Original subtitles

Natalie.

Wait, wait, wait.

Got it.

You asked me to tell you when it was 5 o 'clock.

It is now 5.05.

I'm meeting Josh for dinner tonight.

The cab driver.

No.

That was Eddie.

We broke up a year ago.

Oh, sorry.

Donut guy?

That was Jim.

We broke up last Christmas.

Now, Josh is the accounts manager at Marcus Brothers.

He just got offered a very big promotion and

he's taking me to Four Buddies to celebrate.

He says he has something very special he wants to ask me tonight.

And what masterpiece are you editing today?

This is an incredibly important book.

It actually reminds me of why I got into publishing in the first place.

It's full of tragedy and triumph.

Tragedy and Triumph.

The History of the Cornfield War of 1931.

This is the kind of book that's going to change the world.

Not if only ten people read it.

I'm going to be late.

But Natalie, wouldn't it be nice just once to work on a

book that doesn't sit on a shelf and collect dust like this?

Oh, you know how I feel about that.

I feel about Beverly Wilcox.

That's not writing.

That's barely printing.

She sells millions of copies.

Just because something is popular doesn't necessarily mean

it's good and doesn't necessarily mean it's bad either.

Come on, be honest.

Don't you want to edit a book that you can buy at

an airport, take on vacation and read on a beach?

Lisa, you can't change the world without getting a tan.

Yes, Beverly, I know you're our number one author.

I couldn't tell.

Yes, I know.

You could go to any other publisher in town.

But don't worry.

We're going to find you an editor who understands not just the Beverly Wilcox

brand, but also the artist behind the Beverly Wilcox

brand, which of course would be you, Beverly Wilcox.

Hello, Beverly?

Goodbye to you, too.

Any luck?

Not exactly.

I've tried both of our in-house editors, three of our regular freelancers,

and one from a temp service downtown.

So far, they've all said no.

Except the man from the temp service.

Oh, what did he say?

That he'd rather edit plastic surgery manuals than work with Beverly Wilcox.

Ugh.

Beverly Wilcox has millions of devoted readers all over the world.

Every time she exhales, she hits the bestseller list.

It's not like an editor would actually have to do anything.

Why can't I find one for her next book?

You really want me to answer that?

I certainly do not.

So, you're giving up?

No.

I have an idea.

Okay.

Oh, thank you.

Hi!

Here you go.

Here you go.

Here you go.

Here you go.

Well, this is new.

I feel new.

So, how was your day?

Uh, you know, trying to make sense out of words, trying to fix things.

Trying to change the world.

Not every day.

Well, I ordered us the usual and a Merlot.

Merlot?

I thought you didn't like Merlot.

There are a lot of things I thought I didn't like.

I'm learning something new about myself all the time.

You know?

Sure.

Yeah.

How about I propose a toast?

Okay.

What should we drink to?

Okay.

How about your new promotion?

Great.

Here's to the promotion.

I turned it down.

Why?

I was walking to work today.

And I saw all these miserable guys in their suits and shoes.

And I thought, hey, Josh, is that what you want to do with your life?

Do you really want all this responsibility?

You mean like a job?

A job, a mortgage, a belt.

So I decided what I really need to do with my life is go to Machu Picchu.

Like, um...

Peru?

Exactly.

I want to listen to the Earth.

And what do you think it's going to say?

I don't know.

Oh.

Okay, wait a second.

Wait, wait, wait.

What about us?

Hmm?

Because you said you had something really important you wanted to ask me tonight.

We've been together for six months now.

Yeah.

Six of the happiest months of my life.

Yeah.

You mean the world to me.

So I want to ask you, right here, right now, Natalie Holland,

would you do me the honor of subletting my apartment?

It's just such a great place and I don't want to give it up.

And I'm going to be gone for probably a year.

So what do you think?

Happy listening.

Avery.

Natalie, sweetie, how are you?

I'm good.

I'm real...

How are things in L.A.?

That's kind of why I'm calling.

How would you like to become a full-time editor at my company?

Oh, gosh.

I don't know what to say.

It's a very kind offer.

Well, I mean, I can't just pick up and move.

I've got a lot going on.

I mean, I've got...

Well, I've got...

I'll be there tomorrow.

Okay.

Bye.

Bye.

Natalie?

Oh.

Hi!

I'm Isabelle, Avery's assistant.

Hi.

How did you know I was... From Portland?

Um... Lucky guess.

Let's get your luggage.

So how long have you worked for Avery?

Long enough to know why you're here.

I'm sorry?

Oh.

Um... I mean, Avery speaks very highly of you.

She's looking forward to having you with us.

Look,

let me give you a little advice off the record.

Los Angeles isn't Portland.

If you're going to make it here, you're going to need

to learn that what you see isn't always what you get.

I'm not sure I follow.

Remember, King Kong was only 3'6".

You're here!

Oh, so good to see you.

Oh, I've missed you.

Come on in.

Thanks.

Let's get her bags inside.

Ben!

Hey, she made it!

Yeah!

Hey!

Oh, you look great!

Oh, thanks.

We've missed you around here.

How long's it been?

Three years.

Since our wedding, honey.

Is that right?

Mm-hmm.

Well, it's true what they say.

Time flies when you're happily married.

See why I keep him around?

Yes.

Oh.

Dinner's almost ready.

I'm cooking.

Can I get you a glass of wine?

What do you have?

Anything but Merlot.

Machu Picchu?

Really?

Yep.

Sure know how to pick them.

That's a problem, sweetie.

You don't.

Ouch.

I'm sorry.

It's true.

When I was your boss back in Portland, I

watched you go after the same type every time.

Good-looking, fun to be around, but with no real future.

Or even plans of having one.

Is this the on-paper speech?

What's that?

Oh, my wife is famous among our single friends for her dating theories.

She believes you can't follow your heart.

You have to follow your head.

I just happen to believe that before you get romantically involved with someone

that you should take a look at all his attributes, his goals, his ambitions,

how seriously he takes his responsibilities.

In other words, the guy you're dating can't just look good in a pair of jeans.

He's got to look good on paper.

It worked for me.

Flattery will get you dessert.

Okay, so what do I do?

Well, you've already taken the first step.

You're here.

LA is where people come to reinvent themselves.

You can leave all your old bad habits behind

and start over with a new life and a new job.

Yes.

I can't wait.

Tell me, what is my first project?

Besides finding my own apartment.

It's such a lovely night.

Let's not talk shop.

Okay.

Okay.

Oh my gosh.

Oh my gosh.

I'm so, so sorry.

I didn't know you were back there.

Let me help you with this.

Oh my gosh.

I'm so sorry.

What is that?

Mint mocha with a little caramel?

Here, come on.

Get up.

Get up.

It's okay.

I got it.

Let me, let me, let me just wait.

It's fine.

Okay.

Oh.

Found all these addresses.

It's funny.

You don't strike me as a door-to-door salesman.

Thanks.

Trying to find an apartment.

You joking?

I wish I was.

I've been all over the city and I can't find anything.

I just want like a nice clean one bedroom, you know?

Like this?

Oh.

You want to take a look?

Would you mind?

On one condition.

We introduce ourselves.

I'm Coop.

Coop.

Cooper.

And you are?

Uh, Natalie.

Natalie Holland.

You're not from LA, are you?

How'd you know that?

Lucky guess.

So, the paint's new.

You pay gas and electric.

Water's included.

Building's pretty quiet.

Uh, I live on-site if you need anything.

And rent's pretty decent for the area.

Yeah, it is.

What's the catch?

No catch.

Landler's just a cool guy.

Okay.

I love it.

What should I fill out?

You got a job?

I do.

I am a book editor for Goldstein Publishing.

You quiet?

I'm a book editor.

You single?

I think asking me that's illegal.

What?

Okay.

I'll say yes.

So, what about you?

Is this your full-time job?

Of course not.

What do you do for a living?

Oh.

Well, this, but not full-time.

Cuts into my surfing.

Of course.

I'd appreciate it if you didn't deposit the check till later tonight, because I

just need to move some funds for my savings.

That shouldn't be a problem.

Just let me know.

Is that okay with the landlord?

Yeah.

Gives me some leeway.

Okay.

Thank you again, Coop.

It's my pleasure, Natalie.

I'll see you around.

Okay.

By the way, if you're going to be staying in

L.A., you might want to rethink that sweater.

Good morning, everybody.

You have come a long way from Portland.

So have you.

This way.

I have an office.

I have a whole office.

And right over there is your very first assignment at Goldstein Publishing.

Wow.

Avery, I don't... Avery!

Oh!

Morning, Natalie.

You're here.

Of course she is.

She's starting work today.

Avery, can I speak with you for a moment?

Can it wait?

We were just about to discuss Natalie's first project.

Already?

Mm-hmm.

Natalie, will you excuse us for just a moment?

Okay.

I thought she wasn't coming until noon.

I guess she changed her mind.

Let's go, people!

Let's go!

Beverly Wilcox?

You're kidding!

Everyone to the elevator!

Move it!

Beverly,

what a wonderful surprise!

I'm so excited for you to meet her.

Avery, hi.

May I speak with you for a moment?

Natalie, we were just talking about you.

Um, yeah, about the manuscript.

I'm so glad you like it.

Please meet the author, Beverly Wilcox.

Beverly, this is Natalie Holland.

We'd like her to be your next editor.

Where's my champagne?

Yeah.

Hmm.

Isn't she lovely?

One of all people, Beverly Wilcox?

You could have said something to me about this before I left Portland.

I know.

I'm sorry.

I wanted you here.

I was afraid if I told you why, given how you

feel about her work, you probably wouldn't come.

You're probably right.

Look at it this way.

It's an opportunity for you to move up from assistant to full-time editor and to

work for an international bestselling author.

What about the editor she used on her last book?

Why aren't you using him?

Mr. Fell.

After he and Beverly finished, he left the publishing industry.

So there's nobody else?

Nobody I can afford to take a chance with.

I'm mortgaged to the ceiling with this place, Nat.

I really need your help.

Look, she has lunch at Crawford's every day.

Just go meet with her.

What's the worst that can happen?

And here we are for you.

And Miss Wilcox.

Excuse me.

I asked for the baby tomato to be placed under the aioli mayonnaise.

Not on top.

Well...

Why is it so difficult for you service people to follow simple instructions?

No, no, no.

No, no.

Just leave it.

It took you so long to bring us lunch.

I'm afraid I wouldn't see you again till breakfast.

Just go.

What a comfort it must be to not worry about how one appears to others.

Bon appetit.

Thank you.

You too.

So you're from Portland?

Mm-hmm.

I was there once on a book tour.

I rode the cable cars.

It was just wonderful.

I think that might have been San Francisco.

I always get those little cities in the north confused.

Tell me, Nadine.

Natalie.

Yes.

Which of my books is your favorite?

It's an unfair question, I know.

But if you had to choose...

Um...

Embrace of Passion.

Oh.

And what was your favorite part?

My favorite part?

Oh.

Really?

My favorite part was when she realized that he

was meant to be with her all along, in the end.

In love.

You mean until she died?

Yup.

Until that part.

You just think I'm ridiculous, don't you?

I'm sorry?

No, no, no.

You know, it's quite all right.

I'm used to it after all these years.

I've met a lot of people like you.

English literature degree, probably, all paid for by mommy and daddy, of course.

You dress like this because you think it makes people take you more seriously,

but, in fact, all it does is make them wonder what thrift store you work at.

So while you may feel free to sit in judgment on me and my readers,

you've probably never read a single word I've ever written.

In fact, you think I have absolutely no talent whatsoever and that the kind of

writing I do is nothing but frivolous nonsense.

And you wonder why anyone in their right mind

would spend so much as a dime on one of my books.

Is that about it?

Not quite.

My parents didn't pay for my education.

They were too busy buying silly things like food and clothes for their five children.

Let me ask you a question, something I've always wanted to know about editors.

Do writers make you jealous?

Only the good ones.

Good luck with the book.

Oh, keep the receipt for lunch?

It's on Avery.

Thank you very much.

What are you standing there for?

Bring me more champagne.

Hi, Avery.

What did you say to her?

I'm sorry, I told you this was a really bad idea.

Bad idea?

Are you kidding?

She loved you.

What?

She just called me.

She told me if I didn't put you on her book, she

was going to take her next three somewhere else.

This is unbelievable.

Well, you better start believing.

You've got 30 days to deliver Desire's Love Unbound.

Good luck.

I thought I saw a chair walking down the hallway.

Oh, thank you.

Thank you so much.

Can we just put it over there, please?

Yeah, yeah.

Nope, nope, over there.

Yep, that's good.

No, no, maybe over there is good.

Okay.

Okay.

How about right here?

That's perfect.

Yeah.

What do you think?

Yeah.

Yeah, it looks good.

Oh, lease papers from the landlord.

Congratulations, you're almost a bona fide Californian.

Almost?

Oh, you didn't know?

Well, before it's official, you have to have

dinner at the best burger joint in the city.

And where would that be?

What?

You mean Nikki's Grill wasn't in your Welcome to L.A.

handbook?

Must have skipped over that part.

Well, fortunately for you, I happen to know the exact location and am available

to help you complete your residency program.

How about tonight?

Tonight?

Unless you got other plans.

Like maybe a book deadline?

Avery!

Hey.

Coop.

Avery, Avery, Coop.

This is one of my best friends and my boss.

Boss?

Deadline.

Deadline.

Got it.

Rain check?

It was nice to meet you, Avery.

And you.

Thank you for helping.

Anytime.

Isn't he cute?

Adorable.

Yeah, I think he works maintenance or something in the building.

I met him the first day I found the place.

And you're already making dinner plans?

Hardly dinner.

It's just a burger.

Natalie, what did I tell you about guys like him?

You told me to find somebody with responsibility.

But you know what?

He takes his job very seriously.

He's also a handyman.

He's not just a handyman.

He also serves.

Hmm.

Look, just promise me you won't do anything rash.

At least before you finish Beverly's book.

Damn.

All right.

I'm gonna put this in some water.

Natalie, it's a cactus.

Hey.

Any of that pie left?

SomebodyDateMe.com.

Is there something you want to tell me?

No.

Not particularly.

Well, if you're looking for a match for me, put down that I like redheads that

like to meddle in their employees' love lives.

Hey!

I am not meddling.

I'm...

I'm just trying to help.

Have you ever considered...

the way to help Natalie the most is just let her live her life?

Let her make her own dating decisions?

But she's been terrible at it.

You remember the guy she dated back in Portland?

What about the one with the wispy mustache and the scary leprechaun tattoo?

Oh, I like that guy.

If you're looking to keep in touch, he's doing seven to ten years at the state

prison for smuggling exotic reptiles into the country.

So... Ooh.

At least he's original.

I'm just trying to find someone for Natalie who

brings something to the relationship, you know?

Somebody who really brings something to the table with her.

Let me ask you a question.

Were you this picky when we first met?

That's not a fair question.

No, I think it is.

Are you saying you wouldn't have been interested in me if I was working at a

fast food joint or at a dollar store as opposed to being a stockbroker?

Of course I would have.

I was in love with you.

You were in love with me.

Well, let's not push off.

All right.

Just

checking to see if everything's okay.

Sorry.

Sorry, these games just get a little heated.

Yeah, especially since he's losing.

Natalie Holland, meet Eli Jackson.

Eli, Miss Holland.

Hello, Eli.

Hey.

Is that how you talk to a lady?

Sorry.

Hey, Miss Holland.

Pleasure to meet you.

Miss Holland's an editor.

She's working on a new book.

Oh.

Really?

Oh.

You don't like books, huh?

Movies.

Oh.

Like what?

Oh, sci-fi.

You know, aliens, spaceships, stuff like that.

Do you know where the ideas for most of those movies come from?

Books.

Great writers like Ray Bradbury, Arthur C.

Clarke.

If you like science fiction, you should read those.

You know what?

Why don't I give a couple to Coop?

You can read them.

Tell me what you think.

I guess so.

All right, boys.

Enjoy your night.

Good night, Natalie.

What's wrong with you?

Good night, Natalie.

Hey.

Here.

Where have you been?

What do you mean?

It's not even 9 o'clock.

Well, she's been here since 8.

Oh.

Oh.

Good morning, Beverly.

Morning.

Or practically afternoon.

I've already been to Pilates.

Oh.

And had a half-hour session with my holistic therapist.

And had a juice cleanse.

And you look like you're still dressed in what you wore to bed.

I'm sorry.

Did we have an appointment that I forgot about?

Natalie, you're my editor.

I expect you to be on call 24 hours a day until my book is finished.

Now, these are my notes.

And here is my list of everything we need to get done today.

Okay.

Make lunch reservations.

Book pedicure appointment.

Complete questionnaire for Vanity Fair magazine.

Oh.

I almost forgot.

I also need you to pick up my dry cleaning.

I think we're going to need to come to some kind of understanding about boundaries.

I absolutely agree.

You do?

Oh, yes.

And that's why I got you this.

Now, instead of using your personal phone, I have a direct line to you so I can reach

you any time of day or night with an idea, a

notion, or even a creative whim about my book.

Okay.

Okay.

Oh, and don't forget about tonight.

Tonight?

Didn't Isabel tell you?

It's the Bookbinder's annual charity event.

I beg your pardon?

I've already RSVP'd for us both.

Both?

Don't be obtuse, Natalie.

Of course you're going with me.

This cause is very near and dear to my heart.

We raise public awareness about the plight of unemployed

bookbinders in the age of the digital download.

It's a cultural disaster.

Of course.

Okay.

Forgotten.

Don't be sarcastic, Natalie.

It's giving you those ugly little worry lines around your mouth.

It's just that we have a deadline.

I don't think I should be taking time away from the book.

But this is about the book, my dear.

Our appearance at this event, author and editor together, will generate excitement

about Desire's Love Unbound before it even gets to the printers.

Didn't they teach you anything about publicity

at that little red schoolhouse of yours?

Ah, well, Isabel has all the information.

The car will pick you up at 7 sharp.

And if you happen to find the light switch in your closet, I'd suggest using it.

It's a cocktail party, my dear.

Not a convention of lumberjacks.

She's a monster.

I assume you're talking about Beverly?

I mean, not only am I supposed to edit her book, but she wants me to run errands.

She wants me to fetch things.

She wants me to carry this thing around 24-7 so I can be at her beck and call.

She's just trying to include you in her life.

It's part of her creative process.

And does that include having to go to some boring charity cocktail party?

Charity?

Not the Bookbinders Foundation.

I didn't want to tell you.

I knew you'd be upset.

How does everybody know about this but me?

The Bookbinders is one of the most important

charity events in Los Angeles publishing.

I've been trying to convince her to take me to that party for five years now.

Fantastic!

You can go instead of me.

It's invitation only.

Very exclusive.

All the most important writers in the city will be there.

You have to go.

You have to represent Goldstein Publishing.

Mmm, but not like that.

Absolutely not.

Cancel my meetings for the rest of the day.

Wait, where are we going?

We have a retail emergency.

What's wrong with what I'm wearing?

It's just a party.

There's no such thing as just a party in LA.

Yay!

You're early!

The boss.

Who is it?

The maintenance man.

Oh, hi Coop!

I was just checking on Mrs. Wolf down the hall.

She can't reach the top of her fridge.

You know.

Anyway, I was just stopping in to see if you had those books for Eli.

Oh yeah, they're on the shelf by the door.

Great.

Got them.

Thanks.

Okay.

Well, Natalie is very busy.

Thank you for stopping by.

She has a very important social engagement this evening.

Okay, thanks again.

Bye-bye.

Natalie!

I thought we agreed that you were going to only date men who had ambition and goals.

Men who... I know, I know.

Men who look good on paper.

Yes.

How am I going to find one of those?

You wear that dress tonight, you're not going to have to look much longer.

You think it's okay?

I feel like I'm pretending to be somebody else.

It's LA.

That's the idea.

I'm starving.

Hello, Beverly.

The car is here.

Where are you?

It is.

It's downstairs.

Yeah, I'm on my way.

I'll be down in a...

Does she even know it's a word goodbye?

Go, go, go.

Have fun!

Wow.

I took your advice.

Left the park at home.

Yeah.

Just... hold on a second.

What's that for?

I have a bad habit.

Every time I see a beautiful woman, I can't help but give her a flower.

And how long have you had this habit?

Five seconds.

Sorry, I gotta...

Yes, Beverly?

Oh, don't mind me.

Just sitting in this car here.

Please take all the time you need to discuss gardening tips with the help.

Coming.

I'm sorry, I have to go.

Yeah.

This is beautiful.

Thank you.

Have fun tonight.

Sorry.

Oh, thank you.

Well, at least you managed to put together an

outfit that doesn't look as if you're going fishing.

Is that a compliment?

What are we waiting for?

Drive.

Hey,

what are you doing here?

Hey, I'm back here.

I just sent my old friend Natalie off to the

Bookbinder's Foundation with Beverly Wilcox.

I dressed her up like an L.A.

party girl and shipped her off to the wolves' den.

Well, I would remind you that Natalie is our old friend.

And I'm sure you sent her off to the Bookbinder

thing just to keep the battle axe happy.

Breaking Natalie here was supposed to help her and me.

What's the problem?

Natalie's a good editor with strong opinions.

Not exactly what Beverly's looking for.

You always said there was a great writer in Beverly if she had a good editor.

I'm not sure now's the time to test that theory.

What are you doing, by the way?

I am watching the ball game and reading about pizza.

Is that the cookbook from next season?

Yeah, it's the man's copy you brought home.

You're reading a cookbook and watching sports?

Yeah, it's really not that hard.

Plus, this is a really... it's a good book.

And we'll only ship 10,000 copies.

And meanwhile, Beverly's book isn't even at galleys yet.

And the phone is ringing off the hook for hard copies and e-edition dates.

Better keep Madame Beverly happy.

Even if she is an old battle axe.

Scoot over.

Who's winning?

What?

The game.

Oh, uh...

L.A.?

Keep reading about gluten-free.

Yeah.

I hope so.

Wonderful to see you.

Yes.

Let's get together soon.

Good.

We're not too early and not too late.

How do you know?

You can't see the walls, but nobody's passed out yet.

Halt!

Thank you.

Here.

That should help.

I don't really like champagne.

Learn.

She's here.

Here they come.

Smile, dear.

People will think you're deranged.

Hello, everyone.

Thank you so much for coming.

Take a step back, dear.

You're blocking my light.

Oh.

Excuse me.

Yes.

Hello.

I'm sorry.

Natalie.

Dear.

Come join us.

Sorry.

Not this side, dear.

Other side.

This is the wonderful editor of my new book, Love's Desire Unbound.

Available this fall from Goldstein Publishing.

Miss Natalie Holland.

Hi.

She keeps me honest.

Tell us about yourself, Natalie.

Where are you from?

Um.

Portland.

Portland?

Oregon?

Ah.

The Wetmark.

Oh, no.

It doesn't rain that much.

Not as much as Seattle.

Oh, yes.

Of course.

What was the last book you read?

It was called Tragedy and Triumph.

It's an amazing book.

It's a vivid account of struggle and resilience of the human spirit.

Well, it's not just a history book.

It's like an incredible journey into the dark part of our national identity.

But ultimately, it is a heartbreaking reminder how every person on Earth,

each one of us, can really make a difference.

All we have to do is reach out to our fellow man and say, you matter to me.

You matter to us.

Go on.

I think I went on long enough.

I'm trying to get out the door to work.

What?

You're taking a third job?

No.

Just picking up an extra shift at the second.

You also got to take care of yourself.

My mom's a diabetic too.

Okay.

I brought these books for Eli.

Oh, great.

You know, he still hasn't learned to love reading like his mama.

But I'm working on it.

Is he home?

No, he's picking up dinner.

It's pizza night.

What else you selling?

Nothing.

Just some information on the Horrocks School.

The Horrocks School?

That sounds expensive.

It's one of the top schools in the nation.

I want the best for my kids, but I could never afford something like this.

They got financial aid, scholarships, plus I know the dean of students.

He's an old friend of mine.

I am knee-deep in applications to charter schools for Eli now.

Will you at least take a look at it, please?

I will.

Thank you for the books.

Now, scat.

Yes, ma'am.

I'll be in Nikki's if Eli needs me.

Don't take it personally.

People who come to these things aren't really interested in their fellow man.

It's less about the social cause, more about the social event.

And what about you?

A bit of both, really.

And it's a nice big tax deduction.

You need a big tax deduction?

I'm a lawyer in Los Angeles.

I need plenty of them.

And he's Bob.

Bob Lewis.

Natalie.

Holland.

Yes, I heard the introduction.

How long have you been working with Her Highness?

Um, two weeks, three days, and just under nine hours.

Well, from what I hear, she eats editors for breakfast.

So you lasted that long.

You must be doing something right.

Oh, um, can I?

Can I?

New York.

I'm sorry?

Oh, you were gonna ask where I'm from.

I hope.

Eventually.

Uh, I just came out on vacation.

I never went back.

Do you surf?

No.

I've never really had the time.

I started my law firm when I first moved out here and everything just took off.

I've got some big plans for the future, too.

How about you?

How about me what?

Do you surf?

Oh.

Yes, Beverly?

We're done here.

I'll be waiting in the car.

Oh.

Uh, not for too long, I hope.

I'll be right... Thank you.

I gotta go.

Sounds like it.

Um, well, it was nice talking to you, Natalie from Portland.

Hopefully we can do it again sometime.

Maybe you have a dinner?

I'd like that.

Bob from New York.

Can I call you tomorrow?

Okay.

Good.

And I'm not the only one.

Yeah, I'm sorry.

Good night.

Wow.

That was incredible.

Beverly, thank you so much for having me.

Oh, it'll go so much better next time.

We'll get you to the hairdresser.

Good.

Bye.

Nikki's.

Oh, please be open.

Oh, hi.

You still open?

Oh, absolutely.

Um, for a lady to dress like that, Nikki's is always open.

Uh, pull up a seat.

Thanks.

So, are you Nikki?

Uh, no, I'm Jake.

There is no Nikki.

Uh, never was.

So why is it called Nikki's?

We got a deal on the sign.

Ah.

Coffee?

Yes, please.

Okay.

Special of the house tonight is burger, burger, or burger.

And we're all out of the first two.

I'll take the burger.

Hey, ordering!

Hockey puck straight up.

How do you want it?

Hey.

Hey.

You found the place.

You work here too?

Not really.

I just help out every once in a while.

That's into the surfing time?

Something like that, yeah.

Fridge needs cleaning.

Uh, I did it yesterday.

Yeah, it's dirty again.

I better clean it then.

So, I take it the party wasn't very good.

What would make you say that?

Well, you're at a burger joint alone on a Friday night.

Date go home early?

I didn't have a date.

I actually haven't had one since Portland.

And even those weren't too successful.

I'm trying to be a little more careful with my choices, you know?

What does that mean, careful?

Um, a friend of mine refers to it as finding someone who looks good on paper.

On paper?

I'm sorry.

You mean a guy who's stable, like a real breadwinner?

Someone who has a good job, snappy dresser, killer resume?

I mean, not, you know, just a work resume, but, like, a life resume.

When you know what you want, you gotta go after it, right?

I'll go get you that burger.

Hey, what happened to your friend?

Wake up, wake up!

I have it hard from Natalie.

Yeah, maybe because it's like 2 o'clock in the morning, for Pete's sake.

Do you think it's a bad sign she hasn't touched base?

I think it's a sign that she's an adult.

I was very clear that I wanted to hear how things went.

Well, if you feel that strongly about it, why don't you just give her a call?

It's 2 o'clock in the morning, Ben!

Okay, you gotta ratchet it down.

If I show an interest in the professional relationship

with my most important author, you'll have to forgive me.

Okay, all the more reason you should play cool.

I need to get some rest, so turn off the light when you're done.

Ow!

You like it?

I just picked it up this morning.

I figured our first date would be a perfect chance to try it out.

I'm honored.

You've been here before?

It's Beverly Wilcox's favorite lunch spot.

Ah.

No, no, we'll go somewhere else.

No, it's okay.

Really, I actually love this place.

I do.

Okay, but the moment she shows up, we ask for the check.

You got it?

Got it.

Thank you.

By

then, my mom had the police searching for me.

The whole neighborhood's turned upside down.

And they find me in the back row of the library, asleep, between two stacks of

books with a first edition Winnie the Pooh on my lap.

Well then, what's it like working with Beverly Wilcox?

It's challenging.

I mean, she wants an editor.

But every time I try to change something, she

insists that I just put it back the way it was.

Why not just do what she asks and take the paycheck?

Yeah.

That's what Avery said.

But there's something special about her writing.

Yeah.

It's worth about $10,000 per word.

No, not just that.

There is something underneath the surface of her work.

Something meaningful that she's afraid to let

anybody know about for fear of losing her readers.

And you're going to help her share that with the world?

I can't.

She's already threatened to leave Avery's publishing house.

If I push too far, she's gone.

Well, even if that does happen, one good thing has come of all this.

If it wasn't for Beverly Wilcox, I would never have met you.

Thanks for coming over.

Of course.

Are those sugar-free?

No.

I've been so rushed these days, I hardly have time to eat.

So, I've been thinking about that Horrocks school.

Great.

Great.

The Horrocks school is...is on the other side of the country.

But this is an environment where presidents are groomed.

Well, what good is that if he's raised by strangers?

He'll come home for summers and holidays.

The greatest education in the world is no good

if a child isn't grounded in home and family.

Sounds like they're going to brainwash him or something.

Eli's place is here.

At least until he graduates high school.

Can we talk about it again in a year?

Fair enough.

Now, I really have to go to work.

The world of medical billing grinds to a halt without Letitia Jackson.

Okay.

Where is Alfonso?

I took him out.

I know you took him out.

I can read that.

I want to know why.

Well, he slowed down the narrative.

It was like he belonged in another book.

I just didn't think that we would miss him.

You didn't think we would miss him?

Well, here's a news flash for you.

I do.

Put him back.

Wait, Beverly!

May I direct your attention to the artwork on the wall?

Here and here.

It does not say Natalie Holland.

It says Beverly Wilcox.

I am the author and you are the author.

You are my editor and don't you forget it.

Or I will.

Well, at least she lives up to her reputation.

What are you doing here?

I got us a table for lunch at a little place over in Silver Lake.

It's so hip, it doesn't even have a name.

The Queen of Darkness will never find us.

You're amazing.

I'll be right back.

You must be Bob.

I'm Avery, Natalie's boss and one of her closest friends.

It's a pleasure to meet you.

And you.

Natalie's been talking about you for weeks, but I was

beginning to think you were just a figment of her imagination.

No, I'm the real thing.

Yes, you certainly are.

Avery, I need to talk to you about Beverly.

It could wait.

Enjoy your lunch.

Please, take all the time you need.

He seems very nice.

Trust me, anything's better than that surfing janitor she was after last month.

All right.

Watch this.

Afternoon.

Enjoy yourself.

Hey!

Dude.

Trying to hit through Big Ben.

Look, it's Miss Holland.

Hey, Miss Holland!

Hey!

Just a minute, okay?

Just a minute.

We have a reservation.

He's a friend of mine.

Okay, just one second.

Hi!

Hey, Miss Holland.

What are you doing here?

We're about to have lunch across the street.

Bob?

This is Eli.

And that's Coop.

Hi.

Bob?

Is it?

That's right.

And you're Coop?

That I am.

So, did you ever read those books that I gave you?

Uh, yeah.

Twice.

They were amazing.

They were so cool.

You got any more?

Absolutely.

I can just drop some off later.

Thanks, Miss Holland.

You know, you guys can come play with us if you want.

Oh, that is a tempting offer.

But... Yeah, I don't think Bob's a mini-putt type.

Well, he's a good guy.

What's that supposed to mean?

Nothing.

You just don't seem like the kind of guy who has time for... fun.

Coop!

Besides, they're eating at one of the most exclusive restaurants in town.

Probably took them a month to get a reservation.

Actually, I know the owner.

Really?

I'm impressed.

You know what?

I feel like a round of golf after all.

Bob!

Who knows?

Might even be fun.

Okay, Coop.

We're all tied up.

We're all tied up.

You sink this putt.

We win the game.

You miss it.

We lose.

Thank you.

No pressure.

How about we make it interesting?

What do you say, Coop?

A little bit amongst friends?

Oh, I don't think that's a good idea.

How much are we talking about?

Just enough to make it exciting.

I say five.

Dollars?

I think Bob means a little bit more than that.

Uh, guys?

Look at the sign.

Well, rules are rules, Bob.

Take the shot anyway.

Okay.

Thanks.

Go on, Bob.

That would have really broke the bank.

Oh, ha ha.

Well, look at the time.

Got to get back to the office.

It's nice seeing you, Eli.

Coop!

Uh, thanks for the books, Miss Holland.

Anytime.

Thanks for playing, guys.

He's all wrong for her, you know.

Well, she knows what she wants.

Can't fault her for that.

Alphonso.

What are you doing in this story?

A story.

Why are you in this story?

Oh, can I help you with that?

Oh, don't worry about it.

I don't want to bother you.

I'm just taking this stuff down to the community garden.

Have you ever been there?

Can't say that I have.

Oh, well, it is great.

You want to come with us?

Don't bother Miss Holland, Eli.

She has a deadline.

She doesn't have time for stuff like this.

I'll get my shoes.

Now, did I just do this instead?

You're fine.

Okay.

All right.

Now, the thing about planting these kind of vegetables is...

you have to be careful with fertilizer.

Tell me more, oh wizard of plants.

Plant wizard.

Ah, of course.

I fear I cannot, dear lady.

It's a secret of the ages.

Known only to a select few.

All right.

I'm gonna go get some more water.

You got this.

Okay.

This is great.

Like, right in the middle of the city?

Uh, used to be a factory or something, but it got torn down.

It was just sitting here.

Until it was bought and donated to the mentor program.

Hmm.

So, do you and Coop work on it much?

You kidding?

We come here all the time.

He's the one who started this whole thing.

The community garden was his idea.

Really?

Yeah.

He says, where else can you change the world while getting a tan?

He said that?

Mm-hmm.

Well, we come here whenever we can.

Unless we're playing basketball or surfing or, you know, just hanging out.

But sometimes he makes me do homework.

Well, that one's perfect.

Keep up the good work, okay?

He's really a good person.

How long have you guys known each other?

Since I was a kid.

Like 11.

Long time, huh?

They had this thing called the L.A.

Mentor Program.

But now I can't get rid of the guy.

Well, I think it is great that you're helping mentor Coop.

I mean, he needs it.

Oh, what's so funny?

Nothing.

We weren't talking about you at all.

Yeah, right.

You guys hungry?

Oh, starving.

All right.

Let's eat.

Let's go.

Okay.

Oh, wait.

Wait for me.

Wait.

Come on.

Well?

These are amazing.

Right?

They are.

Best tacos in town.

And you know what the most excellent part is?

Hmm?

They come wherever you are.

I think it's important to have good food available in a neighborhood like this.

Not everyone can afford Crawford's, you know?

Uh, lunch is on me.

Mm.

Yeah, I insist.

No, I already...

There you go.

Five minutes.

Hi.

Hey.

How much?

Oh, no charge.

Oh, but there was a... Not for Coop.

Not for friends of Coop.

He helped us out a while back.

So as long as I'm making tacos, he eats for free.

There you go, hon.

You ready?

Yeah.

Hi.

Natalie still hasn't called.

Should I go over to her place?

No.

I'm sure she's working.

Have you heard from Beverly?

I haven't seen her since she laid it all out for Natalie the other day.

Well, that scene wasn't just for Natalie.

She wants everyone to know what her books mean to Goldstein Publishing.

Do you think Natalie can pull this off?

I sure hope so.

We have to keep a close eye on the situation until

the book is in our hands, ready for the printer.

Got it.

All right.

I don't think I overstate the case in saying our livelihoods depend on Beverly

Wilcox and her continued association with Goldstein Publishing.

Well, that's comforting.

Tell me about it.

Thanks for coming with us, Ms. Holland.

Well, thanks for letting me tag along.

I had fun.

Oh, you're not going to forget to bring those books, right?

I will not forget.

No.

Oh.

Did you let it go?

Do your homework.

Yeah, yeah.

All right.

Thanks.

That's where he lives, huh?

Yeah.

You know, it's funny.

You look at a place like this, or an empty lot, or a

food truck, and they don't look like much on paper.

I'm just saying, sometimes paper doesn't tell the whole story.

Thank you for today and for showing me around.

You're welcome.

You know, it wasn't exactly the type of places you're used to.

But... It's okay.

I'm starting to get tired of the places I'm used to.

Well, maybe you can do it again sometime.

I know a couple of great thrift shops, an amazing soup kitchen.

Coop?

I, um... I...

I just...

I'm sorry.

I shouldn't be doing this.

I know.

You need something.

You know, it's one that looks good on paper, right?

That's not fair.

No, it's not.

Can I go?

I'm just saying, I really need something, but I need to

get this done before the election Beverly, what is it?

What's wrong?

Well,

just like Connie said, I want to go with you.

Good morning, Beverly.

Beautiful, isn't it?

I come up here to remind myself that there

are still lots of good things about this city.

Right.

So?

So, it's not completely overrun with devious, underhanded, treacherous...

You said there was an emergency.

Oh yes, absolutely, there was.

Unfortunately, the patient died.

You didn't like it.

You took out the diamond necklace subplot.

You removed all the flashbacks from the 18th century.

The dialogue now sounds like something you would overhear at a laundromat.

And no Alfonso.

So, in a sentence, I would say...

No, Natalie.

I did not like it.

Okay, let's work on it together.

You don't know what together means.

That's what I've been trying to do.

You have some preconceived idea about my work and my readers.

And how you're just going to change everything for the better.

But it's not my better.

It's not even our better.

It's only your better.

I am sorry if I have offended you in any way.

I'm just trying to bring some integrity to the project.

Well, I've had just about enough of your integrity.

If my manuscript is not restored to its original form and submitted as complete,

I will leave Goldstein Publishing.

Oh, good.

Well, enjoy the walk back down.

Watch out for the dog poop.

Hey, there's my lunch date.

Just give me one minute and we are out of here.

Oh, I'm in a hurry.

When was the last time you said something like that?

Just before I sent Beverly's last book to the printer.

So, things are going as planned?

Not sure yet.

Well, Natalie.

Natalie's smart.

I'm sure she's got your back.

Speaking of Natalie, she's dating someone.

She told you?

Never been married, top of his law class, and just made partner at one of the best

entertainment firms in town.

I do know all that.

I've edited him.

You've got to stop.

I have an obligation to watch out for one of my best friends.

You have no shame.

I have a feeling that all the pieces are about to fall

into place for Goldstein Publishing and Natalie Holland.

I thought you were buying me lunch.

I was?

Incorrigible.

Mm-hmm.

That's why you love me.

There are a lot of reasons why I love you.

That is not one of them.

She's bluffing.

You think?

I know.

Look, she hired you because you stood up there, right?

She's betting you'll do it again.

Regular?

Yeah.

Huh.

You were right about this place.

This burger's fantastic.

It's a bit thick, though.

They could probably shave off about a third and increase their profit margins by 20%.

Thanks.

Isn't that your friend?

Yeah.

Not so friendly today?

So, what am I going to do?

You're her editor.

Make the changes you want.

Whether she likes it or not, she will back down.

What if she doesn't?

If Beverly leaves, Goldstein Publishing goes out of business.

Avery loses everything.

She's not going to leave.

Trust me.

Hey, what's going on?

No, no, I assure you.

It was simply a case of we here at Goldstein Publishing feeling we had gone

as far as we could with Ms. Wilcox's work and that it was time for us to both

amicably part company in search of fresh

inspiration in these rapidly changing times.

That's the only comment I'll be making at this time.

Thank you.

You had to do it, didn't you?

Avery, what happened?

What do you mean, what happened?

You know very well what happened.

She told me she warned you.

She told me she said if you changed her manuscript, she was going to leave,

and you did, and she has.

No.

Yes.

She signed a new deal this morning.

The news is already online.

That's the tenth phone call I've had since I got here.

Okay, she can't leave.

There's got to be a contract or something, right?

It was on a boat-by-boat basis.

She's taking her name, all her material, everything.

That leaves us with two cookbooks and a guide to famous

curb markers in New England to release for the coming year.

We're ruined.

Avery.

Avery, I'm sorry.

I... All you had to do was nothing!

Nothing!

Half the people in this city are experts at that.

Why couldn't you do it, too?

I'm beginning to think coming here was a big mistake.

Yeah, well, you're not the only one.

Natalie, I'm sorry.

I didn't mean that.

It's okay.

I got to go.

Don't take anything else down until I come back.

Where are you going?

I'm going to find her.

I'm going to try to talk some sense into her.

She doesn't have to listen to you.

She can do anything she wants.

She's Beverly Wilcox.

Wasn't it you who told me that King Kong was only three foot six?

You, sir.

Excuse me, Beverly.

I'm sorry to interrupt.

May I speak with you for just two minutes?

Natalie, um...

Hi.

Hi.

Bob Lewis, Natalie Holland.

Natalie used to work for me.

Bob represents Warfield Publishing.

They're handling my next book.

I... I...

Excuse me.

That is so odd.

She acted as if she knew you.

She does.

I'm sorry.

I just... I...

I'm sorry.

Hey, Natalie.

How you doing?

You alone today?

Is, uh, Coop around?

Nah.

Haven't seen him.

Oh.

Um...

Okay, if he comes by, could you just... tell him I was looking for him?

Jake, where's Coop?

Well, just like I was telling the lady... He's not here.

What's wrong?

It's my mom.

So what happened?

She couldn't breathe, so I called 911.

The ambulance came, but they said I need an adult to sign the papers.

My brother's at work, and I couldn't get a hold of him.

It's okay.

Okay?

I don't want you to worry.

We're gonna get you to the hospital, and everything's gonna be all right.

Thanks.

You read these?

No.

I... I don't.

My mom loves them.

She says they take her away.

I'm not quite sure where exactly.

But...

You know, she sure reads enough of them.

Never makes her happy, I guess.

You know what?

Why don't you give that to your mom when we get to the hospital?

Really?

Thanks, Miss Holland.

I don't think she has this one.

I'm sorry for dragging you into this.

I'm sure you have more important things to worry about.

You know what?

I'm starting to change my mind about what's important.

Well, what do you mean?

Well, you might not understand this until you're a little bit older, but...

you haven't been very nice to our friend Coop.

I thought I wanted to spend my life with someone who had an important job,

important money, important... big plans for the future.

I was following some stupid map in my head when

I should have just been following my heart.

You mean you picked Bob when you should have picked Coop.

Are you actually a 30-year-old?

I get it.

But, you know, that's the great thing about Coop.

He's both.

He's a great guy and he's loaded.

Well, I'm not sure having your own surfboard means you're loaded, but.

only your apartment building does.

Excuse me?

Yeah.

You used to be this big Wall Street guy.

He owns a bunch of buildings, like Nikki's Grill.

And he donated a lot for our garden, too.

Are you sure about this?

It's no secret or anything.

He just doesn't think it's a big deal.

Oh, turn here.

Oh, look at the pretty flowers.

Thank you.

Maybe you were working too hard.

I think it was the doughnuts.

Is Eli here?

Natalie's bringing him.

What happened?

Diabetic ketoacidosis.

I was getting ready for my night job and... boom.

So what now?

They keep me here overnight.

Get my blood level stable and let me go.

Keep Eli away.

I don't want him to see me like this.

I'll try my best to keep him out of the building, but no promises.

Coop, I have to clear something up with you.

At school, you... I had no business hounding you about it, Leticia.

You suggested it for Eli because you were interested in his future.

Okay, so I got one more idea.

What is it?

When it comes time for college, you let me use my alumni network.

If he's interested.

Yeah.

That's an idea I can definitely get behind.

Yeah?

Yeah.

Great.

Okay, you know, I hate to be a party pooper, but I'm about to nod.

Oh, of course, of course.

Oh, Coop.

Thank you for being our friend.

Eli.

Coop!

Your mom's gonna be fine.

They want to keep her overnight, but she's gonna be okay.

Can I see her?

Not tonight.

She's resting, but I'll bring you back first thing in the morning, alright?

Why don't you go wait in the truck?

I'll take you home.

May I hug you, Ms. Collins?

I think that would be very nice.

Thank you.

You're welcome.

She's gonna be okay, right?

Yeah.

She's gonna need an operation in a week or so, but she'll be fine.

Are you going to pay for that, too?

Would've found out sooner or later.

Wait.

Can I...

Can I still cash in my rain check?

I don't see the weather changing any time soon.

See you around.

Hello, Beverly?

Natalie, I need to speak with you.

I'm a little busy right now.

Well, it'll only take a moment.

I... I need to talk to you.

I need to see you.

Okay, where are you?

Standing outside your door.

May I come in?

Please.

Oh, you're moving.

Yep.

Back to Oregon.

Well, I'm sorry to hear that.

I figured I should get out before it's too late.

You know, back in Oregon, I was a pretty good editor.

And down here, I turned into a lousy one.

And an even worse person.

I think maybe you're being a little too hard on yourself.

Does your friend Bob share that opinion?

Bob and I aren't exactly on speaking terms.

Huh.

Well, at least we've got that in common.

You know, I figured it out all by myself.

I'm not exactly an idiot, you know.

He used you to get to me.

And then he convinced you to do the exact thing

that would make me leave Goldstein Publishing.

And I did.

And I was wrong.

So are you going to go back to Avery?

Unfortunately, I can't.

I signed a two-year contract with Bob's company.

His company owns my name, my face, and the next three books by Beverly Wilcox.

So maybe they'll find you a better editor than me.

You are an excellent editor.

Frankly, you're probably the best I ever had.

Bob Lewis, ironically enough in all this, gave you some very good advice.

I did need you to stand up to me.

It's not your fault that I can't let go of things.

Like Alfonso?

Very cute apartment.

Reminds me of one I had when I first got to town.

Back then, my name was Margaret Bunn.

And I had one book.

A little spy thriller I'd written.

Oh, I was sure it was going to sell right away.

Turned out nobody wanted a spy thriller written by a 22-year-old from Indiana.

So I looked in the mirror, and I did what everyone who comes to L.A.

does as soon as they cross the city line.

I picked two street names and reinvented myself as Beverly Wilcox, romance novelist.

Oh, she's done very well for herself.

Yes, she has.

But Margaret Bunn still misses that spy thriller.

Oh, and I had such a wonderful lead

character, a renegade espionage agent named.

Alfonso.

Well, I think it's about time I said goodbye to him.

Anyway, I just stopped by to tell you how sorry I am about everything that happened,

and just wish you all the best.

I wish you all the luck in the world for whatever happens next.

Thank you.

My friends call me Maggie.

Mom walked to the end of the street this morning.

That's great.

She'll probably be running a marathon this summer.

Hope so.

Sure was nice of Miss Holland to help us out that day, huh?

Yeah, nice.

You talk to her lately?

Nope.

Why not?

It's complicated.

No, it's not.

She told me herself that other guy was a mistake.

The one she really likes is you.

Eli, Miss Holland...

she likes guys with money.

Yeah, but she didn't know you had all that stuff when she told me she liked you.

What?

Yeah.

When we went to the hospital, she'd been looking for you

all day to show you how she felt, when she cared about you.

Okay.

Wait.

She said this to you before you told her anything?

Yeah.

And when I told her that you were rich, she got all weird.

Like she didn't want to know.

Between you and me.

I think she liked you better when she thought you were just some surf bomb.

Yes.

Yes!

Are you taking a trip today, ma'am, or are you on your way home?

Uh-huh.

Ma'am?

I don't know.

Yeah.

Hi.

Uh, Natalie Holland, please.

Miss Holland no longer works here.

Well, do you know where she is?

I'm her friend and first from the apartment building.

Oh.

Is this the surfing janitor?

Sure.

Do you know where she is?

She should be on her way to the airport.

Her flight leaves in two hours.

Oh.

Come on.

Hello?

Hello?

Hello?

Hello?

Ma'am?

I'll get your bags.

Thank you.

Okay.

Thank you.

Avery?

We've got to talk.

Gate 8.

Gate 8.

Uh-huh.

Thanks.

The flight from Portland.

Uh, has it left?

Uh-huh.

Who?

Hey.

What are you doing here?

Is that me?

No.

No.

Is that my rain check?

There's a whole store in front moving in.

Weren't you supposed to be in a plane?

I just read the most amazing book.

I found Alfonso.

Okay.

That's great.

Come on.

Welcome, everyone.

And thank you all for being here at the inaugural

launch of the new Goldstein Cooper Publishing Company.

Many of you know that this is our very first year

working with our new business partner, Mr. John.

John Cooper.

And we couldn't be more excited about our new releases featuring our new line of

socially relevant novels for young adults

being curated by our very own Natalie Holland.

And with the help of special consultant, Elijah Jackson.

And now for our very big announcement.

We have a new author joining us at the Goldstein Cooper imprint.

Many of you may remember her earlier work under a different name, which,

due to certain contract and legal restrictions, I am unable to say.

But, as the poet once said, a rose by any other name will sell just as many books.

And here, with her new, very first exciting political thriller, Alfonso's

Web, which has already pre-sold over one million copies.

Please welcome Margaret Bunn.

Thank you.

Thank you all so much.

Um.

I just can't tell you what a thrill it is to be back

working with such wonderful publishers once again.

And a very special thank you to a young lady without

whom Margaret Bunn might never have left Indiana.

Natalie Holland.

Thank you.

Thank you all for coming.

And come on up.

Thank you for coming.

Oh, wait.

So, with, um, Beverly Wilcox retiring, it looks like

there's going to be a gap in the romantic fiction market.

What are we going to do about that?

I don't know much about fiction, but I got

a pretty good idea about the romantic part.

Oh?

Chapter one?