'll get you!

Oh my gosh.

Oh!

Oh!

Someone's been busy.

When'd you get home, babe?

I took the day off and started cooking as soon as you left.

You were right.

I need to pay more attention to you and surprise you.

Oh, baby.

So I found

the recipe for Rendezvous Ribs.

They've been slow grilling all day.

Hold on, hold on, hold on.

- Got some hush puppies working. - Oh.

Got the corn there,

Fran's collard greens simmering.

- Oh, baby- - And hold on, hold on.

Hold on, hold on, hold on. You ready, you ready?

I'm ready.

You ready, you ready for the pièce de résistance?

Homemade key lime pie.

Oh, baby. I'm so happy.

You know, when you, uh, get in chefs mode,

you get real sexy to me.

So why don't we just, uh, take this off

and see what we can do!

I gotta run to the bathroom.

What?

Babe?

Babe?

Are you okay?

I'm, uh, ready to start cooking.

Oh. It's okay. He loves me.

Okay.

Yes.

Let's start, try the ribs, and then we can get busy later.

Oh, but we-we're here now.

Okay.

There you go.

Okay. I'm just gonna need you to put the knife down, Mrs. Ripper.

No, no, no, no, no.

And pass me a spoon

so I can enjoy this lovely crime scene you created.

Okay.

Are you sure that's enough?

Let me get you some more.

So much fresh fruit here.

Ooh!

Okay.

Slow down, slow down, slow down.

Just one more.

No. Okay. Okay.

Okay. Thank you.

Why don't you just have a seat?

This is so fresh, the fruit here.

Thank you.

Good.

Okay. Now, I could tell when you called that you needed

to take your mind off things.

So I brought you a little something

to refocus all of this negative energy.

Seriously?

Yes.

Doggies? A puzzle with doggies?

Yes. Please do not put any shade on puzzling.

It's very therapeutic.

And considering

the little innocent fruit massacre I just witnessed,

you need therapy, woman.

Okay, maybe a little bit.

- Now I generally start. - Oh, look.

Nice work.

What do you got? What do you got?

♪ Hearts broken

♪ Words, unspoken

♪ Eyes, flirting

♪ Flash, burning ♪

♪ No matter how hard we try to fight ♪

♪ There ain't no way

♪ We can put out this fire ♪

It's getting a little late.

I still got a few things to get done for the store tonight.

Thanks for this. It was great.

Yeah. You're welcome.

And, if you can, just trust that all the pieces

will eventually come together.

Yeah.

Oh, sorry.

Okay. Good night.

Good night.

Bye.

♪ There ain't no way

♪ We can put out this fire.

Some tea for you.

I know you're upset.

I put a lot of effort

into surprising you with that special dinner.

Byron

when I said I wanted to be surprised and desired,

you thought I was talking about some damn ribs?

I can't remember the last time you wanted to jump my bones.

What are you talking about?

I said we can get busy after dinner.

After?

Byron, I put my hands on you

and you ran off to check your phone.

So-so-so what were you doing?

Texting your girlfriend to get some pointers first?

Babe, I am not having an affair.

You ran off with your phone to the bathroom.

You did not use the toilet.

So what was it, Byron? Was it porn?

Were you trying to get a bet in on the Falcons?

It's not that.

I am lonely, not unhappy.

When the kids were here,

we used to try to carve out time

for date nights, and now it's just...

We're just co-existing.

Byron, I miss us.

You know I love you, Candy.

I know that,

but I need more.

Byron, is it me?

No, no, no.

I need a half hour's notice.

I was too ashamed to tell you that Mr. Big

is out of warranty, and I need those spark plugs

every time to keep him going.

When I ran into the bathroom,

I had to take a pill.

And then set the timer on my phone for 30 minutes.

E.D.?

Oh, baby.

Why didn't you tell me?

I thought you wanted somebody else.

Never.

But you were right.

I should have told you earlier.

Baby. Baby.

Oh, baby.

I guess it's been 30 minutes.

I think so.

My freaking house.

My freaking house?!

Just breathe.

Look. You bought it together as a couple.

He's claiming your creative partnership

entitles him to a percentage.

Now, there's zero merit to his claim.

But if he charms the right judge with his tale of woe,

you just never know.

That's why I told you both not to poke the bear.

But here we are.

He's coming for your house and your profit.

But it's my house. I bought it on my own.

- He didn't contribute a dime. - You know what,

he's also claiming that he has a manuscript,

a copy of your book with his notes in it.

So what?!

They're claiming that he creatively contributed

to Mel being able to complete Karma Has No Secrets

and he wasn't properly compensated,

thereby entitling him to a piece of your profits

and your property.

- This is insanity. - I agree.

That's why I intend for an immediate dismissal,

but it all hinges on the judge I get at the preliminary hearing.

So we need to be prepared to fight.

Alright, all of this because of a car

that was going to be repossessed anyway.

Don't you say that I didn't warn you.

Well, fine. Fine.

Well then, game on.

No.

No game. No game.

This is an actual lawsuit.

Please let me do what I do.

Listen to me, Candy.

I completely have faith in you to do what you do.

But this man has overplayed his hand.

And if he's coming for her house,

then it's going to cost him his company.

You are a tiny little menace.

What?

And you need to put that finger eye thing you're doing away.

We are in a fight. This is a fight!

You said it was legal!

It's totally legal!

So, two months ago, Richard was desperate

for funding for Cargo USA, so I offered.

I mean, he obviously inquired,

but then I offered to hook him up with my key angel investor,

who has done very well by me, my boy, Rob.

Now Rob is a VC hedge-fund manager

and that meeting is set to happen

at the end of this week.

I mean, you know, it's supposed to happen.

Okay, I see what you're saying here,

but this is not a good idea.

No.

What? Okay, wait. Hold on. Picture it.

Mel and I, we walk in.

She hits him with an ultimatum, and then we tell him.

You will say nothing.

Monica, Mel cannot get caught blackmailing him.

And if his lawyer allows her to meet with him,

it's only so he can try to catch her out.

Not to mention that extortion is super illegal.

Yes.

All right, point made.

Let me reset the scene.

I walk in alone.

I go up to that waste of space.

I grab his drink, I throw it in his face.

And then I make him an offer he can't refuse.

Take it easy, Don Corleone.

This idea isn't better.

I agree with Candy. I'm not listening to you.

Okay. Why don't y'all just let me be great?

Monica, you blackmailing him on Mel's behalf

is still very bad and it's also extortion.

We need to move in the shadows.

Yes, precisely.

Alright, fine. We'll do it the boring way.

Just call Rob and set up a lunch.

You know, he's a decent church going guy,

and once he hears what Richard is doing, it is over.

How sure are you of this?

Well, he's happily married to my cousin,

whom I set him up with.

And I am the godmother of their child, so he will play ball.

Now, the question is,

how big of a shareholder do you want to be at Cargo USA?

Okay, just to be clear, okay? I don't want his company.

I just want him out of my life, my pockets,

and my house.

Capisce?

You're really disappointing me right now.

What the hell?

Don't play stupid. I know you talk to Rob.

Well, we talk all the time. He's family...

Monica, do not mess with my business.

I got you that meeting when we were on much better terms.

Now we're not together anymore, and I'm not holding any grudges.

Although, there was that thing that you did

where you got me something

that you really couldn't afford to get me

but you tried to trick me anyway.

But what you're suggesting right now,

I mean, what would be my motive?

This is the break that I've been waiting for.

It is a multi-million dollar deal with a major investor.

Yeah. And I know Rob is the type who likes

to do business with upstanding, moral citizens.

So if he's hesitating on closing,

you might want to ask yourself

what could I have possibly done to impact his opinion?

This is about Mel, right?

Listen, what happens between her and I

has nothing to do with me, you're right.

Just like what Rob decides

is completely up to him.

Okay. Look, Monica, I'm running out of options.

The meeting was supposed to be tomorrow.

Let's just say,

hypothetically, that I'm willing to negotiate a truce.

Oh, well see, I'm not a part of the negotiations,

so I don't really have any terms.

But, Richard, if I were you,

I suggest that you search your heart

and you'll come up with an answer

and then call your lawyer.

There's a Mr. Carter, here to see you.

Shall I let him in?

Signed and notarized.

Now, please, tell Monica to call off the dogs.

Tell her your damn self.

I'll trust you'll live up to your end of the deal.

Pleasure doing business with you.

We better not see your bony black ass

around us again!

You guys really came through for me.

You rock.

Of course.

Of course.

Thank you.

Damn. Little Richard slinked out of here in a big-ass hurry.

That part.

Now, are we sure he doesn't go by Dick?

I like it better.

- I like it better. - Mmhmm.

Hey, is that your phone ringing?

Oh. Is it? Let me see.

Oh, is that puzzle guy calling you?

That man is fine, fine.

I don't know how you keep it together

with all that sexiness in such close proximity.

Mmhmm.

I think it's too soon.

Well, you say too soon.

Maybe that means later something could happen.

Why can't we be friends first?

I mean, you can, yes.

But I just think you should test out my theory,

which is get under a new man to get over the old one.

Or you just let a breeze

blow through every now and again and take a break.

- For real. - You sound like my therapist.

- I do? Aww. - Mmhmm.

Oh, I do.

What? What are you smiling at?

Nothing. It just feels familiar, and I miss it.

Well, you don't have to miss it at all, because

Spel's Bell's forever.

- Yeah, oh! - What?

I got good news. Good news.

When I presented Spelman Sisters to my agent

as my next book.

She got the publisher to double the advance

if I can deliver by the fall.

- When you deliver by the fall. - When.

Wait, does that mean that we get royalties?

I said I owe you thanks, not profits.

All right, we can still cheers.

- Cheers. - Cheers to that.

I love you, ladies, I really do.

Love you.

- Ooh. - Ooh.

That's smooth.

Don Berto.

I love Don Berto. What's going on?

I know it's 5:00 somewhere, but it ain't 5:00 here.

Ooh, it burns.

You know, I've been thinking a lot about

what you said in the last session.

And my girls, Mel and Candy, they said the same thing.

It is time for me to put my anger towards

Richard and Harrison in the past and really heal.

You know, I've been doing my research and it takes 30 days

to break a bad habit.

You know, like choosing a man who ain't no good.

Except I usually excel at things.

So I really feel like I can get back out there in half the time.

Oh, and I brought the vision board of the perfect man

that you asked me for.

Now, this man, first and foremost,

he's got to have his own success, okay?

But from now on, I'm going to hire

a private investigator to do a background check

and verify everything.

Because trust is really important.

You know, no more jumping without asking questions.

Because I am not a kangaroo, alright?

I need him to be vulnerable. I need him to be smart.

I need him to be funny because I'm hilarious

and I need him to be a gentleman.

I mean, I'm a lady from the South.

Is it too much to expect some chivalry and politeness?

Hell, no.

I need him to be fine, but not too vain.

You know what I mean?

But vain enough to want to keep his abs.

And here's the thing.

I'm so ready for the universe to show me some kindness

and help me manifest this man, you know,

and I know him when he arrives, because he's going to be wearing

this sharp ass blue suit like this guy.

What do you think? You know what I remembered?

I remembered that Steve Harvey, he never wears blue.

But Bernie Mac, he wore blue all the time.

Something to think about.

Well, that looks heavy.

Let me just take two of those. Thank you, dear.

Oh.

- Here you go, girl. - Thank you.

- This is nice, huh? - It's so pretty.

- Great turnout. - Yeah. Cheers.

- Oh, there she goes. - Oh.

Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen.

I am thrilled that you are here this afternoon.

And thank you so much for joining me

for the launch of my newest novel...

Spelman Sisters.

You know, as I look out and I see all of you,

I am genuinely touched

that so many of you have supported my writing

all these years, and you're here right now,

and I love each and every one of you.

You know, this particular book

is the most personal of all my novels.

And there are two friends,

sisters,

who have always had my back and gotten me through

the lowest moments.

And they're right over there.

- That's us. Hi, y'all. - Hi.

I wouldn't be standing here

without their unwavering love and support.

So this book is dedicated to them.

I would like to read a tiny section of Spelman Sisters

as my way of saying thank you.

Love finds you in so many ways.

A wise auntie once told me that you got to embrace the walking

and not focus on the destination.

That love is a little bit like that too.

Until I met

the Spelman girls, my sepia sojourn left me empty.

And with each day they brought the color

back into my life.

And now

it's every shade.

And I thank you all again for coming.

And please continue to-to enjoy this celebration with me.

Thank you. I'll take this.

Do you want some?

- Did you just... - Don't worry about it.

Here she comes.

It's all happening.

Yes! Another bestseller. I can feel it.

Fingers crossed.

Alright. Raise your glass. Raise your glass.

- Okay. - Alright.

Um...

Okay. I thought I had something profound to say,

but I got nothing.

I'm the one that's drinking. Uh, to sisters before misters.

To the next one being man enough for me.

- Hey. - Now, there it is.

I love it.

Is it time for us to discuss the profit sharing

because we are in this book a lot?

And one of the... oh, it looks like me.

Well, by that logic,

Richard should be getting his cut, too.

Oh my gosh,

I love how you made him one heck of a villain.

Yes, except, you know, obviously it wasn't you.

It was, uh, Melinda, aka Melody.

But, you know, the thing is,

when you took over his company, that was delicious.

I knew you'd like it. Okay, guys.

- I may have fictionalized parts. - Mmhmm.

But this? Us?

Is the real love story of the book.

Oh, bring it in, bring it in.

Congratulations.

- Go get your fans. - Go share it with the world.

Yeah.

- You be good. - Why?

Cuz you never good.

I'm gonna go get something stronger.

So be bad.

I've had enough of that.

I'll have a Manhattan, please.

Thank you.

Hi.

Hello.

How are you?

Michael.

- Monica Andrews. - Michael Dashman.

Oh, Dash.

That's a very nice blue suit you have on.

That's all I wear.

Really? You don't say.

Thank you so much.

- Manhattan? - Yes.

Whiskey or bourbon?

Bourbon. Of course.

You're perfect. I'll have one, too, please.

Hey, baby.

It's been 30 minutes,

and I want to go for the record.

Twelve minutes.

Oh, don't threaten me with a good time.

Oh, baby.

- Hi. Oh, you made it. - I did.

Thanks for coming.

You're welcome.

You know, I hear it's a tradition

that on the eve of the book release,

best-selling authors must be taken

to the best restaurant in the city

by their favorite neighbor.

Mm. I haven't heard that.

- It's true. - It's true?

Mmhmm.

Okay, so are you asking me on a date, neighbor?

I thought maybe we could go

to that new steak and lobster joint.

Okay, well, I'm more of a burger girl, so can you handle that?

Oh, I'm man enough.

♪ What are you thinkin'

♪ Do you know about us back then? ♪

♪ Do you know I dumped your husband ♪

♪ Girlfriend? I'm not thinkin' bout him ♪

♪ But you married him

♪ Do you know I made him leave? ♪

♪ Do you know he begged to stay with me? ♪

♪ He wasn't man enough for me ♪

♪ Come get this good love ♪

♪ Baby sit back, baby sit back ♪

♪ Let me fill yo glass fill yo glass ♪

♪ sip it up sip it up ♪

♪ just relax, aah

♪ Candlelight, candlelight

♪ fireplace, fireplace

♪ You're moving closer, baby

♪ face to face

♪ Hold you in my arms, Hold you in my arms ♪

♪ get comfortable

♪ Slow jams

♪ playing your song ♪

♪ oh, girl it's getting warm

♪ The feeling's strong

♪ Girl let's get it on

♪ I'm rocking with you It's a vibe, it's a mood ♪

♪ Let's fan this fire

♪ That touch, I won't rush

♪ Girl we got all night

♪ But it still ain't enough

♪ so turn that Marvin up ♪

♪ and come get this good love ♪