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[upbeat music]

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- ♪ Baby, I can't get enough of you ♪

♪

♪ And I'm amazed at all the things you do ♪

♪

♪ Baby, I'm cryin'

♪ Something that I never do

[electronic video game sounds]

♪ When you're out, you make me ♪

- Ha, yes! Yes!

- ♪ Tears of joy streaming

♪ Feeling just like a child

♪ Now that I believe

♪ Let me show you what I gotta do ♪

♪ Baby, I can't get enough of you ♪

♪

- Oh, you're mine now.

Yeah! Did you see that?

- Josh, look out! - Rob, did you see...

I'm out. Rob. Avenge me, Rob. Avenge me.

- All right, turkey on wheat for me, and chili dog,

extra indigestion, for you.

- Don't judge me, Victoria. I'm stress eating.

- Why? What's going on?

- Gene read the manuscript. He wants to meet up.

- Your publisher? What about the manuscript?

- He didn't say, and being a writer,

naturally I assume the worst.

- So what are you and Cara doing to celebrate?

- I don't know, uh, go to dinner, maybe catch a movie?

I'm not making a big deal out of it.

- Rob, it's your first anniversary,

not a Friday date night.

You have to do something special.

Surprise her. It will be fun.

- Are you ready for the photo shoot tomorrow?

- What's there to be ready for? It's just a PR shoot.

Your poster is going to be in schools, at bus stops.

Vic, they picked you out of the entire police force

to be the face of the department.

- Hey, by the way, how's the new Jimmy Sweatsock book doing?

- I'm the number-one seller in five-to-seven-year-olds.

- Josh Keene, children's book mogul.

- I know my market.

[light breezy music]

♪

- I know you.

- I'm sorry.

- You live in my building, right?

- Oh, yeah, I've seen you at the mailboxes.

- Mark Reskins, 1D.

- Kate Brighton, 2G.

- You doing some book shopping?

- I'm actually meeting with my publisher.

- Oh, are you an author?

- Yeah, I write true crime novels.

-

Whatever you do, don't bring your work home with you.

See you around the mailboxes.

- I'll see you.

♪

- [whispers] Hey.

♪

- Hey, Gene.

- Kate, thanks for coming.

- So, you know, I love a good field trip,

but why aren't we meeting at your office?

- Well, I have to talk to you about something, and I--

I thought it best done here.

- Why?

- "Time was running out.

"It was now or never.

"A silence fell over the nervous crowd,

"and Jimmy smiled.

"Jimmy Sweatsock ran the ball to the basket.

He jumped, and he made it for two points and the game!"

Whoo-hoo, yeah! Yes!

- Josh? You brought me here to see Josh? No, no, no, no, no.

- Hey, no, Kate, Kate--Kate, wait.

What's it been, four, five years

since you've talked to each other?

- [whispers] And there's a reason for that.

- I know you both have issues, but I need to speak with both

of you as a publisher, so as a professional,

maybe you can manage a polite conversation?

- Fine. I can if he can.

[indistinct radio chatter]

- All right, watch your head.

- What's there to be nervous about?

It's just a few pictures.

- Yeah, a few pictures that are gonna be plastered

all over town.

I didn't even think about it until Kate brought it up.

- They're gonna do your hair and makeup,

and they got lights to make you look good.

[laughs]

You're gonna be a star.

- "Mr. Carl's gym was saved,

"and they all had a place to play.

The end."

[cheers and applause]

- Come on, that's cute.

- No, it's not.

- Thank you very much.

- Do you want to get that book?

- Can we? - Yes.

- Josh.

- Dirty Harriet.

- Well, now that we're on friendly terms,

let me cut to the chase.

Stu and Marty want a sequel to "The Magic Cellar."

- Oh, forget it. - No way.

- Okay, I knew you were gonna say that, but here's the thing.

It was a hit.

The fans loved it.

They want to know what happens next.

- Oh, I'll tell you what happens.

A certain man-child refused to grow up,

threw away a relationship, and lived immaturely ever after.

- But not before the fair princess decided she was above

writing fantasy fiction, took another assignment,

and tossed her prince in the dungeon.

- Oh, is that how you remember it?

- I remember the way it happened.

- Look at you two, right back into your old rhythm again

like you never left.

- Bye, Gene.

- Bye, Kate.

- I turned around, and who's standing there? Kate.

- Yeah? - Gene set the whole thing up.

- I always liked Gene. [laughs]

Wow, it sounds like quite the reunion.

- So if the book was a hit, why didn't you guys

do a sequel back in the day?

- We started a sequel, but things got strange between us

when we got back from the publicity tour

for the first one, and then Kate started writing

another book at the same time.

- Without you?

- Kate was a journalism major in college

and a big true crime fan.

She was always the talent between the two of us.

I was a lowly cartoonist when we met.

- So you gonna do the book?

- It's one book. How bad can it be, right?

- Oh, cooped up with your ex-girlfriend all day.

You'll soon find out.

- I want to help, Gene, but I can't work with him.

- Just think about it.

I mean, it'd be good for both your careers.

- I'm a crime writer now.

I'm doing just fine without Josh.

- Well--

- What?

- All right, don't take this te wrong way,

but your recent work is missing something.

- You don't think I'm a good writer?

- No, I--I think you're a very talented writer,

but you and Josh, you just clicked.

Look, it's just one book, and I know that Stu and Marty would

consider it a personal favor,

not to mention it could be very good for you financially.

- Fine, I'll give it a shot.

- You do that. We'll talk later. Night.

- Bye.

- Kate, right?

- Oh, you remembered. Mark?

- We keep running into each other.

If you show up at my dental appointment later,

I'm gonna know it's destiny.

- Oh, a trip to the dentist actually sounds more fun

than the day I have ahead of me.

- Really?

- It's a long story.

- You said you write true crime, right?

- Yeah.

- You know, the law firm I work for represented Dom Fabrizio.

- The mob accountant who turned state's evidence?

- I was actually on the team that negotiated his plea deal.

- He was into some pretty nefarious stuff.

- It was definitely an interesting case.

Happy writing.

- See you.

- And, uh, yeah, bring this up, uh, like, 10%.

- Hi, are you Patrick?

- You must be Officer Victoria Russo.

- Call me Vic.

- All right, continue calling me Patrick.

I don't know what they told you about today,

but we're gonna be doing a few shots,

different poses, angles.

No criminals to chase, so it should be an easy day for you.

- [chuckles] Criminals I'm used to.

Never done anything like this.

- I'm looking for sincerity,

a look that says you're trustworthy,

reliable, honest, strong but human.

- I will try my best.

- [laughs] Okay, tell you what.

Let me worry about bringing that out.

Your job is just to relax and have fun, yeah?

Okay, people, let's get this party started

while Miss--while Vic changes.

Susie. - Hmm?

- Show her to the dressing room, please.

What have we got there?

- Right this way.

- Okay.

[knocking]

- So this is really happening.

- Yeah, it looks that way.

Come on in. I'm all set up.

- I brought coffee.

- Thank you. That was nice of you.

- Yeah, I figured we could use a jumpstart.

- You can set that on the table.

- So this is your new place, huh?

Cozy.

- Yeah, it works for me.

- So how do you want to do this?

- Actually, I found our notes from the first time

we worked on it.

- Great. How far did we get?

- Right here, the fountain scene.

- Oh, right, the fountain scene.

- Yeah.

- In that case, why don't we start at the beginning?

- Okay. Turn a little bit to your right.

All right, give me a little attitude.

Let me see that attitude.

Give me a smile--brighter smile.

Wonderful.

Yes, yes.

Very natural, just like that.

Tilt to your right a little bit.

Yes, to the left.

That's fantastic.

That's gorgeous.

Very nice.

- Plot, character, conflict,

these are the cornerstones

of a compelling storyline.

- I feel like I'm in school.

Can't we just tell jokes, order pizza, and throw ideas on

sticky notes and put them on the board?

- That's not the way I work. - You did once.

- Let's just keep this professional, okay?

- My bad.

- Okay, the basic idea we came up with still works.

Maisie and Bernard return to the farmhouse,

discover that the land has been purchased

and that they are going to demolish the fruit cellar,

but the rest of it is just a jumble of random ideas.

- Yeah, that's how I work, so I was thinking what if we had a

scene where the bulldozers come, but the cellar dwellers

get in and start messing with the mechanics and make them do

all kinds of crazy things?

- What?

- I'm writing it down, bulldozers.

- You know, maybe that's a good place to stop for the day.

- Yeah, don't want to burn up all our

creativity in one day.

Hey, I've got a meeting tomorrow.

Do you mind if we start a little later?

- Yeah, that's fine.

- Quite the first day.

- [sighs]

- Sorry I'm late.

Garrett grabbed me just as I was walking out of the office.

- That's okay. I was just looking at pictures

of my coworker Christine's vacation.

- Yeah? Where did she go? - Australia.

It was a big trip for their first anniversary.

Looks like they had a great time.

- Really, their, um, anniversary?

- Yeah, she got married a few weeks before us.

- You know, I was watching a TV show where the wife surprised

the husband with this whirlwind weekend for their anniversary.

- That must have been fun.

- Yeah.

- But we're gonna have a great anniversary too, though.

- Yeah. - Yeah.

- Well, I've got some exciting news.

S&P Merchandising wants to license the characters from

your Jimmy Sweatsocks books.

- Really? That's great!

- Yeah, they think the characters have huge potential,

school supplies, toys, lunchboxes.

- I'm not gonna lie.

It's always been a dream of mine to be on a lunchbox.

- Well, I showed them a video of you reading to some kids, and

they are very excited about you.

They love that you're an extension of your characters.

You're gonna be part of the promotion of the products.

- Where do I sign?

- Let me--you know, give me a few days to work out the

particulars, and then--then we'll set up a meeting.

- I'm telling you, it's destiny.

- I think you might be on to something.

- Well, I hope yesterday wasn't a complete disaster for you.

- Oh, no, it was, but no worse than expected.

- [chuckles] You know, since we seem to wind up at the same

place at the same time,

maybe we should try getting together

on purpose one of these days.

- Oh, you mean, like, a date?

- Unless you're seeing somebody.

- No, no, I'm not seeing anyone.

- Then can I get your number?

- 'Kay.

- I'll give you a call.

- Have a good day.

- You too.

- Thanks. - Enjoy.

- All those lights, all those people,

all of that just for a photo.

- Mm, and to think I knew you when you were just

one of us normal people.

- I always say the secret of finding the best food in the

city is to look at where the cops eat.

- Patrick?

- Hey. - Hey.

Oh, um, Nate, this is Patrick,

my photographer from yesterday.

Patrick, this is Nate, my partner.

- Nice to meet you. - Pleasure.

- What are you doing here? Do you come here often?

- Uh, actually, I was across the street doing a shoot.

I saw you in line, and I wanted to talk to you.

- Don't tell me. I did something wrong yesterday.

- No, no, no, no, the photos look great.

After we worked together, I had an idea

to do a series, "Behind the Uniform."

I want to use people from various walks of life, doctors,

firefighters, and so on.

I want to shoot them in their work attire with an accompanying

piece, a fashion piece,

and I'd like you to be my first subject.

- All right, I'll catch you back at the car.

- Um.

- What do you say?

- What's in the box?

- Writer's aids.

- Ah, toys.

- You've been in true crime too long.

It's time to lighten things up, change your mind-set.

- My mind-set is just fine, and so are my blinds.

- You know, I thought we could use these to get back into our

old rhythm, you know?

Loosen things up, just see where it takes us.

- [sighs] I am a professional.

I don't need toys to write.

We have notes on the first two chapters.

I'll rough the first, you do the second, and then we'll trade.

- This is certainly a new take on working together.

- Call it writer's aid.

Don't forget these.

[sighs heavily]

- Good night, Alicia.

- Bye, Mr. Mayberry. - Thank you. See you tomorrow.

I'm sorry. So, you were saying?

- It's not working out, Gene, okay?

Whatever we had, it's gone.

Everything is just--just different now.

- It's been two days.

How do you know things won't get better?

- Trust me, I know.

- Okay, I didn't want to bring this up,

but the fans aren't the only reason

I wanted you guys to do the sequel.

- What are you talking about?

- They want to kill your new book.

- What?

- Stu and Marty, they're not feeling it, and I have to agree.

- You don't like it?

- The writing's good.

It's just something changed.

There's not enough of you in it.

- Well, I wrote it. How much more me can there be?

- I convinced Stu and Marty to just sit tight until you

finish the "Magic Cellar" sequel.

I just think there's something about getting back to your roots

to help you find that spark.

- You know, I don't know what she's so cranky about.

I'm the one trying to make things work.

- Are you?

- I'm trying harder than she is.

- Very mature.

- Let's play ball.

- ♪ Come on let's get it everybody ♪

♪ Come on let's get it everybody ♪

- Here we go, and...

[whistle chirps]

- You're out. - Yes! Yes!

- So you're stuck with him?

- You know, I'd finally moved on from Josh,

and now I need him to save my career.

- Well, look on the bright side.

This could be a win-win.

- You know what bothers me about that?

Jimmy Sweatsock was kind of an inside joke between me and Josh.

- What do you mean?

- I had this pair of socks in college.

They were my favorite pair.

They were old and worn out.

Oh, they were so comfy.

I'd wear them all the time,

and Josh would take one and put it on his hand

like a puppet and call it Jimmy Sweatsock.

He even drew googly eyes on it,

and he hid it all over my apartment so that I'd find it

when I sat down on the sofa or opened the cupboard.

- You know, I've seen the books in stores,

but I've never read them.

What are they about?

- I don't even know.

I bought them once, but I still can't

bring myself to read them.

You know, he can write whatever he wants,

but that was our thing.

- Yeah, so what are you gonna do now?

- Try to be lighter.

[laughter]

- Yeah? - Oh!

- Good luck with that. - Yeah, thanks.

[knock at door]

- [sighs]

Good morning.

- Uh, hi.

- Come on in.

Uh, I made coffee. Help yourself.

- I think there's been a misunderstanding.

Do you have an identical twin sister who's also a writer?

- You said I needed to lighten up,

so that's what I'm doing.

Danish?

- Okay.

Mmm.

- So I decided I'm going to model for Patrick.

- I thought you said you weren't going to.

- I wasn't at first, but I don't know,

it sounds stupid, but I'm used to being seen as just a cop.

Most of my friends are cops.

The only guys that approach me are other cops.

You know, when Patrick looks at me, he sees something more.

He sees just a woman.

- Huh.

- I feel like driving today. Give me the keys.

- All right. There you go.

- Guitar pick?

- Thank you.

- Excuse me, when were you gonna tell me that you play guitar?

- I've been taking lessons for about six months now.

- So this is the mystery stuff you've been doing at night.

Why didn't you say anything?

- I'm just starting out. It's just a hobby. Now drive.

- Hmm.

- Okay, but they can't go back now; the portal's closed.

- They don't have to go back.

They just have to get to the elm tree

before the second moon.

It never used to be this hard.

We'd get into heated discussions,

but we'd just go out and clear our minds and...

- You remember that time we walked around the streets

pretending to be British tourists?

- Or when we helped those kids with their lemonade stand.

- What about that time that we found all that wacky furniture

in your basement apartment and had a picnic?

- That's when we got the idea for the "Magic Cellar."

- Bills, bills, junk mail.

At least it's not a bill.

[knock at door]

- Flower delivery.

- What are you doing here?

These aren't supposed to come for almost two weeks.

- Uh, it says the 12th.

- Nope, 21st.

- Well, they must have gotten the numbers flipped.

- My wife's home, and these are supposed to be a surprise

for our anniversary.

Get these out of here, and I'll see you in a week and a half.

- Okay.

- Go, that way. [sighs]

- Honey? Was someone at the door?

- Uh, no, just, uh, checking the mail.

Hey, why don't you go get washed up,

and I'll, uh, start dinner?

- Thanks.

[knock at door]

- All right, let's do this.

- Change of plans. Get your things.

- Where are we going?

- The Magic Cellar.

- What are you talking about?

- I called the manager of my old apartment building.

He's gonna let us into the basement.

- Oh, you think the answer to our problems

is a dark, musty basement.

- A dark, musty, spider web-infested basement

filled with inspiration.

- I'm okay here.

- Come on, live a little.

Your whiteboard will be here when you get back.

- Okay. Let's go.

[upbeat music]

- ♪ You're a red carpet girl

♪ And you don't even know it

♪

♪ You're a red carpet girl

- My instincts were right. You're a vision.

- [chuckles] I'm starting to rethink this decision.

- Why? You should be an old pro by now.

- I'm not a model. I don't--I don't even know how to look

natural in these clothes. I--

- The fact that you're not a model is exactly

what makes you special.

Come with me.

This way.

Just step here, yes.

See, I work with lots of models.

They're too professional. They're jaded.

You can see it in their eyes,

but your eyes, well, they're natural,

like a landscape waiting to be discovered.

That's the look. Get in there, quick, before we lose it.

- Okay, hold on. You've got to give me more direction.

I mean, what am I--what am I doing?

- Just imagine you're flirting with the most handsome man

you've ever met, and he's flirting back.

- ♪ Ohh-ohh

- That's perfect.

Come on, own that dress.

You have no idea how glamorous you look.

- ♪ You're a red carpet girl

- Enjoy. This is--this is fun.

Okay, move to your right a little bit.

- ♪ You're a red carpet girl

You're doing great.

- ♪ And you don't even know it

- Oh, that's perfect, Vic. Gorgeous.

- I don't know about this, Josh.

I mean, we haven't been here in years,

and you don't even live here anymore.

Why are we doing this?

- Because this is the Magic Cellar, Kate.

This is where we got all our best ideas,

and we need some inspiration.

Maybe this place can give us that, huh?

- Fine, but if I see one spider, one, Josh, I swear to you--

- Okay, I was kidding.

There are no spiders... I think.

[stairs creaking]

Here, watch your step.

Wow. Looks just like I remember.

- Yeah, it smells like it too.

- Come on, keep an open mind.

That's why we're here.

- How did we ever find inspiration here?

- The same way we're going to again.

Oh, check it out.

The table.

- Oh, you mean no one's claimed this gem?

- Lucky us.

Here.

Take a seat.

- You really think this is gonna work?

- I think it's worth a try.

- Ahh.

- Whew.

- Well, I'm waiting.

- For what?

- Inspiration.

- [clears throat] - There you are.

- Sorry, the shoot ran a little long.

- That's okay. How was it?

- Fine. You know, nothing special.

- Really?

- It was fun.

- Okay, Russo, game face on. Time to protect the city.

- [sighs]

Okay, but if the portal is closed,

they can't go back; they have to move on.

- It's too bad they crashed that flying recliner

in the first book.

We could use that about now.

- Remember when we thought that up?

- I remember when you thought that up.

- I wonder if it's still here.

[laughs]

[gasps]

- Hey, look at that.

Wow, good as ever, huh?

- Yeah, well, that isn't saying much.

[laughs]

- This is probably the last place you want to be right now.

I'm sure you'd much rather be working on your crime stuff.

- They want to kill my book.

- [whispers] What?

- Stu and Marty, they didn't like the new one.

The only way that Gene could keep it alive

was by promising a sequel to "The Magic Cellar."

- But you're a great writer.

- [sighs]

Look, I'm really trying,

but it's not the same as it was before.

- You know, call me an optimist,

but I think our best work is yet to come.

- Or we're too rusty.

- Yeah, we're rusty and dusty like this chair, huh?

Really is awful down here.

- Yeah, it is.

Let's go back to my place and try to figure this out.

- Actually, I've--I got to call it a day.

- Call it a day? What, do you have a hot date?

- Yeah.

- Oh. Let's go, then. A date.

[chuckles]

- Well, I was a little stiff at first,

but Patrick made me feel so comfortable.

- What does Nate have to say about your little side gig?

- Oh, oh, he's having a field day,

but he can't tease me too much.

It turns out he's been taking guitar lessons.

- Nate?

- I know.

I thought I knew everything about him.

I can't believe Josh dragged you to his old apartment basement.

- We were just trying to get some momentum going.

- Speaking of momentum, I should run.

I'm gonna go home. I'm gonna take a shower.

I'll talk to you later, okay?

- I'll see you later. - Bye.

- Bye.

[cell phone rings]

- Mark? - Hey, Kate.

- Hi. - What's going on?

- I just got back from spin class.

- Nice. I was hoping maybe we could get a bite to eat.

- Yeah, tonight?

- Yeah. You available?

- Yeah.

- Great. Pick you up at 8:00?

- Okay, see you then.

- Sounds good.

- Bye.

- You've been here before, yeah? - It hasn't changed at all.

- I know. - [laughs] Thank you.

- Sure.

- I cannot believe you made a reservation at Marchino's.

I love this place.

- Destiny. I'll check in with the hostess.

- Yeah.

- Wow. We can't seem to escape each other these days, huh?

- Sure can't.

Hi, I'm Kate.

- I'm sorry. - Julie.

- This is Kate, my, uh--

- Writing partner.

- Busy night. I'm glad I made a reservation.

- Mark, this is my writing partner, Josh,

and his date, Julie.

- Nice to meet you. - You too.

- Pleasure, Mark.

I don't want to break up the fun,

but our table is ready.

- It was very nice meeting you, Julie,

and Josh, I'll see you around.

- Have a great dinner. - Have a good night.

- Come right this way.

- Does 8:00 work?

- Oh, no, it's great, Put us down.

- Wonderful. - Last name Dexter.

- All right, Mr. Dexter.

- Yeah, I can't believe I got a table there.

My wife has always wanted to eat there.

- We look forward to seeing yo.

- We'll see you then.

- Who was that? - Tom from the office.

- This is nice.

- Yeah.

- It's fun to go out every now and then, but I think my

favorite nights are when we don't do anything.

- I know what you mean. I love you.

- I love you too.

- And they had a opening at this branch, so I relocated here.

- And how do you like it?

- It's very interesting.

Probably not as interesting as being an author,

but lawyers have a lower bar.

By the way, I picked up a copy of your Eric Castle book.

- You did?

- I'm just a few chapters in, but it's really good.

- Thank you.

- I have no idea how you writers do it.

I can barely write a compelling legal brief.

- You know, you just have to find the right inspiration.

- The desserts here are amazing.

- I want dessert, but if I get it,

I'll have to go to the gym tomorrow,

and I'm supposed to go shopping with my friend Ashley,

but she cancels half the time anyway,

so I could get the cheesecake,

but the apple tart looks good too.

Maybe we could split something.

Josh?

I just asked if maybe we could split something?

- Oh, sure. Um, why don't you choose whatever you want?

- Wow, Russo, very nice.

- You don't think I look too corny?

- No, of course not.

Your smiling face will be a beacon for law

and order in the community.

- Give me a break.

- What? I'm being serious.

Well, semi-serious.

Hey, did you see that new restaurant in Dalton Heights?

- Which one?

- On Lincoln, down the street from where we

busted that car thief?

- Ah, yeah.

- I was thinking about checking it out, wondered if--

[cell phone rings]

- Sorry, one second. Hi, Patrick.

- Hey, there.

I was wondering what you were doing for dinner tonight.

- Dinner? Uh, yeah, I'm free.

- You are? Great.

- Sorry, wondered what?

- I just wondered if you'd heard anything about it.

- Oh, no, sorry.

- Hello? Are you there?

- Um, yeah, what did you have in mind?

- You choose. How about I see you around 7:00?

- Okay, sounds great.

[phone beeps]

- Let's go ahead and order.

- Good morning. - Hey, how you doing today?

- Good, you?

- Long night?

- Hmm? Kind of, yeah. I had trouble sleeping.

- [laughs] Well, this is nothing to worry about.

It'll be quick and fast.

- Morning, Gene. - Oh, morning.

- You must be Josh. I'm Paul. This is Nick.

- Hi, nice to meet you. - Good to meet you.

- Let me start by saying we just love...

- Love. - The Jimmy Sweatsock books,

couldn't love it more.

I mean, the community, the teamwork, the characters,

most of all, friendship through adversity? Ooh.

- Thank you. That was important to me.

- Now, we think that these characters could make a huge

splash in school supply merchandising.

- We're talking pencils, erasers.

- Binders, book bags.

- Notebooks, water bottles. - Come on, come on.

- T-shirts, markers, ice trays.

- Okay, okay. - I could keep going.

I could keep going. - No, no, no, don't, don't.

Save some. - All right.

- Now, we know that Gene has spoken to you about the full

terms of the agreement, so if we can get your signature,

we can get to work.

- Great.

- All right. - That is so great.

That is great.

Uh, we'll get started on some mockups,

and we'll meet up in a few days.

- Awesome. - Josh, Gene.

- Adversity, teamwork.

- Adversity, teamwork.

- Let's do this. - Teamwork.

- All right. - Right on.

- Come on. That a boy.

This is gonna be great. - Thanks, Gene.

- Hey, you, come on.

[light piano music]

♪

- You find anything good?

- What are you doing here?

- I'm looking for you.

- How did you know I was here?

- Well, I went by your place, and you weren't there,

and then I remembered you used to come

here and think, so I took a chance.

♪

For what it's worth, I thought there was some

really good stuff in there.

- You read it?

- Of course I did. I'm a huge Kate Brighton fan.

- And clearly the readers and reviewers agree.

- Hey, you were always the talent between the two of us.

- You don't have to be gracious just because you're on top.

- Hey, I mean it.

I was always in awe of how you could find the emotion

in the characters and the scene.

All I ever did was write jokes on sticky notes.

I guess that's what I thought was missing from

your book, the heart that you bring.

Yeah, the Kate I used to see every day,

the Kate I know and...

remember.

- You know, as hard as we've been trying,

I think a part of me doesn't want this to work.

- Why not?

- Because what we created back then was special,

and a special that I haven't been able to replicate

on my own, and if this works out,

maybe I never would.

- I don't believe that.

Your talent, that kind of heart

doesn't just go away.

It just gets lost now and then.

- You know, I could really use a reminder of what those glory

days were like.

What do you think about a fresh start tomorrow?

- You know what?

I'm ready if you are.

- Tomorrow. - Yes.

- [laughs]

- They all came out great.

Now, this is my personal favorite.

- I can't believe that's me.

- Why not?

- I'm a cop. I spend all day in the trenches,

and I don't really get a lot of opportunities to dress up,

you know, like this.

- You should. It suits you.

- [chuckles] I don't know.

I feel like even when I try, I still feel like a cop.

- How'd you get into this line of work?

- My father was a cop, and my two brothers followed him,

and my other brother's a district attorney, so basically

I was groomed my entire life to go into law enforcement.

It's just what I am.

- Well, from what I can see, there's a lot more to you

than just being a cop.

- Well, you're a great photographer.

I mean, you completely transformed me.

- Maybe I just found the real you.

- Maisie has to leave Bernard at the fountain.

I don't see another way.

- Here, toss this around. See if it helps.

- The answer has to be there. I just can't think straight.

[cell phone buzzes]

- Hey, Rob.

- Hey, Josh, uh, sorry to do this last-minute,

but something came up at work,

and I have to go back to the office.

- What about dodgeball?

- I can't make it, man. I'm sorry.

It's a little late to get a sub.

I think you're going to have to forfeit.

- Forfeit?

Later. - Later.

- Do you have tennis shoes?

- You're late.

- Two minutes early by my watch.

Told you I was gonna run an errand during lunch.

- You ready to make the streets safe?

- Yeah, just got to throw this in the back seat

and drop it off at the station.

- Well, that's a new look for you.

- Mm, thought I'd try something different.

What do you think?

- I think if you wear that instead of your uniform,

the criminals will be arresting themselves to get near you.

- Very funny.

Let's go.

- Oh, yeah. - You guys all set?

See you inside.

- I cannot believe you talked me into this.

- You never played dodgeball as a kid?

- Yeah, in school when I was forced to.

- Well, it's different, okay?

Everyone's just here to have fun.

- Okay, it's been a while. What are the rules?

- Okay, so this is the ball.

- Oh. - Dodge it.

- I'll try to remember the finer points.

- That might be hard for you. - [gasps]

[whistle blows]

- All right, let's go. Let's go. - Ball on the line.

Behind the red line. - All right, here we go.

- Okay, as soon as he blows the whistle grab a ball,

get back here, and start throwing.

[whistle blows]

- All right, sit down.

- Aw, I'm out.

Throw it!

- I got one! Whoo! - Yes! Yes!

- Oh! Oh, this is so much better than school. Ah!

- Go, Kate!

- [shouts and laughs]

I got out. Ah!

- Victory water for the MVP.

- I have to admit that was the most fun I'd had in a while,

and I only hit you once.

- Kind of reminds me of the old days.

- Oh. Yeah.

[light piano music]

♪

What if the fountain isn't working?

- So they have to fix it, which brings us back to--

both: The tool shed!

- Okay, quick, let's go back to my place before we lose it.

- I've got a notebook in the car.

We can start on the way over. - Okay.

- Hi. - Oh, thanks.

[chuckles]

- What's that?

- Ah, it's a flyer for an open mic.

My guitar teacher thinks I need to get some experience

playing in front of people to build my confidence.

- Ah, I want to go. When is it?

- Tomorrow night.

- Oh, I have my date with Patrick tomorrow night.

- Ah, that's--that's too bad.

Could have used a friendly face,

but at least this will limit the number of witnesses

in case it goes horribly, right?

Come on, let's grab some coffee.

- All right.

- Okay, they'll be here any minute.

Well, you look much more awake this time.

You must have gotten a good night's sleep.

- Actually, I pulled an all-nighter working with Kate.

- Really?

- It just happened. We're on a roll.

- Great.

- The big moment is here. I hope you're excited.

- Very.

- So what we've done is take the core principles from the book

and expand them.

Three friends with different backgrounds,

with unique skillz--that's skillz with a Z.

- Mm. - Come together.

- Presenting...

- Wait for it.

- The Locker Gang 2.0.

- I don't understand.

Those look nothing like my characters.

I thought you were just gonna take them and put them on

T-shirts and plates for birthday parties.

- Josh, we--we love the books, but the first one came out a

while ago, and as your fans have grown up,

the books haven't.

- Mm.

- So this gives us a new direction.

We want the kids to see these characters as superheroes.

- But they're not.

- Ah, but they could be.

- Oh, uh, we also might need to slightly

rebrand the books themselves,

but Stu and Marty are--are on board with that.

- Well, I'm not. Did you know about this?

- No. Look, guys, we never talked about changing the books.

- Ho, ho, ho, ho, ho, ho, let's not think about it

as a change, guys.

Let's--let's think about it as, uh, growth, okay?

- Yes.

- We got to--we got to age these characters up.

We got to find a way to bridge that gap between brand

recognition and today's edgier attitude.

- It's cool. It's now.

It's the natural evolution of things.

- Gene? - I will call Stu and Marty.

[cell phone rings]

- Patrick, hi.

I was, um--I was just getting ready for our date.

- Uh, yeah, yeah, that's why I was calling,

'cause, uh, my photo shoot is, uh, running long,

so I'm gonna have to cancel for tonight.

- If you want, I can come down and hang out until you're--

- No, no, no, I--I mean, I don't know how long it's gonna go,

so I don't want you to be bored.

- Oh, okay.

- I'll call you tomorrow, 'kay? Bye.

[phone beeps]

[gentle piano music]

- ♪ I hope it's not too late

♪ To change your mind

♪ We both want that something great ♪

♪

♪ I know that we can share

♪ The pain this time

♪

♪ 'Cause we just want the same thing ♪

♪

♪ Ohh it's something

♪ I can't take

♪

♪ And ohh the future's

♪ What we make

♪

♪ How am I supposed

♪ To live

♪ Without you?

Stu, Stu, th--this goes way beyond creative license.

- I understand your concern, bt just try--

- I understand, but the books sell.

- That's not the point; the point is,

you just need to trust me.

- All right. Fine.

Bye.

He had to go to a meeting.

- They can't do this, right?

- Technically, the publishing company owns the characters.

- But I--the books sell.

Why would they want to mess with that?

- Because they think they can reach a bigger market

with this plan.

- [sighs]

- Look, Josh, I know how much those characters mean to you.

- It's not just about the books.

Those characters represent--

- I get it, okay?

Hey, I'm on your side, all right?

I will call them again.

I will try to convince them not to move forward with this.

- And if you can't?

- Josh. Josh, I'm gonna...

- Hi, Lila. - Hey, girl.

- Whoa! Whoa.

- Oh, I'm--oh, I'm so sorry, Mark.

- That's okay. Nice throw. You been practicing?

- Kind of. I played dodgeball yesterday.

- Dodgeball? - Yeah.

- So that's why I haven't seen you around since our date.

- Well, it was kind of a spur-of-the-moment thing.

- Hmm.

- Are you going somewhere?

- I've got to fly out to our main office.

It just came up this afternoon,

but I was hoping maybe we can get together when I get back?

- Sure.

- Oh, by the way, I have your book to finish on the plane.

I'm really enjoying it.

- Oh, that's great.

- I, uh--I better get going.

I'll, uh--I'll text you later.

- Bye. - Bye.

[upbeat acoustic guitar music]

♪

- And if we bring Maisie out of the briar here,

we can go straight into the flashback scene.

- Sure.

- What's wrong? You were on fire yesterday.

- Sorry, I'm a little distracted.

I've got a company that wants to license the Jimmy Sweatsock

characters for merchandising.

- That's awesome.

- Yeah, except they want to make some changes,

and it might be impossible to get out.

- Well, this would be good for your career, right?

- Sure, but you know how it is.

I mean, when you really care about something,

it's hard to let it go.

- So fight it.

- You think so?

- If the characters mean that much to you, yeah.

I mean, maybe you won't win, but if something matters,

you shouldn't walk away without a fight.

[cell phone rings]

- Sorry, it's Mark.

- I should get going.

- Wait, Josh.

- Yes?

- Um, my friend Vic is having a barbecue at her house tomorrow.

Would you like to come?

- I'd love to.

[upbeat acoustic guitar music]

♪

- Now, you didn't tell anyone else in the department

about this, right?

- No. - Good.

'Cause if they knew, they'd be merciless.

-

- Yeah, cops can be, uh, pretty rough on each other.

[laughs]

- It's the job. - Mm-hmm.

- If we didn't guard our feelings, we wouldn't be able

to do it, but it's also nice to mix things up once in a while,

like with my music or your modeling, you know?

Let your guard down, have a little fun.

You know what I mean? - Yeah.

- I'm glad I got someone who I can share with

who can keep a secret.

- [laughs] - Partner's code, right?

♪

[applause]

- Up next, Nate Fletcher.

[applause]

- Cross your fingers for me.

- Cheers, guys, cheers.

[upbeat guitar music]

♪

[doorbell chimes]

- Hi. You must be Josh.

- And you must be Vic.

- It's nice to finally meet you.

I've heard so much about you.

- Really? Hmm.

- We brought potato salad.

- My favorite. Come on in. Everyone's out back.

- Awesome. Well, I'll see you out there.

- Is this a new outfit?

- I did a little shopping. - You look hot.

- You look hot.

- I'm so sorry we have to cancel the reservation.

- Okay, what do you mean you have to cancel the reservation?

I just confirmed two days ago.

- I understand, sir, but this came up--

- They rented out the entire restaurant?

- Yes, they did. But we'd love to have you back soon.

We can offer you, actually--

- Yeah, I appreciate the offer,

but the night's kind of important.

- I'm so sorry, sir.

- Okay, yeah.

Thanks for letting me know.

- Hi, honey.

- Uh, hey.

- Is something wrong?

- No, everything's fine.

- Good, then can you put these in the kitchen

and give me a hand with the rest of the groceries?

- Sure thing. - Thank you.

- This is getting ridiculous.

- So I'm standing there in the perfect spot.

I've got a line on their best player, right?

I'm about to throw the ball, and bam!

Kate nails me in the back.

- Okay, that is not my fault. You ran into my throw.

- I still have a welt.

- Oh. - Aww.

- I'm gonna get a hot dog. Anyone want anything?

- No, I'm good. Thanks.

Dodgeball? Who are you?

- I'm just having fun.

- I can see that.

- Hey, I'm Josh.

- Hey, I'm Nate. Nice to meet you.

- You a friend of Vic's? - Yeah, I'm her partner.

- Partner? - Her cop partner.

- Right.

- Anyway, I'm sad that Patrick couldn't make it.

I was really looking forward to meeting him.

- Yeah, he had to work, but I don't know.

I don't think this is really his kind of thing.

Fortunately, Nate came over earlier

and helped me set everything up.

- Oh, that was nice of him.

- Yeah, yeah, he's great.

- I'll be right back. I'm gonna get a hot dog.

- 'Kay.

- You got another hot dog on there?

- Almost ready. Hey, can you do me a favor?

- Yeah. - I need some more charcoal,

but I can't leave the grill.

Can you grab a bag out of the garage?

Just around the corner. - Sure.

- Actually, I would love another hot dog, if you don't mind.

- Oh, well, you're gonna have to wait,

'cause I'm on a mission for charcoal.

Want to give me a hand?

- Yeah, why not?

- Charcoal, if you were charcoal, where would you be?

Hey, thanks for inviting me. I really like your friends.

- Yeah, I think they like you too.

- Hey, I thought about what you said, and you're right.

I'm gonna tell Gene I'll fight them on the character changes.

- I'm glad to hear that.

- Must be the, uh, effect you're having on me.

- Okay, let me get the door for you.

- What's wrong?

- It's not opening.

- You're kidding.

- No, I'm not kidding.

It's stuck. Oh!

- [laughs]

- I broke it.

I broke it.

- Let's try the garage door.

- What is going on? Vic?

- Nate!

- [whispers] I don't--I don't think they can hear us.

- No. - Mm-mm.

- I guess we're just--we're stuck in here.

- Mm. - It's a good thing we got the

charcoal, you know?

Keep us warm all through the night.

- Oh, all we need is a spark.

[laughter]

- Yeah, the handle comes--sorry.

I didn't mean to interrupt anything.

I'm just gonna prop the door open,

and you guys just come out whenever you're ready.

[clears throat]

[laughter]

- Oh, thank you; that was an epic, epic barbecue.

- Oh, well, thank you for coming.

It was so nice meeting you. JOSH

- You too.

- Bye. - Bye.

Mm

- Night.

- Nate, you didn't have to help clean up.

- Ah, it was the least I could do.

Thanks for all the leftovers.

I'll never be able to get through all this.

- Well, you'll have to finish that potato salad

'cause it's gonna give you the energy that

you need to chase down those perps.

That or, like, strumming soft melodies.

- Ah, you promised not to talk about that.

I should--I should head out.

- Yeah.

- I'll see you tomorrow.

- 'Kay.

- Thanks for meeting me for lunch.

Actually, I got in at 2:00 a.m.,

so technically this is breakfast for me.

- [laughs]

- It's really good to see you.

- It's good to see you too.

- There's something I want to talk to you about.

- Actually, Mark, there's something I want to

talk to you about too.

I think you're a really great guy, but--

- Oh, so it's that kind of lunch.

- I'm sorry.

- Actually, I kind of had a feeling that this was coming.

- You did?

- Well, I sent you a couple texts that you didn't respond to

right away, and I kind of got the vibe from our date that

emotionally you just were somewhere else.

- I had a really nice time though.

- So did I.

Sometimes it just doesn't work out.

- We can go if you want.

- No, I'm hungry. - Oh.

- And beside, there is something else

I'd like to talk to you about.

- What's that?

- You remember when I told you that my firm

represented Dom Fabrizio, right?

- Yeah, of course.

- Well, he's currently serving his plea bargain,

but he wants to get his story out.

We were throwing around names of possible writers,

and I suggested you.

- You want me to write the book?

- Well, I'd like you to submit a proposal.

Interested? - Tell me more.

- The licensing guys sent those final proof sheets over of the

new character designs for you to sign off on.

- Thanks, but I've thought it over, and I'm not going to.

- What do you mean? - I don't approve the changes.

- Okay, I get it, Josh, I do,

but you understand the sign-off is symbolic.

You already granted the rights when you signed the contract.

- Let me talk to Stu and Marty.

I'm sure we can work something out.

- I already have for hours.

And look, I don't like this any more than you do,

but apparently this is a very lucrative deal for all

involved, and there's a lot at stake, so if it were to get

ugly, it could put a hold on any future Jimmy Sweatsock books.

- Did they say that?

- In so many words.

- So you're telling me there's nothing I can do.

- I'm sorry.

Look, take these home.

Just think it over.

- [sighs]

[light upbeat music]

♪

- Thanks again for helping out with the barbecue,

and you really do grill a mean dog.

- Thanks for having me over. I'm still full.

- I think everyone had a really good time,

and Patrick said he was sorry he missed it.

- You two seem to be spending a lot of time together.

- It's a new relationship, but he makes me feel special.

- Special, really?

- Yeah. I--like, more than a cop.

You know, kind of like how your music makes you feel.

You know what I mean?

- Yeah, I do.

You're lucky to have found someone like that.

[knock at door]

- Josh, come in.

- You look like you're in a good mood.

Your lunch with Mark go smoothly?

- Smoother than expected.

- Oh, that's good.

-

In fact, I have some interesting news.

Have you heard of Dom Fabrizio?

- The mob guy, right? - Yeah.

- What's this? - Mark's law firm represents

him, and they are looking for someone to write his story.

Mark asked me to submit a proposal.

- What? - Yeah.

I have only been brainstorming for a couple of hours,

but the ideas are just flowing out of me.

It is like lightning in a bottle.

I feel the way I felt when we were writing "The Magic Cellar."

I mean, I'm finally getting to write the kind of book I always

wanted to write, and I think I owe it all to you.

- Yeah, I've heard that before.

- What are you talking about?

- You start working on your other book and keep pushing ours

off to the side until eventually

you don't have time for me anymore.

- That's not what's gonna happen, Josh.

- I got to go.

- What are these?

- Mockups of my new characters,

coming to a store near you.

- I thought you were gonna talk to Gene about those.

- Yeah, well,

I've learned not to get attached to things.

- [sighs]

- Chili dog.

- Thank you.

- You can't completely blame Josh for wanting to keep the

focus on the "Magic Cellar" book.

Listen, I don't blame Josh.

I blame myself for ever thinking it was about

anything more than just a book.

- From what I saw at the barbecue,

he seems to really care about you.

- Hey, Gene.

- Hey, Josh.

- Listen, I--I thought it over, and...

They're fine.

- Thanks. Good.

I know that's not easy letting those go.

- [scoffs] It doesn't matter.

- So I spoke with Kate.

She said the "Magic Cellar" sequel's on hold for a while.

- Indefinitely.

- It's a potential bestseller, Josh.

Are you sure? Stu and Marty are gonna be disappointed.

- Well, they can join the club.

- Ah, that's too bad.

I was looking forward to it.

It's been nice seeing you two work together again.

- So where does this leave Kate?

I thought the sequel was holding up her other book.

- Well, the guys are very excited about the prospect of

her doing the Dom Fabrizio story,

so that's her top priority right now.

- Well, I'm--I'm glad things worked out for her.

- [laughs]

I'll, uh--I'll get in touch with the merchandising guys,

and we'll set up a meeting.

- Thanks.

- Joshua?

You okay?

- Yeah, go ahead and set the meeting.

[gentle piano music]

♪

- ♪ Yesterday was a long time ago ♪

♪ But I can't help thinking

♪ All the times I spent with you ♪

♪ Wondering was I dreaming?

♪

- This is really good.

This is exactly the kind of thing they're looking for.

- Oh, good.

I appreciate your help, Mark.

It's great to be able to have you go over the proposal

before you give it to your bosses.

- Well, my pleasure.

I don't have much say in the decision,

but I'm rooting for you.

- Thank you.

I like his personal anecdotes.

It really humanizes him.

- Yeah, I like that too.

A lot of other writers read like a forensics report.

- Mm.

- You got to the heart of the personal story.

You lose something? - Sorry.

- [laughs] You are always full of surprises.

- What is this?

- Yeah, I was gonna tell you about this.

- Why am I being assigned a new partner?

- 'Cause I'm transferring.

- Where?

- Central division had an opening, so I applied.

- This is how I find out, with a memo?

- Sorry about the secrecy.

I wasn't allowed to say anything till it was definite.

- Is it something I did?

- No, of course not.

You're great.

You're the best partner anyone could ask for.

- It's not gonna be the same without you.

- We'll keep in touch.

- Promise?

- Partner's code.

- See you tomorrow?

- For sure.

- "Happy anniversary, Carl."

You got to be kidding me.

I said Cara.

I said Cara.

Um, just like a little bit of that...

Great, now it says "carp."

- You don't have a single room?

- I'm sorry. We have nothing available.

- Junior suite? - No, nothing.

- Overlooking the parking lot? - Nothing at all.

- Utility closet?

- No. Listen, I wish I can help you,

but we have nothing available right now.

We're completely booked.- Come on.

- Okay, thanks anyway. - You're welcome.

- Hi, honey.

- Hmm, happy anniversary...

Carp.

- [laughs] Oh, my. Oh.

- I'm sorry; I wanted to surprise you.

I got flowers, and I made reservations

at the Oakwood Grill, and it all fell apart.

- You're kidding.

- Yeah, I wanted to make it a special day for you. I'm sorry.

- No, I mean I was gonna surprise you.

I booked a room at a resort that got canceled

because of water damage.

[laughter]

This is gonna go down in history

as the worst first anniversary ever.

- Yeah. I mean, it seems fitting.

Where's your head at on just room service?

- I'll grab my purse.

[knock at door]

- Pizza. - Coming.

Hi. How much do I owe you, again?

- That'll be $15.50.

- Right, there you go.

I don't need any change. - All right.

- Thank you so much.

-

Thanks. Have good night.

- [chuckles] This is really fun.

- What are you reading?

- The first chapter to the "Magic Cellar" sequel.

- Ah, I'm sorry; I forgot to put that away.

- You know, it's really good.

I hope it doesn't stay in that drawer forever.

- I can't believe Nate is transferring.

- I know. He was the best.

I don't know how I'm gonna find another partner like him.

- Well, I believe you're gonna get a great new partner.

- See, we were both trying to surprise each other with these

huge plans, and the crazy thing was neither of us actually

wanted to do any of it.

All we wanted was a quiet night with each other.

- Well, that's what you get for following

relationship advice from me.

- I know. Instead of listening to everyone else,

we should have been talking to each other.

- Ah, I'm sorry, Rob.

I'm just--I'm not feeling dodgeball today.

You know, I think I'm just gonna go home

and chill.

- Why don't you go talk to her?

- What's there to talk about?

I mean, she's got her own thing going now.

She doesn't need me anymore.

It's kind of like the characters.

- Did you tell her how you feel?

- I think it was pretty clear.

- Did you tell her how you feel?

Look, if you're not up for playing today, it's cool.

I understand.

- No, I'm good.

Let's show these clowns how to throw a dodgeball.

- Here we go.

- Well, you want to grab some lunch across the street?

- You go ahead. I've got plans.

- All right. Later, partner.

[cell phone rings]

- Mm-hmm. Just keep it light.

Hello? - Hi, Patrick.

It's me; do you want to grab lunch today?

- Oh, um, can't do it today; I'm in the middle of a photo shoot.

- Well, I really want to talk.

- Listen, I got to get back to work. I'll call you later, yeah?

- Okay. Bye.

- Great job on the proposal.

Now, that's the Kate that I was looking for.

I already sent it over.

- Thanks. I guess I just needed a little help finding my voice.

- Oh, I got to go. I'm running late.

- Where you going? - I have a licensing meeting

with Josh for his Jimmy Sweatsock characters.

- So he's going through with it?

- Yeah, yeah, it hasn't been easy on him.

- Yeah, well, he'll get over it. He's good at that.

- Yeah, it's not so much the characters

as it is the backstory.

- What do you mean?

- Well, have you read the books?

Jimmy Sweatsock, Tina T-Shirt, their adventures together?

- What about them?

- Kate, he's writing about you.

I got to go.

I'll let you know if I hear something about the proposals.

Bye, kiddo.

- Now, you're doing great.

I just want you to imagine you're flirting with the most

handsome man you've ever met,

and he's flirting back.

- Are you kidding me?

- Vic, what are you doing here?

- I came here to talk to you, but it looks like you're busy.

- No, it's not what it--

- You might want to wipe the lipstick off your face

before you finish that last sentence.

- What you saw was me getting caught up in the moment.

I'm supposed to create a fantasy and capture it in film.

Sometimes things get out of hand in the moment.

What you saw is just one of the hazards of the job.

- Well, I guess both of our jobs have hazards, right?

I came here to tell you that you're

better off with one of them.

It's a cop thing.

You wouldn't understand.

- ♪ Should I be sorry?

♪ Why should I care?

♪ There's no tomorrow

♪ If I'm not there

♪

- Let's do this.

- Well, you look relaxed.

- I feel relaxed.

- Good.

I know this is difficult.

- Not at all.

♪

- [laughs]

- ♪ Since you've been gone

♪ My whole life has changed

- I forgot about that day.

- Gentlemen.

- Good to see you again. - Guys, have a seat, please.

- All right.

- ♪ Should I be sorry?

♪ Why should I care?

♪ There's no tomorrow

♪ If you're not there

♪ Or should I be sorry?

♪ Or why should I care?

♪ And there's no tomorrow

- This is Josh. Leave a message.

Extra points for originality.

- Pick up.

- Hey, there. That was a quick lunch.

- Yeah, it was kind of a working lunch.

I, uh, broke up with Patrick.

- Oh. I'm sorry to hear that.

- Yeah, Patrick was fun for a while,

but, uh, he wasn't really for me.

- Well, if you need to talk, I'm here for you.

- Partner's code?

We should get going, right?

- Hey, Vic, um, since you're not with Patrick anymore,

there's something I've been wanting to ask you.

- Yeah?

- How do you feel about going out one of these nights?

- Um, I thought the police department

had rules against partners dating.

- Well, I guess it's a good thing I'm transferring.

- Then in that case,

I'd love to.

- So all we need is your sign-off,

and we can get started.

- Right there at the bottom.

- I'm not signing.

- Come again?

- I'm not gonna let you change the characters.

- We aren't changing them. We're broadening their appeal.

- Josh, this is gonna be so good for you,

not to mention immensely profitable.

- Ooh.

- It's always been a dream of mine to bring my characters

to

to life, but not in this way.

- [sighs] Okay, I'm sure Gene

told you that this is really just a formality.

We don't need your sign-off.

- He did, and I can't stop you from doing what you want with

my characters, but I also know that my voice carries value,

and my lack of support carries consequence.

- [clears throat]

- I was about to knock.

- Mark.

- Congratulations. - What are you talking about?

- Your proposal, they loved it.

- That's great.

- They want you to start right away.

- Can I get back to you on that?

- Uh, wow.

- Sorry, Gene, I couldn't do it.

- Yeah, you sure threw them a curveball,

and me too, by the way.

How about a little heads-up next time before the revolution?

- I promise. - [chuckles]

Oh, um, well, I should

probably get going to my office.

I just--busy.

- What are you doing here?

- Well, I couldn't get you on your phone,

so I came down here to tell you not to let them

change your characters.

- That's funny; I was just on my way to see you.

- Why?

- To tell you I didn't let them.

- You know, your Jimmy Sweatsock books,

all those stories are about us.

- Instead of writing stories,

I should have just told you how I feel.

- How do you feel?

- I love you.

- Well, that's all I wanted to hear.

- Gene told me they selected your proposal.

Congratulations.

- Oh, yeah, they liked the heart I brought to the story.

I think you had something to do with that.

- Hey, write the book.

Take the time you need.

I'm not going anywhere.

- Actually, there's another book I want to finish first.

- Ready? How's that?

- It's great. - Great.

- That's a pretty good photo.

You ever considered going professional?

- Hello, hello.

- Hey. - Hey.

Oh, Kate, this is my wife, Cara.

- Hi. - I've heard so much about you.

- Really? - Yes.

[laughter]

- Hey, congratulations.

I think you're the first author to have a bestseller on the true

crime and kids books lists.

- Thank you.

- I don't mean to break this up,

but I think they want you to say a few words.

- Let's go.

- Hold on. I have an idea I want to run by you.

I was thinking about the third installment of the Magic Cellar,

but this time they find a map to treasure.

- Treasure?

- Oh, but not just any kind of treasure, haunted treasure.

- I can't wait to hear how this ends.

- ♪ There's only one you

♪ Who can take away my troubles and heal me ♪

- Let's go see our fans.

- Okay.

- ♪ It's true

♪ That I'm lost without you

♪ And I need you to be free

♪ Ohh

♪

♪ There's only one you

♪ Who can take away my troubles ♪

♪ Who can heal me when I'm down ♪

♪ It's true that I'm lost without you ♪

♪ And I need you to be free

♪ Ohh

♪ Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, ohh

♪