Original subtitles

(phone ringing)

(fire crackling)

(phone continues ringing)

(phone clicking)

- Hello?

(static screeching)

Is anyone there?

Leave me alone!

(haunting piano music)

(static crackling repeatedly)

(knife sliding)

(chair thudding)

(static hissing)

- Absolutely, the squab is one of my signature dishes.

Yes, I can do the green tea souffle as well.

Perfect.

I'll take care of everything, Mrs. Nyberg,

and thank you for thinking of me.

I love it.

That's three dinner parties this month.

- No, I love it.

Let me know when I can quit my job.

I've already got our Florida retirement villa picked out.

Clothing optional.

- Ugh, let me know when I can throw up.

- Ew, me too.

- "Good morning, Dylan.

How are you today, Dylan?

I'm doing fine, thanks Dad.

How are you doing?"

Hey, aren't you late for class, pal?

- I'll get there.

(sipping juice)

Today's the big day, right?

(sighs deeply)

- We think so.

Appointment's at 10:00.

- My laundry done?

- [Joanna] On the step.

- Cool.

Well, I hope you two find what you're looking for.

Still not too late to get a dog.

- So, that went well.

- I'll talk to him, find out what's going on.

- Oh, I know what it is, it's me.

Evil stepmother.

- Well, no one said this is gonna be easy.

Even with Dylan living away at college.

But don't worry about it, I've told him many times.

Either, he loves you as much as I do

or if that's it, he's out of the will.

- Oh, that's why I married you.

Excellent parenting skills.

- Good, I'm glad.

I knew there was a reason I got so lucky.

(upbeat music)

- [Joanna] Oh wow, I didn't think I'd be so nervous.

- [Ben] Oh, you're gonna be fine.

- [Joanna] This is good, right?

This meeting they asked for?

- I think it's better than good.

You don't?

- No, no, I do.

It's just, all the forums say it can take up to 18 months

to get your referral through, so...

- Maybe they liked us.

Bumped us up the list.

- I know they liked me.

- What's that supposed to mean?

- Well, you know how you are,

and they did say personality-

- Oh, personality? - Was an important factor.

- Oh, you think I have a horrible personality?

- No, no, I was saying you don't have one.

- Hey, hey, hey, cool it, people are looking.

- I don't care.

Let them.

(lips smacking)

- Nothing to worry about.

You're gonna be a great mom.

(lips smacking)

(dog barking faintly)

(phone ringing)

- Hello, this is Lydia.

(static screeching)

(dial tone beeping)

(phone rings) (Lydia yells)

- Sorry, Kim, I didn't see you there.

- No worries.

- Love your necklace.

- [Lydia] Thank you.

- Morning.

(phones ringing faintly)

(people murmuring indistinctly)

(ominous music)

(pages rustling)

- So, boy or girl?

- We're excited to hear what you have to say.

- Mrs. Maxwell, on your adoption application,

you noted that you take citalopram for depression.

Is that correct?

- That's right, my doctor prescribed it.

- And you've been taking it for a little over a year now.

- Yes.

- [Kim] Regularly.

- [Joanna] Regularly, yes.

- [Ben] Kim, what's this about?

We were under the impression that we were just

gonna come here and you were gonna show us

a picture of our new baby.

- Well, to be perfectly blunt,

we have a problem.

The use of antidepressants is frowned upon

by many of the countries

with whom we have adoption agreements.

- That seems rather narrow-minded.

- Yeah, I would think anything that would help

a prospective parent cope would be seen as a good thing.

- I couldn't agree more.

But, unfortunately, they don't view it this way.

- The medication gave her her life back.

- I have a chemical deficiency, that's all.

You know, if I had a broken arm and didn't treat it,

you would think I was ridiculous.

How's this any different?

It's not wrong to ask for help.

- Look, I realize that their thinking is flawed,

but because you disclosed it in your medical history,

the damage is done.

- Are you saying our application has been flat out rejected?

- I'm afraid so.

But let's not forget, there are other options available,

such as domestic adoption.

- [Joanna] That's not for us.

- We have friends who have been

on the waiting list for over three years.

The way the system works we could easily be on it

for twice that long.

What if we were to refile

without mentioning the antidepressants?

- At this point you would have

to disclose that or it's fraud.

What about surrogacy?

- We've tried.

- Would you be open to adopting a teen?

Our foster system, it just has so many

incredible young ladies and gentlemen

available for permanent adoption.

- Ben, I wanna go home.

- Yeah.

This isn't right.

You should warn people.

- I'm really sorry.

- So are we.

- Well, that sucked.

They seemed like such good people, too.

It's just not fair.

- It never is.

(tense piano music)

(people murmuring indistinctly)

(sniffling)

(loud knocking)

- [Woman] I'm sorry, is someone in there?

- Be right out.

(phone ringing faintly)

- [Joanna] Hey Gretchen, how's my mom doing?

- Oh, it's been one of those days,

but she'll be glad to see you.

- Oof, sometimes it feels like a bad cosmic joke.

The parent who cared about me is gone

and the one who's left behind needs constant care.

- I know you loved your father very much

and we miss seeing him around here, too.

You just do your best, like you always do.

(soft footsteps)

- Hi, Mom.

- Why has Michael stopped visiting me?

Has he found someone else?

- No, Mom.

Dad passed away last winter, remember?

It was snowing at the funeral.

The wind was blowing.

- The wind.

It was cold.

Blustery.

- [Joanna] That's right.

- Not a good day for a funeral.

- No.

- But I liked that potato salad and the ham.

Have your cousin, Annette, bring me some more.

- You know, I could cook for you.

My catering company has really taken off.

- Annette's potato salad is the best.

Tell her to make a lot of it.

- Okay, I'll do that.

- Michael's gone?

- He is, Mom.

Dad's dead and gone.

- [Dolores] My husband is dead, too.

- Oh, Dolores.

I know, I'm sorry.

- Don't be, he comes to visit me every night.

Just like he said he would.

Larry is a good man.

- There's no such thing as a good man.

They're all boozers and skirt-chasers

and my husband was the worst of them all.

- Mom, don't say that.

You know that's not true.

Dad loved you.

- Larry and I play bingo together.

He lets me win.

(tense music)

- Her Alzheimer's is getting worse.

- Well, that's not unusual.

Often the death of a spouse can accelerate dementia.

It happened to my mom.

- Well, I'm not sure Dolores is doing much better.

She says her dead husband comes to visit her.

They play bingo.

- Well, of course he does.

It wouldn't be the first time a spirit stopped by

to deal with unfinished business.

You should see your face.

(Joanna laughing)

- Nice one.

You had me going.

- I could tell.

The truth is, you work here long enough,

you see just how strong

the earthly bonds are between people.

Husbands and wives, fathers and son, mothers and daughters.

Maybe these bonds are harder to break than we think.

- Nah, I think it's just wishful thinking.

- Bye.

(footsteps receding)

(ominous piano music) (dog barking)

- I feel like it's my fault.

Like I should have done some research.

- Don't beat yourself up, honey.

It was meant to be.

- Yeah, but if I'd just-

- But nothing.

I'm not gonna let them make me feel bad

about doing what was right for me at the time.

(doorbell rings)

(door creaking)

- Mr. Maxwell?

Hi, my name is Lydia Newman.

I'm from the St. Barlow adoption agency,

and I think I have some good news for you.

(dog barking faintly)

Thank you.

This will strike you as unorthodox,

but I overheard your conversation with Kim at the agency

and I want you you to know

that I understand your frustration.

- Thank you, Ms. Newman.

- My own mother was on antidepressants for years.

Back then, it wasn't something that you talked about.

- Oh, I can't begin to imagine the number

of great moms and dads who've been turned away

by this ridiculous notion

that they're too damaged to love a child.

- Very true.

Which brings me to why I'm here.

I've come across a unique situation.

I've been asked to place a six-year-old girl.

Her mother is in prison on a three strike felony conviction

and she's agreed to turn the child over to the state

for permanent adoption.

- There must be a waiting list.

- Not of you can circumvent it.

Which is why I'd like to introduce you to your new daughter.

(Lydia chuckling)

- Hold on.

I really, really appreciate you thinking about us first.

But I gotta ask you...

You know, I hope you don't take this the wrong way.

Is this illegal?

- Well, I suppose somebody could make that argument,

but let me assure you in all my years as a social worker,

I've never had anybody challenge a placement request.

- No, right.

However, if we did decide to go down this road,

there is always a possibility that at some point

in the future we could end up in a legal battle.

- I thought you wanted to be parents.

- We do, but I think my husband's questions are good ones.

I mean, the last thing we'd want to happen

is to bring this little girl into our home only to lose her.

- Maybe I was wrong about the two of you.

Most couples would leap at a domestic adoption opportunity

with no birth mother in the way.

- Ms. Newman, wait.

- No, I-

I've been in this business is a long time

and although most of you won't admit it,

none of you wanna share your child's love with anyone.

What I'm offering you is a once in a lifetime occurrence.

- [Ben] We don't disagree.

- But we also don't wanna set ourselves up for disaster.

- Isn't there some way we can do this by the book?

- You know, I'm not here to debate the legal parameters

of by the book, Mr. Maxwell, except to say

that all the proper paperwork would be in place.

You know, being a parent, it requires personal sacrifice.

And if you don't think that you were wronged by the system,

I'm sure I can find somebody who was.

- No, wait.

Maybe we're being too cautious.

If you could just give us a few minutes to discuss this.

In private.

- Why?

His mind's already made up.

- That's not true.

- Please.

Just a minute.

- Fine.

(tense music)

- When one door closes, another one opens.

Isn't that what you always say?

- Yeah, but this is very dicey.

I mean, I can't even comprehend

all the ways this could turn out badly.

- I know, but I wanna move forward anyway.

- Why?

I mean, you've never been one

to throw caution to the wind before.

- Look at this little girl, Ben.

She needs us.

- Joanna, that's not fair.

- I Know it's not, but it's the way I feel,

and I can't give you a better, more concrete answer.

So I'm asking you to take a leap of faith with me.

We need to get this little girl into a loving home,

even if it's only temporary.

What do you say?

(suspenseful piano music)

- We'd love to adopt Piper.

- Oh.

(Lydia laughing merrily)

That's wonderful news.

I'll be in touch soon to finalize everything.

I'm so happy for you.

I always say every woman deserves to be a mom.

(door squeaking)

(soft footsteps)

- What time is it?

- Five minutes later than the last time you asked.

- What if Lydia doesn't show up?

- Then we steer clear going to jail.

- Take that back.

What's happened is a blessing.

(doorbell rings)

- We're here.

Come on, it's okay.

Come on.

(Lydia laughing nervously)

- Hi.

Honey, we're so glad to finally meet you.

- Hey Piper.

This is for you.

- Here you go, Piper.

- I made this for you.

- You made this?

(Joanna gasping)

Oh my goodness.

Oh, it's beautiful.

I love it.

You're a great artist, thank you.

- Can I see?

- Oh.

(ominous music)

- Oh.

Take good care of her, okay?

(soft footsteps)

(gentle piano music)

- Nothing could feel more right.

Do you wanna go back inside?

- How come, sweetie?

- What if it's not real?

- It's real, sweetheart.

Do you wanna see your room?

- Is it my forever room?

- It certainly is.

- We're family now.

And we'll never leave you. Ever.

- Even when my mommy comes?

- Well, you are a very lucky little girl

because you have two mommies now.

And, um, maybe we could all live here together.

- I would like that.

- Okay, well then, let's go.

I'll race you.

- Okay. - Okay.

- Hey, what about the...

I'm sensing a trend here.

(Joanna chuckling)

- All right, shut off the water works.

No tears.

- I can't help it, she's just too precious.

You're gonna freak her out.

- Hey Piper, look at this.

I'm gonna put your beautiful drawing right here.

We can all look at it every day.

Would you like that?

(Piper giggling)

All right.

- Piper, we're so glad you're finally here.

- I think she likes us.

(Joanna laughing)

(Piper giggling)

(loud scratching)

(oven timer dinging)

(oven door clanking)

- Where's mine?

(Piper giggling)

Where is my cookie?

I want my cookie.

Where is it?

Is it here?

Where is it?

Oh, I know where my cookie is.

It's right...

Here.

(Piper screaming)

There's my cookie.

There's my cookie. (Piper laughing)

Are you my cookie?

Are you my delicious little cookie girl?

Answer me.

You better answer me or I'm gonna eat you all up.

Are you my scrumptious little daughter?

- Yes.

- And am I the best cookie lover you know?

- Yes.

- And am I your favorite mommy of all time.

- Piper that, I-I didn't, I didn't mean that.

That's not what I meant.

Piper!

(Piper crying)

- Wow.

Dad was right, you do have a way with kids.

(melancholy music)

(kids laughing faintly)

- So, how's she transitioning?

- Pretty good, I guess.

We've had our ups and downs,

but otherwise I think she's coming along just fine.

She hasn't called me Mommy just yet.

- Believe me, there'll be days you wish

she never knew the word.

- Not me.

- Ah, the glowing optimism of a new mother.

You have to love it.

(kids laughing faintly)

- [Piper] Swing!

* Goosey, goosey gander *

* Whither shall I wander? *

* Upstairs and downstairs *

* And in my lady's chamber *

* There I met an old man *

* Who would not say his prayers *

* Took him by the left leg *

* And threw him down the stairs *

- Wow.

It's an oldie, but a goodie.

Where'd you hear that one?

- In my head.

Can I have a snack now?

- Yes.

Put your snack right here.

- And a hug.

- Oh.

Come here, come here.

You can have all the hugs you want.

Mm.

- Mommy.

Mommy?

(menacing music)

- Wait here a second, sweetheart.

Excuse me?

(menacing music crescendos)

(loud indistinct voices)

(horn blaring)

(Joanna gasps)

(tires screeching)

Piper!

- Come here.

- Honey, are you okay?

- She just darted out in front of the car.

I could have killed her.

- I only turned away for one second.

- Well, that's all it takes with kids.

Even I know that.

- I've got her now, thank you.

Honey, are you okay?

Why would you just dart in front of traffic like that?

- But Mommy told me to.

- Mommy would never do such a thing.

Come on.

(car engine revving)

(haunting piano music)

- [Ben] I'm just glad everyone's all right.

I wish I'd been there.

- Tell me about it.

- You think Piper's okay?

- She's fine.

The good news is, she wasn't hit.

- No, no.

I mean okay with the transition, her new family and all.

- What are you talking about?

- Why would she call this woman in the park her mom?

You think we should have her evaluated?

- What?

- I'm just saying.

- You think there's something wrong with our daughter?

- That's not what I meant.

- Well then tell me, what did you mean?

- All I'm saying is I hope that

we're doing everything we should.

You know, Piper's life has been difficult enough already.

- We're doing fine.

All the books say the same thing.

Adopted children have bonding issues.

A classic example of that is they'll often turn

to any adult as their parent.

That's all this is.

- Really?

I hope you're right.

Poor little squirt.

- [Dylan] I'm gonna get you, Piper.

- What's going on out there?

(water splashing)

(Dylan shouts) (Piper screams)

- I'm gonna get you.

(Piper laughing)

I'm coming.

- Take it down, Dylan.

- What? She likes it.

- Well, I don't.

You know it's not safe to act all crazy around the pool.

What if she fell in?

She can't swim.

- She's not gonna fall in.

- Don't argue with me.

I don't like the way you're playing.

Please stop.

- It's okay.

I like it, it's really fun.

- Honey, he could hurt you.

You seem to forget, she's only six years old.

- I see.

Anything else?

- Now that you mention it, I don't like your use

of bad language in front of her, either.

Or the fact that you never seem to care

whether you're watching inappropriate television.

I mean, you do know better, am I right?

- Maybe I should have stayed in my dorm,

left you at peace with your new family.

Would that make you happy?

- Dylan, look.

- [Dylan] You're such a bitch.

- [Ben] I heard that.

- Hey, would you talk to her?

She seems to think that everything I do is bad for Piper.

I'm not a child.

- Then stop acting like one.

- There we go.

- Hey, calm down, calm down.

- Me?

What about her?

Or does this new family supersede your other.

- Your way outta line, Dylan.

- No, I'm not!

She finally got a kid outta you.

Now it's obvious that the rest of us can go to hell.

- Apologize to Joanna, right now.

- I'm sorry you're a bitch.

And I'm sorry you're too blinded by her

to see how you've changed.

- Dylan, get back here.

(melancholy music)

(door slamming)

- Dylan.

Dylan, stop.

- Why?

- I wanna know what's going on.

- What's it look like?

I'm going back to school where I belong.

- Stop being ridiculous.

- Oh, is that what I am now?

I thought I was just a bad influence.

- Can we all just cool down here for a minute?

There's no reason you have to leave.

This is your family.

- No, this is your family.

Our family crashed and burned a long time ago.

(soft footsteps approaching)

- Hey.

You okay?

- No.

My stepson called me a bitch and suggested

that I coerced you into giving me a child.

- Yeah.

I've never seen him this upset before.

- Yeah, he pretty much said it all.

Clearly, he resents Piper.

- Really?

I don't know, he's 19.

- Yeah, I'm not sure it has anything

to do with age, you know?

If he's got some issue with you or me,

I mean, it's still gonna hurt.

Look at me and my mom.

We've never worked anything out.

- Yeah, I guess we should cut him a break this time.

- So when Dylan's upset, we all need to change,

but Piper is a child who needs evaluation?

- Honey, that's not true.

To be honest, I heard a bit of what set Dylan off

and I'm not sure he's entirely wrong.

I know you're frustrated,

but like we just said, Dylan's a teenager.

He's gonna treat her differently.

Not like...

- Like what?

- Like new china.

You can't take your frustrations

from your day at the park out on Dylan.

That's not fair.

- Okay.

Okay.

Evil stepmother in check.

Sweetie, are you okay?

Piper?

- [Ben] I think she's sleep walking.

- Oh, she peed her pants.

(phone ringing)

- [Ben] Here, I'll take her.

Come here, honey.

I got you, big girl.

Oh, we're gonna clean you up.

Let's go.

(phone ringing)

- Hello?

(static hissing)

(phone beeps)

(phone ringing)

Who is this?

- [Gretchen] Joanna? It's Gretchen.

Hi, Gretchen.

- I need to let you know, your mother's

just taken a turn for the worst.

We're gonna have to sedate her.

(Rose groaning)

(Rose growling)

- I want my daughter.

(people murmuring indistinctly)

- I can't explain it.

She's just become so much more disoriented.

Her cognitive ability has really deteriorated.

- Is there anything we can do?

- Not really.

Although, sometimes seeing familiar faces

can trigger the memory, kind of get her back on track.

(soft footsteps)

- Hey, hi.

I hear you were asking for me.

Mom?

Mom, it's me, Joanna.

- Joanna.

You're late.

I told you to be home by 5:00.

What should I expect?

You never listen to me.

You're never home on time.

You never clean up your room.

- Mom, stop.

This is, I-I'm your daughter.

This is your granddaughter.

I'm your daughter.

- This is your father's fault.

His genes, his irresponsibility.

I never wanted this.

I never wanted a baby in the first place.

- Mom.

- Okay, honey, let's go find some toys.

Okay?

- New mother, a housewife.

Tied down like a pig to slaughter.

This is your fault, Joanna.

Your fault.

I had a life.

I never wanted you.

- Mom, stop it.

Stop.

- Hello, Joanna.

Where's Piper?

I thought you were bringing her by.

Gretchen said she'd take a picture of us together.

- [Gretchen] Don't take it too hard.

I see it all the time.

They don't know what they're saying

and for God's sakes, they don't mean it.

- [Joanna] I know, I know.

- Do you?

- Actually, I think she was being honest for the first time.

- Joanna.

- That's okay.

You know, my mother was always very distant growing up.

In fact, I used to say, it seemed like she was

in a constant state of wishing she was somewhere else.

Maybe I wasn't wrong?

- Don't be too hard on her.

- But I wish my dad was here.

He'd know what to do.

- Well, maybe he's on his way and you just don't know it.

Sometimes, the only peace my patient's find

comes after a visit from the other side.

Here, let me show you something.

(phone beeping)

- What are those?

- No one saw the glowing lights when I took the photo.

- And?

- Well, a skeptic might say

that it's just the light refracting in the lens.

- But you think it's something else?

- Well, I don't mean to sound nutty,

but when you've worked here for as long as I have,

you become witness to things you just can't explain.

I believe that when a patient loses their grip

on this world, they gain access to another place,

a spiritual plane, a place that we're not even aware of.

I guess I'm just not much of a believer

in that kind of stuff.

I just don't buy it.

I guess I think what's done is done

and when it ends, maybe it's for the best.

- Okay.

To each his own.

(Gretchen chuckling)

Well, I'll make sure your mom gets a copy of this photo.

You too, if you want one.

- Oh, that's okay.

I don't want one, but thank you.

(footsteps approaching) (phones ringing distantly)

(Joanna sighing)

Goodbye, Mom.

* Goosey, goosey gander *

* Wither shall I wander? *

* Upstairs and downstairs *

* In my lady's chamber *

* There I met an old man *

* Who would not say his prayers *

* I took him by the left leg *

* And threw him down the stairs *

(ominous music crescendos)

(uneasy piano music)

(girls giggling) (soft footsteps)

- Must of hurt to hear her say that.

- It felt like a knife in my stomach.

- I know, the truth can hurt.

- Yeah, although later on, it felt different,

as if hearing the truth gave me a window into her soul,

if that makes sense.

- Well, you just admitted that she has a soul.

- The trippy thing is all that resentment

that's been building up over the years,

some of it kind of went away.

- It's because maybe you better understand her.

- Better than I ever did before, that's for sure.

- You know what? Let it go.

Just because they're your parents

doesn't mean that they aren't without their own flaws.

- Easier said than done.

(phone ringing)

Hello?

- [Dylan] Is my dad there?

- Hi, Dylan. No, he's not.

- [Dylan] All right, tell him to call me.

- Okay.

Hey, how's everything going at s-

(phone clicks)

- Oh, he's still not talking to ya, huh?

- Afraid not.

(Joanna sighs) (Kaitlyn clicks tongue)

(Joanna gasps) (glass breaks)

- What?

What, what is it?

(birds cawing faintly)

- Remember that woman I told you about?

The one from the park?

- Yeah.

- I think I just saw her outside.

- What?

Are you kidding me?

Do you think maybe she followed you home from the park?

- I don't know.

(door creaking)

- [Piper] Mommy?

- Piper, what are you doing?

- Mommy was here.

She's coming to take me home.

- The homeless woman?

Ben, I saw her again.

Right outside our house.

- Call the police, I'm coming home.

- I have, I have, they said they'd patrol the neighborhood,

but it still doesn't explain Piper's behavior.

I'm telling you, something is wrong.

- Honey, listen to me.

Maybe this is better handled by a professional.

Like I said before, let me make an appointment for Piper

with a child therapist who specializes in adoption cases.

- No, no.

I need more than some shrink's theories.

Piper deserves the truth and so do we.

- Okay, where are you going?

- To the source.

- Whoa, whoa, whoa.

Hold on, Joanna.

Just hold on a second.

Think about what you're doing here.

- Oh, I have.

- Nobody at the agency knows about this adoption but Lydia.

You're opening up a whole other can of worms here.

- I don't care.

I just wanna help our little girl.

(tense music crescendos)

- May I help you?

- I was looking for Lydia Newman.

- [Kim] Mrs. Maxwell?

- Where's Lydia?

- She quit.

- Why?

- Actually, we don't know.

She just stopped coming in for work one day.

Is there something wrong?

- No, no.

I, uh, I just wanted to thank her.

- Oh, I didn't know that you knew Lydia.

Well, she heard that our adoption plans fell through

and sent us a lovely gift basket

and I thought maybe I'd write her a thank you note.

You could forward it to her?

- Of course.

Just right there.

(phone ringing)

Excuse me.

Kim Carlson.

Yes, we will need about two hours.

Yes.

Of course, we can make that work.

- Thanks so much.

- My pleasure.

(tense music)

- I've been willing to do

whatever it is you need except this.

- Oh, come on.

You're my guy.

I need you to trust me on this.

Look, our daughter is a beautiful, intelligent,

caring, little girl.

She's not damaged.

She doesn't think every adult she sees is her mother.

She thinks one particular woman who is stalking us

is her mom and I need to know why.

- Then you think she's telling the truth

about this woman you've seen?

- Our daughter's not a liar.

- No, but her mother's in prison.

- Well, what if she's not?

What if she was never in prison?

What if Lydia is lying?

That's what I need to know.

Are you with me?

Check this out.

(dogs barking, howling distantly)

- Something tells me this isn't gonna end well.

(soft knocking)

(uneasy music)

(wind chimes ringing loudly)

- Oh, God.

(Ben chuckling)

- Hello?

Hello?

(stairs creaking)

(Joanna gasping)

- Why do this?

- She's totally nuts.

- Whatever her state of mind,

she's certainly afraid of something.

(grating screech)

- Uh, Joanna.

- Why would she burn Piper's file?

- I don't know, but who's this?

You ever heard of them?

- No, Lydia never mentioned either of them.

- Well, Lydia was honest about one thing, anyway.

she really was in prison.

(Joanna gasps)

- That's her.

- Who?

- That's the woman from the park and from our house.

That's Piper's mother.

- No, this cannot be happening.

Where the hell is Lydia Newman?

- I won't let them take Piper away.

I won't.

- Come here.

(phone rings) (Joanna gasps)

(phone beeps)

(phone beeps)

- [Machine Voice] You have 114 messages.

- How many?

(phone beeps)

(static screeches)

(phone beeps) (screeching intensifies)

Make it stop, it's freaking me out.

(phone beeps) (static screeching, hissing)

- What've we got ourselves into?

Come on.

(footsteps receding)

(door clicks shut)

(ominous music crescendos, ends)

- Ooh, there's one. - Get it.

- Yeah, you got it back. - Oh, you got it.

- That's a good one.

- Nice.

- Well, it's very kind of you to come over.

- Oh, not at all.

We're happy to do it.

It was great to see Piper.

- Yeah.

How's she been adjusting, by the way?

- Great, just great.

Bright little girl, very loving.

- So, uh...

No episodes?

- What do you mean?

Well, we loved that little sweetheart right from the start.

- Yeah, and she appeared to love living with us.

We bonded right off the bat.

- But you're saying something happened?

- She stuck a knife in a light socket one afternoon.

She gave herself quite a shock, too.

- [Beth] Yeah, at first we thought it was just an accident.

- Yeah.

But then she tried to electrocute herself again.

This time, while in the tub with one of the other kids.

(tense music) (clock ticking faintly)

- You have to understand that most of these children

are very troubled when they come to live with us

and we're used to it, but this was different.

- Yeah, I'm not gonna lie to you.

We were scared to death and we told Lydia that.

- What'd she tell you to do?

- She didn't.

- No, she just came and took her away.

- During these episodes, did Piper ever mention

her birth mother coming back to get her?

- Well, all the children do that in a roundabout way.

"Where did mommy go? Why did daddy leave?"

- But Piper?

- Ah, poor thing.

She was a hundred percent convinced that her mommy

was coming back for her.

- Even claimed to see her when we were shopping.

But I wouldn't worry about it.

I mean, they all do that sort of thing, to a certain extent.

- She had no idea that her mother was in prison.

- No, she didn't.

Mr. and Mrs. Harland, has Piper's birth mother

tried to contact you recently?

- That's not possible.

- Wait, um...

You don't know, do ya?

- Know what?

- Piper's mother is dead.

- She hanged herself in her prison cell

not long after she signed her rights away.

(ominous music crescendos)

(machines beeping)

(music crashing)

(chair thudding)

- Rose!

(Rose screaming)

- I want my daughter!

- Help!

Anybody, I need some help!

(Rose grunting)

(Gretchen screaming)

(Rose straining)

(machines beeping) (phones ringing distantly)

(soft footsteps approaching)

- It's very unusual.

Obviously, I've seen them get violent before,

but it's never directed at themselves.

It's lucky I got here when I did.

- Well, thank you, Gretchen.

We both really appreciate everything you've done.

- Did she say anything?

- She said, I want my daughter.

Scared the hell outta me, too.

Like she was possessed.

I know this is all strange for you.

You call me if you need any more help.

'Kay?

- [Margot Voicemail] You've reached the office

of Margot Lace, attorney at law.

Please leave a message and I will get back to you

as soon as I can.

(phone beeping)

- Ms. Lace, my name is Joanna Maxwell.

I got your number from the public defender's office.

It's my understanding that you are working on an appeal

for a client of yours named to Ashley Henderson

who committed suicide in prison.

If you have any more information about her death,

I'd love to hear from you.

Again, my name is Joanna Maxwell.

Thank you for your time.

- Worth a try.

If there's more to this, she'll know.

(loud footsteps)

(glass clanging)

You gonna tell me?

- Tell you what?

- Whatever it is you're stewing on in your head.

I know how your work, sweetheart.

You chew on something and then you wait

until after I close my eyes before you launch

into your detailed diatribe that'll go on for hours.

Or not.

(Joanna scoffs)

- I'm thinking we should call the police.

- The police?

- I'm just throwing it out there.

- What are we gonna tell them?

That a ghost is attempting to kidnap our child?

- No, maybe we can tell 'em about Lydia.

Come clean about what she's done.

Maybe they'll know how to find her.

Oh sure, after they take Piper away from us.

No way.

We're not gonna involve the police.

It's too risky.

- Well then, you think of something.

At least I'm trying to protect our daughter.

- Oh, that's what this is about.

I'm not doing enough.

- I'm sorry, I didn't mean that.

- Actually, I think you did and you know what?

It's not fair.

Goodnight.

- Ben, please.

- I can't believe I let you talk me into this.

This whole thing is your fault.

- Ben, don't do this.

(Joanna sighs)

Ben?

(Joanna gasps, screams)

- I want my daughter.

(ominous music crescendos, ends)

(Joanna gasps)

(distorted voice singing faintly)

(floorboards creaking)

* I took him by the left leg *

* And threw him down the stairs *

(door creaking)

* Goosey, goosey gander *

* Where shall I wander *

* Upstairs, downstairs *

* And in my lady's chamber *

* There I met an old man *

* Who wouldn't say his prayers *

* I took him by the left leg *

* And threw him down the stairs *

(voice's pitch increases, continues)

(doll laughing)

(toy cranking)

- [Toy Voice] M is for monkey.

I is for igloo.

N is for nail.

E is for elephant.

- [Toys] Mine, mine, mine.

(cymbals clashing)

- [Ashley's Ghost] I want my daughter.

- You can't have her, she's ours now.

Go back to the light, or whatever you do.

You're dead.

(toy cranking, singing increases)

(Joanna shouting) (toy crashing)

(Joanna screaming)

- Where's Piper? She's gone.

- What?

(ominous string music intensifies)

- Piper!

(water splashing)

(Piper coughing, crying)

- Ben.

(ominous music crescendos)

- Go inside, go inside now.

(Piper coughing)

- What do we do?

- I dunno.

(Piper coughing)

(phone ringing)

(Joanna breathing hard)

(phone ringing continuously)

- Hello?

- [Gretchen] Joanna, it's Gretchen.

- It's Gretchen.

Hi, Gretchen.

You and your family are in terrible danger,

but I think I know someone who can help.

(people murmuring indistinctly)

- Upon death, a spirit is essentially

nothing more than raw emotion.

Things like logic, reason, and empathy

have all gone out the window.

Only the strongest emotions remain

- So she doesn't understand why her daughter isn't with her?

- She just knows it's our fault.

- How much of a memory is intertwined

with her basic fight or flight instincts

is more difficult to predict.

- In your situation, she clearly knows she has a daughter

and the need to get her back is overriding everything else.

- But why can't she just take Piper?

- In layman's terms?

She doesn't know how.

Her basic ability to manipulate her surroundings

is all new to her.

- But she'll learn.

- In some ways, her learning curve has already begun.

She found you and now your mother.

- Gretchen's right.

In her current state, she equates hurting you

with getting her daughter back.

- It's going to get worse, isn't it?

- Most likely, yes.

Sometimes when a person dies in a state of extreme emotion,

their spirit won't pass over until they have justice.

Unless we intercede, I doubt she'll give up

until she's brought Piper over to her side.

- She wants to kill her own daughter?

- I'm afraid so.

Because to her, you see, this is not such a bad thing.

- It's a way to reunite them.

Forever.

- I won't let that happen.

There must be something we can do to protect ourselves.

- Gretchen, are you up to it?

(tense music)

- Who knew Lydia's apartment doesn't seem that insane.

- You have a better idea?

- I know it feels over the top, but it works.

Native Americans have been using white sage

to chase away negative energy for centuries.

- Okay, just little outta my comfort zone.

- Don't worry.

The cleanses we've done have all been successful.

- And if this one isn't?

- A more powerful exorcism may be necessary in order

to convince Piper's mom to move on to the other side.

Are we ready?

Then let's begin.

Remember, be forceful, but not belligerent.

Antagonizing a spirit could bring about a violent reaction.

- Okay, wait a second.

Are we sure that we should be doing this?

- Ben, let's try and stay positive about this.

They're trying to help us.

- Joanna's right.

I'm not trying to frighten you,

but we do need to be united in our purpose.

This is not about picking a fight.

This is about making the spirit see

that its presence won't be tolerated.

- Spirit, we mean you no harm.

Please leave this place in peace.

- Spirit, we mean you no harm.

Please leave this place in peace.

- You are dead, so we wish you well to seek the light.

- Please leave this place in peace.

- [Gretchen] Spirit, we mean you no harm.

Please leave this place in peace.

So we wish you well to seek the light.

- Spirit, we mean you no harm.

Please leave this place in peace.

(toy cranking) (doll laughing)

(doll laughing)

(chair scraping)

(Gretchen shouting)

(chair thudding)

(Joanna gasps)

- You have no power over the members of this home

any longer.

(glass shattering)

(Joanna shouting)

(wind howling)

- This house is for the living, not the dead.

Seek the light.

- Leave this place in peace.

(glass shattering)

- Seek the light.

- Leave us.

(screeching, piercing scream)

(Joanna and Gretchen screaming)

(glass breaking)

(all breathing hard)

- Is that it?

- Yeah.

Yeah, I think that's it.

- We can't force the spirit to cross over,

but we can keep it out of your home.

I think you'll find that your house is safe now.

(door opening) (dog barking faintly)

- Gretchen, Professor Sorenson,

thank you so much for coming.

- Oh, you're most welcome.

I'm just sorry we weren't able to meet

under better circumstances.

Goodnight.

- Goodnight.

- Is there anything else we should know?

- Well, just respect what's been done

and don't do anything to invite the spirit

back into your house.

- Like what?

- Well, one of the easiest ways for a spirit

to invade a home is through seemingly innocent games.

Despite what you think, they do have power.

- What kind of games?

- Palm readings, automatic writings,

tarot cards, spirit in the glass.

Any kind of incantation.

- Ouija board?

You do not want an Ouija board anywhere near this house.

- That's not the kind of thing

we do around here on a regular basis.

- Well then, you'll be fine.

- Well, thank you.

- Glad I can help.

- Goodnight.

- Goodnight.

- "And Larry the Loon and Mildred the Mallard

lived happily ever after.

The end."

- Daddy?

- Hmm?

- Do I still have two mommies?

- Yes, you always will.

- Why?

- Because you're a very lucky little girl.

First of all, you had a birth mother

and she carried you in her tummy, you know?

And then when she got sick and she went to heaven,

she loved you so much, she made plans for you

to live with a new mommy and daddy

so that you would always be taken care of.

Piper, will you tell me you ever see your mommy again?

- There she is.

- How long you been standing there?

- Long enough.

Piper, it's bedtime.

- Come on.

Pop in there.

I love you.

- Night, sweetheart.

(gentle piano music)

(phones ringing faintly)

- [Gretchen] Hello.

- Hi.

- [Gretchen] Good to see you again.

- Good to see you.

So, you think I could get one of these?

- Absolutely.

(Gretchen chuckling)

Everything all right at home?

Piper's good?

- She's great, actually.

Everything's perfect.

- Be honest, no problems.

- None.

What you did for us, I can't thank you enough.

- Well, I'll have this photo for you next time I see you.

- Great, thanks.

Do you remember these?

It's the family newsletter Dad used to mail out

every year when I was a kid.

He loved bragging to his friends about his family.

- I threw all those away.

- I remember that too.

- Your father said I should do it.

- No, he didn't, Mom.

He said you should put 'em away for the grandkids,

but you said you needed the storage.

- Your father said-

- I'm not lying, Mom.

We've had this conversation many times.

Mom, I'd like to talk to you about Dad.

I'd like to try and understand-

- Your father's dead.

- I know he is, but I'm not.

It's just you and me now, Mom.

And I'd like to get to know you,

before it's too late.

(Joanna sighs)

- Joanna?

I'd like that too.

(somber piano music)

- Seriously?

You told Gretchen everything was perfect?

- It is.

- Really?

Nothing's missing, we're just one big happy family?

Call Dylan.

- No, I've had enough drama for one day.

He won't wanna talk to me anyway.

- Come on, when do you ever call him?

- Never.

- Well, it might make a difference.

- I guess.

- Oh, let me rephrase that, it would make a difference.

While you're reaching out to family,

might give it a try.

(phone beeping)

(phone ringing)

- Hello?

- Dylan. Hey, it's Joanna.

How are you?

- Hey, I gotta go.

I'm in a bit of a hurry.

I can't really talk on the phone right now.

- Wait, wait, wait, wait.

You know, um, I thought with the long weekend coming,

you might wanna come home.

Spend some time at the house.

- You want me to come home?

- Look, I-I know things haven't been great between us lately

and I know it's been tough on you

having Piper join our family,

but that's no excuse for how I've treated you.

- It's all right.

Shouldn't yell at you either.

- You know a lot's been going on around here lately

and I miss you, Dylan.

I miss your presence in this family.

So, come home, okay?

Piper needs her big brother.

- My dad really doesn't deserve you.

- You read my mind.

- Tell Dad to pick me up tonight.

- Really?

- Yeah.

My weekends suck around here.

There's nobody around.

- Well, that's great.

We'll see you soon.

I love you, Dylan.

- I know.

(static hissing)

- Dylan?

What was that?

- Hey, it must be my battery.

I'll see you soon. Bye.

- That was amazing.

I really don't deserve you.

- Well, at least we all agree on something.

Go get him.

Well, thank you for agreeing to see me, Miss Lace.

- It's my pleasure.

Needless to say, I was surprised to get your call

regarding Ashley Henderson.

(chains clanking)

- She wasn't a bad person.

She just got caught up with the wrong crowd.

A breaking and entering conviction

put her behind bars for 26 months.

It was hard on her, but she knew she'd be reunited

with her daughter when it was over,

so she stayed out of trouble, hoping for an early release.

Then Lydia tricked her into permanently signing away

her parental rights and Ashley's world

came crashing down around her.

- What do you mean I can't reapply for custody

when I get out?

That's not what I was told.

When I signed the papers,

the lady said it was only temporary.

It is not final.

You're not listening.

That's my baby, she's mine.

You can't-

Hello?

Hello?

(Ashley crying)

Why won't anybody help me?

She's my little girl.

(phone crashing) (Ashley whimpering)

(chains clanking)

(chair crashing)

(melancholy music crescendos)

(rope creaking)

- I can't believe it.

You're saying Lydia sold Piper?

- Or tried to, anyway.

- We've got to find Lydia.

She needs to be held responsible for what she's done.

Unfortunately, there's no way to prove any of it.

Not without the testimony of the attorney

or the couple who paid Lydia and they've all vanished.

- I hope they got what's coming to them.

(car alarm beeping)

(car engine revving)

(static screeching)

(car engine accelerating)

(soft footsteps)

- I really appreciated Joanna's call.

- You should tell her that.

- I will.

But first, I wanna tell you you something,

I was more mad at you than I was at Joanna.

- Me?

- Yeah, Dad, you.

- Why?

- Because sometimes I need you to be

as interested in my life as you are,

- That's not fair. - In your new one.

- You don't know what's been going on.

- Does it matter?

- Dylan, look, I-

(Ben sighs)

I'm sorry.

No more excuses.

Will you forgive me?

- I already have.

Give me a ride home.

(Ben chuckles)

- It's pretty quiet tonight.

Mrs. Burton's foot swelling again, but that's about it.

- Thanks, Gretch.

Have a good night.

- I will just as soon as I get all these files done.

(ominous music)

- Everyone bailed already, huh?

- Yeah, nobody wastes any time.

(soft rumbling)

- You feel that?

(chalk scraping)

- [Toy Voice] M is for monkey.

(toy cranking)

A is for apple.

X is for-

- No girlfriend? Seriously?

- Let's not talk about it.

- To tell you the truth, it's for probably a good thing.

One less reason to have your house blessed.

- What?

- Long story.

(ominous music crashing)

(glass breaking)

(pen scratching)

- [Gretchen] No.

- No, I'm not kidding.

- You're serious?

You let Joanna talk you into it?

- Yeah, it's called compromise.

It makes a marriage go 'round.

- I don't care.

There's no way I'd ever let anyone

talk me into green tea souffle.

- You don't know what you're missing.

(Ben laughing)

Okay, fine, you're right.

It tastes like feet.

- I knew it.

(Ben laughs)

(static screeching) (distorted voice singing)

* Where shall I wander *

(elevator buttons clicking)

What?

- Open.

Open.

- Dad, what're you doing?

- Open, come on, come on.

- Dad.

(electricity sparking)

- Dylan's coming to see you.

- No, he's not.

- Of course he is.

Why would you say that?

- Mommy told me.

- What'd you just say?

Piper, look at me and tell me what you just said.

- I can't. It's a secret.

(phone beeping, ringing)

- [Ben's Voicemail] Hi, it's Ben. Leave a message.

- Hey Ben, it's me just checking in.

Call me when you get this.

- You alright?

- Yeah, what's going on?

- Don't worry, someone will be here soon.

(glass shattering)

- Dammit.

- You said a bad word.

- And I'm sorry, I'm just worried.

(phone ringing)

- Hello?

(static screeching)

Ben?

- Joanna, I'm at the school.

We need help.

We need help, Joanna.

Send help.

- Ben, what's going on?

Ben!

- Piper, we gotta go.

(Joanna gasps)

Lydia.

(loud screeching)

- What was that?

- Pick up the phone, Joanna.

Pick up the phone.

- Lydia, what are you doing here?

(phone ringing)

- Hello, happy family.

(Piper gasps)

- Gerdie.

- Piper, no.

- Mommy gave Gerdie to me when she went away.

My first mommy.

- Please, please give her back to me.

- It's time to go, sweetheart.

Your mommy wants you back.

- Her mother's dead, Lydia.

- Don't you think I know that?

Her spirit won't stop torturing me.

But I'm gonna make things right.

I know what to do now.

Piper needs to join her mommy on the other side.

- No.

- It's the only way.

I had a wealthy client who was willing to pay for a child,

so I tricked Piper's mother into giving her up.

And now she won't stop until she gets her back.

Even giving her to you couldn't change that.

- I won't let you do this, Lydia.

- You idiot, don't you get it?

If I don't do this, she's gonna kill you

just like she killed my other clients.

(phone ringing)

Oh God, leave me alone.

God, leave me alone.

Leave me alone!

Leave me alone.

Leave me alone, leave me alone.

(Lydia screams)

(knife sliding)

(phone ringing)

- Come on, pick up, pick up.

(static hissing) (phone beeping)

- I called the diocese as soon as I got your message.

- Good.

Let's go, we gotta hurry.

(Joanna breathing heavily)

(door slamming)

(furniture scraping)

- Gimme the girl.

(Lydia grunting)

Gimme the girl.

Gimme the girl.

(Piper screaming)

(glass shattering)

- Dad, what's going on?

- Don't say anything.

We're not responsible for what happened to you.

Hurting us won't make things even.

I think she's gone.

- She?

(metal crashing, scraping)

(glass breaking?)

What's happening?

- Stay back.

Get down, Dylan, get down.

I'm sorry, Dylan.

- It's not your fault.

(metal scraping intensifies)

- [Piper] Let me out.

(soft tense piano music)

(elevator dings)

(Lydia shouting, grunting)

- Give me Piper.

- No, I-I can't go up there.

I'll get help.

(Lydia shouting)

- [Lydia] Give me the girl.

(door slams)

- Leave me alone.

(wind whooshing)

(glass breaking)

(loud banging)

- I'm scared.

- Baby, I've got you.

- It's for your own good.

Give me the girl.

Open this door.

(furniture slamming)

- I want my mommy.

- So do I.

(music crescendos, screeches)

- [Lydia] Come on, you idiot.

Give me the girl.

(loud banging)

- [Joanna] You need to invite your mommy into our house.

- I'm gonna break the door.

Give me Piper.

Let me in.

Give me Piper.

Let me in.

(Piper whimpering)

Give me Piper.

(lamp crashes) (glass breaks)

(thudding)

(clanging)

(Gretchen grunting) (Lydia yelling)

(Gretchen screaming)

(Piper screaming)

- I need you to focus baby girl, okay?

We need your mommy, your other mommy, okay?

Bring her to us.

(wood cracking)

(loud banging)

- [Piper] H-E-L-P.

Help me.

Focus, baby.

We need your mommy.

Ask her in, do it now.

- Mommy, mommy, help me.

(Lydia shouting)

- Your daughter needs you.

Don't let this woman hurt her.

Help me, help me, help me.

(Lydia grunting, shouting)

Are you afraid?

What's the matter?

Take Piper away.

Help me.

(furniture scraping)

(Lydia shouting)

(door crashing)

- Give me the girl.

- You'll have to kill me first.

- You read my mind.

- I'll haunt you to your grave.

That's a promise.

(terrifying music crescendos)

- [Ashley's Ghost] Mine.

(Joanna gasps)

- Oh, no.

- Mommy?

- No!

Get back!

Go away!

I'm trying to help you.

- No, she's trying to hurt Piper.

(loud crashing)

(Lydia grunts)

- No.

I'm sorry I tricked you, okay?

I'm trying to reunite you.

That's what you want, right?

That's what you w-

Get back.

I can still fix it.

You'll both be dead.

You'll be together forever.

All you need to do is let me kill your daughter.

(glass breaking) (wind whooshing)

(Lydia screaming)

(loud thudding)

(Lydia grunting)

(knife sliding)

(knife thudding)

(Lydia gasps, exhales)

(door slams)

(terrifying music crescendos)

- [Ashley's Ghost] Mine.

(loud banging)

- Joanna.

- It's okay, baby.

It's okay.

(wind whooshing)

- Joanna.

Oh my God.

(lamp crashing, breaking)

(electricity sparking)

- Please don't do it.

What kind of a mother are you?

Try and remember.

You love your daughter.

You wouldn't hurt her.

You love her.

And Piper loves you.

- Mommy.

Make her go, make it stop.

- She can't go with you.

She's better off here with me.

I'll take really good care of her, I promise.

I love her.

I love Piper.

Please don't take her away.

Please, please don't do it.

(soft melancholy music)

(thudding, gasping)

- Piper, your mommy loves you very much and always will.

Both your mommies.

- Are you okay?

- Oh my God.

(Piper blowing air)

(clapping)

- Yay, happy birthday.

- Who wants a piece?

- I do, I do, I do.

- Okay, coming right up.

- Are you sure?

You sure about that?

- [Dylan] You're gonna have to beat me to it.

- Go deep. You got this?

Oh, nice try.

- What kind of throw was that?

- You gotta jump.

Thought you were an athlete.

(Ben laughing)

(wind whooshing)

(soft piano music)

- What are you looking at?

- Just a bright future for our family.

- I think your mom's having a good time.

- Yeah, you know, I was thinking we could

consider moving her into the house.

A lot of medical research that says

allowing Alzheimer's patients to live in the past

is the best way to have a meaningful relationship with them.

- Yeah, I just, I'd hate to see you revisit that hurt.

- Well, I'm more inclined to think of it as a do-over.

Maybe we could even find that bond everybody talks about.

- You're a good daughter, Joanna Maxwell,

and a great mother.

- Oh, come on, give me a break.

- Oh, you don't agree?

- Well, let's get real people.

I still don't know exactly what happened,

but all the same.

What she did the save Piper was unbelievable.

Don't sell yourself short.

You're a fantastic mother and anybody who says differently

is crazy.

- I want you to know, I'd do the same for you,

real mom or not.

I love you, Dylan.

- I know you do.

That's cool.

Maybe some day, you and my mom can be friends.

- I'd like that.

- Something tells me if it involves another mother,

you can work it out.

(Rose and Piper singing)

* Where I met an old man *

* Who would not say his prayers *

* I took him by the left leg *

* And threw him down the stairs *

(ominous music fading)

(soft piano music)

- [Lydia's Ghost] Mine.

(door slamming)

Hello, happy family.

(glass breaking)

(haunting piano music)