Original subtitles

1 (waves crashing)

(car engine rumbling) (gentle music)

(crows cawing)

(birds chirping)

(alarm blaring)

(Eric sighing)

(Eric groaning)

(tram clanking)

(traffic humming)

(phone alarm beeping)

(Eric sighs)

(water rushing)

(toothbrush scraping)

(Drew spitting)

(Eric spitting)

(water rushing)

(shower pattering)

(paper towel ripping)

(soft music)

(jar clinking)

(knife scraping)

(Eric sighs)

(knife clanking)

(knife scraping)

(Eric sighs)

(knife clanking)

(knife clanking)

(Eric sighs)

(light dramatic music)

(car engine humming)

- [Eric] Morning, Carol.

Looked for you at the shop but the lights were off.

Is everyone okay? - Yeah.

I would invite you in, but I've got that cold

that's going around town.

- Oh, you really do need to get some extra help

with that shop, even if you just got someone part-time,

you'd have a chance to rest.

- Right, when can you start?

- Yeah, right.

Art and I have a backlog you wouldn't believe.

Everybody wants to do their build-out

or demo at the end of the season.

- Yet you still have time to tell

an old woman how to run her business.

- Which brings me to why I'm here,

other than to see your radiant beauty of course.

You're as old as you think you are, Carol.

- Then I'm 103. (Eric chuckling)

Maybe if you'd let me get some rest,

I could knock a good 10 years off

of that and get back to work.

- So, you know that video I took

of your plaid ponchos at the shop?

- Mm hm. - Well, it got over 200 views

and two blogs are posted about it.

I think you should consider selling some of them online.

It'd be a great way to move product

when the snowbirds leave.

- I wouldn't know where to begin with that.

- Art's son, Neal, is teaching himself how to build websites

and he's had some success listing things online.

You should consider talking to him.

Even if you thought about it as more people in the shop.

- Oh. - You know, like,

not more people in the shop really,

but more like electronic people.

I don't know, like ghost people.

- All right, I'll talk to Neal.

Now, would you like a quick cup of coffee before you go?

(Eric sighs)

- I have a pretty busy day ahead, Carol.

I should probably get a jump on it.

- I'll be here today if you need anything.

- Thanks.

(light twangy music)

(door slamming)

(floor creaking)

Hey, Arthur, are you here yet?

- [Arthur] Yeah, Eric, I'm down here wrestling

with this piece of shit frame.

- Arthur, there's a kids meeting group

going on in the next room.

- We better hope the flooring doesn't give away then.

I mean, look at this tilting.

Good money says the foundation is shot.

(Eric sighs)

- That's a pity.

My family used to celebrate Easter here.

- Isn't that nice.

Well, are you gonna help me with this door or what?

- Hm?

Oh, yeah, where should I start?

- [Arthur] Did you bring the circular saw I asked for?

- Yeah, it's in the truck.

- Good 'cause we're gonna have to trim this thing outside,

and I'm gonna need your help moving it

because it's pretty damn heavy.

- Uh huh, oh!

Uh, Carol's gonna contact Neal

about selling some of her stuff online.

- [Arthur] Well, how'd you convince her to do that?

- One of my videos got a bunch of views, so.

- You know, I've been meaning to ask you,

why are you always running around filming stuff?

- I mean, it can't hurt to try something new, right?

Every winter people in this town start hurting.

I figure let's just create some cash flow

for them year round, right?

- Well, it's a nice idea, but it's been feast

or famine around here ever since I can remember.

Well, this door isn't gonna fix itself, you know?

- All right, all right,

I'll go grab the saw and set things up outside.

- Oh and by the way, Linda's making her famous pot roast

tonight and you're welcome to join us if you want.

We eat at 6:00 and we'd love to have you.

- Thanks, but Sarah and I are gonna grab something later.

(Arthur grumbling) Tell Linda I said thanks

though and I'll take some leftovers if she's got 'em.

- Oh, they'll be plenty, believe me.

I mean, when that lady cooks it's like feeding an army.

So, you're gonna have dinner with Sarah then, huh?

Uh, any chance of you two getting back together?

You know, I just can't understand

how you two can be so close after a divorce.

I mean, you're always happy together.

And Linda and I can't for the life of us

figure out what the hell happened.

- We realized we're better off as friends.

- Eh, well, was it the sex?

- [Eric] Arthur, come on!

- I mean, hey, Linda found this great site online,

and it's kinda you know, put the spice back into our lives.

And I wasn't much into surfing the internet.

- Mm hm. - Until she called me in

to look at what she found and some of that stuff

can really curl your hair.

Woo hoo!

You know what I'm talking about?

Eric?

(gentle music)

(keyboards clicking)

- Drew, I expect to be hearing back on two bids

for corporate events within the hour.

I'd like you to head those up.

Also, Abigail Lawson contacted us

regarding a special occasion.

- Who?

- She's only one of the most sought after internet stars.

Honestly, I wonder why I keep you around sometimes.

- Well, as soon as my web comic takes off

I'll be out of your hair for good,

but in the meantime I need the money to live

and you need me to make you look good.

- Someone's feisty today.

- [Drew] Can I show you something?

- Yes. (Drew scoffs)

- Before I show you this just know that all of my events

are in holding patterns and the three estimates

I've requested are set to come in tomorrow, okay?

- Should I be worried? - No, it's just...

- All right, what am I looking at?

Other than some hideous overalls,

oh, wait, those ponchos are interesting.

- Not the ponchos, it's the guy who made these videos.

He's someone I grew up a long time ago.

- [Kara] And?

- And nevermind, it's not important.

I should call the Drake, check up on those contracts.

- No, (chuckling).

My time is precious and I demand a resolution here.

All right.

Forest_Freak90 is a long lost friend and?

- He was one of my best friends.

I've been thinking about him

a lot lately and today especially,

so I did a search and found these videos.

They're pretty good, too.

I never knew he had it in him.

- Drew... (laptop screen thudding)

Was this a best friend or you know, your bestest friend?

The kind you would have eventually introduced

your family as a roommate for 20 odd years.

- No, he married one of our mutual friends

right after we graduated high school.

At least I think they're still married.

Their last known addresses are at different locations, but-

- Such a thorough researcher.

- [Drew] I was just curious about him.

That's all.

- I'm bored with this story.

Just call him. - Can't call him.

He doesn't wanna hear from me.

- And now I'm interested again.

What could you have possibly done to warrant a cold shoulder

from someone who names themselves Forest_Freak90?

- I left right after we graduated,

and he was in a really bad space.

I kept in touch for a while,

but then I cutoff contact completely.

- Call and apologize. (Drew sighs)

If I walk by here and see you sighing

at your computer screen again I really will fire you.

You got five minutes until I send over

a contract to look over.

Call him. (gentle music)

(soft music)

(water rushing)

- Hi. - You're late.

Don't blame me if the pasta's cold.

- I, uh, had to make a couple of stops on the way.

- Take a seat, I'll join you in a sec.

(Eric sighs)

(water splashing)

Thanks for serving me.

What kinda dressing do you want for your salad?

Ranch?

(silverware clanking) (Eric sighs)

I'm gonna set fire to those ratty old shoes

you love when you're not looking.

Oh and you'll never find someone as good as me for a wife

because no one will put up with your sullen spacey bullshit.

Eric! (silverware clanking)

(both chuckling)

Serves you right.

Oh, how many guys would kill to be in your chair right now?

- Uh, well, from the gossip around town

at least three this week so far.

- You can't fart in this town without everyone knowing

what you ate in under and hour.

Look, Eric, I've gone on a few dates.

I didn't tell you 'cause I thought

you had enough on your plate right now.

- Do you think I'm mad?

I know, it's no longer my business what or whoever you do.

- [Sarah] Whomever.

- Hey, look, you mean the world to me.

I may not have been the husband you deserve,

but I'm still here if you need anything.

- Thanks.

- And you know, make sure they treat you right.

- [Sarah] Have you ever known me to settle for anything?

- Well, sure, you settled for me.

- Eric, I never settled for you.

We're just, we're better off without

the wedding ring until death do us part crap.

- I know, I know.

Just wish things didn't have to be so difficult.

- You okay? - Yeah...

Can we not talk about me?

Yeah, just you know, everybody in town's been asking me

that all day and with you right now,

can we just not talk about me?

- All right.

(chair creaking)

So, Daryl drove the backhoe into his brand new truck,

and he wants the quarry to pay for the damages.

He filed a small claims lawsuit the moment he got off work.

Bet he wants to make sure Fran doesn't find out.

- Aren't you supposed to keep this court documents secret?

- You know how small this town is.

I bet Fran already knows and is planning a sneak attack.

Last time Daryl backed into a tree,

Fran put so much colon blow in his coffee

that he crapped his pants on the way to work.

(Eric gasping) That's why he keeps

a spare pair of briefs in his glove box at all times.

(Eric chuckling)

Seriously. (both chuckling)

Have you visited your parents yet today?

- No, not yet.

I was gonna go after I left here.

- [Sarah] Okay.

Do you want me to go with you?

- Nah, thanks though.

- I'm here if you need anything.

- [Eric] I should probably go before it gets too late.

- [Sarah] Mm hm.

- Oh, I offered to close up the inn for Jim

since he has to pick up Genie from the school apparently.

Genie got one of the leads in the school musical, so.

- Oh. - Yeah.

Is it all right if I stop by here afterwards?

- Of course, I'll be till 10:00 or so,

so come by whenever.

Bye.

(gentle music) (rain pattering)

(thunder rumbling)

- Hi, Mom.

Hi, Dad.

Sorry I'm coming so late, I just got caught up with work so.

Dad, you'll be happy to know Carol is finally

considering getting some help with the shop, so.

She says hi by the way.

At least, that's what she woulda said

if I woulda stayed there this morning.

Dad, four years, huh.

You know, I've been trying to look at it like

the celebration that you got to meet mom again today.

Hasn't exactly been working, but I'm pushing to see

that silver lining like you taught me.

Mom, I'm sorry I did such a terrible job taking care of Dad.

But you two get to take care

of each other now, so there's that.

(phone buzzing)

Hi, you've reached Eric.

I'm not here right now, but if you leave me a message

I'll get right back to ya.

(gentle music)

(water rushing)

(trees rustling) (insects chirping)

- Thank you for moving things around

so you could help me today with the shed.

- Ah, it's the least I can do, Carol.

Neal's happier than a pig in stuff ever since you

asked him to build that website for ya.

- Hm. - Eric!

That piece isn't supposed to be over there.

- No, I'm sure it's supposed to be over here.

It says section A2 to section B4.

- But B4 is over here isn't it?

- I don't know. - Ah, excuse me, Carol.

- So, you're acting supervisor today?

- I figured it was either come along or pick one of them

up from the ER later tonight.

They can build from scratch no problem,

but the moment there's instructions it's chaos.

So, how are you doing?

Eric mentioned you're venturing

into the world of online commerce.

- I am taking over the internet as we speak.

- Mm.

Well, I'm glad you're at least trying something new.

This town stands to learn something from you.

- You should always seek inspiration from your elders.

- Mm. - I know what the instructions

said, but it'd be much easier if you nailed

in the piece into the side.

- I know, Art.

- But be choosy which ones you pick to listen to.

Boys, I would appreciate it

if you would follow the directions here.

I still can't turn on my furnace

without kicking it a few times.

- Oh, shit. - All right.

(phone buzzing)

(Eric sighs)

- [Sarah] Everything okay, Eric?

- Yeah, it's just I keep getting these weird phone calls.

Chicago area code, it's like the fifth time this week.

- Why don't you just answer it?

- Eric can't stand telling telemarketers to jump in a lake.

Right?

- Yeah.

- Carol, do you mind getting me

one of those teas you're drinking?

- Oh, no problem. - Thank you.

- [Carol] Thank you.

- So, who do you know in Chicago?

- I don't.

At least I don't think I do.

Didn't Drew Stanic move to Chicago?

- Wow, that's a name I haven't heard in years.

What made you think of him?

- I don't know, it just came to me I guess.

(somber music)

I'm fine, I'm really, I'm fine.

It's just you know, when I started thinking about him,

it reminded me of our senior year.

Three of us hanging out at the park

or that time that we almost flipped my dad's truck doing

donuts in the parking lot. (Sarah chuckling)

- So dumb.

- And then Drew left and dad got sick.

It wasn't something I wanted to be reminded of.

(Eric sighs)

- Hey, if you do it like that

you're gonna screw it in backwards.

(Eric scoffs)

(birds chirping)

- [Eric] Hi, you've reached Eric.

I'm not here right now, but if you leave me a message

I'll get right back to you.

(phone thudding)

- [Kara] Drew!

- Coming.

- We have a problem, Drew.

Megan here, who may or may not be working for me tomorrow

promised the same conference location to two clients

on the same day at the same exact time.

- Wait, what's the problem?

- Megan, you can leave. (Kara snapping)

We'll talk about this later.

Drew, I am fully aware that this

is not your first choice of employment.

However, this is my company and as such I need employees

who are going to deliver on the projects they're running.

- I'm sorry, Kara, I've been...

(Kara sighs)

Who are the two clients?

- Harrington Solutions and Brown Consulting.

- We did the 65th birthday party for the CEO

of Harrington Solutions early last year, right?

- [Kara] Yeah.

- I seem to remember him liking a Beatles cover band.

It was a big hit.

I think we should call that band,

see if they can play this event.

And then we can account for the change in locations

based on the presence of the band.

Say it's noise ordinances or something.

- And with that you've just saved Megan's job and yours.

Honestly, Drew, what's going on?

Like I know you're not going to be here forever,

but these last couple of weeks

you've been distracted to say the least.

- I tried to call him. - I'm sorry, what?

- I took your advice and I tried to call him.

You know, Forest_Freak90.

I called him a bunch of times actually,

and he did not pick up.

- Ah, the mediocre videographer who makes

your small town heart go pitter-patter?

Touchy.

Fine, did you leave a message?

- No, what, what was I supposed to say?

Hey, it's the guy who left you hanging

at the worst possible moment in your life.

I'd love to catch up on all the horrible things I've missed.

- Where did you say you're from again?

- Northwest part of Michigan.

- Oh, God, I forgot you Michiganders do that.

It'd be adorable if it wasn't so ridiculous.

Megan, come in here please.

Megan, Drew here just saved your job.

You can thank him by partnering on Abigail Lawson's

wedding and giving him 25% of your commission.

Abigail is interested in hosting the reception near

Traverse City, which I believe should be in the vicinity

of where you grew up, yes?

- Yeah. - Great!

Then you know the area.

You will go up, scout the location

and review the four options Megan uncovered.

You will also use the time wisely to handle whatever

personal problems are keeping you from devoting 100% here.

- Fine.

When do you need my input?

- You leave next week.

I need the location chosen by the first week of October

and booked for late summer next year.

Megan!

(gentle music)

- Yeah, yeah, no, it's been pretty quiet.

Well, I'm happy to stick around till you get back.

Okay.

Hey, how'd Genie do in the musical?

Yeah, good.

(car engine rumbling)

(Drew sighs)

- Nothing ever changes here.

(insects chirping)

- Well, tell her I'm sorry I missed it,

but I'm glad I could help out.

Yeah, if you're sure I can leave the key

on the counter and lock up.

Okay, see ya.

(Eric sighs)

- Wait, can I get a room? - Oh, I'm sorry, I just...

- Hi, Eric.

- Drew.

Been a while.

What are you doing here?

- My job has me scouting locations near here.

I thought it'd be good to see Caleb's Hill,

and maybe reconnect with some people.

- Yeah, good luck with that.

Nancy and Jim should be back from

their daughter's play rehearsal in a half hour.

They can let you in.

- Nancy and Jim have a daughter?

That's great. - Yeah.

There are a lot of things you missed when you left.

- Eric, wait- - Gotta go.

(somber music)

(car door slamming)

(birds cawing)

(Eric sighs) (car engine rumbling)

- You all right?

(door creaking)

Welcome to Henley's, take a seat.

I'll be right with you.

Drew?

Drew Stanic?

What are you doing here?

- [Drew] Sarah, what are you doing here?

- A second job always helps pay the bills.

I actually work as a paralegal.

So, it also helps having the latest gossip, too.

Yeah, I work for Jake Andrews.

He took over his dad's practice.

- Jake's actually doing work these days.

- I know, right.

He stopped partying is actually a pretty decent lawyer.

Of course without me he'd only be mediocre.

- Oh, still so modest.

- I can't help I'm better than most.

Oh, Eric!

Drew's here! - Yeah, we saw each other

at the inn actually.

- Oh, he didn't mention that.

- [Drew] It was a brief exchange.

- Well, don't let him bother you.

He's never in a good mood around this time of year.

Pull up a chair, I'll pour you something.

- Oh, I remember you having a heavy hand.

I have things to do tomorrow.

- We'll see about that. (Drew chuckling)

- Can I sit here?

(Eric sighs) What are you drinkin'?

- Whiskey.

- That's a hard drink for a hard ass.

- You know they don't serve wine coolers here.

- Hey, my tastes have grown since we were 18.

- What can I get for you, Mr. Sophisticated?

- Vodka cranberry. - Ooh, fancy.

I'm gonna have to look for a recipe for that one.

- Oh, that sounds like a, like a glorified wine cooler.

- Okay, I had said that they- - It's weird.

- Grown, I didn't say how much they grew.

- Oh, they just grew a little bit?

(light music)

- Okay, I seem to remember you falling down

that hill on purpose.

- No, you remember wrong.

I was trying to impress you two

with a back tuck and I forgot to tuck.

(all laughing)

- You had that cast on for what,

like 12 weeks right up until graduation.

- Yeah, it sucked.

I didn't mean to keep us here so late.

It looks like I've already driven everybody else

outta the bar. - Ah, no.

I mean, technically we closed an hour ago.

But it's worth it to catch up with an old friend.

Right, Eric?

- Right.

- [Sarah] Are you okay to drive?

- Yeah, I've been sipping on the same drink all night.

I'll be fine. - All right.

- Been sipping on the same drink?

I've had like, how many have I had, Sarah?

- Apparently one too many.

No more back tucks for you

on the way back to the hotel, okay?

- No, no, alcohol makes you more limber, okay?

Watch this.

- No, no, no, no, don't! - Don't!

Please don't. - I can totally do one.

- I guess I should've checked to see

if you're okay to go back to the hotel.

- I'll be fine.

- Eric, can you... - Yeah, I'll drive him back

on my home. - Thanks.

- No, no, I, it's just a short walk.

I used to live here, remember-

- Come on, Daring Drew. - Eric.

- Let's get you back to your room.

- Sweet dreams. - Night, Sarah.

- Thanks. (gentle music)

(car doors slamming)

(both sighing)

I'm sorry, Eric.

- [Eric] Listen, let's just hit the road.

- I didn't come here to be a burden on you, man.

I came here because I missed you.

Both of you.

But you in particular.

- Look, man, I'm not really up

for midnight confessions, okay?

So, let's just get you back to your room.

(Drew sighs)

(insects chirping)

(soft music)

(door creaking)

(door slamming)

- [Carol] Welcome.

Just let me know if I need to help you find anything.

- [Drew] Thank you, Ms. Horton.

- Do we know each other?

- [Drew] I'm Drew Stanic, I used to deliver the paper here,

but it was a long time ago.

- Drew, I remember you.

You tried to steal some bubblegum cigarettes

from me when you were 10.

- Yeah, I'm sorry about that.

I thought it would make me look tough.

Maybe the other kids would stop beating up on me.

- [Carol] By stealing chewing gum from an old woman?

- Never said I was smart, just desperate.

- [Carol] Hm, and now?

- Now what?

- [Carol] Just wondering where your head is now.

- Well, right now my head is in need of some aspirin.

- Right there by the toiletries.

- Thank you.

Ms. Horton? - Carol, if you don't mind.

- How's the town doing?

- [Carol] That is an odd question.

- I just mean, nothing has really changed since I left.

- Some places truck along at the same pace indefinitely.

It's a blessing for some and curse for others.

The key is to find out which type you are,

so you can make your choices accordingly.

And you seem to have found out what yours is.

- Because I left?

I didn't leave here because I didn't like it here.

I didn't belong.

- All you have to do around here is take care

of the people around you and they'll take care of you.

Nothing more than that.

- Well, it seems like the town slept

a lot better once I was gone.

- Are you sure about that?

- Just the aspirin today. - Okay.

That will be $6.00 even.

- All right.

- Thank you.

(car engines rumbling)

(pills rattling)

(car door slamming)

- Put that one over there so we can get the rest in.

- Hey, this isn't my first time loading a truck.

- [Drew] Good morning.

You guys need any help?

- Nope, we're fine. - Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa.

Hold on, Eric.

You always gotta accept help when someone offers it to you.

I'm sorry, you are?

- I'm Drew. - That's Drew.

- Oh. - He used to live around here.

- Wait a minute.

Henry and Claire's boy?

- Yeah. - Wow.

I haven't thought of them in a while.

Didn't they move away in the last year

or something like that?

- Yeah, yeah, Drew's just up here for work.

He probably has something he needs to go do.

- Well, I do need to get to Elk's Trail,

but figured you guys could use some help, right?

- Oh, sold.

Hey, grab some of this wood and we'll be done in a jiffy.

- Hey, it'd be easiest if you can grab the wood

from the left and move it to the right.

Also, you should probably put some gloves on.

There's some in Art's vehicle.

- [Drew] I'll be fine.

(Eric clears throat)

- Sorry, Art.

(wood thudding)

- Ow! (wood thudding)

- You okay? (gentle music)

(Drew gasps)

Told you you shoulda put some gloves on.

(Drew scoffs) Here.

- [Arthur] I'll finish up.

You guys take care of his hand.

(Drew gasps)

- Sorry about this. - Sorry about what?

(Eric spits)

- There it is. (Drew groaning)

You okay?

- [Drew] Yeah, I'll be fine.

- This is gonna hurt a little bit.

- You just carry around tweezers in your pocket?

- Always be prepared.

If you woulda paid attention in Boy Scouts

you woulda known that.

Or maybe you woulda just put the gloves on

when I told you to put the gloves on.

- You two seemed busy. - Mm hm.

- [Drew] I didn't wanna slow you down.

- Oh, nobody really hurries around here, Drew, so.

I think you're just a little too used to

your city life, city boy.

- It is different there.

(Drew gasps) - And got it.

(Eric blowing)

Looks like it was just the one.

- Thank you.

(Eric sighs)

- All right, well, you helped and we're appreciative.

You should get going.

- [Drew] Eric, I would really love

to talk to you about something.

(trunk thudding) - We gotta go.

- Thanks, Drew.

We owe you one.

Tell Henry and Claire I said hello.

- Okay, will do. - All right.

(trunk slamming)

(gentle music)

- Sounds like Fran is finally letting

Daryl back in the house. - Oh.

- Jake was able to negotiate for a quarter of the damages

to go through Grutter Mining.

- Oh. - He's lucky to even get that.

- I bet good money you did most

of the heavy lifting to make that happen.

- Hm, I was able to find some stipulations

to drag out the case. - Mm hm.

- So that it'd be expensive for Grutter to go to court, but.

- Mm hm.

And when are you gonna use those smarts

to get your law degree and open your own practice?

- I mean, this town has only ever known

Jake's family as their legal option.

- That's no reason not to do it.

I've noticed the look in your eye

when you start talking about your cases.

That's fire there.

- I don't know.

I thought about pushing for my own practice,

but this town is enough work for one lawyer here.

I mean...

- Well, if it turns out the town is too small,

then find one that fits.

Take it from this old woman.

Living with regrets ages you more than you can ever imagine.

- [Sarah] What could you have regrets about?

- Oh, I have plenty.

But none for you to concern yourself with.

- Okay, now wait a minute.

You can't just say something like that and then...

(car door slamming)

(door slamming)

(candy bar wrappers rustling)

Hey. - Ladies.

Just these today please.

- Everything okay, Drew?

- Sure, why wouldn't it be?

- [Sarah] Uh, 'cause you've got enough chocolate

for a swift train to diabetes.

- Sometimes I just get a craving for candy.

- Oh, that's not a craving.

That is a 13 year old boy's overnight slumber party.

- All right, sometimes I get frustrated and a candy bar

or four helps to take the edge off.

I spent the entire morning filling out paperwork

for Drummond Park only to have a woman named

Beth on a power trip deny my request because I could not

produce acceptable collateral or whatever that means.

- Her name was Beth on a power trip?

- No, her name was Beth and she was on a power trip.

Honestly, I think she just didn't like me

because I had an out of town address.

She kept pointing at it when she said

I needed more collateral than what I was offering.

- What do you need to rent the whole park for?

- [Drew] For a wedding.

- Hm, you getting married, Drew?

- No, that's why I'm there.

That's what I do. - Okay.

- Someone in Chicago wants an idyllic wedding

in Northern Michigan, and so I'm here to secure the park.

Drummond Park checks all the boxes,

but for some reason I can't have it.

This whole experience has reminded how I never fit in here.

I mean, Sarah and Eric helped out,

but everything else was pushing me to go.

- People here are particular, but with good reason.

Isn't that the park that they shut down in July

when that half in the bag tourist kicked over

the rail and set a tree on fire?

- That was over by the lake front.

Drummond Park was where the tourist set off fireworks

and nearly burned down the visitor center.

- Okay, so if I go tomorrow and promise that we will

not set off fireworks, maybe that will cool Beth's jets.

- Well, that's step one.

What other options are you looking for?

- Well, the park is at the top of the list,

but I have a meeting with the event coordinator

at Grand Resort later this week,

but it's a little more formal than my client wants.

- [Sarah] Anyone we know?

- I can't discuss that.

- Ooh, Drew Stanic, man of mystery.

Careful you don't get too big for your britches now.

I remember seeing you swim in ratty skivvies

with the day of the week written on your waist band.

(Drew coughing)

- Okay, careful, I just cleaned that.

- [Drew] Weird, you have memory like a steel trap.

No wonder you went into law.

Which by the way, why aren't you practicing for yourself?

- This boy has an excellent point.

- Okay, hey, we're focused on you, Drew.

- Fine. - Let's focus here.

- I love a friendly interrogation.

- Okay.

I'll cut right to the chase then.

Why are you here?

I mean, really.

There are inns closer to the places you're touring

and yet you came to Caleb's Hill

without a heads up to anyone.

- I called Eric, but he didn't answer.

- [Sarah] Hm, he didn't mention you leaving a voicemail.

- I didn't leave one. - Because?

- Because I wasn't sure that he wanted to hear from me.

- You coulda called me.

What do you want with Eric, Drew?

It's been what, 10 years since you left and cut off all

communication and now you're in town for a business trip.

Do you need a kidney or something?

- Is it such a crime for someone

to return to their hometown?

- No, I mean, I for one am more than happy that you're here.

But do you know how messed up Eric was when you left?

You were his best friend, Drew.

I know he'd never say this to you,

but it hurt him really bad when you stopped talking to him,

and you left right around when his dad fell ill.

That was harsh. (Drew sighs)

- This is the first I'm hearing of this,

and now I'm a little curious about why you're here.

- I never meant to leave the way that I did.

I left because I had to and I stopped writing because

I didn't wanna make Eric feel worse than he already did.

Okay, I don't know how well either of you knew my parents,

but they were not the easiest people to be raised by, okay?

They put on a good face for everyone in town,

but at home it was a different story.

I spent every second I could at Eric's place.

His house was more of a home to me than mine ever was.

When his dad fell ill it tore me apart and one night my mom

had been searching through my room and she found a magazine.

You know, one of those men's exercise publications

with a few choice pages dogeared.

Yeah.

Didn't take long for her to put two

and two together and she was not happy.

Long ugly story short, they kicked me out,

and they said they never wanted to see my face again.

I knew that if I stayed here it would always

be my word against theirs, so I left quietly.

- I'm sorry, Drew.

I had no idea.

- How could you have?

They were very good at putting on

a great face for everyone in town.

I wanted to tell you and Eric so badly,

but I was so scared that you would react the same way

they did, prove them right that I didn't belong here.

When Eric's dad took a turn for the worst,

I felt like every letter I sent him

was just more and more of an omission.

He would talk about how amazing my parents

were being helping him and his dad out,

and I didn't wanna take that away from him,

so I left quietly again.

And I always regretted that.

And then when my parents left town and I saw Eric's

videos online I just, I wanted to check up on him.

- [Sarah] Did Eric ever know about the magazine?

- Oh, God, no.

The last thing I wanna do is make him

feel uncomfortable around me.

(Sarah sighs)

- Well, Drew, it's unfortunate the way

these things happened.

I mean, I don't know how Eric would have reacted

to all that, but I know he coulda used your friendship,

especially when his dad was sick.

It was like these two huge pillars

in his life fell apart at the same time.

I mean we in the town tried to help him

and I hoped our marriage would help him heal,

but sometimes I don't think he's ever

really come back from either loss.

- It sounds like Drew has no ill intentions.

Though it's taken a little time.

Drew, you should know that Eric is a big part of our town.

If you hurt him again,

you'll have a lot of angry people to deal with.

- Yeah, yeah, yeah, I understand.

I, I think we'll be okay though because Eric

has made it very clear that he can't wait until I leave.

- Okay. - And I don't blame him.

Honestly, I just wish that I could get him alone

long enough to say piece and explain myself to him.

- Eric knows how to give a cold shoulder

like nobody's business, but he usually does that

because he worried about getting hurt.

He's happy to see you.

It'll just take some work to let his guard down.

- [Drew] I don't know what else I can do short

of blocking him in a room so I can say my piece.

- Well, challenge him.

- What?

- [Sarah] Come on, you remember how competitive he is.

It's the most frustrating thing about him.

- What am I going to challenge him to?

He was always stronger and faster than me.

I don't think a battle of creative thinking

will do the trick.

- You don't have to win, Drew.

Just get his attention.

And then however long it takes to lose, talk to him.

- This is going to be humiliating.

(Sarah giggling) But thank you.

Really.

- Good luck. - Thanks.

(somber music)

- So, how are you doing with all this?

- [Sarah] All what?

- Don't act dumb.

A friend from back in the day who vanished,

comes back to try to win back his best friend,

your ex-husband, and you're acting like

it's just another Thursday.

- The spark between me and Eric died years ago.

I'm not even sure it was ever fully there.

I mean, we rushed the wedding so his dad

could be there before he passed.

He deserves to be happy.

And maybe, just maybe having his best friend back

will get that surly stick out of his ass.

- Or put a new one there. - Carol!

- I don't have time to beat around the bush.

Now, what about you starting your own practice?

- Okay, as much as I'd love to continue this conversation,

I have to go to work, but I'll pop in on you

before I go to Henley's, okay?

- Don't treat me like an invalid, dear.

- Then stop it with that fatalist, I'm older than dirt crap.

- Just wait until you're my age

and let's see who complains more.

(car engine rumbling)

(car door slamming)

- [Arthur] Hey, Liam.

- Hey, Art, don't forget your drill.

- Ah.

Ah, thank you. - Sure.

(trunk slamming) - Hey.

- Did I just see you running from the inn?

- No.

- Okay, all right, see ya later.

- Oh, wait, uh, Eric.

Uh, tomorrow I was gonna go to one of those parks

that we used to hike.

I wanted to see if you wanted to join.

- I'm pretty busy man.

- Oh, okay.

I get it, you don't think you can take the challenge.

- What'd you just say?

- No, man, I mean, I know how embarrassing

that must be for you.

I shouldn't have even asked.

(Eric chuckling)

- You better watch yourself, city boy.

- Hey, I know how sedentary life can get here,

and you are getting older.

- Yeah, where's all this coming from huh?

- No where, I just wanna be sensitive to your aging frame.

- Oh, and you're a spring chicken?

- Yeah, but I, I live in the city,

so I commute by foot most of the time.

I mean, you look good, don't get me wrong,

but looks can be deceiving.

I shouldn't have assumed that you'd be up

to the physical challenge.

- Oh, it's on.

Name the time and the park, I'll run circles around you.

- [Drew] Run, I didn't say anything about running.

- Oh, no, buddy, you have awoken the dragon.

- I was just talking about a hike.

- Hm, right.

Now, the commuting by foot has not prepared you for a run.

Right, time and place, buddy.

- Glacier Park, 11:00 a.m.

- [Eric] 7:00 a.m., I have things to do at 9:00 a.m.

Hope you brought you some running shoes.

Don't forget the water.

- I really was just talking about a hike.

- 7:00 a.m. (car door slamming)

- Where am I gonna get running shoes?

(birds chirping) (crows cawing)

Morning.

You look ready to kick some ass.

- Yeah, I wasn't sure if you were gonna show.

- [Drew] Got myself into this mess, right?

(Eric chuckling)

- Where's all that big talk from yesterday?

- In bed where I would normally be at this hour.

- Hey, you know, maybe this isn't a good idea.

We can just call it off. - No, no, no, come on.

Beautiful morning to get humiliated.

Do you wanna like get into runner's stance or?

(Eric chuckling)

What?

- How about we just start off with a light jog?

- Okay, great.

'Cause I do feel like I pulled something.

(Eric sighs)

(gentle music) (gravel crunching)

So, you're mostly working helping out Arthur these days?

- [Eric] That and other things.

Pretty much just help out wherever the town needs me.

So, what's this big fancy job that brought you up here?

- [Drew] Um, I do event planning and negotiations.

That is until my web comic takes off.

- [Eric] Oh, yeah?

You're still drawing stuff, huh?

- [Drew] Yeah.

- [Eric] So, what are you working on these days?

- [Drew] Oh, it's just a series about a guy who moves

to the city and the adventures he has there.

- [Eric] So, write what you know, huh?

- [Drew] My life is pretty much wrapped up in the office,

so this is more what I hope would happen.

- [Eric] So, when do find time for a social life?

Friends, dating?

- Met a couple friends through chance meetings.

Not a lot of dating though.

- Well, I'm sure there's someone special

waiting out there for you somewhere.

- Yeah, no, I've met great people,

but it's been difficult connecting with the one, you know?

(Drew gasps)

- You okay?

- Yeah, I just, I'm starting to think that drinking

all this water this morning was a bad idea.

Give me a sec.

(leaves crunching)

(Eric sighs)

- Woo, had a huge coffee this morning.

(urine splashing) (Eric sighs)

(Eric chuckling)

Beautiful day though, huh?

I should come out here more often.

- Eric, can we not- - What?

- Can you not talk, it's making me have trouble.

(Eric laughing)

- So, this is making you have trouble

when I stand here and I talk to you?

- Yes. (Eric chuckling)

I can't go if you're gonna-

- You can't go?

Oh, hey, you remember that one poem that we had to memorize

in high school of junior year?

What was it?

Oh, two roads diverged at a yellow wood-

- Eric, seriously- - And sorry I could not travel

both being one traveler. - I have to pee.

(Eric chuckling) (Drew sighs)

- I have to pee. (Eric chuckling)

(urine splashing)

(Eric chuckling)

- I'm standing there with my bladder about to explode

and you think it's a good time

to start reciting "The Road Not Taken?"

- Oh, glad to see our education was not lost on you.

- Oh, well, Mrs. Collison was a great teacher.

Do you remember when she had us do Julius Caesar

and act out all the parts?

And you were a senator and Jeff Preston was playing Caesar,

and Tim Lendowski tripped on his toga when we he went

to stab him and hit Mrs. Collison instead.

And then, she said,

- [Both] Et tu Timothy?

- Yes! (both laughing)

- And he hit her pretty hard, too.

And she, oh and you were playing Mark Anthony and you did

your whole lamenting speech while she was rubbing her arm.

- I have come here not to praise Mrs. Collison,

but to bury her. (Eric laughing)

- Whose homework did our many nightmares fill.

(both laughing)

- [Drew] It's good to see you laugh, man.

(Eric chuckling) - Yeah.

Well, at least Mrs. Collison could take a hit.

(fist thudding) - Ow, Eric!

- I'm sorry, I'm sorry.

- I pulled that earlier, you know that.

- Oh, I'm sorry are you okay?

You ass!

Hey, you should slow down, man.

There's a lot of uneven ground here.

- Not a chance!

I'm finally going to beat you at something.

Oh, shit! (body thudding)

- Drew, are you okay?

- I think I twisted my ankle. - Okay, let me see.

Hey, let me see it. - I don't wanna look.

- Okay. (gentle music)

- Be careful, please. - Okay, look, I'm gonna

have to touch it to check it out, okay?

(gentle music continues)

- [Drew] You think it's okay?

- Yeah.

You know, maybe if you'd listen to me

instead of being such a stubborn ass.

I think you're okay though.

Get you up on your feet.

There you go.

How is it? - It's a little tender,

but I'll be good.

Thank you. - You sure?

- Yeah, we should get going.

(Eric sighs)

Hey, um, I need to tell you something.

- What's up?

- I need to tell you why I left.

I owe you an explanation and I'm sorry

that it has taken me so long to give you one.

- Okay.

- You remember how my parents used to always be

so concerned with how everyone perceived them?

Well, right after graduation they found out something

about me, something that they didn't like,

and they kicked me out.

They told me never to show my face again around here.

I had seen them angry so many times but nothing like that.

It scared the shit outta me.

- You okay? - Yeah.

Um, I grabbed everything as fast as I could and I left.

And I wanted to tell you, but I was so scared

that you would have the same reaction that they did

or that you would try to help me

and then they would raise hell, so.

- What was this thing?

- What? - What was this thing

that made them kick you out?

- They found out that I was...

That I am gay.

(Drew sighs)

- Oh.

- Yeah, so, I left.

Told everyone that I wanted to move to a big city

and start a new life, which was true to an extent.

I mean you know I never fit in here.

If it weren't for you and Sarah I don't think

I woulda made it through high school alive.

You were always so nice to me.

I never thanked you for that.

- No, you don't have to thank me.

Drew, you were my best friend and I had your back,

like I thought you had my back.

- Well, that's why I stopped writing, okay?

I knew my parents were helping you and your dad out

when he got sick and I didn't wanna

cause any trouble for you if you knew.

I just felt like it would be better

if I weren't in your life.

- That is bullshit, man. (light dramatic music)

- Eric. - No, you listen, okay?

Do you have any idea how hard (sniffling).

I mean, every time I went...

I even worried that you...

Do you have any idea how hard things have been, man?

Do you honestly even care?

My dad who looks at you like a son is fighting his way

through cancer and you fall off the face of the earth?

I mean, did you have any idea that he asked about you?

Did you know that?

Everyday up until the day he died he kept telling me

to go out and find Drew, like I had any idea how to do that.

- I didn't know. - No.

No, you didn't 'cause you left.

I got married and divorced and you weren't there for any

of it and it fucking pisses me off how much I missed you!

(Eric sniffling)

Miss you.

I kept wondering what it was that I did to drive you away.

I kept (crying).

Wondering if you cared about me

the way that I cared about you.

And then finally I just give up.

I give up and then you show up,

and it all comes back.

Everything I buried, man.

Everything I thought I'd left behind,

it just comes right back and I needed you, man.

My dad's funeral was the hardest day of my life

and you weren't there for any of it.

And I've had a lot of those to choose from, man.

- I was there. - What?

(Eric sniffling)

- I was there. - What do you mean?

- I saw your dad's obituary online.

Come on, you know he was more of a father

to me than mine ever was.

I knew I had to say goodbye, my parent's warning or not.

So, I came. (light dramatic music)

It was a beautiful service.

When you gave the eulogy...

(Drew sighs) (Eric crying)

That broke my heart, man.

All I wanted to do was get up there and hug you,

but who was first in line to pay their respects?

My parents, so I left.

Figured you didn't wanna see me anyway, so.

But I came back.

I put some colored pencils on your dad's grave.

He was always encouraging me to draw.

I figured he could know that he lived on in my comics.

It's stupid.

- I thought some kid left that there as a joke.

- No, man. (Eric crying)

I'm sorry.

I'm so sorry.

- [Eric] I just miss him so much.

(Eric sniffling)

(Eric sighs)

- Come on. - Yeah.

- [Drew] Hey, do you wanna grab a drink tonight?

You know, actually catch up?

- Yeah, that could work.

Hey, were you that Chicago number

that's been trying to call me for over a month?

- [Drew] I might've been.

- 18 times, man?

(Eric chuckling)

I'll text you when I'm off.

Meet at Henley's? - Yeah, it's a date.

I don't mean a, I don't mean a date, I just mean um...

Hey, I don't want you to be worried that I'm gonna try

and make a move on you or anything, okay?

(Eric chuckling)

- Okay, that's a shame.

Been a while since anyone tried.

(car door slamming)

(car engine rumbling)

(gentle music)

(leaves crunching)

(crows cawing) (birds chirping)

- [Sarah] Drew!

Just the man I was looking for.

Nice outfit.

- Thanks, just trying to blend in.

Give me a sec and I'll be right up.

Hey, can I take you out dancing as a thank you?

- [Sarah] Thank you for what?

Oh, did my advice work out?

- Yes and he's willing to meet with me tonight

to talk over drinks, so he doesn't completely hate me.

- Well, that's good to hear.

Don't blow it or you'll find out how my foot tastes

after I shove it so far up your ass-

- Okay, thank you, yes. - Okay.

All right, you two going to Henley's?

- Yeah, you workin' tonight? - I am.

So, I will see you there. - Okay.

- Bye. - Hey, wait, um,

why were you looking for me?

- Oh, is the wedding you're planning

by any chance Abigail Lawson's?

- How did you...

I can neither confirm or deny that.

- Yes, I knew it.

Did you know she's originally from Elk's Trail?

She posted about how she's excited

to go home for her wedding.

- I guess that takes the pressure off my firm's NDA.

(Sarah chuckling)

- Did you have any luck on your second attempt

with Beth on a power trip?

- No, I tried everything. - Hm, maybe not everything.

Apparently those tourists never paid for that damage.

Yeah, so, Parks and Rec setup a fundraising page,

but they haven't even hit the halfway point yet.

So, if a not so anonymous donation

would be made to fill the funds-

- Greasing palms, legal intrigue?

Ooh, my boss in Chicago would love you.

You may have just saved my ass.

- Don't you forget it.

Anyways, I have to go grab some lunch-

- Okay. - But I'll see you tonight.

- Lookin' forward to it. - All right, bye.

- Bye. (leaves crunching)

(gentle music)

Hey.

You clean up nice.

- Oh, yeah, I had to shower after a kitchen demo earlier.

- And the jacket?

- This, uh, the only other jacket

I have is covered is plaster, so.

(Eric sighs)

(muffled talking)

(bar patrons talking over each other)

I'll go get us-

- [Drew] Oh, you don't have to do that.

- No, I got first round, so vodka cranberry or?

- I'll have what you're having.

- [Eric] Yeah, right.

You sure about that?

- Hey, I can be as much of a hard ass as the next guy.

- We'll see about that.

- [Sarah] Lookin' fancy.

- Oh, yeah, I had to clean up after work.

- You look great. - Thanks.

- Want your usual?

- Yeah, let me get two of those.

- You sure Drew can handle that?

- Yeah, we're gonna find out. - Okay.

(Sarah clears throat)

(Eric chuckling)

- Thanks.

- You look happier than I've seen you in a while.

- [Eric] Hey, you don't need to hide that.

- It's just some scribbles.

Um, so, what have you been up to over

the last couple of years?

- Uh, where to start. (both chuckling)

Well, Arthur was a good friend of my dad's

and he took me under his wing.

He hired me on a couple of jobs

then he took me on full-time, so.

Look, don't get wrong, I would have loved

to have gone to college and studied literature,

but you know in the end I just

ended reading a lot on my own.

Uh...

What about you?

Last I remember you were chasing your dream.

(Drew laughing)

The first few letters sounded pretty exciting.

- Yeah, yeah, it was exciting, but there was a lot

of stuff that I left out in those letters.

Let's see, I was Craigslist couch surfing

for the first couple of months.

Ended up living with this guy who would give me free rent

as long as I gave him my dirty socks

at the end of every day.

So, honestly I should've stayed there longer.

That was a very sweet deal. - Ew, that's disgusting.

(Eric laughing) - Hey!

Then I flopped around from a couple temp jobs,

ended up in the position I'm currently at.

My boss is particular, but she rewards hard work.

- What about your drawings?

(Eric clears throat)

♪ Sends a chill that you love to have ♪

- Wow.

You managed to capture this place with just a few lines.

You even made it look, I don't know, like kinetic.

- A lot of what I draw has embellishments.

- So, uh, are you drawings, are they on a website

or do you draw for a magazine?

(Drew coughing) You okay?

- It just went, it went down the wrong pipe.

- Uh huh. - Woo!

(Eric chuckling) That's strong.

Um, yes, I do, I have a website.

And a local newspaper picked up

a couple of my comics last year.

I did a booth at an art convention.

It was pretty cool. - Yeah, dude, that's awesome.

- Yeah, yeah, it was.

Sounds a little more glamorous than it was though.

I mean, the booth cost a lot of money

and I only had a few people stop by thinking

that I was a bara artist. - Oh, darn.

(both chuckling)

- But um, yeah, it was cool doing something that I love.

- Yeah, you're out there, you're chasing your dream, man.

That is so admirable.

- [Drew] Well, you too.

What about those videos you do about the town?

Those are something special.

- You've seen those? - Yeah, of course.

Crazy watching them you know?

It felt like we grew up in two totally different places.

Like you made this place look so (sighs),

welcoming and beautiful.

- Hm. - I'm trying to say

that you've made a really sweet home here.

- You know, it could be your home too, Drew.

If you let it. - Yeah.

I'm starting to wonder if I can even have a home.

- [Eric] Why do you say that?

- I left here 'cause it didn't feel like home,

and now I live in Chicago,

but it doesn't really feel like home either.

- Yeah.

So you don't like the city? - No, I love, I love Chicago,

but (sighs) I don't know.

It's hard to connect with people.

I mean, it's a city of millions of people,

but you can still feel so alone.

God, who said that this catch-up had to be so heavy.

(both chuckling)

I'm gonna get us some water.

- This doesn't count as your round.

- Okay. - Okay.

(bar patrons talking over each other)

- Hey, we can go somewhere else if you wanna do that.

- She looks really happy doesn't she?

- I'm sure she was happier with you.

- No, no, don't blow smoke, man.

We had issues.

God, I'm just really glad to see her smile like that again.

Uh, so, anyways, you said you were having

a dry spell dating in Chicago.

- You wanna hear about that? - Oh, yeah, come on.

Lay it on me.

I wanna know what hurdles has Daring Drew faced in the seedy

Chicago underground and the glory-holes and Grindr.

- Wow, how do you know about Grindr?

(Drew chuckling)

Um, okay.

I guess you could say I'm looking for romance,

not just a quick sticky handshake.

- Ew, dude.

Gross. - Now you're a prude?

- That was gross.

- I don't know.

It's hard to get a second date when the guy learns

that you're not a sure thing on the first.

- That's rough. - Maybe someday I will find

someone who feels the same way I do,

but for now I have benched myself.

- A sport reference?

Wow, Chicago really has changed you, huh?

- You say that, but I was out there celebrating

when the Cubs won the World Series.

- You were there? - Yes.

- No! - Yes!

- [Eric] Okay, hey, tell me all about it.

- Um, God, okay. - Uh huh.

- It was chaos.

It was pure jubilant chaos.

It was like the entire city exploded when Bryant

got that last out in the bottom of the 10th.

- Oh, my God, I wish I was there.

I was just watching at home and then I woke up Sarah

with my screaming and probably the neighbors too.

I was just like (shrieking).

- Yeah, the whole thing hooked me.

I was wearing jerseys to work.

- You bought a jersey? - Yes!

You come visit me next time.

I'll take you to a Cubs game and I will wear my jersey.

(Eric chuckling)

- So you're saying you want me to visit you?

- [Drew] Yeah, of course.

If you wanna come.

- Wow, I uh, I haven't been outta town in a long while.

- Have you become agoraphobic?

- No. (both chuckling)

No, just...

Haven't had anywhere to go really.

- Well, then it's settled.

You come to Chicago, I will take you to a game,

I will show you all around the city.

It's my round.

I'm gonna go get us shots to celebrate.

(light dramatic music) (sirens wailing)

(horns honking)

Hey, you okay? - Yeah.

- You look like you're gonna vomit.

- No, I'm fine.

I just uh- - Did I say something wrong?

- No, I just, I don't think I'm gonna be able to make it

down there to Chicago. - Why not?

- Uh, I don't know.

It's just like the thought of driving alone in a city,

it scares the shit outta me, you know?

- Driving?

Fly in, I will drive us around.

You don't have to worry about anything.

It'll be super chill.

- Super chill.

- Oh, I forgot I was dining

in the presence of a literary scholar.

It would be the epitome of absolute

how the children say chill.

I promise.

Okay? - All right.

- To new adventures then. - To new adventures.

(glasses clinking)

(Eric sighs)

- What the hell are you looking at?

- [Eric] Oh, somebody's a tough guy.

We got a tough guy. (both chuckling)

(crickets chirping)

- [Drew] I love the fresh air out here.

And look at those stars. - Uh huh.

Come on.

- [Drew] Don't rush me, I wanna take it all in.

- Well, you can take it all in when you get to the inn.

- That is what she said.

(Drew chuckling)

- [Eric] Really, dude?

- [Drew] Well, if you're gonna softball 'em to me like that.

- Uh huh, oh, hey, whoa, whoa.

Watch out, the Hansen's just spread

fertilizer on their lawn.

- How do you know everything that is going on in this town?

You're like omnipotent.

- The term is omniscient and yes, I know everything.

- [Drew] I know one thing you don't know.

- Oh, really?

Care to share what that is?

- If I told you then you would know.

- Oh, oh. - So.

- Excellent logic there, Daring Drew-

- Thank you. - Bravo, you have stumped me,

Mr. Stumperton. (Drew chuckling)

Stumpty dumpty. - Shut up.

(gentle music)

Time flies and all that.

- Listen, Drew- - Listen, Eric, I...

You go first. - No, you go first.

- I just wanted to thank you

for letting me explain myself today.

I had a really good time hanging out with you.

You smell good. (Eric laughing)

I meant your cologne smells good.

That's what I meant that your

cologne smells good. - Dude, no, that's okay.

Seriously it's fine.

I'm glad you like it.

- Your eyes are so beautiful.

Shit, I'm drunk.

I need to go inside.

I'm sorry, I- - Hey, Drew it's, Drew-

- [Drew] Eric, I don't ever wanna make

you feel uncomfortable around me.

I'm sorry.

- Drew, wait.

(Eric sighs)

Your eyes are beautiful, too.

(Eric sighs)

(crickets chirping)

- I told you to come back with some flowers.

Hi. - Were you expecting somebody?

- Don't worry about it, are you okay?

- I, uh, I don't wanna be a bother.

- [Sarah] It's fine, wanna talk?

- Yeah.

(soft music)

- What's up? - I, uh, I,

I needed to see you 'cause something's happened.

- [Sarah] Okay.

- Sorry, that sounded bad. - For sure.

- It's not a bad thing, it's a good thing.

It's just, it's just a thing you know?

- Okay, take the crazy down a notch.

- Something happened with Drew and me.

(Eric chuckling) - Okay.

- Sarah, you are my best friend and the thought

of losing you, I don't know what I would do.

- Eric, I've thrown heavy objects are your head before

and I'm still here, so whatever it is just tell me

and we'll get through it.

- I think I'm falling in love with Drew.

- See, that wasn't so hard now was it?

(Eric sighs)

(Eric chuckling)

Eric, do you know why we got divorced?

- I was never good enough? - Okay, that self-blaming crap

has gotta stop.

You were fucking husband of the year.

Do you know how many women came up to me while we were

married talking about how much they'd kill to be in my shoes

or how many of them thought

I was crazy when we got divorced?

Eric, I never settled for you,

but it feels like something inside of you

said you had to settle for me.

Every time you brought home flowers or cooked dinner,

it, it always felt like you were going through

emotions of this routine you had to do.

I always used to be so jealous

of the way you'd look at Drew.

I tried to convince myself that after he left

I could somehow fill that spot for you,

but I was never enough.

I tried, believe me I tried, but I was never enough.

Hell, the last year of our marriage was me trying

to see if you could even fight with me properly.

(both chuckling)

I mean, I was hoping to get your attention one way

or another but you'd placate me

or ask what you could do differently.

You never once asked why we were even fighting.

- I'm sorry.

If I could change any of this, I would change it.

I wanted more than anything to be the one for you.

- I'm not telling you this to make you feel bad, Eric.

Being your wife all these years showed me

how much a guy can actually be there.

And having a friendship all this time, I mean,

it's not what I envisioned from the start,

but it's been worth it. - Yeah.

(lips smacking)

- Come here. (Eric crying)

(Eric chuckling)

Are we done here because Mike's gonna be back any second.

(Sarah laughing)

- Oh, is that the guy you were talking to earlier?

- Maybe (giggling).

Eric, I'm really happy that you've finally figured this out.

Love you. - Love you.

(Sarah sniffling)

Hey, you must be Mike, right?

Don't blow this, man.

She's expecting flowers.

There's a little patch of daisies just up the road.

- Thanks, man. - Yeah.

(trees rustling)

(fist knocking)

(chair creaking)

- [Drew] Hey.

- You free?

- [Drew] Yeah, I was just drawing.

Do you wanna come in? - Sure.

(door thudding)

(Eric clears throat)

(bed creaking)

Is everything okay?

- Yeah, why wouldn't it be?

Um, Eric, I need to apologize to you.

- Apologize for what?

- I was a little tipsier than I intended to be

and I said some things that I didn't mean.

(light dramatic music)

- You said some things you didn't mean?

- Yeah.

- Like you didn't like my cologne?

(both laughing) - No, yes, I...

I really don't want you to be worried

that I want anything more from you than friendship.

- Oh.

- I mean, you're a great guy, don't get me wrong.

Anyone would be ridiculously lucky to have you,

but I...

Yeah.

- So, your drawings, is there anything I can take a look at?

- Oh, no, it's just I, developmental.

- Oh, okay.

Are you sure, I'd love to give 'em an outside opinion.

- I kinda need to get passed you.

- I know.

- Eric, what, what are you doing?

- Something I shoulda done a long time ago.

(lips smacking)

(both gasping)

(light moaning)

(both panting)

- I'm sorry. - No, no, no, I want to.

I do, I really want to.

This is just moving a little bit faster than I'm used to.

- Okay. - Could we slow down

a little bit? - Yeah, of course.

- Okay.

(phone beeping)

(Drew sighs)

- Sorry, it's my boss's ringtone.

She never calls me.

Hello?

Hi, yeah, I'm kind of in the middle of...

What?

Kara, we did that contract weeks ago.

Yes, everything...

I understand, I feel like I should stay here at least

through the week to make sure that everything...

Okay. (somber music)

What?

Yes.

Yes, but I...

Okay.

No, I don't think they're going to back out, but I...

Uh huh.

Yep, okay, understood.

I'll see you, yeah, I'll see you Tuesday.

(phone thudding)

- So, you gotta head out tomorrow then?

- [Drew] Yeah, that's what it looks like.

- Anyway you can handle that issue from here?

You know, maybe stay a few more days?

- It's one of our most frequent clients.

They're threatening to leave if I don't handle it in person.

I have to go.

(Eric sighs)

- You're just gonna disappear again aren't you?

- Hey, you're not gonna lose me.

Not again. - You don't know that!

- I am here now, okay?

I will come back as often as I can.

You're not gonna lose me again.

I promise you.

I promise. (Eric crying)

Eric. - You're just gonna leave.

You're just gonna be another person in my life who leaves me

and I can't do that, I can't do that again!

- Eric! - No.

- Ah, shit.

(light dramatic music)

- Thought you were taking the day off?

- Plans changed.

(metal clanking)

- Eric, we're putting on a fresh coat of paint,

not reframing the place.

- The frame is tilted, Art.

I'm tired of trimming down the damn door.

- We're not gonna do a full remodel during a paint job.

(Eric sighs)

Eric, everything okay?

- It's all bullshit, Art, you know that?

Everything, it's all bullshit.

You try to do your best and everyone still leaves.

Mom dies when I'm seven, seven years old.

And my best friend, he disappears off the face of the earth

right when my dad gets sick.

You know, but I try to think just do my best.

That's all you can do, right?

Wrong.

My dad dies, my marriages falls apart.

(wrench clanking)

(Eric sighs)

I give up.

And then Drew shows back up.

- Things not going well with Drew?

(Eric chuckling)

(Arthur sighs)

I don't know how to exactly ask you this,

but Neal mentioned something the other day

and I didn't pay much attention to it.

(Arthur sighs)

I mean, you've been so happy since Drew showed up.

Are you and he a...

Do you bat for the other team?

- Art.

- I mean, I don't mean anything by it, Eric, okay?

And I know Neal didn't mean anything by it.

He was up at Glacier Park the other day

and he saw you with Drew and he wanted to come over

and say hello, but you two looked pretty close.

And now I told Neal don't go around spreading any bad stuff.

Do you know what he said?

- What?

- He said, "Dad, why do you think it's bad?"

Turns out he has a friend in school that might be,

and he said the kid gets picked on pretty bad.

And Neal does his best to stand up for him,

and he says he can't understand why someone

would wanna pick on one of the nicest guys he knows.

- Neal's a great kid, Art.

- I know, he's mine. (Eric chuckling)

So, he might have a little bit more of Linda in him than me.

What I'm trying to say, Eric,

is whatever's going on, I just hope I could take a page

outta Neal's book and say hey, I'm here for ya.

(Eric sighs)

- Thanks, Art.

I, uh, I don't know what to say.

- You don't have to say anything.

I just want you to know that I'm here if you need anything.

I gotta tell you that after Neal mentioned you know,

I kinda wanted to take a look and see how to talk about

this stuff and I looked it up on the internet and (sighs),

I just gotta tell you that there

are things that I can't unsee.

I mean, (sighs).

What is puppy play?

I got the the feeling I just- - Wow.

- Didn't wanna go any further down

that rabbit hole after reading that.

I mean, the things that I've seen now.

Did you know that- - Okay, you're gonna push

the cart in, okay?

So, grab the cart. - Well, wait a minute.

Eric?

(Arthur sighs)

Didn't know you folk were so touchy.

(light music) (birds chirping)

- [Carol] Morning, Drew.

- Morning, Carol.

How's your day starting off?

- It's always a beautiful day in Caleb's Hill.

I can't complain.

Getting something to store leftovers?

- No, I, I have to leave, so I am packing today.

- I thought you were staying until the end of next week?

- Yeah, my office had an emergency,

so I have to head back today.

- [Carol] Do Eric and Sarah know you're leaving?

(Drew sighs)

- Sarah, I haven't had a chance to tell her yet,

but Eric knows, yes.

- What happened?

(Drew sighs)

- One moment we were hanging out and the next he was gone.

You know, I feel like I came in here

and just made everything worse than before I got here.

Maybe I shouldn't have ever come.

- [Carol] Now, we both know that's a load of manure.

- He won't even return my calls.

- I'm sure you remember how fast news travels around here.

- Yeah. - Then you won't be surprised

to know that a number of people, me included,

have been worried about Eric since his father died.

These last few days it's like the town

got the old Eric back.

That sweet young boy that was open

to letting people love him.

And I'm pretty sure you have something to do with it.

- I just, I feel like I came back and I hurt him again.

- If I thought I was gonna be at a pity party,

I would've worn a festive hat.

- [Drew] I'm just saying.

I don't wanna be another thing

in his life that causes him pain.

- Then don't.

(Drew scoffs)

- Thank you for everything, Carol.

I, I wish we had had more time to get to know each other,

but if you are ever in Chicago you better look me up.

- That's sweet, but I doubt they would welcome me back

after all the hell I raised in my 20s.

(both laughing) - Well that's a story

that'll be here for another time.

Could I...

Would you object to a hug?

- Object?

I expect them from my friends.

- Thank you. - You're welcome.

(birds chirping)

- How are you doing today?

- Seen better days. - What's goin' on?

(door slamming)

- You need to take your head out of your ass.

- What?

- Heading back to Chicago.

- [Sarah] What, why?

Does Eric know?

- Yeah, he was there when I got the call from work

and he was not happy.

- [Sarah] Well, I should assume not.

What were the two of you doing in your hotel room?

- Nothing. (Sarah chuckling)

- Don't worry about it, Eric told me everything.

- He told you everything? - Well, not everything.

I can only handle so many details.

But he did mention that he has feelings for you,

which but how did he tell you?

- He just told me. - Uh huh.

You loose man. - Okay, we didn't do that.

We were in the middle of things and I got the call

and he just freaked out and left.

And now he's not returning my calls.

I leave in an hour.

Do you know where he is?

- He'll make sure to say goodbye.

He knows how important goodbyes are.

- Thank you for everything.

And if you ever get sick of Jake Andrews,

you have a job in Chicago.

My boss loved your idea- - What?

- With the park.

I'm gonna miss you so much.

What was that for?

- Stop acting like you're never gonna come back.

You have to come back soon otherwise I'm going to find you.

Remember I know where to find you now.

Bye.

- What?

What?

- You heard me.

Whatever is causing you to sneak in

and out of the doorways with that boy, stop it.

- I wasn't sneak...

Okay, fine, I'm avoiding him, but he's leaving town.

You can't really retain a friendship from miles away.

- [Carol] Friendship, is that what it is?

- Is there anyone in this town that doesn't already know?

- We are a small community that cares.

And I'm telling you right now from experience,

don't let Drew leave town without saying goodbye.

- I can't take losing somebody again.

- Eric, they'll always been trouble down the road,

and rising to the challenge is what teaches us

what we really want out of life.

(gentle music)

Years ago, there was a young girl, vibrant, loved life,

wanted nothing more than to experience it all.

She was a free spirit, having the time of her life.

And then she met Maggie.

Maggie was like poetry and sunlight had a baby.

She was everything the young girl could ever want.

But the girl had a daddy that was, phew.

That man terrified her and she knew if they were together,

Maggie would never be safe.

So, she left her behind wondering what happened.

She was so ashamed that she moved to a small town

where no one knew her name and every morning

when she wakes up she wonders what might have been.

Don't be me, Eric.

Slay the dragon.

- Carol, I, I didn't know.

- [Carol] No one knows and I'd like to keep it that way.

- Yes, ma'am.

- Now, go before he leaves.

- He's not gonna wanna stay here.

- Well, he doesn't have to, but maybe you can find

a place that both of you can call home.

- I'm so scared.

- But you don't have to be scared when you have

all these people rooting for you.

Go before you miss your chance.

- Yes, ma'am.

(lips smacking)

(brakes screeching)

(car door slamming)

(Drew sighs)

Don't go! - Eric.

- I know, I know you've gotta go, but don't go yet, okay?

Please, please. (Drew scoffs)

Okay, good, thank you.

(Eric sighs)

Okay, okay, I'm good.

I'm sorry. (light music)

I'm sorry I ran outta here yesterday.

I couldn't take the thought of losing

another important person in my life.

Losing you, it was one of the hardest things that I have

ever been through in my life and that is saying a lot.

- Eric, I told you that if I could change it-

- No, I know, I know, that's not what I'm talking about.

I mean, I am talking about that, but I'm not really.

That's not my point.

My point is that (sighs).

I was avoiding that feeling at all costs

by running away from it and then all that did was it just

put me right where I didn't wanna be

which is- - Eric.

- I know, I know, I just need to get this out, okay?

- Okay. - You came back here

and since you've been back here

I feel like I know who I am again.

I feel like I know who I wanna be.

And you said that neither Chicago

or this place feels like home.

Well, maybe home isn't a place.

Maybe home is a person.

'Cause Drew, you've always been a home to me.

I need you in my life now and forever.

I love you.

(lips smacking)

(light moaning)

(door slamming)

Why are you so nervous?

- I just hope that they like it.

- They're gonna love it.

- You don't know that for sure.

- Okay, I don't know that for sure,

but I do know them pretty well.

And they're gonna say they love it because it's ours.

- It's ours. (lips smacking)

I like that. (Eric sighs)

(fist knocking)

- Merry Christmas! - Hey!

- Hi!

Hi, oh my goodness. - Hey!

- Oh, it's good to see you. - Where's Carol?

- I ditched her. (Drew gasps)

She's parking. (all laughing)

Oh, my God, this place- - Yeah make yourself at home.

- [Sarah] Is amazing.

- See, what'd I tell you?

(lips smacking)

(gentle music)