All language subtitles for A.Little.Daytime.Drama.2021.1080p.WEBRip.x265-RARBG.eng

This program is rated G

and is suitable for
general audiences.

[classical music]
♪

Chase: I know we've only been
seeing each other

for a few months.

I think I'm falling in love
with you.

And I feel like I could fall
in love with you.

But I don't dare let myself.

Preston has been gone
for over a year.

But he was my husband.

And your best friend.

Camera one,
hold on Nicole.

And... Keep holding.

Nicole: I still love him.

And we're out.

[bell ringing]

AD: All right. Got some notes.
Moving on.

Yeah...

Oh yeah.

Okay.

Is that the same palm we used
in Nicole's living room?

Yeah. I told the guys to go put
some lights around it.

You know, just for this scene.

Ok. So, in other words,
don't throw anything out.

[laughs]
Exactly.

[notification alert]

I have just been summoned
to another network meeting.

It's not even 10AM,
that can't be good news.

Well, we'll find out.

You're coming with me.

I am?

Yes. If you intend to take over
the show one day.

Yeah. Uh, sure.

Ok.

Mick, listen, run the next scene
without me, ok?

-Copy that, boss.
-Thank you.

Ok, everybody.

I'd like to be recording
in less than five minutes.

Any indication of what
the meeting's about?

I suspect it's Gregory wanting
to make more budget cuts.

Budget cuts?

If we cut anymore the actors
are gonna have to start

wearing their own clothes.

Oh.

Oh, have you guys seen this?

Photos of our new grand-baby.

Aw.

She's so adorable.

She really is.

Anyway, we're late for a meeting

and you guys, you
should be on the set.

They're ready to shoot.

Thanks, Alice.

Ok, we need to go to the network
executive office.

-Copy that.
-Thank you.

We've already cut your budget,

but with ratings dropping,
so does ad revenue.

We're still losing money.

Last week put us
at an all-time low.

We don't want to cancel
a show that's been on
the air for 40 years,

but, unfortunately it's becoming
a distinct possibility.

Can't you give us
just a little bit more time?

We have that great
storyline coming

with Ted and his estranged
sister who wants to kill him.

I like the family drama,
I, I really do.

But I don't think it's gonna
be enough.

This is what we think
the show needs.

We need to bring
Darin Mitchell back

as Detective Preston Stillwater.

He left the show
over a year ago.

He still gets more fan mail
than anyone else.

Alice: I'm sure you recall
that we killed him off.

Remember the lake and
the children he saved?

Alice, you of all people
should know

that no one really dies
on a soap opera.

I don't care if you have
to bring him back

as his long lost twin brother,
just get him back.

Look, he went to New York.

He wanted to do a Broadway play.

You really think he's gonna be
interested in this?

I don't think he would be.

What was that?

I don't think he would
come back.

Who are you again?

Maggie Coleman.

The head writer for
the last four years?

And hopefully my replacement
when I retire.

Ah.

Right.

Well, I heard that Darin's back
in Los Angeles

licking his wounds
after his play flopped.

So there is a good chance
that we could get him back.

And Alice, since you gave him
his first break,

that should give you
some leverage.

We'll do whatever it takes.
Right, Maggie?

Yes.

Now is just a moment.

But forever, is a long,
long time.

I didn't want to tell you this,

but my mother has been seeing
your father...

So, what exactly did you mean
when you said

we'd do "whatever it takes?"

Oh, whatever it takes
to save the show.

Honey, I know you're not happy
about this,

but I actually think Gregory
is right.

Bringing Darin back, it may be
the only hope for us.

Well, you know,

maybe we could try taking the
show in a different direction?

I have some ideas.

Well, since the network hasn't
complained about storylines,

I think we should leave
that alone until they do.

That's another lesson,
by the way,

you'll have to learn.

Pick your battles.

Well, you know, if we have to
resurrect Preston's character,

we don't necessarily
have to use Darin, right?

We could recast another actor.

You know what?

I just heard that Jeff Travis
isn't happy on

Tomorrow Always Comes.

I heard they weren't happy
with him

and that he was a lot
of trouble.

Now look, I understand this is
awkward for you.

If we do get Darin back,

you're going to have
to figure out a way

to work with him again.

I just think it's not going
to be easy for either of us.

I don't know what happened
with the two of you.

I don't even know why
you broke up.

But if this has something
to do with the show,

you need to tell me.

No, no, no, no, no.
It's not. It's not.

It's not that. It's...

Oh, thank you.
Lovely. Thank you.

Look, Darin asked me what
I thought about his play,

and I didn't want to hurt
his feelings,

but then he talked to somebody
on the crew

and he found out what I said

and then he thought I wasn't
being honest with him

and the whole thing

just spiraled out of control
from there.

We still have to try
and get him back.

Actually, you do.

What? Me? No.

Listen to me, you want to step
into my shoes, don't you?

Yes. Of course, more than ever.

Sometimes you have
to grit your teeth

and you have to do
what has to be done.

For the good of the show.

For the good of the show.

Right.

Great. It's great.

Great.

♪

Ok.

[knocking]

[dog barking]

Wiley! It's so good to see you.

Well. This is a surprise.

Not a bad one, I hope.

At least Wiley was happy
to see me.

You both look good.

Yeah. We're fine.

I don't think you came
all this way

just to see how we're doing.

No, no, I didn't.

Not that I don't care,
I do, I...

Well, we've established that I
am fine and you also seem fine,

so, what's this visit all about?

I have an offer for you.

Call Zac.

He's still my agent.

It's a little impersonal,
don't you think?

Well, he still handles all the
offers, personal or otherwise.

We want you to come back
to the show.

[laughs]

And reprise your role as
Detective Preston Stillwater.

You're serious.

Yeah.

Didn't you kill him off,

or is there something else
you're not telling me again?

Well, it doesn't
have to be Preston,

if you don't want it to be.

I could write you
a new character?

I don't know, I liked
playing Preston.

But the answer's still no.

The network is prepared
to give you a raise

and offer you a long-term
contract

and give you a week off
every other month.

A generous offer but I'll pass.

And a new dressing room.

Maggie, Maggie.
You're not listening.

My answer's no.

Oh. No, I heard you.

But, you know, there's a
cardinal rule in soap operas.

Nothing is ever written
in stone.

Well, consider this the one
exception to that rule.

[sighs]

I knew this wasn't going
to be easy.

What do you mean,

begging me to come back
to the show?

I wouldn't exactly
call it begging,

but, since your play
closed...

Since my play bombed?

I didn't say that.

Like you didn't say anything

when I asked if I should do it
in the first place?

Look, Darin, you had your heart
set on going to Broadway,

no matter what anyone said.

Maggie, you're a writer,
you read the script.

You knew it was going to be
a disaster.

Well, you wouldn't have listened
to me if I had said anything.

Well you could have
said something.

Ok, fine, well I'm saying
something now.

Just come back to our show.

I'm considering other options.

What if we had brought lunch
in for you

every single day from
that little French cafe

that you love so much?

The one you and I used
to go to?

Yes, yes, Cafe Sur La Rue.

I gotta be honest, I never liked
it as much as you did.

[sighs]

What if we... gave
you script approval?

That would be a first.

So, do we have a deal?

No. But that was a nice try.

[exhales]

Hey, have a tomato.

Had a good crop this year.

You know, you're a better actor
than you are a farmer, Darin.

♪

Oh, gosh, the whole thing
was so humiliating.

Hey, you survived.

Oh, I survived
but I still failed.

Ok, so we didn't win this time.

Yeah, and I suppose the way
the ratings are going,

it wasn't the most attractive
offer for Darin.

I was hoping maybe the show
would last,

I don't know, forever?

But certainly, 40 more years
for you, honey.

I'm at the end of my career,
we know that.

But you?

Oh. You are just hitting
your stride.

It's not about me, though.

Just think about all the jobs
that will be lost

and all the people
we won't see every day.

I mean, you know,
we're practically family.

It's... I just feel so guilty.

You know the producers never
take no for an answer, right?

-For the good of the show.
-Mmmhmm.

Ok. So, now maybe
you can tell me

why you haven't read
that script?

I know it's a small part,
but it's a good one.

I just need some more time.

To read?

You need to get back to work.

I am working.

On what? Your vegetable garden?

Well, not just that.

Experimenting with a few
different varietals.

Had my soil tested
with the ocean air.

It's perfect for growing
Chardonnay grapes,

which are a fruit,
by the way.

Here I thought I was
representing an actor,

and low and behold,
you're a vintner.

Look, Darin,
the play was bad.

Not you.

This was one small setback.

It happens.

But it's time to stop being
a gentleman farmer

and get back to your real work,
which, in case you forgot,

is acting.

Maybe in a few months.

Darin, you don't have months.

You have to stay relevant.
You know that.

You stay away too long,
people forget you.

They haven't forgot me yet.

Maggie came by the other day,

begging me to come back
to the show.

It's the perfect solution.

I don't wanna rush back into it,
cold turkey.

Think about it, that show
is your comfort zone,

you're a star there.

Look, if you want my advice,
which you do,

you give it a few weeks,
you see how it feels.

[sighs]

I don't know.

Been a while.

That's exactly why
it makes sense.

Zac: Look, what I'm saying
to you

is that if you want
to continue acting,

you're going to need
to do something.

You do want to keep
acting, yes?

Yeah, I do.

Perfect.

You start with this,
you see how you feel.

Ok?

Yeah.

♪

Like my tomatoes that much,
do ya?

I'm not here to talk
about vegetables.

Tomato's a fruit.

Ok. I want to talk about
something serious, though.

I take tomatoes very seriously.

Are we really gonna stand here
and debate semantics?

Come on.

Look, I know you said no
the other day

and I didn't want to resort
to a guilt trip,

but I'm gonna have to.

And what exactly is it I'm
supposed to feel guilty about?

Alice.

She gave you your
big break Darin.

Not to mention the fact
that she's devoted

40 years of her life
to the show.

Yeah, well you really know
how to hit a guy.

The next thing you'll say
is the ratings are dipping

because of me.

That would be giving you
too much credit.

Though I will admit
they've dipped a little bit.

A little?

I heard they'd been dipping
ever since.

Mag, I'm not blind,

I see what the fans say
on social media.

So, why not make
your fans happy?

Nothing I'd love more,

I'm just not sure it would
make me happy.

You didn't seem unhappy
when you were on the show.

Ok.

Forget about me and Alice,
just for a second.

Think about the rest of
the devoted family, huh?

Our beloved crew members.

What's gonna happen to them,
Darin,

if you don't come back
to the show

and the network
pulls the plug, hmm?

What about the actors?

They'll be left to scatter
in the wind.

That's a little dramatic,
don't you think?

Not if it's working.

Come on, Darin.

What's it gonna take to get
you back on the show?

I don't know if you remember

when I left I said I was never
coming back.

Yeah, I remember.

And you called me a method actor
with no method.

Darin, that's 'cause you broke
up with me, all right?

My feelings were hurt.

You're a great actor.

That's why I want you back
on the show.

Did Zac put you up
to this?

No, but I'm gonna call him next
if this doesn't work.

[scoffs]

Did I mention that everything
I offered

is still on the table?

Everything?

Yes. Mm-hm.

We're gonna give you
script approval.

Well, it is a tempting offer.

Oh, come on Darin!
Don't torment me like this.

I don't have to but I'm kind of
enjoying it.

All right, look. I don't want
a long-term contract.

Ok, fine. I can work
with that.

Uh, we could do two years.

One year.

Four weeks.

[laughs]
What?

Ok, Darin, four weeks
isn't even enough time

for me to bring you back
from the dead.

Well, you're a writer, right?
Figure it out.

So he'll only do four weeks.
Thank you.

Mmmhmm.

That's not enough time
to save the show.

Well, at least it gives me some
time to convince him to stay.

Oh, honey, if you can
pull that off,

you are well on your way
to being a producer.

That's still a pretty big "if."

No, no.

No, Maggie, you have
written yourself out of

much tougher situations.

Daytime drama is easy.
It's real life that's hard.

Oh, yeah.

Ok, let me see what you've
put together and if it works,

let's print the first
100 copies.

♪

Well, got a much nicer
parking spot.

It's right in front
of my dressing room,

so that's a good sign.

Zac: A very good sign,

because I didn't even have
to negotiate that.

How're you feeling?

A little nervous.

Zac: A little nervous is good,
it just shows that you care.

Anything I can do to help,
you name it.

Thanks Zac, I think
I've got it covered.

Zac: Yeah you do.

Just remember,
you're a rock star there.

I'll let you know how it goes.

Welcome back, Mr. Mitchell!

Alice sent me to come get you
to set and bring you right away.

Thanks.

Alrighty.

-How was your drive in?
-It was good.

-Oh good.
-How are you?

Oh, so good.

And we are here.

-All right, thank you.
-You're welcome.

[cheering and applause]

Welcome back, Darin.

Thank you. I had no idea.

Darin, maybe this is a little
bit more than what you expected,

but we just wanted to let
you know how happy we are

to have you back as part
of the family.

Thanks, Gregory.

[applause]

Thank you, Gregory.
Thank you everybody,

I'm very happy to be back.

I'm very excited to get to work
with you all again,

so thank you very much.

[cheering and applause]

Come here you.

Welcome back!

Welcome back, man.

Good job.

Although, I don't love
some of the concessions

that we had to make.

I hear he's back thanks to you.

Oh.

And Alice has assured me

that you're going to get him
to extend his contract.

That's the plan.

Well I hope your plan works
because, if it doesn't...

We'll all be looking for jobs.

And if by some chance
you are successful,

I won't forget
your name again.

Well, I meant to call you guys
when I got back.

How you been?

Well, you know, a year older
but we're still here.

And like the Gerards,
we're still together.

Although my character's
in the hospital.

What happened?

Remember Ted's sister, who
turned out not to be his sister?

Yeah, yeah, yeah,

the one who said she got
switched at birth.

Well she was thrown out of
the family and disinherited,

so she sent her son to kill Ted.

Only it backfired and now
they're both sittin' in prison.

I got a lot to catch up on.

You didn't watch us at all
while you were gone?

At first I needed to focus
on the play,

but I did want to see
my memorial service

so I did catch
a few episodes.

You know, of all the years
I've been on this show,

your character had
the nicest send off.

That's right.

All right, everybody,
back to work please.

Thank you.

All right, and you have
a photoshoot in an hour

and they're waiting for you
in makeup.

All right.

Ok.

For the rest of us,
we have 180 pages today.

[groans]

Oh, Darin.

Walter and I are celebrating
our 40th wedding anniversary

and Maggie and Alice
are throwing us a party.

And we'd love for you
to be there.

I wouldn't miss it
for the world.

Great.

I'll see you in there.

-Muah!
-Bye-bye.

Lucinda: I need a wardrobe
change, yep.

Hey John! Hey Teri!
Ready for me?

Always ready for ya, Darin.

Have a seat.

Thanks.

When I heard you'd be back
last week,

I couldn't believe it.

Last week?

How'd you find out so fast?

News travels fast
in these chairs.

Darin! Have you met Trudy?

No, hi, nice to meet you.

Trudy plays Lexi.

The Gerard's granddaughter?

Uh huh.

You were like three years old
when I left a year ago.

And you died in a
drowning accident.

Fair point.

-You're all done.
-Thank you.

They grow up fast around here,
don't they?

They sure do.

Oh yeah.

[knock at door]

-Hey.
-Hey.

Ready to start going over
some ideas?

Yup, sure. Come on in.

Been a while since
I've been in here.

Looks the same.

Yeah, maybe a little messier.

So, what do you think about me
coming back as Peter?

Preston's long lost brother.

It's a good idea, but we've
already done it,

in season 14, 21, 34 and 39.
What else do you have?

[laughs]
Ok.

I'm the new guy in town
and I look a lot like Preston,

sound like him...

Ok, but what's his back story,
what's his character arc

and what's his goal for only
being there four weeks?

Ok, I get it, this is not going
to be easy.

[knocking]

Sorry to interrupt,

just wanted to drop off
your ticket for tonight.

Darin.

-Hey.
-Hi.

I'm opening a new play.

It's not the lead or anything
and it's just a small theatre,

but, uh, if you'd like to come

I should be able
to get you a ticket.

Yeah, man, that's great.
I'm really happy for you.

Ok.

I hope that wasn't too awkward
for you.

What, 'cause he was asking me
about theatre?

No. It's not awkward.

Well he didn't mean anything.

No, no. The last thing
I want people to do

is walk on eggshells
around me.

Especially you.

I won't.

So, how do you think we managed
to mess it up?

I think we started taking us
for granted

until there wasn't much
of us left.

Too busy focusing on
our careers, I guess.

At least you're making some
progress towards your dream

of becoming a producer.

Yeah, yeah. Well, back
to Preston's resurrection.

Yes. Um.

How 'bout a vampire?

Except I can only take cases
at night.

You really wanna wear
a cape and fangs?

Well, maybe I could be
a cool modern vampire.

Not sure Alice would go for it,
but I'll write it down.

Ok, what else?

See you tomorrow, guys.

Oh, Maggie,
you got a minute?

Sure, what's up?

I am organizing a weekly hike
on Saturday mornings.

You interested?

Uh, I don't know.

I haven't been hiking
in a while.

Actually, I haven't done much
of anything

except for sitting and writing
for a while.

Then you should definitely
do this.

It's not even a real hike,

we're just walking up
to the Hollywood sign.

John is coming too.

My gym's air-conditioned,

but nothing beats
the great outdoors.

Sure.

What do I have to lose,
other than maybe some stress?

Have a good night, you guys.

-See ya.
-Yes! Yes!

John: Nicely done!

Teri: I figured she would do it.

Have a good night.

Maggie, how did it go
with Darin today?

Oh, he shot down
most of my ideas.

Listen, don't let him talk you

into making Preston come back
as a vampire.

Has he tried that before?

Yeah, he brought it up
two years ago.

And believe me,

Preston was very much
alive then.

Yeah, that's definitely
not the direction

we want to take the show.

So, going to the play tonight?

Yeah, I'm just going to run
home and change,

but I'll see you there?

Yeah. I'll be there.

♪

So when can we get together?

Yeah, yeah that works.
Just not at the studio, ok?

I don't want anybody to know.

I gotta go.

Hey, hi, Maggie.

Hi.

I was just talking to my agent,
Zac.

Ok. I wasn't gonna ask, though.

Just gonna go to my car.

♪

Intriguing title.

Only if it's about electricity.

So, I guess Stewart found you
an extra ticket?

Actually, Alice had one.
Is she here yet?

I haven't seen her.

Huh. I offered to pick her up,

she said she was in the middle
of something.

Sounded kind of frenzied.

Told me she'd meet me here.

I hope it wasn't
about the show.

[phone buzzes]

Alice, hey, are you here?

Bad news.

The Palm Court cancelled us.

Cancelled?

Are we cancelled?

Uh, no, the party venue.

Alice, I'm gonna put you
on speaker phone with Darin.

So what happened?

Kitchen fire.

Sounds like one of
our story lines.

Listen, I have been
on the phone all day

trying to find a new venue.

Everything is booked.

Ok, well you know maybe we
could have it at the studio?

I'm sure the set designers could
put together something nice.

What about my place?

We could have the party outside
at sunset.

You do have a beautiful
backyard.

Alice: I love it.

Thank you, Darin.

It means that we're going to
have to start all over again.

Look, I'm gonna leave now
and I'll see you guys soon.

All right?

That's really nice of you.

Walter and Lucinda really took
me under their wing

when I first came on the show,

so, it's the least I could do
for 'em.

Seems like we'll be spending
more time together.

Thank you.

Yeah, I have been using
the rubber band trick

and it's been working.

Darin: I wear it on my wrist
all the time now.

[clears throat]

-Hey.
-Hi.

Sorry, I was just talking
to my dog walker,

Wiley's dog walker.

Since when does he need
a dog walker?

I thought you had three acres
of fenced in property?

Likes the company I guess.

So what'd you think of the play?

Oh, it was, uh, it was fine.

Huh?

Huh.

I liked it.

Really?

Yeah, yeah a lot actually.

It's ok to tell me if you didn't
like the play.

I won't tell Stewart.

Ok, well, um, if I'm being
honest I...

maybe wasn't for me.

Hey Stewart! Guess what Mag...

Stop! Stop it!

It's not so hard to say
what you think.

Oh, good, you're both here.

Listen, I've divided up
the party planning.

I'm gonna do all
the decorations,

the music and the flowers.

Now, if you kids could just do
the food and the drinks,

that would be great.

-Fine by me.
-Yeah, me too.

Excellent.

You.

Aren't you supposed to be
in a promo shoot?

Yes, I am.
I'm on my way.

Yes, I know you are.
Mm-hm.

I thought maybe I interrupted
something when I walked in.

No, we were just talking about
last night's play.

What's to discuss?
It was awful.

Darin liked it.

No. He did not!

Yes!

He fell asleep before I did.

[laughing]

Hmm.

Thank you, sir.

So, this is the Garden of Eden
you've been working on, huh?

I don't think for a second
you came over here

to look at the vegetables.

I also wanted to come by,
see how you're doing,

see how things are going
on the show.

Good.

I shoot my first scenes Monday.

Nice.

How are they bringing you back,
by the way?

Amnesia.

Of course.

So you didn't really drown?

No, no.

I was found wandering on a beach
by a lady named Scarlet,

who nurses me back to health and
then I regain some of my memory

and now I'm torn
between Scarlet and Nicole.

But Nicole's with Chase?

That's gonna complicate things.

You've actually watched
the show?

I have to admit, when you first
landed the gig,

I wanted to check it out and um,
quickly found myself hooked.

The other reason that I
stopped by was to tell you

that the network is pulling out
all the stops

to promote your return.

I haven't even told you about
the soap convention yet.

Basically you and the show are
the star attractions this year.

It's all timed to coincide with
the airing of the first episode.

Well, I just hope I can
live up to it all.

I have no doubt.

Hey, bub.

You didn't say
that it was up hill.

I said up to the Hollywood sign.

It's not that bad.
You can do this.

[barking]

Hi, Wiley!

What are you doing here?

Hi.

I didn't know Darin
was gonna be here.

I invited everyone
from the show.

It's not gonna be a problem,
is it?

No, no.

I just feel like I'm seeing
him more now

than when I was seeing him.

Oh. I have a feeling you won't
be seeing much of him,

he's probably going to be way
ahead of us on the trail.

What makes you say that?

Wow, it's kind of annoying
how fit he is.

I doubt his fans would agree.

Oh, you know, I think that Darin
has a girlfriend,

but he's too afraid to tell me.

Maybe he just doesn't want
to throw it in your face.

Maybe.

I'm sure he'll tell
me eventually.

Mmmhmm.

♪

[out of breath]

Are we going too fast?

Crawling would be too fast.

I'm more out of shape
than I thought.

I can slow down.

Oh no, you go ahead.

I'm gonna just sit here
and rest.

It's great you gave it a try,
though.

-Hey.
-Hey.

What are you two doing here?

We're on our way down already.

-Already?
-Yeah.

Woo.

Must be all that walking you did
when you lived in New York.

It's a great city for walking.

So how come you didn't stay
after your play closed?

It's not home.

Well, I gotta, I gotta
feed Wiley.

You want to walk down
with us?

Oh, I would love to but I think
I need some time to recover.

My legs are officially turned
to jelly.

-See you Monday.
-Ok.

[exhales]

Thanks for coming by, Fran.
It really helped.

I'm always here for you.

You're the best. Love ya.

Hey.

They're ready for you on set.

I was just talking to
an old friend.

Oh, ok.

You ok? You seem
a little nervous.

Yeah. Yeah.

It's been a while since
I've been in front of a camera,

but I'll be fine.

Yeah.

[exhales deeply]

[bell ringing]

Follow my finger
with your eyes.

Ok. What's the last thing
you remember?

Do you remember anything?

Preston, can you speak?

[whispers] Lifting the little
girl out of the water.

[whispers]
What?

Lifting the girl.

Alice...

I'm sorry, I just can't seem
to remember my lines.

Darin, would you like us to make
some cue cards for you?

Take five everyone.

[bell ringing]

Clear everybody,
five minutes.

Do you want to talk about it?

I mean, what is there
to talk about?

I froze.

Just first day jitters.

It's more than that.

I was afraid this was
gonna happen.

What do you mean?

Playing to a half-empty theatre
in New York,

just for the two weeks
that the play ran,

to say nothing
of all the people

who walked out in the middle
of the performance...

It did a number on me.

Hey, no one is walking out
on you here.

Every single actor on that set
has felt exactly the same way.

No one's judging you.

We're all rooting for you.

Theoretically I know that.

Hey, look.

I may have created Preston,

but you're the one
who brought him to life.

That was six years ago.

Think about all
the people's lives

you've touched in six years.

Your fans are crazy about you.

Darin, you're a really
good actor.

Okay. You're not just
a pretty face.

You have skills that other
actors don't so use them.

You've never talked to me
like this before.

Sorry.

No. No, no, I like it.

Remember when you first came
on the show,

and you told me that
your grandfather was a cop,

and that inspired you?

Maybe, think about him,
you know?

Use that.

Come on.

Ready one.

Preston: I can't believe
Nicole waited for me.

Take one.

Chase: She's certainly
a great woman.

Preston: There's something
I have to tell her.

I've been living with
the woman who found me

when I washed ashore.

♪

Good work, really.

It's a powerful scene.

Oh, I think it's Darin
who makes it so good.

[knocking]

-Hey.
-Hey.

I just came to apologize, again.

What?

This morning, I didn't mean
to miss my mark

and step on Nicole's negligee
and tear it.

Oh, you know what, I think it
added a little more drama,

so we decided to keep it.

Hey, come sit down.

Look, Darin, it's only
your third day, ok?

You're still getting used to it.
It's fine.

You are gonna make a really
good producer, you know that?

I mean, I mean it.

You, you really care about
everybody on the show.

Yeah, it's easy to do when you
love the people you work with.

And you couldn't have a better
mentor than Alice.

Yeah, yeah, I know.

I just wish I could be more
like her.

You don't have to be like Alice,
you just be yourself.

Are these my new pages?

Uh, nope. No, these are, uh,

stuff the other staff writers
are working on.

I'm still writing yours now,
actually.

Okay.

Okay.

Good luck with that.

Oh, I had an idea, for Walter
and Lucinda's party.

What do you think about having
a signature cocktail?

What do you have in mind?

Well, a 40 year romance is
something to be commemorated.

Yeah, so we should probably
go all out.

Exactly.

And, I have the name of a guy

who's supposedly one of
the best mixologists in LA.

Oh, I think that's a great idea.

Well, since I'm done shooting
for the day

and they don't need me again
for a bit,

I was gonna go check him out.

Any chance you'd want
to come with?

Uh...

You know I can't,

I still have to finish up
these few scenes.

Well, I have script approval,

and I approve you taking
a few hours off.

Um...

For Lucinda and Walter.

Sure.

♪

A 40th anniversary is known
as a ruby anniversary.

Therefore, I made
a ruby cocktail

and to top it off,
rose petals.

Wow.

Thank you.

Almost too pretty to drink.

But very romantic.

Well, 40 years of marriage
is a milestone.

I don't know how
people do it.

You don't believe
in true love?

You know, I used to,
but after two divorces...

Well, maybe you just haven't met
the right person.

Or maybe I'm just not as lucky
as you two.

Enjoy.

Well, we were a couple
for three years.

Mmm.

Wow, this is...

Incredible, right?

Yes.

We should definitely serve this.

You know, and rubies,
after all,

they do mean passion
and devotion and romance.

How do you know
all this stuff?

I write for soaps.

One I'm trying to get you
to stay on, by the way.

[chuckles]
I said I'd do four weeks.

Why only four weeks?

Come on, is there something else
you want to do?

Right now I don't know
what I want to do.

Look, I get it.

I know doing theatre
was your dream.

Yeah.

And I don't want that dream
to be one play that flopped.

It won't be.

And Darin, you're
a great actor.

You just haven't found
the right play.

Like our friend who hasn't found
the right girl.

You seem to have that covered.

And? What do you think?

Oh, we love it.

Yeah, definitely going with
the ruby cocktail.

Oh, we should come up with some
sort of signature name for it,

in honor of Walter and Lucinda.

Well, how did they meet?

Oh.

-On a soap opera.
-Yeah.

Oh, we could call it
the Forever Cocktail?

I thought I recognized you.

You were on that show,
weren't you?

My ex-wife watched that show
every day.

She was nuts about it.

And you!

I gotta go text her.

[giggling]

-Wow, cheers to that.
-Cheers to that.

I can't believe he didn't
recognize you at first.

I just hope he doesn't blame
Preston for his divorce.

[laughs]

Hey, thanks for coming
with me.

Yeah. Yeah.

I never get out of the office
in the middle of the day,

it was fun.

Well then I'm happy that I could
help you play hooky.

You're supposed to be
at a fitting, aren't you?

You are right.

I will see you later, ok?

Ok.

And that, that's how
I got Gregory to sign off

on that season's finale.

I can't believe that
he bought that.

It's sort of an industry secret.

Oh? Well, I guess I owe
you another glass of wine
for sharing it.

Actually, I could use a little
favor instead.

Yeah, of course,
what is it?

Take my place at the soap opera
convention this weekend?

You're not going?

My daughter needs me
to watch the kids.

I so know this
is last minute.

I'm just at my wit's end.

Of course I'll do it.

[sighs]

You are such a star.

Thank you.

And you know what?

This is gonna be a breeze
for you.

You know as much
about the show as I do,

and you only have to attend
one panel.

Panel?

Like in front of people?

It's a Q and A.

I mean the whole cast will be
on stage with you.

Well, but they're used to it.

No, no, you have to get
used to this.

Besides, it's a beautiful
resort.

And I know you're gonna have
a wonderful time.

Must be the fun part
of producing.

Yeah, and there are really
so few of those,

so enjoy yourself.

So?

How are things going
on the show?

Better.

A couple of rough patches
last week.

Only dropped my lines once
this week,

so that's an improvement.

But, everybody's been
really understanding,

especially Maggie.

Well, I wasn't gonna
bring her up,

but since you did.

How's it been,
working with her again?

Just like old times.

Not exactly over her,
are ya?

Thought I was.

What about Maggie?

I don't know.

I can't tell what she's feeling.

Well, here's some more
unsolicited advice

from your agent.

Maybe for now it's best to just
focus on your career.

Speaking of which, I don't know
if it's still too soon,

but I might have found
a new play for you,

if you're interested.

Welcome everyone.

I am Ken, I will be your
coordinator for the weekend.

You'll find everything you need
in your packets,

your schedule of events,
your room assignments

and this year we have included
a complimentary spa treatment.

All: Oh!

And that sounds
right up my alley.

[laughing]

And if you need anything
else at all,

my card is also in the packet.

Thank you, Ken.
It's lovely to be back.

Oh, it's an honor
to have you back.

Your first panel is at 2:00
this afternoon,

so I'll see you then.

Okay.

Anybody up for lunch
in about an hour?

Sure.

I'm starving.

I'm just gonna head up to
the hotel cafe and grab a bite

because I gotta prep
for the panel,

but I'll see you all
at 2:00?

-Yeah. See you at 2:00.
-Okay.

Okay.

Well, how 'bout sushi?

-Sounds good.
-Yeah, I'm in.

Darin: I'll meet you
in the lobby.

Gwen: Sure.

♪

Hey, Maggie.

Hey, hi.

I didn't realize
we were neighbors.

Yeah. Walter and Lucinda
are just on the other side.

Oh.

Are you sure you don't want
to join us for lunch?

Yeah. I picked something
up already.

I'm gonna go prep
for the panel.

I've never been on one before.

Yeah, I know you're used to
being behind the scenes,

but panels are pretty simple.

Just not comfortable in front of
an audience.

Oh, you'll be fine.

If you get a question
that you're unsure of,

you just take a breath
and say something like

"that's a really good question,"

Buy you a minute to think of
what to say.

Thanks.

Oh, and if that doesn't work,
try one of these.

An elastic band?

Yeah, it's a trick for nerves.

You just put it on and it
reminds you to be present.

Thanks Darin, for looking
out for me.

Yeah.

[phone ringing]

Sorry.

Sorry, gotta take this.
It's Zac.

Oh.

Hey.

Darin: Thanks for calling
me back.

Fran: I got your message.

Darin: Can I, can I see you
when I get back in town?

[gasps]

[golf clubs crash]

Oh, my gosh!

[laughs]

And of course, a huge thank you
to CHB network,

the host of our favorite
soap opera,

for sponsoring today's panel.

[applause]

Maggie, now I know
that this is

your first time
at Soap Opera Expo

and you have been with Forever
for, well, a long, long time.

[laughter]

Tell us how you got started.

Um, well, that's
a great question.

[nervous laugh]

Um, well, like all of you,

I am a huge fan of soap operas.

When I was little, my
grandmother lived with us

and she, and my mother and I
would watch soaps every day

and they were our salvation
through a lot of rough patches.

Yeah.

And, I always wanted
to be a writer,

so I thought, what better job
than writing on a soap opera?

And now you're
the head writer.

Yes.

Which leads me to
my next question.

How are you writing Preston
Stillwater back onto the show?

[laughs]

Sorry, we're gonna have
to keep that one a secret.

But we've shot a lot of scenes
with Darin already

and you're just going
to have to tune in

when his first episode airs
this Monday.

We'll be tuning in, won't we?

[applause]

Ok.

Who wants to ask
the first question?

Audience: Oh, oh, oh, oh.

Right there, yes?

Hi, my question is for Darin.

I love you so much as Preston

and for a cop, he's such
a romantic guy,

but, what is Darin's
ideal first date?

Well, that's easy.

It would be a ride to the top
of my favorite canyon in LA.

Picnic dinner and a bottle
of wine.

And we'd watch the sunset.

Yeah, yeah, right here.

My question is also for Darin.

You were such a huge star
on Forever,

before you left for Broadway,
but then your play bombed.

Was it hard for you to come
back to the show after that?

That's a really good question.

You know, it was actually
hard for us,

because Darin had so many offers
and everybody wanted him,

so we're just so lucky that
we got him back on our show.

Forever gave me my start

and I really love the show
and I really love the people.

[applause]

♪

Hey, who's that Darin is
talking to over there?

That's Joey Buchanan.

He's the producer on
Tomorrow Always Comes.

He's been trying to get us
to jump ship for years, but..

[laughs]

We're very happy
where we are.

Besides, it would have meant
driving an extra half hour

just to get to work
every morning, so...

[laughs]

And we are... no way.

[laughing]

What's so funny?

Oh, just LA traffic.

At least we're out of it
for the weekend, right?

Mag, can I talk to you
for a minute?

Sure.

Excuse us.

Thanks for letting me borrow
the earrings.

Oh, you're welcome.

Well, that's promising.

Well hello, you two.

-Oh, Ken
-Hi, Ken.

Did you get a chance
to go to the spa?

I did, it was great.

I just wanted to thank you
for that save earlier.

Yeah, yeah.

Thank you for the rubber band,
it really helped.

Yeah, well, you never know
what kind of questions
you're gonna get.

Like, what's your ideal
first date?

Well, at least I knew the answer
to that one.

That was our first date.

I know.

Taking girls up to the top
of the canyon

for a sunset picnic
is your thing now?

I said it was my favorite thing,

I never said I did it
with anybody else.

[laughs]

Well...

It was a good first date.

Even though you forgot
the blanket.

I didn't think you noticed.

I didn't want to say anything.

And yet, you went out
with me again anyway.

Against my better judgement.

I wasn't sure it was a good idea
to date somebody

that you work with.

Walter and Lucinda
made it work.

Well maybe they know something
we don't.

Gwen: There you are!

Ken wants to see us
for a group photo.

Come.

[out of breath]

Hey.

Hey, hi.

Hi.

I didn't think
you'd be out here.

Yeah, well, I am determined
to make it

to the top of
the Hollywood sign.

One of these days.

And it's beautiful out here,

so, I figured, what better
place to practice.

Well, I admire
your determination.

I'm not aiming
for Mount Everest.

Just the Hollywood sign.

You want some company?

No, you should go ahead,

I don't want to hold you back.

I'm not in a hurry.

We take it slow.

See where the path takes us.

You know, don't you
have someone

you need to check in with
or call or something?

[growling sounds]

Oh!

There's not bears around here,
are there?

Uh, probably?

We're up in the mountains.

You know what,

maybe some friendly company
isn't such a bad idea.

Ok.

You all right?

Yes.

So?

So.

What do you think of
the convention so far?

Oh, it's great.

Yeah.

Fans are wonderful and you know,
to tell you the truth,

this is probably my first
weekend away in two years.

I need to do this more often.

So why don't you?

Just been so afraid of the show
getting cancelled

that I've been working harder
than usual.

And you've done a great job,
bringing Preston back,

but, you know
there's no guarantee

he's going to save the show.

Yeah, yeah, no yeah. I know.

And I've played
the "what ifs" game.

Suppose I could turn to writing
romance novels.

But I'm not going down
without a fight.

And you could do another play?

If that's what you want.

I don't even know yet
what I want.

I love being on Forever.
I like the fast pace.

Normally, I don't have a problem
remembering my lines.

But, live theatre, you just get
that connection to the audience

that I also love, you know?

A lot of actors do both.

[chatter]

-Maggie! Hi.
-Oh, hi.

Joey Buchanan, producer on
Tomorrow Always Comes.

Oh, it's so nice to meet you.

You know, I'm surprised Alice
isn't here this weekend.

But I guess she's about
to retire.

Along with your show.

I don't know where
you heard that.

Oh, so there's no truth
to the rumors

that Forever is in trouble?

No.

No truth to the rumors.

You know, it's so funny though,
what was your name, Jeff?

-Joey.
-Joey.

I heard the same rumors
about your show.

Tomorrow Always Comes.

Or does it?

♪

Okay, the party count is 52.

Thanks.

Is there any... anybody else
you wanna add?

Oh, yeah. Gwen just started
dating Will Sullivan,

from The Road Back, so I told
her to bring him.

Didn't they just meet
at soap opera expo?

Well now you didn't
mention that.

Boy, it must have been
some weekend.

Well, what better place
to fall in love

than a soap opera convention?

Oh!

Not me!

Uh-huh.

Are you sure there wasn't
a little rekindling

between you and Darin?

What? No.

Oh, come on.

I saw the way he was
looking at you.

Boy, am I sorry I missed it.

[laughing]

Okay. You know what,
you two are ridiculous.

I think he's seeing
someone anyway.

Sweetheart, I've been on soaps
long enough

to know a romantic look
when I see one.

Ok, well, no disrespect,

but I think you're wrong
about that.

Speaking of Darin,
where is he?

Didn't he say he wanted
to be here with all of us

to see his first episode?

Oh, he left right after we
finished shooting this morning.

He said he had an appointment,
but he'd be back in time.

TV: Now is just a moment, but
Forever is a long, long time.

-I am very excited actually.
-Yeah, it's so good.

Preston...

It feels like just yesterday
you were here.

Today's a new day.

[laughs]

Oh!

[crowd applauds and cheers]

♪

[giggles]

-Hey.
-Hey.

Off to an early start?

Yeah, well, I was too nervous
to sit at home

and wait for the ratings from
your first episode to come in,

so I thought I'd walk off
some of my nervous energy.

We had the same idea.

Hey, everyone thought that
your scenes were terrific.

Thanks.

Yeah.

Felt good, but helps when
you have a good script.

Beats what we used to do,

sitting at home on pins
and needles,

waiting for the ratings
to come in.

And we'd order pizza.

Two, if we thought
it was bad news.

Ah, you were always convinced
it wouldn't be.

We rarely had to eat
that second pizza.

Want to go get one now,
just in case?

It's 7:30 in the morning!

I'll go get coffee,
if you want.

What, and, and abandon
your walk?

I thought your goal was
to make it to the top.

Do you have to remember
everything that I've said.

You used to get mad at me
if I didn't.

Not mad, mad.
More like... annoyed.

[chuckles]

[laughs]

[notification alert]

The ratings are in.

[notification alert]

Yeah, and they're up.

Way up!

[laughing]

Um, sorry.

You don't have to apologize.

It's Alice.

She is ecstatic
about the numbers,

so she's calling a production
meeting so I should go.

But, um, rain check
on that walk?

Yeah, sure.

One of the things
that I remember

is that we were best friends.

But, now it seems as though
my best friend's

fallen in love with my wife.

I don't deny it.

I've always been
in love with Nicole,

but she never felt
the same way about me.

Not until you were dead.

But I'm not dead anymore.

[bell ringing]

Got some notes,
going again.

[clapping]

Nice work, everyone.

[clapping]

Hey, Darin, you play
a terrific amnesiac.

It was an inspired way
to bring Preston back.

Teri: So what did you think
about that?

-It's all Maggie.
-You know I think...

Ah, how 'bout you stay
on the show?

Maybe we bump Preston up
to Police Commissioner?

I mean, once he's got
his full memory back?

Thank you, for the promotion,

I'm just not sure Preston's
gonna be around that long.

[production chatter]

Maggie?

Can I speak with you outside,
please?

[exhales]

Look, Darin only has one week
left on his contract.

You were supposed
to take care of that.

Sweeps week is coming up soon,

you know how important that is
to our ratings.

I know.

And you know what, I think
he's actually coming around.

Doesn't sound like it to me.

If our ratings are up,
they need to stay up.

Have a great day!

Ok.

-Bye.
-Bye

[phone rings]

Zac, hey.

Zac: Hey, what'd you think
of that play I sent over?

Pretty good, right?

Uh, I haven't read it yet.

What? Not this again.

I thought things were going
well on Forever.

They were, they are.

No more blunders,

I just am not quite sure
I'm ready for live theatre.

Will you please do me a personal
favor and read this play?

I really think it'll change
your mind.

All right. All right.

I left it in my dressing room,
but I'm not far from there.

I'll swing by and pick it up.

Sounds good. Gotta go.

Zac here.

Ok.

Hello?

[gasps]

Woah, hey, hi.

Hi.

Relax, it's just me.

Ok.

What are you doing here
on a Saturday?

Uh, working.

Or, at least I was
attempting to.

I thought you had everything
under control.

Yeah, I do, except I'm trying
to come up with new ideas

to convince the star of our show
to stay.

You know, love triangle
or something.

Anything that would get him
to change his mind.

Well, maybe Preston should get
back with Scarlet.

Let Chase and Nicole
finally get together.

Yeah. It's a good idea.

I can start writing
that storyline now.

You know what, you could
actually move next door

to Chase and Nicole

and you guys could wreak
havoc on the town.

I think that's a terrible idea.

And that you need a break.

What? Now?

Yup, right now.

And you gave me an idea.

Not about the show,
about the anniversary party.

We still haven't narrowed down
a caterer.

And there is one more restaurant

I think that we should go
check out.

Ok, perfect.

Let me just go grab something
from the printer.

Ok, ready.

Ok.

You know, you never told me

why you were at the studio
this morning.

I left my script
at the studio.

Oh, I think you're really
gonna like this new one.

There's a whole scene
where Preston accepts

his posthumous award
for saving the children.

It's cool.

Always like putting on the whole
dress uniform.

Oh, you wear it well.

Oh yeah?

I just...

I just mean it's hard to resist
a man in uniform, that's all.

Well, I do get more Tweets
every time I put it on.

Oh.

And, that might be why
Gregory's suggesting

that Preston get promoted
to Police Commissioner.

Hm, that would be jumping
a few ranks.

True.

I kind of like the idea.

Well, I'm sure I could come up
with something,

you know, to make it logical.

I'm sure you could.

You always find a way to make
the impossible possible.

Yeah, well, I wish I didn't
have to.

What do you mean?

I just wish I could write
stories that are more relatable.

Well, not exactly Alice's style.

I know and it's still her show.

Which she wants to give to you.

So maybe you just have
to show her how you do that.

Well, I could start by making
you Police Commissioner.

Maybe I should finish my arc
as Detective first,

don't you think?

Well, would you really
consider staying?

Maybe.

Yeah?

Only for a couple weeks.

Oh, come on!
Why a couple weeks?

I mean, I thought things
were going well.

They are.

I have enjoyed myself
these past few weeks,

despite your less than subtle
attempts to get me to stay.

What?

It was something that you said
about Alice.

And about owing the show
something really stuck with me.

So, I thought,
maybe I'll stay,

help keep the ratings up
till sweeps week.

And here we are.

You want them to cater
the party?

I thought you said you didn't
like Café Sur La Rue.

Well, I was giving you
a hard time.

Hey!

We actually have some
good times here.

Yeah.

Two, please.

♪

Oh, no. I'm good,
thank you.

Oh, hi.

Thank you.

Great party!

The three of you
really pulled it off.

Thanks, thanks.

I'm just relieved
that it all worked out.

Has Darin mentioned
his girlfriend yet?

No. And I thought he was gonna
invite her here tonight,

but I haven't seen him
with anyone.

-Thank you, no.
-No, I'm fine, thank you.

Well, I guess he's not ready
to tell me.

Want to talk about it
over some food?

No, it's ok, really.

All right, well,
suit yourself.

[laughs]

Oh! Thank you.

Thank you.

This really is the perfect place
for the party.

It is. I think Gregory is
actually having a good time,

even though he does moan
a little about the show.

[laughing]

Well, then maybe it's time
we could, you know,

pitch him about taking
the show in a new direction?

Oh, honey.

I'm just so afraid we're gonna
risk losing our core audience.

Yeah.

Excuse me everyone,

if I could have your attention
for a moment.

On behalf of Alice and Maggie
and myself,

I'd just like to thank you all
for being here

to share this very
special evening.

After being married at the end
of the show's first season,

Walter and Lucinda are
celebrating 40 years together.

Thank you, Alice.

It was the best blind date
I've ever had.

[crowd laughs]

So, what started out as
colleagues working together,

blossomed into one of
the greatest romances ever.

Oh.

People say that it can be hard
to work every day

with someone you love.

It can be easy to take
each other for granted.

And sometimes, you just
don't tell the other person

how you feel
until it's too late.

But Walter and Lucinda seem to
have found the secret to that,

which, according to them,
is to respect one another,

and always be honest.

So, to paraphrase one of
the great romance movies

of all time,

I'll have what they're having.

[crowd laughs]

To Walter and Lucinda.

Crowd: To Walter and Lucinda!

Thank you.

Did you help him write that?

Oh no, that's all his words.

Oh.

♪

Oh, I'm making a run to Meet2Eat
grab some lunch.

Do you want something?

Yeah, sure.

Actually, you know what,
can I pick it up,

because I have been sitting
in my office all day

and I could really use
some fresh air.

Great. Grab me the usual.

Ok. Perfect.

Oh, I already ordered.
You can go ahead of me, sorry.

Maggie?

I was grabbing lunch across the
street and saw you come in here.

Hi, I'm Maggie,

I work with Darin and you must
be Fran, his new girlfriend.

It's really nice to meet you,
finally.

Is this an improv scene
I don't know about?

[laughing]

I am so sorry for interrupting
whatever this is.

This is an acting class

and we're in the middle
of a scene, so.

So...

Pretend I was never here.

Love your hair.

Ok.

Maggie, hold on.

That was by far the most
embarrassing moment of my life.

Why didn't you stop me?

Stop you how?

Ok.

So, Fran isn't your girlfriend?

What? No.

Then why the phony dog walker

and all the strange phone calls
saying it was "Zac"

when it wasn't?

Why all the mystery?

I'm working with her.

Fran's my acting coach.
This is her workshop.

She's the one that showed me

the elastic band trick
that I taught you.

Oh.

Look, my confidence was pretty
shot after New York.

You know, coming back
to Forever,

I knew I couldn't do it
without help.

So, I've been working
with her privately.

And, as you saw today,

gets me back in front of
a live audience.

That's awesome.

I'm sorry I didn't tell you
what was going on.

I had no idea it was so bad.

So, there's no girlfriend?

Only in your imagination,
which is clearly running wild.

Hey, you always said
that made me a good writer.

[laughs]

Oh man, and then I came
and I ruined your scene

and, you know, I'm just gonna
go, before I make things worse.

Can we just make a pact?

Ah, what'd you have in mind?

All right, this whole
thing started

because we haven't been honest
with each other,

so, from here on out, can we
just not hide things like this?

Friend to friend.

If it'll help us avoid something
like that again, I'm in.

Great.

This time I really am leaving.

Ok.

[bell ringing]

That was a lovely ceremony.

It was nice to reconnect

with some of the children
that I rescued.

They were sweet.

By the way, who was that women
I saw you talking to?

You two seemed to be having
an intense conversation.

That was Scarlet.

I had no idea that she'd
be there.

That's great. Moving on.

[bell ringing]

All right, moving on.
Second team in.

Scene ok?

Yeah, no, it's not that.

I just saw the latest ratings.

Did they dip?

No, they're up a little.

But probably not enough
for Gregory.

Well, maybe it's time to crack
that book open

and share your ideas with Alice.

I don't think so.

She has her own set vision
for the show.

It's the producer's job
to look after the show.

What do you mean?

Alice isn't going to be around
when you take over.

So, she's gonna make you
the producer of the show,

she needs to understand
that you have your own vision

about how to make
the show work.

And look, I saw the ideas in
your notebook and they're good.

I don't want to undercut Alice.

Maggie, it was your ideas
for Preston

that made me realize how much
I missed this place.

How much I miss you.

Just look what you've
accomplished

in the last four weeks alone.

You can't do to Alice
what you did to me.

Saying nothing isn't gonna
help her or the show.

I'm so sorry.

I'm sorry too.

Rhonda: Maggie?

Ah. Gwen has a script question.

Sure, yeah, I'll be there.
One second.

Okay.

Listen, I was thinking...

[phone rings]

I'm sorry, Zac.

See. No more secrets.

Yeah.

Hey.

Zac: So what did you think?

Yeah, yeah, I read
the script.

You're right.

It is perfect for me.

Zac: Excellent. Can I tell
them you'll do it?

Give me a few more days
to decide.

[exhales]

Hey!

I hear you're looking for me.
What's up?

Uh, yeah, the future
of the show.

Well, I mean it's
certainly better.

We got Darin back and
he's extended his run.

And, you know,

I wouldn't be surprised if
he actually stayed longer.

Yeah, but he may not.

And if he takes something else

then he has every right
to do that.

Yes, of course.

But, if we really want to keep
the show going another 40 years

and preserve your legacy,
then...

I think it's time to take
the show in a new direction.

Maggie...

Alice.

Let me say this.

It's time for a change.

I really think we need to appeal
to a younger audience.

Here, I have something
to give you.

Come on.

Look though this and you'll see
what I'm talking about.

Oh, this is a lot.

Yeah, but it's worth a read,

you know for the good
of the show.

♪

Hey!

Got your text last night,

when's the meeting
with Gregory?

In an hour.

Oh, that doesn't sound good.

It's a pitch meeting.

We're pitching?

No, you are.

It was a good read.

[laughs]

Alice tells me that you have
a new vision

for the show that
I have to hear?

Well, I think we should take the
show in a whole new direction.

And tell stories that are a
little edgier and more modern.

I know we've always resisted
that in the past.

[gasp]

I'm not the only dinosaur
in the room, am I?

[laughs]
Touché.

Well, with all
the new platforms,

maybe it's time we shake
things up a little bit.

Yeah.

Maybe it is time we changed
things up.

And Maggie is the one person
to do it.

I like that whole
contemporary angle.

Preston could become the CEO
of a new company,

he could bring medical
technology overseas

to some doctors.

That's a terrific idea.

Alice: Mmmhmm.

You know, getting Darin back,
resurrecting Preston,

that really got our numbers up
and helped the show,

but Maggie I think it's you
and your ideas

that are gonna save it.

Well, I have a lot of ideas.

How much time do you have?

♪

Sure you don't want
to stick around,

at least till the new
episodes air?

You got this, Maggie.

I'm really gonna miss you.

Well, that's the last
of the boxes.

How were the goodbyes?

Fine.

I knew saying goodbye to the two
of you would be the hardest.

You'll forget all about us
once you get to the beach

and feel that sun.

[laughs]
Oh...

Thank you.

You guys mind if I give you
a few words of wisdom?

Please.

Try not to focus on
what's to come.

You could forget to appreciate
what's right in front of you.

Bye.

Okay.

Okay, here I go.

Did she just quote a line
from the show?

She wrote it 30 years ago,
she's still using it.

Alice: Bye, bye!

Mickey: Five, four,
three, two...

So is it me or Chase?

Neither.

You're building a business to
help doctors all over the world.

Chase is a brilliant surgeon.

But I have a law degree,
from Harvard.

And now it's my turn to go out
into the world

and realize my potential.

You're right.

I've never been more proud
of you, Nicole.

Gotta tell Maggie.
I really like this new Nicole.

She's got chutzpah.

Alice and I had lunch together
here every month.

I'm glad we're carrying
on the tradition.

So am I.

And I wanted to say thank you
for all your hard work.

Forever's numbers have been
going up every day

and people just seem to love
this new direction

you're taking with the show.

Thanks.

That really means a lot.

We have to keep these
ratings up, Maggie.

I mean, our advertisers are
paying extra attention now

that Darin's leaving the show
to do a play again.

We can't appear to be
leveling out.

He's doing a play?

That's what I hear.

It's not gonna be a problem
this time,

let him go to New York.

The show can stand on its own
with the new direction.

I even have an idea of
how to write him off.

I have all sorts of ideas
running through my head.

As a tech CEO
going international,

he goes on a trip where he gets
caught up in a civil war

and is taken hostage.

Might be a little too easy
for Preston.

And Darin.

It's up to you.

You're the producer
Maggie Coleman.

[laughs]

What if he got hit by a bus?

[laughs]

Zac, go.

Hi Zac, it's Maggie Coleman.

Zac: Hey, Maggie.
What's up?

Darin's new play.

Did he sign the contract
for it yet?

Yeah, he sent it to me
this morning.

Thanks. That's all I needed
to know.

Hey.

So, I just got
next week's pages.

Uh-huh.

You have Preston getting hit
by a bus?

That's right.

You know, I thought about
a car accident

but a bus just seemed
more dramatic.

So you're killing
Preston off again?

Well, aren't you leaving?

How did you even hear
about that?

Does it matter?

What matters is
you didn't tell me,

even after we made a pact not
to hide things from each other.

Well, I was gonna tell you
tonight over a bottle of wine

and a picnic dinner
at the top of our canyon.

What, like a date?

No, not like a date.

A real date.
Like our first date.

But you ruined it by jumping to
conclusions like you always do.

Oh, that's not fair.

Isn't it?

You wrote Preston off
without discussing it with me.

[laughs]

You know, I never should
have given you script approval.

Yeah, well I didn't approve
these pages,

but you know what,

you feel free to get rid of
Preston any way you want.

Mickey: That's great.
Moving on.

[bell ringing]

-See ya.
-Yeah.

Is there something going on
with Maggie and Darin?

They barely spoke
to each other on set.

Haven't you read next
week's scripts?

Don't tell me they're
making you older again?

No, Lexi's safe, but Preston
isn't so lucky.

He's getting hit with
a double whammy

and it looks like they're
writing him off for a while.

I wonder why.

Teri, did Maggie say anything
to you about it?

Maybe, maybe she'll
tell me tomorrow?

Hope you're all coming
on the hike.

It'll be interesting to see if
Darin and Maggie both show up.

Hey. How's it going?

Oh, hey, Darin.
Just fine.

Everything's great.

♪

Hey guys!

-Hey!
-Oh hi!

Walter!

Lucinda had a spa day, so
I figured I'd join you kids.

-Great!
-Nice.

Isn't Maggie supposed
to be here?

She texted me last night
and said she was coming.

I'm surprised Darin's not here.

Anyone find out yet why they're
not speaking to each other?

I'll text Maggie and see
if she's still coming.

What did she say?

She said she's here.

"Look up."

[laughing]

[cheering and clapping]

Congratulations on making
it all the way to the top.

Hey.

Thanks, feels pretty great.

It's good to see you here too.

Well, I didn't want to feel
left out.

And I gotta get in shape,

if I want to be on stage
three nights a week

plus Sunday matinees.

You're doing a play?

Yeah, with Darin.

I'm playing his father.
It's an amazing script.

So, you're leaving the show too?

Why would I?

Unless you know something
I don't.

No.

This... play's in
New York though.

No, no, no.

We're doing it right here in LA.

Are you sure?

Well, I'm old,
but I'm not that old.

Yeah, like a scene
out of a soap opera,

I jumped to all
the wrong conclusions.

Is that why Darin's
not here today?

You know, I'd love to stay
and chat, but I gotta go.

Gotta go stop a bus accident.

[exhales]

♪

Darin?

All out of tomatoes, if
that's why you're here.

I'm not here to discuss fruit.

At least you remembered
tomatoes are fruit,

not a vegetable.

Yeah, at least I finally
got something right.

'Cause I've gotten
so many things wrong.

Is that a written apology?

This, uh, no, no.

I, I rewrote next
week's episode.

Preston manages to dodge
the bus.

If, you'd consider staying.

I never wanted to leave.

It's you who pushed Preston
and me out.

I know.

I know that's another thing
I got wrong.

Listen, I had lunch with Gregory
and he told me that your play

was in New York and I just
assumed that he knew

what he was talking about.

And look, I'm really happy
that you got a play

and I heard it's a really
good one.

It is.

I'm not going anywhere.

While we're on the subject,
you know it wasn't your fault,

for not saying anything to me
about the play in New York.

I just, I was so seduced
by the idea of Broadway

that I overlooked the fact
that easily 16 other actors

passed on it
before it came to me.

-Really?
-Yeah.

Wow, I guess we're not hiding
anything anymore then, huh?

There's one other thing I don't
want to hide anymore.

I know you're not 6'2.

[laughs]

It's not what I wanted
to confess.

No, I'm trying to tell you is

I'm still in love with you.

Well, then I have something
to confess as well.

I never stopped loving you.

♪

Nicole: It was foolish of
me to think that I could
live without you.

There's no reason
I can't be your wife

and continue my law practice.

And even though my job as a
CEO takes me around the world,

I'll always come home to you.

Nicole: I know that now.

And I'm so happy everything
worked out.

Scarlet and Chase will make
a great couple.

But will they ever be
as happy as us?

Glad these two finally
got back together.

Yeah, well it's a soap,

so who knows how long
they'll last.

But, you know, I think
we'll last forever.

And Forever...

Both: Is a long, long time.

♪

[laughing]

[Wiley barking]

♪

♪