Reasonable Doubt (2022–…): Season 1, Episode 1 - Can't Knock The Hustle - full transcript
JAX STEWART:
Be strong and courageous.
Do not fear nor be in dread of them,
for it is the Lord your God
who goes before you.
He will never leave you or forsake you.
♪
[muffled groaning]
♪
[gasps]
♪
[groaning]
♪
[pants]
You need to know that this is not a plan.
But you need one.
And I can't help you if I'm dead.
[gun cocks]
I swear to God, all of my life,
I will never say anything to anyone.
I will pretend that this never happened.
No.
♪
Be strong and courageous.
Do not fear nor be in dread of them,
for it is the Lord your God
who goes with you.
He will not leave you or forsake...
[gunshot]
♪
[birds chirping]
[alarm blaring]
♪ Hustle Hard by Ace Hood playing ♪
♪ How do it? ♪
♪ Hustle, hustle, hustle, hustle ♪
♪ Hustle, hustle,
hustle, hustle ♪
♪ Hustle, hustle, hustle ♪
♪ Same old shit ♪
♪ Just a different day ♪
♪ Out here trying to get it ♪
♪ Each and every way ♪
♪ Mama need a house ♪
♪ Baby need some shoes ♪
♪ Times are getting hard ♪
♪ Guess what Imma do ♪
♪ Hustle, hustle, hustle, hard ♪
♪ Hustle, hustle, hustle, hustle ♪
Fuck.
♪ Closed mouths don't get
fed on this boulevard ♪
Hello, family.
- NAIMA: Hey, Mom.
- Hey. Hey. How was your run?
Amazing.
I'm feeling all kinds of love and light.
Oh. Love and light?
Well, we're gonna be late.
Alright, come on, Spense,
don't be rude.
What? You said we needed
to leave, like, ten minutes ago.
Okay, well, look, I'm ready now.
- How do I look, baby?
- I think you look pretty, Mommy.
JAX:
Thank you, sweetheart.
- LEWIS: Right.
- Let me get these plates.
SPENSER: Thank you.
NAIMA: Thank you.
LEWIS:
There's a lot of food on those plates.
Yeah, I wonder why.
- Alright, alright.
- Alright, children, let's go.
Let's get your Bibles
and let's go to church.
See what I mean?
[kids chattering indistinctly]
He's being a little asshole.
[door closes]
Nah, it's just a phase. He'll be fine.
JAX:
Mm-hmm.
[organ music playing]
[applause]
Amen. Amen.
CONGREGATION:
Amen.
Now, church family, I know you tithe,
and we appreciate that ten percent.
But this Sunday, we're gonna ask you
to give just a little bit more.
See, Sister Nancy here,
who's been battling cancer
for the past few years,
well, she's drowning in medical bills...
Look at her. She look like
somebody that's going through chemo?
Ooh, what she really doing
is gettin' that Gucci drip.
BOTH:
Gucci.
- I'm sorry. Sorry.
- [Pastor Thurston speaking indistinctly]
- You're gonna get us in trouble.
- [cell phone buzzing]
- PASTOR: And so you will fulfill...
- Thought we said no work on Sundays.
PASTOR: Amen.
CONGREGATION: Amen.
God knows my heart.
I'll be right back.
PASTOR: Today is a beautiful day
to not only open up your hearts,
but to also open up your wallets
and dig deep in them pockets
for Sister Nancy.
Amen!
- [telephone ringing]
- Hello?
This is Jax Stewart returning your call.
MARK NOONAN: [over phone]
Hi, Jax. Thanks for returning.
My name is Mark No on an.
I'm a lawyer at Kender and Franklin.
Oh, yes. Deb Winston and I
went to law school together.
Love Deb.
Yeah, well, then, we've probably met
at one of her infamous birthday dinners.
JAX: [chuckles]
Yes, "infamous" is the perfect word.
Look, I wish I could chat longer,
but I'm at church with my family.
Oh, well, now I feel guilty.
No worries. What's up?
I have a client named Madison Stiles
who claims that your client
Devin MacDonald
assaulted her in his hotel room last week.
- Can you give me the specifics?
- MARK: Yes.
Uh, Madison attended a party
at a club on Sunset
where she met Mr. MacDonald.
They spoke for a bit and then
he invited her back to his hotel suite.
- Did she go?
- MARK: She did.
He then exposed himself to her.
- Did he make her touch him?
- MARK: No.
She ran out horrified, as you can imagine.
Did he stop her from leaving?
MARK:
No.
Do you need me to tell it again?
No, I got it.
I'm just not hearing an actual crime.
Your client is
a powerful basketball player
who used his influence
to lure a young woman
into a situation
she wasn't comfortable with.
As a defense attorney
and former public defender,
I would assume you'd be aware
of what criminal behavior sounds like.
JAX:
I am.
But extortion is a crime too,
so I'm not sure
who the real victim is here.
Okay. You need to take this seriously
before we file a claim.
JAX:
In civil court.
Meaning she wants money.
She wants to be heard.
And money talks. I got it.
[scoffs]
I was hoping you were a woman
who supported women,
but I guess not.
I support the law and the truth,
not funding cash apps.
You have 48 hours
to discuss this with your client,
after which we'll be
filing a formal complaint.
Like I said,
I am at church with my family.
I will reach out
once I've spoken to Mr. MacDonald,
within your time frame, of course.
Suddenly I feel a little less guilty
about not going to church today.
I'm sure you always feel guilty
but still never go.
♪
Happy Monday!
Why do you say that every Monday?
Because you hate it.
Well, my week started yesterday.
Oh, speaking of, I need you
to book a private room for me
tomorrow afternoon at Stadium Club.
Uh-oh. Which spoiled celebrity
got a DUI this weekend?
Actually, it wasn't a DUI.
It was your favorite basketball player
Devin MacDonald.
Oh, hell. What'd he do?
Nothing. And that's the problem.
Oh, tell Daniel to look into
an IG thot named Madison Stiles.
Why she got to be a thot though?
Oh.
JAX: Mm-hmm.
So what's she claiming he did?
Be an asshole, which he is.
- KRYSTAL WALTERS: So you believe her?
- Well, I believe her side of things.
But she wants to take him to court
for making her uncomfortable.
And there is no penal code for that.
Your ability to compartmentalize things
makes me uncomfortable.
JAX:
Hmm.
Speaking of people being uncomfortable,
your weekly partners meeting
is in five minutes.
Ugh. Can I please just stay over here
on the Black side of the office?
Oh, sure, and we can switch paychecks.
[Jax chuckles]
Here's the agenda.
Girl, you know, it could be both.
He could have made her feel uncomfortable
because he committed a crime.
Just like you can be both
invaluable and annoying.
And since you've already been the latter,
let's start being the former, huh?
♪ To the computers ♪
♪ Uh-huh, uh-huh ♪
♪ To the phones ♪
Uh... Ok... Okay. Okay. Okay.
Happy Monday!
TERRY BINDER:
Our 4Q billable hours were strong,
but we really need to focus
on corporate clients
more than individuals,
at least until we can justify
moving into this fancy building.
LELAND:
Gotta fake it till you make it.
It's the LA way.
[laughter]
- Hollywood, baby.
- [laughs]
Terry, I couldn't agree with you more
about corporate clients,
but, well, there's a guy
who wants to meet with us
who's basically his own corporation.
- Brayden Miller.
- The Black billionaire?
Almost. But Forbes predicts
he will be one soon.
That's right. He has some
strong financial interests in his company
that will secure his place
in that coveted club.
So he wants us to handle his sale?
No, it sounded personal and urgent,
but his assistant didn't specify.
- Must be serious.
- Yeah, sounds like it.
Okay, Rich, set the meeting.
We'll find a time
that works for all of us.
Jax, I think you should join.
You're good at handling A-list clients.
You mean Black clients?
I'm just messing with you, Terry.
[laughter]
But, seriously, I do think that maybe
it should just be Rich and me
in the meeting.
In my personal experience,
I've found that clients do not like
to discuss sensitive matters
in front of a large audience.
- Good idea.
- That's why she gets paid the big bucks.
Ooh, could be bigger, Leland.
♪ While I'm watching every nigga
watching me closely ♪
♪ My shit is butter for the bread
they wanna toast me ♪
♪ I keep my head... ♪
Lord, give me the strength.
[cell phone ringing]
♪ ...clap from close feet ♪
♪ I don't sleep... ♪
Hey, Ma.
Well, hello, Jacqueline. How are you?
Oh, just dealing these white folks
as per usual.
How are you?
Oh, I'm so glad
I don't have to deal with that anymore.
I'm sure. I thought
you'd be doing your walk.
Oh, no, I was, but I'm tired today.
Plus, Linda's just been annoying lately.
She just be talking and talking.
Well, look, I'm glad
you're doing well, Ma,
but I should probably get going,
I need to...
MAMA LU:
You know what, Jacqueline?
You're just always so busy.
You should take a vacation.
Have some with your husband.
Might do you both some good.
Okay, Ma.
Anything else?
Oh, don't forget
it's Paul's birthday this weekend.
♪
Right.
Actually, I did forget.
Well, that's because you stay so busy.
Like I said, you should
take some time off. It's just a job.
My job paid off your house.
Don't be smart, Jacqueline.
I'm still your mother.
Now your stepfather and I expect
to see you this weekend at this house.
Paul wants to see
those grandchildren, okay?
Yes, Mom. We will all be there.
Good. Okay.
I'll let you go.
Tell my favorite son-in-law I said hello.
He is your only son-in-law.
♪ Can I live? ♪
♪
♪ Can I live? ♪
♪
MAN:
I didn't mean to startle you.
I'm Will, your nightly patrol.
My what?
WILL:
I was hired by Mr. Lewis Stewart,
who I believe is your husband, correct?
[indistinct chatter on TV]
- NAIMA: Hi, Mommy.
- Hey.
WILL:
Hi, Mr. Stewart. I'm Will.
The nightly patrol you hired.
Daddy hired Will to stay
outside our house to keep us safe.
Wait, why can't you just move back in?
Yeah, so you can keep us safe.
♪
I'll be back eventually.
But the people Mommy helps
are famous and have crazy fans
that know where mommy lives,
so she needs protection.
I don't need protection.
And since I can't be here, we have Will.
Okay?
Um, here's my number
in case you need anything.
[sighs]
I'm just right outside.
LEWIS: That's a great place.
- Hey, you finish your homework?
- Almost.
Hey, Dad, can I go to your house to play
that new video game you're designing?
Your dad's night is tomorrow,
and you haven't finished
your homework.
Dad?
Sorry, Spense, you have to wait
till tomorrow night.
Come on.
JAX:
See?
[Lewis sighs]
How was your day? You seem stressed.
JAX:
I have a very stressful job.
But you know that.
That's why you left, right?
Because of my stressful and dangerous job.
Does it make you feel good
to throw these petty jabs at me?
Mm.
Or does it make you feel
like more of a man
to hire another man to protect me?
And, yes, it does make me feel good.
You know, this cute, quippy thing you do
around the office
with those wonderbreads,
that shit might work
like a charm with them,
but that shit don't work on me.
Right. Because you prefer
to mask your need for control
as concern for my well-being.
Well done, Captain Save-A-Hoe.
- You think this is about control?
- Isn't it always?
The cameras, the security guard,
you-you don't care about my safety.
You just wanna keep an eye on me
because you know you fucked up.
But I'm not some robot
who does whatever the fuck
you want me to do.
What I want is for us to have
an actual earnest conversation
about our problems.
So when you are ready
to be an adult, you let me know.
- Yeah, okay. I'll let you know.
- Nigga, bye.
This is what the fuck I'm talking about.
You gave me an ultimatum!
I had to. You don't listen to me
unless I threaten you.
No, I just don't want to talk about
every single fucking little thing
all the time.
You don't wanna
talk about anything ever.
No, that is not true or fair.
Jax, I just said I wanted to have
an earnest conversation
about our problems
and you had to come at me
with the snap back.
I don't want you asking me about my day
like everything is-is-is normal. Fuck!
[sighs]
[sighs]
It's just a trial separation, Jax.
I didn't get married to sleep alone.
- Jax.
- Go home, Lewis.
This is my home.
Not anymore.
Good night, Lewis.
[door opens]
[sighs]
[door closes]
♪
Okay, baby, lights out.
Oh, and I downloaded the song
so we can do our TikTok tomorrow morning.
Oh. Ah, ah, ah!
Oh!
Ah! Oh!
- We're gonna kill it.
- JAX: Don't we always?
Hmm? [Chuckles]
- I love you, baby.
- I love you too.
- Good night.
- Night.
SPENSER:
Come in.
- JAX: Hey.
- Hey.
♪ Hip-hop music playing over headphones ♪
Love you. Lights out in 30.
♪ Music continues ♪
Did you hear what I said?
Yes.
[sighs] This little nigga.
♪ Faint hip-hop music playing ♪
♪
♪
♪
♪
AUTUMN:
You good, Jax?
Yeah. Girl, I'm good. I'm just tired.
You the one who got us out here early.
- WOMAN: Right?
- Talk about it.
I'm so sorry.
But between work
and splitting the kids with Lewis,
- it's hard to make time. So, thank y'all.
- We get it.
- Love you, mean it.
- Okay.
SHANELLE:
Well, how are things with Lewis?
I mean, it must be hard to sleep
without him there.
That's probably why you're tired.
You know what I could use?
Some Ambien, just for a few nights.
Number one,
I do not give out drugs to people
who aren't my patients.
And number two, I know exactly
what will put you right to sleep.
- Hmm?
- Some good old donkey dick.
- Oh, my God.
- SHANELLE: Amen.
- Hallelujah. Praise the Lord.
- Serve it up.
Seriously, it'll help you
move past Lewis.
How long's it been now?
- I don't know, Autumn.
- I guess three months, maybe.
You guys still go to church together
every Sunday?
Yeah. It's nice.
Although Spenser has clearly
taken his daddy's side.
You need to remind Spenser
who grew those feet he's walking on.
- That boy...
- He's something though.
We should order 'cause I'm starving
and I have back-to-backs, so...
What are y'all eating?
Well, my husband's been eating
another woman's pussy.
So... I'm not hungry.
♪
Shanelle, I'm so sorry, girl.
Whatever you need,
we are here for you, okay?
Girl, seriously, here.
Thank you. I love y'all.
We love you too.
And, Jax, listen,
I know you and Lewis have your issues,
but you should really
think about making it work.
Niggas out here ain't shit.
- Girl, a lot of people ain't shit.
- Not just niggas.
Trust me, I know.
But Lewis is a good guy.
He is.
But whatever you decide,
I'm here for you, okay?
Thank you, boo.
I love y'all.
- Drive safe.
- Alright, bye.
Bye.
AUTUMN:
Talk to you later.
[car starts]
This bitch, she up here
staying with her cheating-ass husband
and wanna give me relationship advice.
AUTUMN:
Girl, you know, she's been trying
to be your best friend
since the tenth grade,
but we all know who got that spot.
JAX:
Who?
Who said that?
- Uh... I'm just asking.
- I hate you.
- Is it you?
- Let me leave you with her.
See what happens. By yourself.
JAX:
Mr. Miller.
So nice to meet you.
My name is Jax Stewart.
- This is my colleague, Richard Reed.
- Nice to meet you.
We're excited to talk to you today, man.
And you can call me Rich.
Funny, my friends
call me the same thing.
[both laughing]
Please have a seat.
Uh, can we get you anything?
Water, coffee, tea?
Nah, man, I'm good. Thanks.
Of course.
So, Mr. Miller,
Rich says you wanted to speak with us
about a matter that was sensitive.
So what's up? How can we help you?
Yes. Well, as you probably know,
one of my companies,
my liquor company Clout,
is in the middle
of an important valuation.
And if the sale goes through,
then I'll become a billionaire.
And one of only
a few Black men to do so, which is dope.
Yes.
However, there's an issue
with a former employee of mine,
Kaleesha Moore.
She's threatening to expose
damaging secrets about the company
that could derail the sale.
What kind of secrets?
Oh, you don't need to reveal them to us.
We just need some information.
- What was Miss, um...
- Missus.
Mrs. Moore's role at the company?
She was EVP of Sales and Branding.
So high up then?
Yes. Second only in power
to my CFO, Theo James.
Has Mrs. Moore indicated what she wants
in exchange
for holding onto these secrets?
I haven't spoken with her directly.
Things are a bit... acrimonious
between us at the moment.
And why is that?
She's claiming I sexually assaulted her.
And your claim is?
We had relations in the past.
Past as in last week or last year?
Was the sex rough at times?
Yes.
But it was always consensual.
So this was an ongoing affair.
[scoffs] I guess you could call it that.
But it was nothing serious. I'm married.
As is she.
Yes.
It complicated
the professional relationship.
Kaleesha became
unrealistic in her thinking,
and, honestly, irrational.
I had to let her go.
Just professionally or...
In all ways.
I see.
So Mrs. Moore plans to go public
with the sexual assault
unless she's compensated how exactly?
By getting her job, or money?
Money.
That's what everybody wants.
Maybe she wants something else.
Like what?
Understanding, empathy, an apology.
You'd be surprised what can satisfy people
in situations like this.
What would satisfy me is an NDA.
Do you think you can handle that?
[Jax chuckles]
While we're both partners at the firm,
I deal with mostly
contracts and litigation
and Jax does
civil and criminal defense.
BRAYDEN:
Criminal?
Then why are you here?
We weren't sure
what the nature of your matter was.
And last time I checked,
sexual assault was a crime.
So it's a good thing I came.
Let me know when the NDA is ready.
Uh, I'll have my office connect you
with Kaleesha's lawyer.
I'd like this taken care of
sooner rather than later.
RICH:
Understood.
Let me walk you out.
♪
- Hey, Daniel.
- Yo. Um...
Your assistant's really skimpy
on the validations.
- Can you say something to her?
- Why don't you say something to her?
Well, then I'd have to talk to her.
So you're an investigator
who has trouble speaking to people?
Just Krystal. She's kinda mean.
You got anything on our girl?
Ooh. Madison Stiles is an influencer,
and I use that term loosely,
who makes her money from OnlyFans.
At least she did until she couldn't
do the things she used to do online.
The sex stuff.
Exactly. So then she started
going out to clubs,
meeting high-profile men
with something to lose
if their reputations get trashed
and running her game,
and it seems to be working.
She has a very nice condo
in Beverly Hills paid for in cash
and seems to have no taxable income
to support herself.
I hate these kinda women.
They make it harder
for the ones who are telling the truth.
Hey, can you look into a woman
named Kaleesha Moore?
She works at Brayden Miller's company.
Or used to.
Uh, the liquor owner?
Yeah, she has some stuff on him
which I'm sure is true,
but I need something on her
for mutually assured destruction.
Hurt people hurt people.
Oh. I bet you broke
a lot of hearts back in your day.
- Why it gotta be back in the day?
- Well...
It doesn't have to be back in the day.
It could be yesterday that you broke...
I'm kidding, Daniel.
I'll let you know if I need more.
DANIEL: Sounds good.
And also, could I get a validation?
Just wanted to go to Starbucks.
- He's so weird.
- He's scared of you.
Why? I'm nice.
[scoffs] Girl.
What do you know about Brayden Miller?
That he's Black and lives
in the Palisades with his white wife.
Yeah, he came in today to meet.
He seems like an asshole.
So then you're taking his case?
Funny. But, yeah. I mean...
It's not a crime to be an asshole.
But maybe it should be.
JAX:
So, given what my investigator
found on Madison,
here's what I advise you do.
- Nothing!
- What do you mean nothing?
This is not Madison's first rodeo.
She's an extortion terrorist.
She puts male public figures
into these situations
and then uses the incident
to get money from them.
- Are you serious?
- Are you shocked?
I mean, I guess not, but, damn.
Okay, that may be the case,
but Devin has a huge contract coming up.
By the time this is all sorted out,
he could lose it.
The league has a zero tolerance
for these kind of accusations.
As they should.
But you should have
a zero tolerance for scammers.
And this will set the tone
so that people will know,
that you, Devin MacDonald,
cannot be manipulated.
I don't know. I think you should
just pay her to go away.
Okay, fine. You can pay her
and she might go away,
but another one will pop right back up.
Devin, look, I love you, okay?
But this will not be your last headache.
Your penis will rise again
and your bank account
will fall right back down.
You both know I'm right.
I just wish there was a way
to prove that she was lying.
Give me your phone.
♪
KRYSTAL:
I know that smile.
It's either a client or it's Lewis.
I'm gonna guess it's not the latter
unless he's moved back in.
What? Girl, if you don't
stay outta my business...
And, no, it's Devin MacDonald.
My plan worked.
I had him text Madison Stiles
offering to take her
on a fully paid vacation
wherever she wanted.
And she said, "You could have
saved yourself the headache
if you'd just started here."
So now everyone knows
that she was planning to extort him.
She's lost credibility
and Devin looks like the victim,
which he was.
Ain't that entrapment?
Um, first of all, it's not,
and you should know that.
And secondly, she started all this.
And don't start nothing won't be nothing.
- Okay.
- [Jax laughs]
- Did I get any calls?
- Uh, yeah, the PD's office called.
There is a Damon Cooke
who wants to speak to you.
He is up for parole.
- Is that right?
- KRYSTAL: Yeah.
And I looked him up.
Girl, you know, I don't even like men,
but he is OG Prison Bae.
Was he your client or something?
Uh, a long time ago.
Um, tell them to let him know
I'm no longer a public defender
and they should refer him to someone else.
Well, apparently they already said that,
but he insists on speaking to you.
He claims he is going to admit
to the murder in order to get out.
Are you serious?
♪
Tell them I said I'll go talk to him
because that is
the last thing he should do.
♪
[sighs]
[beeping]
Will, I swear you don't
have to do that. I'm fine.
WILL:
Better safe than sorry.
[beeps, chirps]
Plus, just doing my job.
JAX:
Oh, you are and I appreciate it.
- Everything looks good here.
- Okay. Thank you.
WILL:
Yeah.
I'll let you get some sleep.
JAX: [sighs]
Yes.
Hopefully I can get some.
Sleep.
Oh...
Have you tried melatonin?
I think I need something stronger.
I have Ativan.
It's not a sleeping pill,
but it'll help you relax.
So you just go around
carrying random pills in your pocket?
No, no, I...
Um, I get anxiety sometimes.
Oh. I'm sorry. I wasn't trying to...
No, you're... You're good.
Do you want one?
I don't mind as...
As long as you don't tell your husband.
I don't tell him everything.
- Oh.
- That's good to know.
[Jax chuckles]
Well, I'm just outside if you need me.
Thank you.
Thank you for everything. I...
[Jax sighs]
This has honestly been
the best part of my day.
You're welcome.
♪
[line ringing]
[cell phone ringing]
[sighs]
[ringing continues]
Hello?
Hey, is Spenser asleep?
Yeah, of course. It's after 10:00.
He was supposed to call me
before he went to sleep.
LEWIS:
I told him to.
You sure you didn't miss the call?
- Yes, I'm sure.
- I've been here working all night.
Spenser wants to spend
a few more nights here.
- What's a few?
- LEWIS: A week or so.
- No, that's too long.
- LEWIS: I thought you'd be thrilled
to have more time for yourself to do
whatever it is you do these days.
And I thought you wanted
to have earnest conversations.
That sounds like a shady-ass quip, no?
How about you just
let Spenser stay one more night?
This is hard for him.
Fine.
Paul's birthday party
is on Sunday, so,
I'll make sure we're there.
Okay.
- Have a good night.
- Yeah, you too.
[sighs]
Hey, you talk to Brayden Miller?
- Yeah, I did.
- He's decided to bring the firm on.
That's great.
He's gonna be a tough client,
so I'm hoping he's gonna wanna
talk to you more than me.
RICH:
Actually, he, uh,
only wants to talk to me.
Oh. Wow.
I tried to convince him, but he just...
All good.
Kaleesha Moore did agree to meet with us
regarding the NDA,
especially once Brayden agreed to pay her
a $12 million settlement,
so at least this will all be over soon.
Guess so.
RICH:
Maybe Brayden was right
about Kaleesha after all.
Maybe she does want the money.
Or maybe she just doesn't
give a fuck anymore.
♪
[door buzzes]
[door closes]
[sighs]
Shit.
Jax.
Mr. Cooke.
It's been a long time.
Sixteen years,
five months, 22 days.
I've been trying to get a hold of you
for a few days now.
I no longer work
in the public defender's office.
I moved to the private sector.
Huh.
More money?
Well, when rich people lose
it doesn't hurt them as much.
It doesn't hurt them or,
or you?
I hear you're planning to admit
to a crime you didn't commit.
Hmm.
I can't be here anymore.
And the only way to do that
is to show remorse for
a crime they think I committed.
There are other ways to get parole.
No other way is a guarantee.
Once you confirm your guilt to them,
it becomes part of your record.
- You can never take it back.
- Won't matter though.
I'll be free.
No. You'll be out of prison,
but you won't be free.
Says the person
who can walk right out that door.
JAX:
What if some new evidence comes up
and you're able to clear your name?
I've been here
waiting for that shit to happen,
and it ain't happening.
I'm being given a chance
for parole for the first time.
I can't blow that.
Look, I already lost my 30s,
my little niece's high school graduation,
voting for the first...
first Black president.
I have to do this.
If you do this,
you will be saying
that you murdered that man.
You'll be saying you're a criminal.
♪
I thought you liked criminals.
♪
Don't forget I know you, Jax.
♪
I know that you did
everything you could at the time
to get me outta here.
♪
And I know why you did it.
♪
I did it because it was my job.
From the moment we met,
you were in here and I was out there.
It was simply professional.
♪
What if I was out there?
What if I was never convicted?
Then what?
♪
♪
No.
♪
If you lie
and say you committed this heinous crime,
I will never fucking speak to you again.
I'm sorry.
I don't have a choice.
♪
- [door buzzes]
- Good luck.
Jax, don't... Jax, don't do this.
♪
SALLY: I don't know why
Shanelle is still in that house
with that cheating-ass whack-ass negro.
And she'd be the first one
to tell us all to dump him, right?
I swear, if she wasn't my cousin...
Hmm.
♪
You okay?
No.
- What's up?
- Did something happen with Lewis?
Mm-mmm.
Um...
The guy from work? Bitch?
[chuckles] Rich.
Right. That's just what we call him.
No, he's fine now. It's not about him.
SALLY:
Okay.
Is everything good with the kids or...
When's the last time
you talked to your dad?
Don't do that.
- I'm not gonna judge you.
- I'm not Shanelle.
I know, Sally.
And I love that about you,
but tonight I kinda just wanna...
Just drink and laugh
and just forget this day ever happened.
Is that okay?
Of course, Cracker Jax.
Mm-hmm.
Okay. Now, if you want
my nosy ass to stop asking questions,
we're gonna need some more drinks.
Fine. Next round is on me.
Okay!
That is why I love you.
You want some shots?
Imma get us some shots.
♪
[line ringing]
SPENSER: [over voice mail]
Hey, this is Spenser.
I don't listen to these, so text me.
Alright, peace.
[sighs]
♪
♪
LEWIS: What are you doing here?
JAX: I wanna see my kids.
- Nah, I got the text.
- It's not your night.
Technically, it was my night
until you stole it from me.
I wanna see them, Lewis.
Listen, they're sleep and you're drunk.
Did you drive here?
Really, Lewis?
No, I didn't drive here.
Why do you hate me so much?
I don't hate you. You just...
[Lewis sighs]
Can we just talk, please?
[car chirps]
I don't hate you, Jax. I'm just... hurt.
When I told you to choose
between me and your job,
I didn't think I'd lose that ultimatum.
You lost as soon as you asked.
LEWIS:
Yeah.
I'm starting to see that.
You don't think I'm hurt?
I miss you, Lewis.
I miss seeing you.
Talking shit with you.
Telling you about my day.
I mean, you think
I wanna go through this shit?
- I don't know how you feel.
- You don't talk to me.
Hey.
I love you.
You know that, right?
I know you love me.
I love you.
Do you know me?
Maybe you just love the idea of me
and not the actual me.
I know you better than you think.
I don't believe you.
♪
[Jax moans]
Baby.
Why are you not wearing your ring?
Oh, you make me mad, Lewis.
- I don't wanna make you mad.
- I wanna make you come.
That's what you want, isn't it?
[Jax moans]
♪
I can take care of you.
If you let me.
So slow down.
♪
[Jax moans]
And let me.
Please.
[moaning]
Oh... fuck!
♪
[moaning continues]
♪
Mm!
Good night, Jax.
♪
[sighs]
Fun night?
Uh, did the-the Ativan work?
You seem a lot more relaxed now
than you did the other night.
Yes, it definitely did.
Among other things.
You got another one?
Yeah, I smoke menthols.
Then I'll take two.
WILL:
You're full of surprises, Mrs. Stewart.
More than you know.
And you can call me Jax.
Good night.
Night.
Now, I know we all know this,
but I have to remind everyone
that this NDA with a monetary settlement
is simply an understanding
that no lawsuits
or criminal charges will be filed.
It is not a quid pro quo.
We understand.
This is your counsel?
Fall on is my cousin.
She's here to help me
get through all this nonsense.
I have my own law degree.
Okay, then.
Well, given that Mr. Miller
emphatically denies
that an assault occurred,
we are asking that Mrs. Moore
makes no public accusations
about Mr. Miller
that he has already privately denied,
including but not limited to any
ethical, moral, and/or legal wrongdoings
per the nondisclosure agreement
in perpetuity.
Yeah, we got it.
Great.
So are we ready to sign?
FALLON:
Kaleesha?
This is a very good
and extremely generous settlement.
Considering there's no proof.
- Well, I am the proof.
- I said it happened.
- And Mr. Miller says otherwise.
- It's your word against his.
I guess that's it then, huh?
What are you doing?
Tell him I said his word is shit,
and he knows why.
Just give me my validation.
Mark-ass buster.
[elevator dings]
- Ooh, girl, my bad.
- Ooh.
No worries.
Wait, Jacqueline Stewart, right?
Yes.
Well, your people tried to silence me,
but it didn't work.
Kaleesha?
Next time a Black woman says
she's been raped,
you should show the fuck up.
[elevator dings]
♪ Praise God by Ye playing ♪
♪ Serve ♪
KRYSTAL: Good morning.
JAX: Hey.
♪ Work
Six, I'm like Mike ♪
♪ He's out of sight ♪
♪ Whoo, you done got me piped ♪
♪ Two-man like Ike, six out the spot ♪
♪ Into the night ♪
♪ Yeah, I'm shaking the drop ♪
♪ I'm still up on top ♪
♪ I been had the bop ♪
♪ vocalizing ♪
♪ The devil my opp ♪
♪ Can't pay me to stop ♪
[sighs deeply]
♪ My God at the top ♪
♪ La flame ♪
♪ We gonna praise
our way out the grave, dawg ♪
♪ Living, speaking, praise God ♪
♪ Walking out the graveyard back to life ♪
GUARD:
Damon Cooke?
♪ I serve, follow your worth ♪
♪ See with new sight ♪
♪ Into the night ♪
♪ Tame Impala, tame Imp ♪
♪
RICH: Needless to say,
things did not go as planned.
So she didn't sign the NDA.
RICH:
And she's going on Good Morning America,
which means you should hire
a PR crisis firm.
I don't think she's going to budge.
I guess what's-her-name was right.
- Who?
- The other lawyer. The Black one.
Her name is Jax.
Yeah. Whatever.
Anyway, I'll take care of this.
I think I know what Kaleesha needs.
- You do?
- Yep.
And I guess I'm gonna
have to give it to her
whether she likes it or not.
♪
I'll make sure you're paid in full.
♪
Thank you.
Yeah. Thank you... sir.
♪
♪
♪
Ooh, look at this beautiful family.
Hi, Mama Lu.
Oh, hi, little sugar.
- SPENSER: Hi, Mom-Mom.
- Ooh, that deep voice.
You haven't gotten too big
for your grandma, have you?
Now, well, come on,
let's go to the backyard.
Grandpa Paul is waiting to see you.
SPENSER:
Can I grab a soda?
MAMA LU:
Sure. It's over there.
Oh, my favorite Lew.
Ah, but you're my favorite Lu!
MAMA LU:
Oh. Jacqueline, I hope you work things out
- with my son-in-law.
- Mom.
We are trying,
but you know I'm stubborn.
Well, all men are. Just don't let her
be too hard on you, you hear?
[Mama Lu chuckles]
Where did you get that hat?
Oh, this old thing?
[Lewis speaking indistinctly]
[inaudible]
MAMA LU:
Ooh, yeah.
[Lewis and Mama Lu speaking indistinctly]
LEWIS:
Hey, Paul.
[indistinct chatter]
[door opens]
Hey, Jax. You need anything?
No. No, I'm good.
- You okay?
- JAX: Yeah.
Look, Paul might be sober,
but I'm not, so.
[sighs]
Is this about the other night?
What?
The other night.
Are you even listening to me?
- Lewis, please, I can't.
- Can we just get through this?
It's your world, Jax.
[door opens]
♪ Happy birthday to you ♪
♪ Happy birthday to you ♪
[fades, muffled]
♪ Happy birthday, dear Paul ♪
♪ Happy birthday to you ♪
[all cheer]
Come on, everybody, let's eat cake.
You ready to eat?
Where are you going?
Lewis, please. Can you just
take the kids to your house?
They have homework to do
and I have cases I need to work on.
You begged me to come here
for family time
and now you're ghosting?
This is what I'm talking about.
No matter what, you will always
choose yourself over your family.
♪
So fuckin' selfish.
♪ Liberation by OutKast playing ♪
♪ There's a fine line
between love and hate you see ♪
♪ Came way too late ♪
[singing along]
♪ But baby I'm on it ♪
[pounds on door]
GUARD:
Hey, Cooke.
Your parole got approved.
Looks like you're finally
gonna be a free man.
♪ Came way too late ♪
♪ But, baby, I'm on it ♪
♪
JAX:
October 27th, 2007.
Dear Damon,
words cannot express how sorry I am
[doorbell rings]
I let you down.
♪ Can't worry about what
another nigga think... ♪
I tried my best to give you
a life of freedom,
but I failed you.
♪
We all did.
As another innocent Black man
goes into a system
that is rigged to put him there
and keep him there.
I just wanted to let you know
that today is my last day.
♪
Well, no, I'm sorry to hear that. Why?
♪
I have a criminal record.
Nothing serious. I was a kid,
but I guess somebody found out
about it and reported it.
Oh, that really sucks.
I bet it was a Karen.
Yeah, maybe.
♪
Anyway, thanks for being
kind and nice and...
Yeah.
Well, thank you for the Ativan.
Next time I can
get you something stronger.
♪
JAX:
But no matter what happens,
I will never forget you.
And I will always fight for you.
What did you have in mind?
I wanted more for you.
♪
For us.
♪ Vocalizing ♪
♪
And no matter what I said...
♪
You should know
at the end of the day...
♪
I... love... criminals.
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
[cell phone buzzing]
[sighs]
Rich, it is way too early.
Kaleesha's dead.
What?
Where's Brayden?
He's on his way to his office.
Uh, I'm going to meet him there now, but...
This is now a criminal case.
RICH:
Jax?
I'll meet you there.
[sighs] Fuck!
♪ Closing theme playing ♪
♪
Be strong and courageous.
Do not fear nor be in dread of them,
for it is the Lord your God
who goes before you.
He will never leave you or forsake you.
♪
[muffled groaning]
♪
[gasps]
♪
[groaning]
♪
[pants]
You need to know that this is not a plan.
But you need one.
And I can't help you if I'm dead.
[gun cocks]
I swear to God, all of my life,
I will never say anything to anyone.
I will pretend that this never happened.
No.
♪
Be strong and courageous.
Do not fear nor be in dread of them,
for it is the Lord your God
who goes with you.
He will not leave you or forsake...
[gunshot]
♪
[birds chirping]
[alarm blaring]
♪ Hustle Hard by Ace Hood playing ♪
♪ How do it? ♪
♪ Hustle, hustle, hustle, hustle ♪
♪ Hustle, hustle,
hustle, hustle ♪
♪ Hustle, hustle, hustle ♪
♪ Same old shit ♪
♪ Just a different day ♪
♪ Out here trying to get it ♪
♪ Each and every way ♪
♪ Mama need a house ♪
♪ Baby need some shoes ♪
♪ Times are getting hard ♪
♪ Guess what Imma do ♪
♪ Hustle, hustle, hustle, hard ♪
♪ Hustle, hustle, hustle, hustle ♪
Fuck.
♪ Closed mouths don't get
fed on this boulevard ♪
Hello, family.
- NAIMA: Hey, Mom.
- Hey. Hey. How was your run?
Amazing.
I'm feeling all kinds of love and light.
Oh. Love and light?
Well, we're gonna be late.
Alright, come on, Spense,
don't be rude.
What? You said we needed
to leave, like, ten minutes ago.
Okay, well, look, I'm ready now.
- How do I look, baby?
- I think you look pretty, Mommy.
JAX:
Thank you, sweetheart.
- LEWIS: Right.
- Let me get these plates.
SPENSER: Thank you.
NAIMA: Thank you.
LEWIS:
There's a lot of food on those plates.
Yeah, I wonder why.
- Alright, alright.
- Alright, children, let's go.
Let's get your Bibles
and let's go to church.
See what I mean?
[kids chattering indistinctly]
He's being a little asshole.
[door closes]
Nah, it's just a phase. He'll be fine.
JAX:
Mm-hmm.
[organ music playing]
[applause]
Amen. Amen.
CONGREGATION:
Amen.
Now, church family, I know you tithe,
and we appreciate that ten percent.
But this Sunday, we're gonna ask you
to give just a little bit more.
See, Sister Nancy here,
who's been battling cancer
for the past few years,
well, she's drowning in medical bills...
Look at her. She look like
somebody that's going through chemo?
Ooh, what she really doing
is gettin' that Gucci drip.
BOTH:
Gucci.
- I'm sorry. Sorry.
- [Pastor Thurston speaking indistinctly]
- You're gonna get us in trouble.
- [cell phone buzzing]
- PASTOR: And so you will fulfill...
- Thought we said no work on Sundays.
PASTOR: Amen.
CONGREGATION: Amen.
God knows my heart.
I'll be right back.
PASTOR: Today is a beautiful day
to not only open up your hearts,
but to also open up your wallets
and dig deep in them pockets
for Sister Nancy.
Amen!
- [telephone ringing]
- Hello?
This is Jax Stewart returning your call.
MARK NOONAN: [over phone]
Hi, Jax. Thanks for returning.
My name is Mark No on an.
I'm a lawyer at Kender and Franklin.
Oh, yes. Deb Winston and I
went to law school together.
Love Deb.
Yeah, well, then, we've probably met
at one of her infamous birthday dinners.
JAX: [chuckles]
Yes, "infamous" is the perfect word.
Look, I wish I could chat longer,
but I'm at church with my family.
Oh, well, now I feel guilty.
No worries. What's up?
I have a client named Madison Stiles
who claims that your client
Devin MacDonald
assaulted her in his hotel room last week.
- Can you give me the specifics?
- MARK: Yes.
Uh, Madison attended a party
at a club on Sunset
where she met Mr. MacDonald.
They spoke for a bit and then
he invited her back to his hotel suite.
- Did she go?
- MARK: She did.
He then exposed himself to her.
- Did he make her touch him?
- MARK: No.
She ran out horrified, as you can imagine.
Did he stop her from leaving?
MARK:
No.
Do you need me to tell it again?
No, I got it.
I'm just not hearing an actual crime.
Your client is
a powerful basketball player
who used his influence
to lure a young woman
into a situation
she wasn't comfortable with.
As a defense attorney
and former public defender,
I would assume you'd be aware
of what criminal behavior sounds like.
JAX:
I am.
But extortion is a crime too,
so I'm not sure
who the real victim is here.
Okay. You need to take this seriously
before we file a claim.
JAX:
In civil court.
Meaning she wants money.
She wants to be heard.
And money talks. I got it.
[scoffs]
I was hoping you were a woman
who supported women,
but I guess not.
I support the law and the truth,
not funding cash apps.
You have 48 hours
to discuss this with your client,
after which we'll be
filing a formal complaint.
Like I said,
I am at church with my family.
I will reach out
once I've spoken to Mr. MacDonald,
within your time frame, of course.
Suddenly I feel a little less guilty
about not going to church today.
I'm sure you always feel guilty
but still never go.
♪
Happy Monday!
Why do you say that every Monday?
Because you hate it.
Well, my week started yesterday.
Oh, speaking of, I need you
to book a private room for me
tomorrow afternoon at Stadium Club.
Uh-oh. Which spoiled celebrity
got a DUI this weekend?
Actually, it wasn't a DUI.
It was your favorite basketball player
Devin MacDonald.
Oh, hell. What'd he do?
Nothing. And that's the problem.
Oh, tell Daniel to look into
an IG thot named Madison Stiles.
Why she got to be a thot though?
Oh.
JAX: Mm-hmm.
So what's she claiming he did?
Be an asshole, which he is.
- KRYSTAL WALTERS: So you believe her?
- Well, I believe her side of things.
But she wants to take him to court
for making her uncomfortable.
And there is no penal code for that.
Your ability to compartmentalize things
makes me uncomfortable.
JAX:
Hmm.
Speaking of people being uncomfortable,
your weekly partners meeting
is in five minutes.
Ugh. Can I please just stay over here
on the Black side of the office?
Oh, sure, and we can switch paychecks.
[Jax chuckles]
Here's the agenda.
Girl, you know, it could be both.
He could have made her feel uncomfortable
because he committed a crime.
Just like you can be both
invaluable and annoying.
And since you've already been the latter,
let's start being the former, huh?
♪ To the computers ♪
♪ Uh-huh, uh-huh ♪
♪ To the phones ♪
Uh... Ok... Okay. Okay. Okay.
Happy Monday!
TERRY BINDER:
Our 4Q billable hours were strong,
but we really need to focus
on corporate clients
more than individuals,
at least until we can justify
moving into this fancy building.
LELAND:
Gotta fake it till you make it.
It's the LA way.
[laughter]
- Hollywood, baby.
- [laughs]
Terry, I couldn't agree with you more
about corporate clients,
but, well, there's a guy
who wants to meet with us
who's basically his own corporation.
- Brayden Miller.
- The Black billionaire?
Almost. But Forbes predicts
he will be one soon.
That's right. He has some
strong financial interests in his company
that will secure his place
in that coveted club.
So he wants us to handle his sale?
No, it sounded personal and urgent,
but his assistant didn't specify.
- Must be serious.
- Yeah, sounds like it.
Okay, Rich, set the meeting.
We'll find a time
that works for all of us.
Jax, I think you should join.
You're good at handling A-list clients.
You mean Black clients?
I'm just messing with you, Terry.
[laughter]
But, seriously, I do think that maybe
it should just be Rich and me
in the meeting.
In my personal experience,
I've found that clients do not like
to discuss sensitive matters
in front of a large audience.
- Good idea.
- That's why she gets paid the big bucks.
Ooh, could be bigger, Leland.
♪ While I'm watching every nigga
watching me closely ♪
♪ My shit is butter for the bread
they wanna toast me ♪
♪ I keep my head... ♪
Lord, give me the strength.
[cell phone ringing]
♪ ...clap from close feet ♪
♪ I don't sleep... ♪
Hey, Ma.
Well, hello, Jacqueline. How are you?
Oh, just dealing these white folks
as per usual.
How are you?
Oh, I'm so glad
I don't have to deal with that anymore.
I'm sure. I thought
you'd be doing your walk.
Oh, no, I was, but I'm tired today.
Plus, Linda's just been annoying lately.
She just be talking and talking.
Well, look, I'm glad
you're doing well, Ma,
but I should probably get going,
I need to...
MAMA LU:
You know what, Jacqueline?
You're just always so busy.
You should take a vacation.
Have some with your husband.
Might do you both some good.
Okay, Ma.
Anything else?
Oh, don't forget
it's Paul's birthday this weekend.
♪
Right.
Actually, I did forget.
Well, that's because you stay so busy.
Like I said, you should
take some time off. It's just a job.
My job paid off your house.
Don't be smart, Jacqueline.
I'm still your mother.
Now your stepfather and I expect
to see you this weekend at this house.
Paul wants to see
those grandchildren, okay?
Yes, Mom. We will all be there.
Good. Okay.
I'll let you go.
Tell my favorite son-in-law I said hello.
He is your only son-in-law.
♪ Can I live? ♪
♪
♪ Can I live? ♪
♪
MAN:
I didn't mean to startle you.
I'm Will, your nightly patrol.
My what?
WILL:
I was hired by Mr. Lewis Stewart,
who I believe is your husband, correct?
[indistinct chatter on TV]
- NAIMA: Hi, Mommy.
- Hey.
WILL:
Hi, Mr. Stewart. I'm Will.
The nightly patrol you hired.
Daddy hired Will to stay
outside our house to keep us safe.
Wait, why can't you just move back in?
Yeah, so you can keep us safe.
♪
I'll be back eventually.
But the people Mommy helps
are famous and have crazy fans
that know where mommy lives,
so she needs protection.
I don't need protection.
And since I can't be here, we have Will.
Okay?
Um, here's my number
in case you need anything.
[sighs]
I'm just right outside.
LEWIS: That's a great place.
- Hey, you finish your homework?
- Almost.
Hey, Dad, can I go to your house to play
that new video game you're designing?
Your dad's night is tomorrow,
and you haven't finished
your homework.
Dad?
Sorry, Spense, you have to wait
till tomorrow night.
Come on.
JAX:
See?
[Lewis sighs]
How was your day? You seem stressed.
JAX:
I have a very stressful job.
But you know that.
That's why you left, right?
Because of my stressful and dangerous job.
Does it make you feel good
to throw these petty jabs at me?
Mm.
Or does it make you feel
like more of a man
to hire another man to protect me?
And, yes, it does make me feel good.
You know, this cute, quippy thing you do
around the office
with those wonderbreads,
that shit might work
like a charm with them,
but that shit don't work on me.
Right. Because you prefer
to mask your need for control
as concern for my well-being.
Well done, Captain Save-A-Hoe.
- You think this is about control?
- Isn't it always?
The cameras, the security guard,
you-you don't care about my safety.
You just wanna keep an eye on me
because you know you fucked up.
But I'm not some robot
who does whatever the fuck
you want me to do.
What I want is for us to have
an actual earnest conversation
about our problems.
So when you are ready
to be an adult, you let me know.
- Yeah, okay. I'll let you know.
- Nigga, bye.
This is what the fuck I'm talking about.
You gave me an ultimatum!
I had to. You don't listen to me
unless I threaten you.
No, I just don't want to talk about
every single fucking little thing
all the time.
You don't wanna
talk about anything ever.
No, that is not true or fair.
Jax, I just said I wanted to have
an earnest conversation
about our problems
and you had to come at me
with the snap back.
I don't want you asking me about my day
like everything is-is-is normal. Fuck!
[sighs]
[sighs]
It's just a trial separation, Jax.
I didn't get married to sleep alone.
- Jax.
- Go home, Lewis.
This is my home.
Not anymore.
Good night, Lewis.
[door opens]
[sighs]
[door closes]
♪
Okay, baby, lights out.
Oh, and I downloaded the song
so we can do our TikTok tomorrow morning.
Oh. Ah, ah, ah!
Oh!
Ah! Oh!
- We're gonna kill it.
- JAX: Don't we always?
Hmm? [Chuckles]
- I love you, baby.
- I love you too.
- Good night.
- Night.
SPENSER:
Come in.
- JAX: Hey.
- Hey.
♪ Hip-hop music playing over headphones ♪
Love you. Lights out in 30.
♪ Music continues ♪
Did you hear what I said?
Yes.
[sighs] This little nigga.
♪ Faint hip-hop music playing ♪
♪
♪
♪
♪
AUTUMN:
You good, Jax?
Yeah. Girl, I'm good. I'm just tired.
You the one who got us out here early.
- WOMAN: Right?
- Talk about it.
I'm so sorry.
But between work
and splitting the kids with Lewis,
- it's hard to make time. So, thank y'all.
- We get it.
- Love you, mean it.
- Okay.
SHANELLE:
Well, how are things with Lewis?
I mean, it must be hard to sleep
without him there.
That's probably why you're tired.
You know what I could use?
Some Ambien, just for a few nights.
Number one,
I do not give out drugs to people
who aren't my patients.
And number two, I know exactly
what will put you right to sleep.
- Hmm?
- Some good old donkey dick.
- Oh, my God.
- SHANELLE: Amen.
- Hallelujah. Praise the Lord.
- Serve it up.
Seriously, it'll help you
move past Lewis.
How long's it been now?
- I don't know, Autumn.
- I guess three months, maybe.
You guys still go to church together
every Sunday?
Yeah. It's nice.
Although Spenser has clearly
taken his daddy's side.
You need to remind Spenser
who grew those feet he's walking on.
- That boy...
- He's something though.
We should order 'cause I'm starving
and I have back-to-backs, so...
What are y'all eating?
Well, my husband's been eating
another woman's pussy.
So... I'm not hungry.
♪
Shanelle, I'm so sorry, girl.
Whatever you need,
we are here for you, okay?
Girl, seriously, here.
Thank you. I love y'all.
We love you too.
And, Jax, listen,
I know you and Lewis have your issues,
but you should really
think about making it work.
Niggas out here ain't shit.
- Girl, a lot of people ain't shit.
- Not just niggas.
Trust me, I know.
But Lewis is a good guy.
He is.
But whatever you decide,
I'm here for you, okay?
Thank you, boo.
I love y'all.
- Drive safe.
- Alright, bye.
Bye.
AUTUMN:
Talk to you later.
[car starts]
This bitch, she up here
staying with her cheating-ass husband
and wanna give me relationship advice.
AUTUMN:
Girl, you know, she's been trying
to be your best friend
since the tenth grade,
but we all know who got that spot.
JAX:
Who?
Who said that?
- Uh... I'm just asking.
- I hate you.
- Is it you?
- Let me leave you with her.
See what happens. By yourself.
JAX:
Mr. Miller.
So nice to meet you.
My name is Jax Stewart.
- This is my colleague, Richard Reed.
- Nice to meet you.
We're excited to talk to you today, man.
And you can call me Rich.
Funny, my friends
call me the same thing.
[both laughing]
Please have a seat.
Uh, can we get you anything?
Water, coffee, tea?
Nah, man, I'm good. Thanks.
Of course.
So, Mr. Miller,
Rich says you wanted to speak with us
about a matter that was sensitive.
So what's up? How can we help you?
Yes. Well, as you probably know,
one of my companies,
my liquor company Clout,
is in the middle
of an important valuation.
And if the sale goes through,
then I'll become a billionaire.
And one of only
a few Black men to do so, which is dope.
Yes.
However, there's an issue
with a former employee of mine,
Kaleesha Moore.
She's threatening to expose
damaging secrets about the company
that could derail the sale.
What kind of secrets?
Oh, you don't need to reveal them to us.
We just need some information.
- What was Miss, um...
- Missus.
Mrs. Moore's role at the company?
She was EVP of Sales and Branding.
So high up then?
Yes. Second only in power
to my CFO, Theo James.
Has Mrs. Moore indicated what she wants
in exchange
for holding onto these secrets?
I haven't spoken with her directly.
Things are a bit... acrimonious
between us at the moment.
And why is that?
She's claiming I sexually assaulted her.
And your claim is?
We had relations in the past.
Past as in last week or last year?
Was the sex rough at times?
Yes.
But it was always consensual.
So this was an ongoing affair.
[scoffs] I guess you could call it that.
But it was nothing serious. I'm married.
As is she.
Yes.
It complicated
the professional relationship.
Kaleesha became
unrealistic in her thinking,
and, honestly, irrational.
I had to let her go.
Just professionally or...
In all ways.
I see.
So Mrs. Moore plans to go public
with the sexual assault
unless she's compensated how exactly?
By getting her job, or money?
Money.
That's what everybody wants.
Maybe she wants something else.
Like what?
Understanding, empathy, an apology.
You'd be surprised what can satisfy people
in situations like this.
What would satisfy me is an NDA.
Do you think you can handle that?
[Jax chuckles]
While we're both partners at the firm,
I deal with mostly
contracts and litigation
and Jax does
civil and criminal defense.
BRAYDEN:
Criminal?
Then why are you here?
We weren't sure
what the nature of your matter was.
And last time I checked,
sexual assault was a crime.
So it's a good thing I came.
Let me know when the NDA is ready.
Uh, I'll have my office connect you
with Kaleesha's lawyer.
I'd like this taken care of
sooner rather than later.
RICH:
Understood.
Let me walk you out.
♪
- Hey, Daniel.
- Yo. Um...
Your assistant's really skimpy
on the validations.
- Can you say something to her?
- Why don't you say something to her?
Well, then I'd have to talk to her.
So you're an investigator
who has trouble speaking to people?
Just Krystal. She's kinda mean.
You got anything on our girl?
Ooh. Madison Stiles is an influencer,
and I use that term loosely,
who makes her money from OnlyFans.
At least she did until she couldn't
do the things she used to do online.
The sex stuff.
Exactly. So then she started
going out to clubs,
meeting high-profile men
with something to lose
if their reputations get trashed
and running her game,
and it seems to be working.
She has a very nice condo
in Beverly Hills paid for in cash
and seems to have no taxable income
to support herself.
I hate these kinda women.
They make it harder
for the ones who are telling the truth.
Hey, can you look into a woman
named Kaleesha Moore?
She works at Brayden Miller's company.
Or used to.
Uh, the liquor owner?
Yeah, she has some stuff on him
which I'm sure is true,
but I need something on her
for mutually assured destruction.
Hurt people hurt people.
Oh. I bet you broke
a lot of hearts back in your day.
- Why it gotta be back in the day?
- Well...
It doesn't have to be back in the day.
It could be yesterday that you broke...
I'm kidding, Daniel.
I'll let you know if I need more.
DANIEL: Sounds good.
And also, could I get a validation?
Just wanted to go to Starbucks.
- He's so weird.
- He's scared of you.
Why? I'm nice.
[scoffs] Girl.
What do you know about Brayden Miller?
That he's Black and lives
in the Palisades with his white wife.
Yeah, he came in today to meet.
He seems like an asshole.
So then you're taking his case?
Funny. But, yeah. I mean...
It's not a crime to be an asshole.
But maybe it should be.
JAX:
So, given what my investigator
found on Madison,
here's what I advise you do.
- Nothing!
- What do you mean nothing?
This is not Madison's first rodeo.
She's an extortion terrorist.
She puts male public figures
into these situations
and then uses the incident
to get money from them.
- Are you serious?
- Are you shocked?
I mean, I guess not, but, damn.
Okay, that may be the case,
but Devin has a huge contract coming up.
By the time this is all sorted out,
he could lose it.
The league has a zero tolerance
for these kind of accusations.
As they should.
But you should have
a zero tolerance for scammers.
And this will set the tone
so that people will know,
that you, Devin MacDonald,
cannot be manipulated.
I don't know. I think you should
just pay her to go away.
Okay, fine. You can pay her
and she might go away,
but another one will pop right back up.
Devin, look, I love you, okay?
But this will not be your last headache.
Your penis will rise again
and your bank account
will fall right back down.
You both know I'm right.
I just wish there was a way
to prove that she was lying.
Give me your phone.
♪
KRYSTAL:
I know that smile.
It's either a client or it's Lewis.
I'm gonna guess it's not the latter
unless he's moved back in.
What? Girl, if you don't
stay outta my business...
And, no, it's Devin MacDonald.
My plan worked.
I had him text Madison Stiles
offering to take her
on a fully paid vacation
wherever she wanted.
And she said, "You could have
saved yourself the headache
if you'd just started here."
So now everyone knows
that she was planning to extort him.
She's lost credibility
and Devin looks like the victim,
which he was.
Ain't that entrapment?
Um, first of all, it's not,
and you should know that.
And secondly, she started all this.
And don't start nothing won't be nothing.
- Okay.
- [Jax laughs]
- Did I get any calls?
- Uh, yeah, the PD's office called.
There is a Damon Cooke
who wants to speak to you.
He is up for parole.
- Is that right?
- KRYSTAL: Yeah.
And I looked him up.
Girl, you know, I don't even like men,
but he is OG Prison Bae.
Was he your client or something?
Uh, a long time ago.
Um, tell them to let him know
I'm no longer a public defender
and they should refer him to someone else.
Well, apparently they already said that,
but he insists on speaking to you.
He claims he is going to admit
to the murder in order to get out.
Are you serious?
♪
Tell them I said I'll go talk to him
because that is
the last thing he should do.
♪
[sighs]
[beeping]
Will, I swear you don't
have to do that. I'm fine.
WILL:
Better safe than sorry.
[beeps, chirps]
Plus, just doing my job.
JAX:
Oh, you are and I appreciate it.
- Everything looks good here.
- Okay. Thank you.
WILL:
Yeah.
I'll let you get some sleep.
JAX: [sighs]
Yes.
Hopefully I can get some.
Sleep.
Oh...
Have you tried melatonin?
I think I need something stronger.
I have Ativan.
It's not a sleeping pill,
but it'll help you relax.
So you just go around
carrying random pills in your pocket?
No, no, I...
Um, I get anxiety sometimes.
Oh. I'm sorry. I wasn't trying to...
No, you're... You're good.
Do you want one?
I don't mind as...
As long as you don't tell your husband.
I don't tell him everything.
- Oh.
- That's good to know.
[Jax chuckles]
Well, I'm just outside if you need me.
Thank you.
Thank you for everything. I...
[Jax sighs]
This has honestly been
the best part of my day.
You're welcome.
♪
[line ringing]
[cell phone ringing]
[sighs]
[ringing continues]
Hello?
Hey, is Spenser asleep?
Yeah, of course. It's after 10:00.
He was supposed to call me
before he went to sleep.
LEWIS:
I told him to.
You sure you didn't miss the call?
- Yes, I'm sure.
- I've been here working all night.
Spenser wants to spend
a few more nights here.
- What's a few?
- LEWIS: A week or so.
- No, that's too long.
- LEWIS: I thought you'd be thrilled
to have more time for yourself to do
whatever it is you do these days.
And I thought you wanted
to have earnest conversations.
That sounds like a shady-ass quip, no?
How about you just
let Spenser stay one more night?
This is hard for him.
Fine.
Paul's birthday party
is on Sunday, so,
I'll make sure we're there.
Okay.
- Have a good night.
- Yeah, you too.
[sighs]
Hey, you talk to Brayden Miller?
- Yeah, I did.
- He's decided to bring the firm on.
That's great.
He's gonna be a tough client,
so I'm hoping he's gonna wanna
talk to you more than me.
RICH:
Actually, he, uh,
only wants to talk to me.
Oh. Wow.
I tried to convince him, but he just...
All good.
Kaleesha Moore did agree to meet with us
regarding the NDA,
especially once Brayden agreed to pay her
a $12 million settlement,
so at least this will all be over soon.
Guess so.
RICH:
Maybe Brayden was right
about Kaleesha after all.
Maybe she does want the money.
Or maybe she just doesn't
give a fuck anymore.
♪
[door buzzes]
[door closes]
[sighs]
Shit.
Jax.
Mr. Cooke.
It's been a long time.
Sixteen years,
five months, 22 days.
I've been trying to get a hold of you
for a few days now.
I no longer work
in the public defender's office.
I moved to the private sector.
Huh.
More money?
Well, when rich people lose
it doesn't hurt them as much.
It doesn't hurt them or,
or you?
I hear you're planning to admit
to a crime you didn't commit.
Hmm.
I can't be here anymore.
And the only way to do that
is to show remorse for
a crime they think I committed.
There are other ways to get parole.
No other way is a guarantee.
Once you confirm your guilt to them,
it becomes part of your record.
- You can never take it back.
- Won't matter though.
I'll be free.
No. You'll be out of prison,
but you won't be free.
Says the person
who can walk right out that door.
JAX:
What if some new evidence comes up
and you're able to clear your name?
I've been here
waiting for that shit to happen,
and it ain't happening.
I'm being given a chance
for parole for the first time.
I can't blow that.
Look, I already lost my 30s,
my little niece's high school graduation,
voting for the first...
first Black president.
I have to do this.
If you do this,
you will be saying
that you murdered that man.
You'll be saying you're a criminal.
♪
I thought you liked criminals.
♪
Don't forget I know you, Jax.
♪
I know that you did
everything you could at the time
to get me outta here.
♪
And I know why you did it.
♪
I did it because it was my job.
From the moment we met,
you were in here and I was out there.
It was simply professional.
♪
What if I was out there?
What if I was never convicted?
Then what?
♪
♪
No.
♪
If you lie
and say you committed this heinous crime,
I will never fucking speak to you again.
I'm sorry.
I don't have a choice.
♪
- [door buzzes]
- Good luck.
Jax, don't... Jax, don't do this.
♪
SALLY: I don't know why
Shanelle is still in that house
with that cheating-ass whack-ass negro.
And she'd be the first one
to tell us all to dump him, right?
I swear, if she wasn't my cousin...
Hmm.
♪
You okay?
No.
- What's up?
- Did something happen with Lewis?
Mm-mmm.
Um...
The guy from work? Bitch?
[chuckles] Rich.
Right. That's just what we call him.
No, he's fine now. It's not about him.
SALLY:
Okay.
Is everything good with the kids or...
When's the last time
you talked to your dad?
Don't do that.
- I'm not gonna judge you.
- I'm not Shanelle.
I know, Sally.
And I love that about you,
but tonight I kinda just wanna...
Just drink and laugh
and just forget this day ever happened.
Is that okay?
Of course, Cracker Jax.
Mm-hmm.
Okay. Now, if you want
my nosy ass to stop asking questions,
we're gonna need some more drinks.
Fine. Next round is on me.
Okay!
That is why I love you.
You want some shots?
Imma get us some shots.
♪
[line ringing]
SPENSER: [over voice mail]
Hey, this is Spenser.
I don't listen to these, so text me.
Alright, peace.
[sighs]
♪
♪
LEWIS: What are you doing here?
JAX: I wanna see my kids.
- Nah, I got the text.
- It's not your night.
Technically, it was my night
until you stole it from me.
I wanna see them, Lewis.
Listen, they're sleep and you're drunk.
Did you drive here?
Really, Lewis?
No, I didn't drive here.
Why do you hate me so much?
I don't hate you. You just...
[Lewis sighs]
Can we just talk, please?
[car chirps]
I don't hate you, Jax. I'm just... hurt.
When I told you to choose
between me and your job,
I didn't think I'd lose that ultimatum.
You lost as soon as you asked.
LEWIS:
Yeah.
I'm starting to see that.
You don't think I'm hurt?
I miss you, Lewis.
I miss seeing you.
Talking shit with you.
Telling you about my day.
I mean, you think
I wanna go through this shit?
- I don't know how you feel.
- You don't talk to me.
Hey.
I love you.
You know that, right?
I know you love me.
I love you.
Do you know me?
Maybe you just love the idea of me
and not the actual me.
I know you better than you think.
I don't believe you.
♪
[Jax moans]
Baby.
Why are you not wearing your ring?
Oh, you make me mad, Lewis.
- I don't wanna make you mad.
- I wanna make you come.
That's what you want, isn't it?
[Jax moans]
♪
I can take care of you.
If you let me.
So slow down.
♪
[Jax moans]
And let me.
Please.
[moaning]
Oh... fuck!
♪
[moaning continues]
♪
Mm!
Good night, Jax.
♪
[sighs]
Fun night?
Uh, did the-the Ativan work?
You seem a lot more relaxed now
than you did the other night.
Yes, it definitely did.
Among other things.
You got another one?
Yeah, I smoke menthols.
Then I'll take two.
WILL:
You're full of surprises, Mrs. Stewart.
More than you know.
And you can call me Jax.
Good night.
Night.
Now, I know we all know this,
but I have to remind everyone
that this NDA with a monetary settlement
is simply an understanding
that no lawsuits
or criminal charges will be filed.
It is not a quid pro quo.
We understand.
This is your counsel?
Fall on is my cousin.
She's here to help me
get through all this nonsense.
I have my own law degree.
Okay, then.
Well, given that Mr. Miller
emphatically denies
that an assault occurred,
we are asking that Mrs. Moore
makes no public accusations
about Mr. Miller
that he has already privately denied,
including but not limited to any
ethical, moral, and/or legal wrongdoings
per the nondisclosure agreement
in perpetuity.
Yeah, we got it.
Great.
So are we ready to sign?
FALLON:
Kaleesha?
This is a very good
and extremely generous settlement.
Considering there's no proof.
- Well, I am the proof.
- I said it happened.
- And Mr. Miller says otherwise.
- It's your word against his.
I guess that's it then, huh?
What are you doing?
Tell him I said his word is shit,
and he knows why.
Just give me my validation.
Mark-ass buster.
[elevator dings]
- Ooh, girl, my bad.
- Ooh.
No worries.
Wait, Jacqueline Stewart, right?
Yes.
Well, your people tried to silence me,
but it didn't work.
Kaleesha?
Next time a Black woman says
she's been raped,
you should show the fuck up.
[elevator dings]
♪ Praise God by Ye playing ♪
♪ Serve ♪
KRYSTAL: Good morning.
JAX: Hey.
♪ Work
Six, I'm like Mike ♪
♪ He's out of sight ♪
♪ Whoo, you done got me piped ♪
♪ Two-man like Ike, six out the spot ♪
♪ Into the night ♪
♪ Yeah, I'm shaking the drop ♪
♪ I'm still up on top ♪
♪ I been had the bop ♪
♪ vocalizing ♪
♪ The devil my opp ♪
♪ Can't pay me to stop ♪
[sighs deeply]
♪ My God at the top ♪
♪ La flame ♪
♪ We gonna praise
our way out the grave, dawg ♪
♪ Living, speaking, praise God ♪
♪ Walking out the graveyard back to life ♪
GUARD:
Damon Cooke?
♪ I serve, follow your worth ♪
♪ See with new sight ♪
♪ Into the night ♪
♪ Tame Impala, tame Imp ♪
♪
RICH: Needless to say,
things did not go as planned.
So she didn't sign the NDA.
RICH:
And she's going on Good Morning America,
which means you should hire
a PR crisis firm.
I don't think she's going to budge.
I guess what's-her-name was right.
- Who?
- The other lawyer. The Black one.
Her name is Jax.
Yeah. Whatever.
Anyway, I'll take care of this.
I think I know what Kaleesha needs.
- You do?
- Yep.
And I guess I'm gonna
have to give it to her
whether she likes it or not.
♪
I'll make sure you're paid in full.
♪
Thank you.
Yeah. Thank you... sir.
♪
♪
♪
Ooh, look at this beautiful family.
Hi, Mama Lu.
Oh, hi, little sugar.
- SPENSER: Hi, Mom-Mom.
- Ooh, that deep voice.
You haven't gotten too big
for your grandma, have you?
Now, well, come on,
let's go to the backyard.
Grandpa Paul is waiting to see you.
SPENSER:
Can I grab a soda?
MAMA LU:
Sure. It's over there.
Oh, my favorite Lew.
Ah, but you're my favorite Lu!
MAMA LU:
Oh. Jacqueline, I hope you work things out
- with my son-in-law.
- Mom.
We are trying,
but you know I'm stubborn.
Well, all men are. Just don't let her
be too hard on you, you hear?
[Mama Lu chuckles]
Where did you get that hat?
Oh, this old thing?
[Lewis speaking indistinctly]
[inaudible]
MAMA LU:
Ooh, yeah.
[Lewis and Mama Lu speaking indistinctly]
LEWIS:
Hey, Paul.
[indistinct chatter]
[door opens]
Hey, Jax. You need anything?
No. No, I'm good.
- You okay?
- JAX: Yeah.
Look, Paul might be sober,
but I'm not, so.
[sighs]
Is this about the other night?
What?
The other night.
Are you even listening to me?
- Lewis, please, I can't.
- Can we just get through this?
It's your world, Jax.
[door opens]
♪ Happy birthday to you ♪
♪ Happy birthday to you ♪
[fades, muffled]
♪ Happy birthday, dear Paul ♪
♪ Happy birthday to you ♪
[all cheer]
Come on, everybody, let's eat cake.
You ready to eat?
Where are you going?
Lewis, please. Can you just
take the kids to your house?
They have homework to do
and I have cases I need to work on.
You begged me to come here
for family time
and now you're ghosting?
This is what I'm talking about.
No matter what, you will always
choose yourself over your family.
♪
So fuckin' selfish.
♪ Liberation by OutKast playing ♪
♪ There's a fine line
between love and hate you see ♪
♪ Came way too late ♪
[singing along]
♪ But baby I'm on it ♪
[pounds on door]
GUARD:
Hey, Cooke.
Your parole got approved.
Looks like you're finally
gonna be a free man.
♪ Came way too late ♪
♪ But, baby, I'm on it ♪
♪
JAX:
October 27th, 2007.
Dear Damon,
words cannot express how sorry I am
[doorbell rings]
I let you down.
♪ Can't worry about what
another nigga think... ♪
I tried my best to give you
a life of freedom,
but I failed you.
♪
We all did.
As another innocent Black man
goes into a system
that is rigged to put him there
and keep him there.
I just wanted to let you know
that today is my last day.
♪
Well, no, I'm sorry to hear that. Why?
♪
I have a criminal record.
Nothing serious. I was a kid,
but I guess somebody found out
about it and reported it.
Oh, that really sucks.
I bet it was a Karen.
Yeah, maybe.
♪
Anyway, thanks for being
kind and nice and...
Yeah.
Well, thank you for the Ativan.
Next time I can
get you something stronger.
♪
JAX:
But no matter what happens,
I will never forget you.
And I will always fight for you.
What did you have in mind?
I wanted more for you.
♪
For us.
♪ Vocalizing ♪
♪
And no matter what I said...
♪
You should know
at the end of the day...
♪
I... love... criminals.
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
♪ Shake that load off ♪
[cell phone buzzing]
[sighs]
Rich, it is way too early.
Kaleesha's dead.
What?
Where's Brayden?
He's on his way to his office.
Uh, I'm going to meet him there now, but...
This is now a criminal case.
RICH:
Jax?
I'll meet you there.
[sighs] Fuck!
♪ Closing theme playing ♪
♪