Original subtitles

Thirsty?

- So,

you know why you're here, don't you?

- Um,

I know you want to question me about a robbery.

- Were you there?

- Where?

- Were you there at Man Chu's Kitchen this afternoon

on South Clairborne Street?

- Yes, I was there, but I wasn't there when it happened.

- When what happened?

- The robbery?

- Yeah, look, little boy,

don't try me.

Tell me what happened.

- I went to get some detergent for my grandmother.

What time?

Around 3:30ish.

- You said you went to the store

to get some dish detergent for your grandmother,

and the robbery was taking place.

- Yeah.

Yeah, it was, um,

I was getting washing detergent,

and it was before one.

I mean aft...

No!

You realize you mixed your times up?

You know you screwed up, don't you?

- Sir, I was not there.

- But you were there.

- I was there, but not at the time

that they robbed the place.

- Hey. his grandmother's here to pick him up.

I'll let her know you're wrappin' things up.

- Yeah.

Listen, I'm going to release you now,

but don't go far.

I'll be watching you.

You'll be back.

Trust me.

- You're late.

- I am not late.

Actually I am late.

Who cares?

You look like you've had a rough day.

- I did.

- Tell me about it.

- Come on, you know I can't discuss my cases.

- Just a little bit.

- Hey, ladies, what can I get you?

Let me get a strong, cold,

bitter, but sweet ice coffee.

Yeah, that's what I'll have.

And can you make sure you wipe the glass clean, please?

You got it, anything else?

- Let me have what she's having.

- Sure thing.

- Thank you, friend.

Anything worth doing is worth overdoing.

Never mind,

so did you hear back from the investigator?

- No, I'm starting to think I should just leave it alone.

We've been at it for years,

and now we seem to just be going in circles.

- I mean. - Shhh,

just let me enjoy the rest of this evening.

This is my song!

Ooh, you remember back when you used to date,

what was his name, Kevin Powell,

the one with the weird smile?

- Yeah, I remember.

Wow, that was so long ago.

- You remember when he asked you to prom?

And his palms were sweating, and his hair was soaking wet,

and then when he finally opened his mouth,

he had gum caught up in his braces.

- And it took me the entire dance to pull it out.

At least his breath was fresh.

- I don't remember, did you even go with him?

No, it just didn't work out.

- I miss her.

- Who?

Who are you talkin' about, Chloe?

- You, I miss you and how fun and courageous you were

before you found out.

- Here we go, I'm still me, Faith, I'm just more...

- For God's sake you've changed.

You look different, you dress different,

and your hair is stuck somewhere, let's say,

back in the early 70s.

- Hey, I've been through a lot, give me a break.

- And I'll be with you every step of the way,

always.

hair and all.

Good morning.

- What are you doing in my kitchen, Chloe?

Did I miss something last night?

- You don't remember me telling you about the roof?

They're working on it this week.

- Um, why don't I remember?

- I told you.

I did.

Hey, listen, about last night, I didn't mean to offend you

or anything, I...

- You're trying to bring me back to life, right?

I know, and one of these days I'll be free to live

and come from out of the shadow.

- I didn't mean it like that, but if it works, then yeah,

fine.

Caroline, come to the light.

There's peace in the light.

Hello, Faith Mantle's residence, how may I help you?

- Hello?

Yes.

Thank you.

Are you kidding me?

Okay, thank you, I'll talk to you later.

- Did you want some?

- Somethin's wrong with you, throw it away.

- Chill out, by the way, I put some of this in your coffee.

I'm kidding.

I brought this milk from home.

- Get out!

Come on, you know I wouldn't do that to you.

- It's not funny.

So, how long do you need a place to stay?

- Hey, girl, how's it goin'?

Great, just getting ready for a meeting...

- Okay, listen, so I met this guy online,

and we have a date tonight.

What do I wear?

I am so excited.

- You met him where?

- Social media.

Well how long have you know this...

- I've been knowin' him long enough

to let him come to my pad, so.

- Whatever happened to the 90-day rule?

Honey, please, that doesn't apply to me, I'm grown.

- But you're makin' childish decisions, but okay.

- He is so handsome.

Girl, he is in the medical field.

He is studying to be a doctorate.

- Doctorate like medical doctor?

- I know, cool, right?

Okay, so what do I wear?

I'm thinking strapless, red,

long silk dress, wait, no,

I got it.

I'm wearing animal print.

Arrgh, just let him just have it

- right out of the gate. - Whoa, whoa, what?

- He can't resist.

- Well, maybe animal print on the first day

may be a little distasteful.

You need to fall back, way back.

And whatever you do,

keep your heart in your body, please.

- Okay.

Well, thanks for talking to me, girl.

Listen, I will keep you posted.

Hey, I don't know what I'd do without you.

Morning, how's it goin'?

What's this?

It's a case I want you to have.

I'd do it, but I don't have time.

- Okay.

- His name is John Jay Butler.

He's 15 years old.

He was identified in an armed robbery.

He says he wasn't there, but you know how that goes.

- What's the problem?

It sounds like case closed itself.

- Yeah, well, his choice of friends were also identified

in two home invasions.

One of the owners was shot,

and he's in critical condition.

- What about the mother and father?

- Father's in Iraq.

His mother is deceased.

I was, I was told that he took it pretty hard.

I don't know, he may just be actin' out.

- Any relatives?

- He's livin' with his grandmother for now.

He may just be hangin' with the wrong crowd.

We need to catch him before the street does.

He's actually a good kid.

Hey, you know, I could get used to this.

This feels good.

- Hey, boss?

Yeah?

- Why me?

You could've chose anybody.

- Let's just say, you were the man for the job.

- You mean, the woman.

- Yeah.

Hey, keep me posted.

- Yeah.

- I'm, I'm sorry.

Are you okay?

I, I was...

- Obviously not watchin' where you were goin'.

- Again, I'm so sorry.

Are you hurt?

- I'm fine.

And you?

- Look, let me grab my insurance card,

that way we can exchange information,

and I can get you on your way.

I'm sorry, what'd you say your name was?

- I didn't.

Okay.

You must be havin' a bad day?

Yeah, you know, I, I have those all the time.

God, I hope she's not one of those angry black sisters.

- Excuse me?

You don't know a thing about me,

and I'd like to keep it that way.

- I apologize.

- Some nerve.

That should be enough information.

Thank you, have a good day.

All right, well, you have a blessed day,

and again, I'm sorry about that dent.

- Don't worry about it.

- I thought you was supposed to come by next week.

- Hi, I'm Faith Mantle, I spoke with you on the telephone.

How are you?

- Fine.

Can I get you something to drink?

I can fix you somethin'.

No thank you, um,

I had something to eat on the way over here.

I heard some music playing on the way in, very nice.

- Yeah, I've gotten used to listening to the music,

since I'm not working, but I'm looking.

- Did you say you're not working now?

- I said I'm looking for work,

just haven't found anything yet.

- Hold on, pretty lady.

That article right there is going to be priceless

in some years.

Very nice.

- Okay, so is this how you normally keep it, um?

What is that?

- What?

- Ms. Jacobs, I don't mean to offend you,

but how often do you clean up around here?

- Well, you know, I mean, since I got sick

it's kinda been hard,

but you should know how it is.

- Normally for these type of cases,

I would have to inform my supervisor,

get an inspector out here to come in and inspect the home.

Do you mind if I check around a bit?

- No, you're gonna do that anyway.

- Is your toilet functioning?

- Excuse me, ma'am, hello.

Is something wrong?

Please don't report us.

I'll do anything.

I'll, I'll clean up if I have to,

just please don't rat us out.

- So, how are you, Keith?

I'm okay.

- How has school been?

Lunch is good.

I made new friends.

- How are your grades?

I'm making, straight Ds.

- I am real proud of him.

He is doin' the best he can.

- I'm a good person.

I mean, that's what my teachers say.

- I can't.

- Why don't you go back to your room

and finish your homework,

and let me finish talkin' to the lady?

It's okay, go ahead.

No, hold on, Keith, um, this is,

this home is, is not safe.

Does this smell bother you at all?

I mean, this place can be very harmful to your health,

even your mom's health.

What if I got this place all cleaned up,

and I took you to one of your cousin's houses and.

- I'll stay here.

We love it here.

- Listen, the last think I wanna do is report you,

but these living conditions are unacceptable.

This house is disgusting.

Why are you letting this happen?

- Look at him.

Does he look depressed or sad?

I take good care of him,

and no one's gonna take my boy away from me.

Okay.

Listen.

You people are all the same in my eyes.

- I will be back on Wednesday,

and if this house is not up to par,

then we're gonna have some issues,

and don't make me regret this.

- You know what?

You people don't have a heart.

You just cannot barge into someone's home

and take away their children.

- A heart, Mrs. Jacobs?

If I begin to tell you why I was in this,

you wouldn't still feel that way, so please!

- Listen, I am so sorry.

- Don't be.

You see, this is not about you or me.

This is about child welfare, okay?

- I didn't mean to offend you.

I was just trying to tell you...

You didn't, you just remind me of why I continue to do this.

Now I expect this home to be cleaned on Wednesday.

- Yes, ma'am.

- Wow, you got it goin' on up in here.

What ya cookin'?

Are those my good pots?

Yeah, why?

The other ones were old.

- Old?

I was saving them for the holidays.

- Girl, tomorrow ain't promised.

Now go get comfortable and feed your belly.

I can hear it a mile away.

Faith, come on, your food's gonna get cold!

I'm coming.

- Hot and sizzling.

- Thank you, Chloe, I really needed this.

Some guy called.

He says that your insurance is expired,

and he needs to see you to get the right information.

I got into a fender bender.

- I told you about texting while driving.

Was he at least cute?

- I wasn't payin' attention,

and I wasn't texting while driving.

I was actually comin' from a client's home,

and can you believe she accused.

No, go ahead, I've been waiting for some news all day.

- Well, can you believe she accused me

of takin' pleasure in removing a child from the home?

I had to set her straight.

- Did you make her pay?

- No, I didn't make her pay.

I just told her to have the house clean by Wednesday.

If not, I'll report it.

Can you not chew your food like that?

- Like what?

- Like that.

Close your mouth.

My God.

Do you have a note from the housing inspector?

Thank you.

Okay.

Okay, so, great.

I just need to see Keith, and we're good.

He is not here right now.

- Well, where is he?

- He said he was stayin' late after school

to take some tutorials.

- Well, do you know what time he'll be back?

Because he was supposed to be here when I came.

Would you mind not smokin' that?

- How she gonna tell me not to smoke in my house?

- Well, thank you.

Okay, well what time will he be back, because...

- I can tell him you stopped by.

- I'll just have to revisit on next week.

What's a good time to come over?

- I guess the same time next week.

- Okay.

Hey, what's up, Faith?

- What are you doing?

Son, go and take your medicine now.

- Someone needs to tell me what's goin' on here.

- What's goin' on?

Apparently a whole lot that you don't know about.

- I don't understand.

Really now?

Are you satisfied by the way?

We cleaned up the whole house.

We did it all just for you.

Now what?

- What's in the bag?

I got you a burger, just like you like it,

extra mayo, no onion.

- What is wrong with you?

Go and take your medicine, now!

- What's wrong, Mom?

I got you a burger, you said you were hungry.

- Are you crazy,

comin' in here the way that you are?

You knew that lady was gonna be...

- Yeah, Mom, I did.

- Listen, someone needs to tell me

what is going on,

or I'll have to have you reported, Mrs. Jacobs.

What is going on?

Well, then brace yourself, lady,

'cause this one's gonna trip you out!

- Keith Antonio!

- Listen, I think we all just need to calm down,

and I'll talk to your mom for a second.

Is that my cue to leave?

Let me tell you how my mom forced me

to act like I was crazy.

- Keith, that is enough.

- What, Mom?

The lady came here to take notes.

Let her take these notes.

I'm not crazy.

- Okay, I can see that.

- I'm not.

My mom forced me to act like I was sick and crazy,

to, get this, just to get a check,

because she didn't want to get off her butt and find work.

So, she used me as a scapegoat.

- If you don't shut your mouth, I swear to God.

- Don't you dare call on God right now, Mom.

What kind of Christian, no,

what kind of mother would coach her own son

into acting crazy?

Heck, what am I saying, you did this.

- I don't know what is going on here,

but Ms. Jacobs, I'm gonna have to have this investigated.

And if this is true, you're gonna be in a lot of trouble.

- Wait, you, you gonna take his word over mine?

He's a child, I'm a grown up!

He don't know nothin'!

Yeah?

You wanna see how crazy I am?

Check this out.

- What is this?

- It's my music.

My mom told me to hide it, to keep it a secret,

that if anyone found out, they would take me away.

- Shut your mouth!

- I am a musician!

I had to act like I was dumb,

stupid, practically retarded, but you know what?

I'm not.

I'm not, Mom.

I'm very gifted.

I can write and compose music.

- Can you prove this is your work?

- I can do more than prove it.

I'll show you.

Five dollars.

Thank you.

Hey, what's goin' on?

Hey, how you doin', Faith?

So, I'm gonna order two things, let me see,

I wanna get the hot wings and fries and my usual.

That will be $5.

Thank you.

And there's your change.

All right, take care.

All right.

Yes, ma'am, how are you?

- Hey!

Well, isn't this a surprise.

How are you?

You remember me?

- Yep, it sure is.

I guess you can't run into me today,

since you're on your feet.

- You got jokes.

- So, did you get your car fixed yet?

Yeah, I actually, I, I tried to call you,

because you gave me some inaccurate info.

However, they were still able to verify the information.

So, how you been?

- I've been good.

Um, if there's anything else you need,

you already have my insurance info.

- You know, it's really nice to see you again.

You're a lot calmer.

- Yes, I am.

Can I help you with anything else?

- I'm probably going to sound real corny for saying this,

but, are you hungry?

- Um, that's why I'm here.

- Right, you got me.

What about dessert though?

You, you like dessert, right?

Well, I don't know, I.

- Come on,

you can at least do dessert with me, right?

I, I won't bite.

- Listen, I'm not the kind of...

- Me either.

I'm not the type to get involved, I mean,

not like that.

- Before you interrupted me, I was gonna say

I don't normally go out with strangers.

- Well, then, I don't have to be.

I can be a, an associate.

- I have enough of those.

- Well then let me be your client then,

'cause a brother needs some help, too.

- How do you know what I do?

- Let's just say I get around.

- Okay, fine.

- Cool, so how can I get in touch with you?

- Don't worry, I'll get in touch with you.

Faith.

Calv!

- What's goin' on?

- My man, my man, what we got for you today, boss?

- I'm not necessarily sure today, man.

She distracted me.

- Aw, man, that's Faith, man,

one of my best customers, bro.

Yeah, aw, man, I'm tryin' to get to know her,

just tryin' to get to know her.

- Nice, sister.

- What are you doin'?

I thought these were mine.

Hello?

I'm fine, thanks for asking, and who is this?

Faith, it's that guy you said is stalking you.

- What guy?

- Calvin.

Tell him, tell him I'm busy.

- She told me to tell you that she's.

- Hello, yes, it's Faith.

Um, I have to, um, I have a,

I have a nail appointment.

It's, um, it's a girl thing.

Yeah, thank...

- What time?

She'll be there.

Done.

See ya soon.

- You get your things, and I want you out tonight.

- Fine, I'll just camp out in the back of the building

for a few nights.

- Well, good, this should teach you to mind

your own business.

- Look, thanks for everything.

I'll always love you.

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

Take as long as you like, just stay out

of my private life and...

- You're such a wimp.

My apartment's ready, I'll be out before you get

home tonight,

and let your hair down tonight and be free.

I'm sure you'll look fine.

- Well shut up, and come help me.

Just don't wear that shirt.

Bye, girl.

Is John here with you?

- No, he's outside playing.

- Did you not know that I was coming today?

We sent out a letter to inform you of my visit.

- I didn't receive a letter.

What is your relationship to John?

- I'm his grandmother.

- Okay, and I see you use a cane to get around with.

- Yeah, sometime I have a little pain in my foot.

- I'm sorry to hear that.

Um, how's he been since his mother passed away?

- Honey, she passed away years ago,

right before,

- Before?

- Before she would see JJ take his first step.

I've been raising him ever since.

Doing the best I can with him.

- May I ask, um, where's his dad stationed?

- He's in Iraq, you know,

servin' our country.

I'm really proud of him.

Do you want some coffee?

Here you go.

You wanted some water, too?

- Ms. Reddings, I didn't ask for crackers,

but thank you anyway.

- His mother is a twin.

You know, I've searched all over tryin' to find his auntie,

the twin sister, but I couldn't find her,

so, I just quit.

But one day the Lord will bring her back to me.

- Sounds like you've really had

your share of trouble in life.

One that I'm not too proud of,

but by the grace of God,

he protects me.

My only wish in life, before I die,

is that I will meet my daughter

before I go to glory.

- What do you mean?

- I mean

when the good Lord calls me home,

I hope I have had the opportunity to just

hold her.

But, can't cry over spilled milk.

- Well it was nice talking with you.

I'll have my office send out another letter,

um, to let you know when I'm available to meet with John.

Thank you.

So how did it go?

- It didn't.

Girl, he came to my house on the bus.

Well, what's wrong with that?

- Nothing,

except for the fact that he asked for bus fare

to get back home.

So.

- Don't forget, you said, "He's in school.

"You gotta crawl before you walk, right?"

- Whatever.

Hey, so how'd it go with the Jacobs' case?

- Well, when I went to the house

it was way passed living conditions, it was horrible.

I should have got him out then.

- Wait, you left the child there for a couple more days?

- Well, I gave them a couple days to clean it up.

- You know that that's not protocol.

Come on, what were you thinking?

- Well, I was thinking I could give them a little time

to get it right.

But that's not all.

When I went back

to reevaluate the home,

the house was clean,

but what I did not know was that the mother

was coercing her son into believing that he was crazy

just to get a social security check.

- What?

I know that what you've been through in your life

is a tragedy,

but you cannot let these cases get next to your heart.

- Okay, okay,

it won't happen again.

- I mean, what are you trying to do, burn yourself out?

How are you planning to solve this?

- The first thing I need to do

is contact Family Services.

- What can I do to help?

- God, what am I thinkin'?

I don't have time for a man in my life.

I just, I don't even know how to date.

No, no,

Calvin, I'm not that type of girl.

Calvin, no, no, just stop it Faith,

you're being crazy.

No, no, no, no, no, no, I'm not gonna cancel.

I don't know, I should,

my other earring.

Well, God, if you hear me,

my God, what am I thinking?

I can't do this, I, I'm a caseworker.

This dress is extremely tight, I can't breathe.

I don't believe in zodiac signs and,

okay, and I don't wear weave.

No, I, that's.

What if he doesn't understand that the fact

that I'm a caseworker, I take my job very ser, okay,

I'm just, I'm takin' this too far.

Should we get married and have a little baby?

No, this is crazy.

I'm going, this is gonna be a great

beginning of a friendship.

Maybe we'll, who knows?

Hello.

- How are you?

- What is this place, who's?

- There we go, there we go.

- Thank you.

It's my, it's my parents' place,

20 years of service.

- Somethin' smells really good.

- I don't drink any, I mean, I don't drink alcohol.

- Well it's not alcohol.

It's my own signature blend,

five different flavors all from organic juices,

a few spices, and a touch of lemon and cider.

- Wow.

Do you go all out for all your lady friends?

Actually I don't.

I never invite anybody into my private affairs,

but, for you,

I made an exception.

I'm.

Wow.

- Um,

you know, I'm, it's not you, it's...

- Don't apologize.

We're good.

It's okay.

This is, this is real nice.

Right?

- Yeah, it is.

- Hey, you mind if I put on some music?

- Um,

yeah, I mean, if you want to.

Please don't even try it.

Please don't even try it.

- I love me some jazz music.

Really now?

So why am I here?

So are you tryin' to get fresh with me?

- Girl, do you hear what's on?

No, I'm quite content where my life is right now.

- Okay, so, why am I here then?

- Because you have a story.

There's more to you than what meets the eye,

and to be honest,

I'm quite attracted to it.

I find you very interesting.

My God, what is this awesomeness?

It's, it's my mom's famous

lemon meringue pie.

I'm glad you like it.

It's one of her specialties here at the restaurant.

- So,

you single?

- This is good.

- So I was, I was at work today,

and the craziest thing happened.

I saw this old lady.

Next thing you know, she hands me

a hotel room key,

and her number.

I didn't know what to say.

- Wake up, Yasmine!

- Wake up, baby!

- Wake up, baby, please!

Yasmine, wake up, Yasmine, please, wake up!

Yasmine, wake up!

What did you do to her?

What did you?

- Wake up, baby!

- Yasmine, please!

Come inside!

- We're comin'.

What's goin' on?

My baby!

- Yasmine, please!

Yasmine!

- Let me get to her, ma'am.

Ma'am, ma'am.

We're gonna help her, okay?

- Please!

It's okay.

- How could you do this?

- Everything was fine before you started snoopin'

through my things.

- Snoopin' through your things?

That's my house now, I pay the bills there.

So I don't help you pay the bills there?

You know what I was doin'.

You go on and act like you don't know.

- Yeah, but you don't have to go and leave it on the table.

- Look, the cops are on their way,

and if you get me in trouble, girl.

What happened here?

- Why answer?

You got everything figured out already, don't you?

- Hi, I'm Faith Mantle from CPS.

Can I get your names?

- I'm Keke Smith and he's my boyfriend.

- Well I was your boyfriend,

'cause if I go back to jail.

What is your name?

- Snow.

- Is that your real name, or your street name?

- Kenneth Thomas.

What you need to know my name for anyway?

- The cops are on their way and before they get here,

I need to go over some details.

Are you prepared?

- Go ahead, this ain't even my fault.

- How long was your child left alone in the house?

- A few minutes,

I went to the store for some cigarettes.

I wasn't even gone five minutes.

- How much did she digest?

I don't know, ask him.

- I don't know,

maybe three lines of it, I was right over there.

- You did this to her, you did this!

- Look, I can't go back to jail.

Look how you got me all up in this mess.

I can't go back to jail, for real though!

- You knew what he was doin', didn't you?

Get ahold of yourself!

Your child is in there fighting for her life,

and you and your boyfriend are responsible.

What were you thinking?

- I'm sorry, look, I didn't mean it.

It was just this once.

- Listen, it only takes one time.

If you don't get your act together,

they're gonna come in here and take your child.

- Hey, you need to calm down.

- They're probably gonna take her tonight.

I'll do what I can to help, but

this life right here is not gonna cut it.

How old are you?

- I'm 21.

Do you have any family?

- No, I don't mess with them.

- Do you have a church home?

- No.

- Well you're gonna need all the help you can get,

because trust me, you don't wanna live with the guilt

of knowin' they took your child,

because you were irresponsible.

Motherhood is not a game.

- I know.

You don't understand, I can't do everything by myself.

- Well don't, but do what's important,

and she's more important than anything

and anyone,

period.

If you don't get your act together,

I will do anything

and everything in my power

to protect that innocent child

in there.

Do you hear me?

- Yes, ma'am, I hear you.

- Turn around,

put your hands behind your back.

You have the right to remain silent.

Anything you say can and will be used against you

in a court of law.

Can I see my kid?

- No.

You have the right to an attorney.

Hey, guys.

- What's up?

- It's fresh?

Booker.

- What's up?

- You will not believe what happened today.

You know Faith, don't ya?

Yeah, who'd she send away this time?

- Guy goes by Snow.

This guy leaves his narcotics on the table,

and his girlfriend's daughter gets into it.

- Did she survive?

Yeah, she's doin' okay.

Um, boy, Faith let her have it, too.

She was not pullin' any punches.

- I know that was a pretty sight.

- But you know,

you know I really like what Faith is doing

in the community though.

She's got that, that

no tolerance law.

Two strikes and you're out.

- Three strikes, what happened to three?

- Like I said, no tolerance.

By the way, does she have any children?

- Um, I don't think so.

- What about family?

I don't know, she,

never really talks about family.

She only fixes 'em.

- I wonder why she would get in that line of work

when she doesn't have any kids.

- Who knows?

Whatever inspired her has made a huge difference

in this community.

- Did you watch the game last night?

- The buzzer beater, yeah.

- Boom, half-court shot.

- I missed part of it.

You want another donut?

- Yes, please.

Hello?

- Hey, it's Chloe, how's it goin'?

- I am at my mom's,

helpin' her to get these Christmas lights together.

So, you're tryin' to impress her?

- Yeah, um, I mean, who wouldn't try?

- Yeah, she told me it's not really working,

so I have an idea.

Could you help me plan how to get away with murder?

- Wait, what?

- Calm down, I'm kidding.

So what kind of present did you get Faith?

- Present?

Today is Faith's birthday.

- Today?

- Don't take it personal, she doesn't tell anybody.

She regrets the day she was born.

- Why, why would she regret the day that she was born?

I, I don't understand.

- I take it you don't know her story?

- What story?

- Pinkie swear you won't tell her you talked to me.

- "I'm sorry that I missed you.

"I waited for hours.

"Happy birthday, friend.

"I love you."

I will not look back.

I will not look back.

Lord, if you hear me, help me please.

Who's there?

My God.

- I thought we had something together.

Anyways,

I tried to call you.

You didn't answer, so I thought something happened to you.

- I'm fine.

Thank you for the cupcake.

Um, who told you?

- I'm a private investigator, remember?

Why didn't you return any of my calls?

- I'm sorry.

I had a really bad night.

- So you're just gonna celebrate by yourself?

What?

- I thought somebody mentioned to me that they didn't drink.

- I don't.

I almost, um.

- You almost what?

Hey, you okay?

- I almost relapsed tonight.

- I don't understand.

- I'm a recovering alcoholic, Calvin.

That's why I don't choose to drink.

- Okay.

So, I mean, everybody's got a past, right?

- Not like mine.

It's very complicated,

and I don't wanna talk about it, okay?

- What's goin' on?

Talk to me.

- You wanna know why I can't let you get next to me?

It's because my life is screwed up,

and I am the product of the system.

I was a foster child, Calvin.

My mom gave me away.

- Okay.

I'm quite sure she had a good reason.

- I hate her!

I hate the fact that she would give me away

to complete strangers.

Don't you see, Calvin?

I'm a nobody,

no family, no identity,

just me, myself, and I.

- And us, Faith,

me, you, right here, right now.

- You don't want to enter into my world.

It's cold,

dark,

and lonely.

- You've come so far.

Why would you give up now?

- You don't understand.

I feel empty.

I'm,

I'm neglected, there, there's nothing

here for me to offer you, Calvin.

All that I have left is just enough

to fight for the children.

I mean, do you get it now?

- I do,

and I'm ready and willing to come into your world.

Let me catch you from falling.

Let me reshape and recreate good memories.

We can get rid of the old ones together.

Instead of focusing on all the negatives

that's happened to you,

why don't we focus on what you want to happen

right now?

We can't do anything about the past, Faith.

It happened.

You're a precious gift to this world.

Look what's come from your dysfunctional life.

- So you think I'm a gift to the world?

- Yes.

Your pain gave you the passion to turn it all around.

Your work is priceless for the less fortunate.

You are special,

even your name justifies that.

What if I was sent here to help you fill out the blanks?

Why don't you give me a shot to find your family?

- No, I'm done with that chapter of my life.

- Well it doesn't seem that way to me.

I'll look into it,

and if I don't find anything, then I,

I won't pursue it.

I don't know.

We've done all we could do.

- Then it can't hurt to let me try.

- You're a great friend, Calvin.

And I, um, I truly cherish what we have.

- I'm here for you.

Now how about that cupcake?

- Hi, John, nice to meet you.

Hello.

- I'm Faith Mantle from Child Protective Services,

and, um, I won't take up too much of your time,

but I would like for you to fill me in

on what happened at the store.

- Yes, ma'am, um, well,

I tried to tell Detective Gray that I was at the store

when the robbery took place,

but I was not involved.

Ma'am, I, um,

I know we all look alike,

but I'm telling you I had nothing to do with that robbery.

I was raised better than that.

- So you'd be willing to say who it was?

- Yes, if it clears my name, yes.

- May I speak with Detective Gray?

He's over case number

546375.

Yes, this is Faith Mantle

with Child Protective Services.

- Mantle?

- John Butler.

So then I guess we'll just close the case?

Okay, thank you.

- What happened?

Is it, is it okay now, or what?

- Yes.

Apparently your name has been cleared.

You're no longer a suspect.

- Wow, man, thank, thank,

thank God, man.

- Hello?

Give me the address.

I'm on my way.

I'm gonna type up the report,

and I will send a clearance letter.

It was such a pleasure to meet you, John,

and if you need anything

please don't hesitate to call.

- Thank you for everything.

- You're welcome.

Shoot.

My God,

my suit shirt.

Hello?

I'm here from Child Protective Services.

I'm here for your final review.

I'll be right out.

- Hi, how are you?

Can you verify your full name and ID number?

- Haley Malone, 763049.

Where's my regular lady?

- I'm steppin' in for her today.

She's out with the flu.

Haley Marie Lyons?

Faith?

My God!

- Girl, I've been tryin' to call you.

I, I even stopped by your mom's house.

She said you moved away.

Honey, look at you.

You look amazing.

A caseworker?

You followed your dream.

You remember when we were little,

and we pinkie sweared that we were gonna help children?

- You remembered that promise?

- Yes.

- Um.

If the whole world

is against us that means we

are against the whole world.

I got your back, while you got mine,

because you and I are one of a kind!

Wait.

- Yeah, I remember that.

I'm so proud of you.

So how ya been?

Still old fashion, but you look good, girl.

You know, I always respected

how determined you were.

How you never let anyone stand in your way.

So, you like my new house?

Been here for a hot minute.

It's, um,

it's a great transitional home

for abused women, you know?

- What happened to you?

- Life,

life happened to me.

It was good at first, you know?

We, um, I had the perfect man.

You know, the one that we said we would always marry.

The good guy,

and he was.

- You don't have to talk about this.

- I tried to be a good mother,

a good wife.

Come on, you know me,

I'm always tryin' to please someone.

They always come first,

and I, I did that.

I got tired

of him hitting on me

day after day.

I was trying to leave with the children,

but, um, they were all,

we were all packed up,

but he decides to come home early that day.

I heard the kids screaming,

"Daddy's home.

"He's here!"

So I rushed out the back door.

I left my keys inside the house.

So I ran to the next-door neighbor's house.

He found me,

and he beat me

til I was barely alive.

The kids came back for me.

They just wanted to see if I was okay.

And,

they said my children

were in an unsafe environment.

- I'm sorry.

- And they took,

they took my babies.

I'm sorry.

- Excuse me.

I'm so sorry.

- Don't be sorry.

I'm alive.

I'm getting my kids back tomorrow,

moving in my home.

I'm good.

- Well, don't be a stranger.

I wanna meet the kids,

and I wanna tell 'em about how fly

their mom was in school.

And, um.

- I miss you.

- I miss you, too.

Take care of yourself.

Hi, Faith.

- Hey.

- A call came in reporting that there's been

some arguing and loud noises coming from the house,

like items breaking.

- Who was arguing?

- The husband and the wife, and the wife took off.

It's nothing new.

They always fight and call us,

and then they're right back together.

- So why am I here?

- There's a little girl in her room who won't come out.

We need to determine if the environment's safe for her.

- She's locked in, okay.

Let's go in.

- Mr. Carter, this is Miss Faith Mantle.

She's from CPS.

- Why are you here?

We just had a family problem,

but it's solved now.

- Okay, so I'm here because a neighbor

was concerned about the noises comin' from your house,

and she was concerned about your daughter.

Sir, would you mind not lighting that cigarette?

- Well, as you can see, everything is fine here.

- So where's your daughter?

- Watch your step.

Hi, sweetheart, I'm Miss Faith,

and I'm here to help you.

Can you come out, so I can see you?

Listen, we're here to take you away,

get you somewhere safe.

- Would you, I have, I have some candy.

Would you like some candy?

Can you come out, so I can see you?

I can't.

- Why not, why can't you come out?

- Daddy told me not to come out my room,

because Mommy is angry.

- What's your name?

- Christy.

Do you know your last name?

What's your last name?

- Dominica.

- That's a beautiful name, sweetheart.

Can you come out, so I can see if you're okay?

Hi.

Everything's gonna be okay.

- Nana.

Nana!

God, where is she at, man?

Dang, dang!

I can't call, I can't call.

- Hello?

- Hey, Miss Faith, Miss Faith, hey, um,

this is an emergency.

Can you please, can you please come pick me up?

- Where are you?

- I'm at the corner of Rustic Lake.

Can you please, can you please pick me up?

- Listen, I'm not supposed to.

I'll tell you later, I'll tell you later.

I'm at the corner.

- Please. - Okay.

Can you please come pick me up?

- Okay.

- Yes, yes, yes, yes, ma'am, thank you.

Okay, okay.

Over here!

- What's going on?

What were you doin' out there so late?

- My grandmother's gone again.

- What do you mean she's gone again?

- Sometimes she drifts off.

The doctor said she has early stages of Alzheimer's.

- Wait, how come you didn't tell me this?

- 'Cause she didn't want me to tell anyone.

She was gonna wait til my dad got home.

Miss Faith, you're not gonna tell anyone, are you?

I don't know what I'll do if I lose her.

She's like a mother to me, please don't.

Look, there she is right there.

Over here!

Grandma, we've been lookin' for you all over.

I found her at the store, but she's okay.

Thank you, sir.

- Is she okay?

- Yeah, I'll take care of her.

But you're not gonna tell anybody though, right?

I mean, my dad'll be home soon.

- Let me figure some things out,

and I'll speak with you in the mornin'.

- Yeah, okay.

Thank you.

- Good mornin'.

Hey, so I got some great news for you.

- Spill it.

- Did you forget to comb your hair?

- No, dude, it took me, like, two hours to get it this way.

- Yeah, okay.

So, I think I found Faith's family.

- No, shut the front door, dude.

Are you kidding me?

- Her last address is located in Chicago.

She's a twin.

That's not all.

She lives here.

Now, her mom is still alive,

but her twin sister died in a car accident.

She also had a nephew

that survived the accident.

My God!

So, this is what her mother looks like?

- Her sister had a son,

so Faith's an auntie.

We found her family,

but you can't tell her yet.

- You've got to be kidding, come on, man.

- Not until I confirm every detail.

Promise me.

- Do you know how long we've been waiting for this?

I solemnly promise not to say anything,

but hurry up.

- You were right.

The father's in Iraq.

- Well, now this is the part we hate.

We're gonna have to place him in foster care,

just until his father gets home.

- I can't do that.

- Faith, you don't have any options.

I'm sorry, but, well, this is what you signed up for.

- Correction, this is what you signed me up for.

I'm sorry, am I interrupting?

I can just come back.

- No, I was just leaving.

Good luck with that.

- Hey!

What's goin' on, how are you?

- What are you doin' here?

- Just wanted to look at you, I miss you.

- You saw me yesterday.

I know.

- I'm so frustrated.

- What's wrong, kiddo?

- I have to expel a client from his home.

This is so hard for me.

I, I feel like I, I know him somehow,

like.

- Come on, there's nothing else you can do?

- I just, I don't know.

I've grown attached to him.

- Hey, why don't you let me come over tonight?

I can bring some ice cream and a classic movie.

We can just chill out all night and celebrate.

- Sounds like a plan.

What are we celebrating?

- We're gonna take the time out to celebrate you.

By this time next week, you'll be complete.

- Whatever.

Oreo Double Stuff cookies.

Thank you, friend.

Hey, don't be late.

Faith, Faith?

- In here.

- Excuse me, Hi, you're the lady

that came to the hospital, right?

- Yes, hi, how are you doin'?

- I just wanted to let you know that I heard you.

- Well, I'm glad.

So, how is your daughter?

- She's fine.

And he's out of my life for good.

- Well, good for you.

- I just wanted to personally thank you for savin' my life.

I'm workin', my daughter's in daycare.

We're good, thank you.

- You're welcome.

I'm so excited for you.

- Okay, I have to go, I just wanted to let you know that.

- Hey, girl.

You like?

- What?

- What, my outfit?

Check out my red pumps.

- Cute.

- How come you're not dressed?

- Well, I have to...

- You know this is it, right?

Girl, tonight is the night, this is my year.

I'm feelin' it, whoo!

- Destiny, I'm not tryin' to.

- Hey, what, what's wrong with you?

- Nothin', nothin'.

I have somethin' for you.

- Wow, um, for me?

Open it.

Right now?

Yeah, go on.

My gosh, my God, does this mean that we're BFFs?

- Wait a minute.

Slow it down.

We're definitely getting there.

- Wow, I, um,

I thought that you didn't really.

- Well, I, I do.

I appreciate you, Destiny, I do.

Merry Christmas.

- Thank you.

- What are you gonna tell them?

Don't let these people trick you, they're out to get us.

Don't be stupid.

Hopefully, you're wrong.

Not everybody's out to get us, you know?

If you would've just agreed to get help in the first place,

we wouldn't be here.

- That's right, just blame it all on me.

I'm the bad guy.

- Mr. and Mrs. Carter, we're ready for you.

Hello, Mr. and Mrs. Carter, as you both know,

we are here to determine the health and development

of your daughter Christy Dominica.

We do have some concerns.

Mr. Carter, you are Christy Dominica's stepfather?

Yes, that's correct.

- How does she refer to you?

- She calls me Daddy or Pappi.

If I may ask, Mrs. Carter, is Mr. Carter

the biological father of the unborn child?

- Of course he is, what are you all tryin' to imply?

- I don't mean any harm.

I'm just going over the facts.

Let us begin.

Ms. Ketchings will now introduce herself.

- Hello, Christy.

- Hello.

How old are you?

- Seven years old.

- Do you like to color?

Yes.

- Christy, I'm gonna ask you a few questions

about your mommy, okay?

And I did find that she has

some fresh scars on her back.

- My, my child,

she's very active at times,

and I have to discipline her.

If I hit her, you know, to make her sit down,

she bruises very easy.

I don't physically abuse my child.

- We would suggest that you do not make false accusations

in this meeting.

Ms. Ketchings will speak.

Give her time to finish, then you can speak.

Please proceed, Ms. Ketchings.

- I did find that Christy's vaccinations are up to date.

However, I am concerned about her low moods.

She seems depressed,

and I would like to refer her to a psychologist

for an evaluation.

- Okay, so she's crazy now, right?

Hi, I'm Ms. Eunice, Chirsty's teacher,

and I do have some concerns with her tardiness.

Also, I would like to discuss her school uniform.

- What about her uniform?

- Well, it's probably not a big deal,

but I've noticed on some days they're not cleaned.

- And your point?

Ma'am, I'm warning you.

- If you keep this up, you're asking for trouble, just.

Well, lastly, sometimes it appears that,

Christy may not have had breakfast in the morning.

She comes in quite hungry some mornings.

- Well sometimes I...

Ma'am.

- I'm sorry.

- For the most part, she seems quiet and withdrawn.

A bit sad, just as Mr. Ketchings stated earlier.

I understand that you have a drinking problem.

No.

- Is your mommy nice to you?

Does your stepdad, does he hit you?

- No, he's nice.

- Are you afraid of your mommy?

Why, why are you afraid of your mommy?

- She hits me,

when she's angry.

- Can you show me where she hits you?

Okay.

- I don't have a drinking problem, I just...

- Yes, you do.

- No, I don't.

I drink because everything is stressing me out,

my job, at home, my pregnancy.

- Well, how often do you drink?

- I drink

four times a week, but not like that.

I drink to calm down, to mellow out.

- You do know that

you can be causing your unborn child harm?

Mr. Carter, do you physically abuse your wife?

- No, I don't.

I would never hurt her.

- In the report, it states that the police

are continuously called to the home.

- I call to calm my wife down.

- Do you have a problem with drinking?

- Look, I'm at work 16 hours a day.

I've never hit her.

- Look, he doesn't hit me.

He doesn't have a drinking problem.

I am the problem, and I know it.

Y'all act like I don't love my child, I do.

I'm not a bad mother.

- Christy, what can we do to make things better for you?

How can we help you?

- By helping my mommy

feel all better.

- Now how do we do that?

- I know.

You can give her milk and cookies,

just like Daddy.

- I worry

about her,

our unborn child.

I mean, come on, we all know the harm alcohol can do.

I just feel helpless.

- What we need is to formulate a plan,

and, we can not repeat this same mistake

with this child.

This is not how you bring a child into this world.

We will need to provide significant monitoring

with several professionals.

We wanna refer you to, um, family therapy to assist you.

In addition, we want to refer you and Mrs. Carter

to a rehab facility, outpatient care.

And are you both willing to put forth the work?

- I will do anything for my children.

I'm tired of living like this.

I'm ready for change.

- I'm in.

We'll take all the help we can get.

Thank you.

- Please be aware Mrs. Carter,

if you don't get help and this baby is born

with birth defects due to your drinking,

you will face criminal charges.

Christy.

No, no!

Got a letter from my dad.

I'll read it to you.

"Dear John, how are you and your grandmother?

"Things are going well here.

"I miss you both very, very much.

"It's hard seeing people die every day and losing friends.

"Just can't wait to be safe home, at home,

"with you and Nana.

"I love you, Dad."

- Is that Charles?

I'm comin'!

- No, no, no, no, Nana, Nana, Nana, Nana,

no, no, that's not Grandpa.

He's no longer with us.

It's okay, it's, it's someone at the door.

I'll get it, I'll get it.

- Good morning, I'm Sergeant Daniel Lexington,

and this is Captain Henry Mansion.

- Dad, Dad, Dad!

What's all the yelling for?

- Nana, I have it.

I'm sorry, she has onset Alzheimer's.

She goes back and forth sometimes.

- Is there anyone else home with you?

- No, I'm the only one here.

Charles?

- I'm Faith Mantle with Child Protective Services,

what can I do for you?

- I'm here to inform you all

that Sergeant John Butler

was killed in combat yesterday.

- Pardon me?

You're lying.

You are lying, I talked to my dad two days ago.

They said he was coming home.

John.

- They said, I talked to my dad two days ago!

John, John.

- He said he was coming home, I talked to him!

- I,

I do believe you did.

Now, his unit was hit by a roadside bomb,

unfortunately.

He was on a routine mission.

He was one of the soldiers who was fatally injured.

John.

John, John, John, John.

- Let me go, get off me!

John, John.

- He can't be.

- Hey, what's up?

You needed paperwork signed?

- Yeah, remember that case you referred me, um,

to, a few weeks back?

- Young man was accused of robbery, yeah, I remember.

- Turns out his grandmother has onset Alzheimer's,

and his father is now deceased.

Boy.

- Sometimes this job just

gets to be too much.

It's just not fair.

This young man just lost his father,

and now we're gonna take him away

from his only surviving family member?

- You know I sympathize with you,

but this case has just become critical.

Listen, we need to make all the proper arrangements,

and have him placed in a foster home.

- Can we just give him a little more time,

just to at least grieve?

Placing him now may be his last straw.

- I'm sorry, okay, I'm sorry, but that's the protocol.

If it was up to me,

I would give you more time,

but this kid's life is in jeopardy.

Now,

Faith, look at me.

Get out of your mind

and make this happen.

Faith, man down, man down, where are you?

I have some awesome news for you.

You're not going to believe this!

Call me back when you get this message.

Bye!

Hey, Faith, I know you're busy,

but I was wondering if I could see you today, real soon.

I have something very important to discuss with you,

so, call me ASAP, please.

- Hello?

Hello, no one is available to take your.

Friday, 1:24pm.

Call me ASAP, please.

End of messages.

- Hey!

- What's goin' on?

What are you doing here?

You know I don't...

- I know all right,

this is important.

How did you know I was here?

- Never mind all of that.

I have to tell you something before you go in that house.

- What are you talking about?

This is my client's home.

- Just listen.

Faith, Faith, just listen.

I know you despise your mother

for giving you up and everything that you went through

trying to find her, but, Faith,

I found your mother.

- Calvin, this is not funny.

- I know.

You were a twin,

and your mother, she had you at such a young age

that her mother, your grandmother,

took you in and split y'all up.

- Okay, wait.

You're not makin' any sense.

Then where's my sister?

- I'm sorry, Faith.

She died in a car accident years ago.

- I don't believe you.

- Faith, this family that you're about to break up,

it's your own.

- No, you're lying.

I searched for her, and I could not find her anywhere.

- She was married, but her maiden name is Mantle.

She's your mom, Faith.

John Jay is your nephew.

But, I...

- It's true, Faith.