1
Federal prosecutor
Sam Ellis is widely expected
to run for higher office.
- With a "not guilty" verdict.
- But a resolution
is expected shortly
on federal charges.
That Ellis plans to seek
higher office...
For Ellis, everything is
riding on today's decision.
Today's decision will
either launch
- his political career...
- ...Presumably beginning
with a run for Attorney General.
Mr. Ellis?
Yeah.
A couple of us arranged
this little drinks thing
at blend.
We're kind of all assuming
that You'll be there.
Don't we have to win first?
There's no way You'll lose.
All rise.
Do you think
sheriff Haussler should be given
a lesser sentence given
his record of public service?
As I said at the trial,
Jim, this is a black-and-white
issue legally and morally.
There should be
no special treatment.
After today's victory,
do you intend to pursue
corruption charges
against other officials
- in the mayor's administration?
- No decisions
on any further action
have been made at this time.
Any chance you're gonna run
for Attorney General, Sam?
Well, I have my hands full
at the U.S. attorney's office
right now.
While Haussler is expected
to appeal today's decision,
all eyes will be on
whether the U.S. attorney's
office plans to seek charges
against mayor Jonas Stiegel.
So, straight on
to Attorney General?
I can neither confirm
nor deny, counselor.
Fucking liar.
You didn't hear mommy say that.
How's his temperature?
Mm.
Almost there.
We were watching you on TV.
Yeah? Did I look nervous?
I felt like I was shaking.
You looked hot.
Women on the jury really
loved your lady justice thing.
Uh-huh. It's you they liked.
Well, they did throw
their undergarments at me.
- Is that unusual?
- Whores.
My dad was watching
with George Hiller.
They think we should get
Nigel Coaker
to write you up in his
"faces to watch" piece.
Yeah, that'd be amazing.
I have Nigel's number.
I'll give him a call.
He owes my dad
a ton of favors, anyway.
What time are you coming home?
Uh, you know, they're having
a little victory lap party
for us.
I got to put in an appearance.
Lame. I'm kidding.
It's fine. Proud of you, honey.
Okay, I'm pulling up.
I love you.
Love you.
To Sam Ellis.
After 18 months of nonstop toil,
may he enjoy his moment
in the sun, 'cause tomorrow,
I'm going to bury him
under a pile of work.
To Sam.
To Sam.
Do you guys not get it out
of your systems freshman year?
- Fuck off.
- Fuck off.
Okay.
Jeannie must be excited, yeah?
Yeah. Yeah.
She's getting restless, though.
Don't tell me you're not,
either.
You've done all you can here,
especially with that fucking
fossil running the show.
- Easy.
- All right.
It's, uh...
It's time, yeah?
Sam Ellis
for attorney fucking general.
Everybody was just waiting
for you to win this fucker.
Put a pin in it for now.
No, no.
Don't leave me hanging here.
There's got to be more to life
than hedge funds,
or I'm gonna
fucking kill myself.
Come on.
I do have to go, though.
Before the wife throws a fit.
Come on.
Listen, congrats again.
- Yeah.
- Yeah.
- See ya.
- See ya.
I'll take another.
You did not!
No, I don't believe you.
I'm not saying that.
You did a great job.
And what exactly
are you saying, counselor?
I am saying that you
should just move around a bit
before the semester's over.
You don't want to go back
to law school thinking
that this whole office
is just one boring section.
What If I like your section?
I still think It's a mistake.
I do. You got to figure out
what you believe in,
what makes your righteous.
Angry, even.
And you have this figured out?
Absolutely.
Guys that I take down
have no reason to break the law,
yet they're
these over-privileged,
morally bankrupt individuals who
think they can just stomp
on the weak and the powerless
and get away with it
because they usually do.
Mm.
If I didn't think
they deserved to go down,
couldn't try the case.
Don't quote me on that.
These cigarettes go to my head.
You're a lightweight.
Yeah, I don't...
I don't smoke.
Just doing it to impress me?
Oh, I gave up
trying to impress girls like you
a long time ago.
Oh, boy.
Yeah, this, uh...
Can't do precisely that.
All right.
I'm sorry.
- Yeah.
- You're married.
Oh.
You know,
I can keep a secret, though.
I'm sure you can.
I just can't be one of them.
Goodnight, kiddo.
I love you, Ellis.
Love you, too.
If you want to move on this,
you better be staying here
long enough to see it through,
'cause I'm not getting burned
on it.
Guy's committed actual crimes.
If human frailty's all we got,
it'll look like a moral crusade.
Then let it go.
It's not my job
to help you chase headlines.
Do you want the mayor
out of office or not?
Yeah.
Hey, how much longer is Dalia
with us?
Eight weeks.
Any chance
we could transfer her?
I'm not telling
the ninth circuit judge
I fired his daughter
'cause she's too damn pretty.
Right.
Sam.
This is Ellie green.
Miss green, this is Sam Ellis,
- chief of our criminal division.
- Sam Ellis.
- Hello.
- Hi.
And you've already met
U.S. attorney kirkland.
I wanted Sam
to review your file.
He's tried a lot
of these identity-theft cases.
Knows how to work a jury
on these kind of issues.
Hmm.
The right man for the job, then.
So, what's the concern?
Would you prefer to explain?
I have a record as an escort.
How'd you, uh...
How'd you get into that?
Was trying to model, and,
um, I was working as a waitress
at a hotel.
I met this guy who suggested
I could make a lot more money
just going on a few dates
for an agency.
He was right.
That how you met the defendant?
No.
Elite encounters only serviced
very high-end clients.
Politicians,
prominent businessmen.
I, uh, saved the lowlifes
for my personal life.
Would you say
that your experience makes you
an expert in lying?
No.
No, It's... It's not about that.
It's about fulfilling
people's fantasies
while minimizing their guilt.
I'd say being a lawyer
is probably better training
for lying.
But you do have
a criminal record.
Not for lying.
Would you tell your parents
about it?
It's not
like I was a street Walker.
You think the jury
would perceive that distinction?
The men will.
- Wow.
- Hmm.
Yeah.
I know I should
really push the parent issue.
The jury might get past it.
If they see her
as an abandoned kid up there.
Maybe.
Everyone's got a dark side
you don't normally get to see.
I think jurors understand that.
I know a lot of guys
who used her agency.
Swore by it.
Shouldn't we
be prosecuting that?
Trafficking, sure,
but we got bigger problems.
You said it yourself, Sam.
Nobody cares about human
frailty.
It's still against the law.
Right. Boy scout.
Say "hi" to the intern for me.
Night, chief.
Have a great weekend.
Take it easy.
Oh...
No.
James asked
If he could have a sibling.
Really?
Yeah.
That Stiegel?
Uh, no, I'm just
helping Noah with a case.
You think a jury would discredit
testimony from an escort?
I don't know.
Depends on the witness, I guess.
You don't think they'd find
it morally reprehensible?
I think they probably
understand It's not quite
the taboo it used to be.
I mean, you got all those people
watching Internet porn.
What's she like? You meet her?
Is she sexy?
Uh... I don't know.
Uh...
Mm...
- You tired?
- Yeah.
I just... I have to be up early.
Can I get a hug?
I think I can manage that.
James, you ready?
Here, no, I'll get that.
I got it.
- Okay.
- Don't worry.
Not joining us, huh, Sam?
Sure you can survive
a whole weekend
without my daughter?
I'll have to try, sir.
Don't really have your sea legs,
anyway.
That is true.
Remind me next time.
I got some pills for that.
Ah.
So, you taking the new one?
You bet.
130-footer.
Stiegel keeping you on land?
Yeah, mostly.
Guess you pretty much
dug yourself into that hole.
What's your plans If you lose?
Doing my best not to lose.
Try not to burn the house
down while we're away, hmm?
- Will do.
- Ah.
- Hey, Jimmy.
- Have fun, pal.
Ready to go sailing
with grandpa?
How bad was he?
The usual. Do you have to go?
I'll be so bored
without you guys.
You're so sweet.
It's only a couple of days.
Be back Sunday night.
Okay.
And, uh,
If you get lonely, you
can always call that witness.
I love you.
Love you.
"Is intended for companionship
and modeling services only."
Can I get
a pre-paid phone, there?
Executive privilege.
Uh, hi, yes.
Uh... I was, uh,
looking on your site,
and, uh, I'm just wondering
how I could, uh,
make an appointment with, uh,
Christy.
Christy, yeah. Great girl.
She's one of our favorites.
My name's Mona.
I just need to ask you
a few questions.
Uh, what, uh,
what questions?
What was your name?
Oh, yeah. Okay.
Uh, my name is, uh, Bob fisher.
And what do you do, Bob?
I'm a, uh, I'm a lawyer.
Okay, Bob, is there something
that you can tell me
about yourself
that I can share with Christy?
Oh, I don't know.
I'm, uh, Caucasian.
6 feet, 190.
What are some of your hobbies?
What do you like to do, Bob?
Not much of a movie guy.
I...Read a lot.
I like crime novels.
Well, I'm sure Christy
will like to dress for you.
Do you have any preferences?
Uh... Maybe like, uh,
like a tight sweater.
I don't know.
But you do know
what you like, yes?
Yeah.
Have you ever
used an agency before?
Uh, no.
Okay, perfect.
My favorite kind of client.
So, once you get there,
You'll leave your money
in an envelope on the counter.
And once we know that
everybody's fine, safe, happy,
and comfortable,
then We'll start the hour.
And If you're not happy,
all you have to do is call,
and We'll make sure
We'll make you happy.
We have plenty of girls.
She'll be at the Stanwick hotel.
Have you been there before?
Stanwick, yeah. Yes.
I know where that is.
Room 209.
Yeah, and If anything
comes up, Bob, give me a call,
and I'll do the same for you.
Okay.
I'll be on time.
Thank you, Bob.
Thank you.
Shit.
What floor you heading to?
Uh, 2, please. Thank you.
Hi there.
Hi.
So, you must be, uh...
- Christy.
- ...Christy.
Your hair looks different.
Oh, I love this suit.
- Oh, thank you.
- Don't tell me.
It's Canali?
Wow, that's impressive.
Uh, I have the, uh...
Oh, you can just leave
the donation on the counter.
Right.
So, yeah.
First time, maybe?
Might be.
Well, I am flattered
you chose me, then.
I can already tell
you're my kind of guy.
Sorry, I'm...
I don't know how this works.
Bob, do you like scotch?
Why don't I fix you a drink?
Uh, yeah.
Okay.
Make yourself comfortable.
- Thank you.
- Yeah.
That's good.
- Cheers.
- Cheers.
I seriously love this fabric.
You have really good taste.
Uh, thank you. Yeah.
Worked at a clothing store
in college.
Wound up spending most
of my paycheck on clothes.
And now I sound like a girl.
No.
No, even men
need to be pampered.
Yeah.
I, um...
I used to work
as a massage therapist.
So...
I know how important
it is to have someone around
to take care of your needs.
Go ahead.
You must have
a really stressful job.
Yeah.
I can feel it in your shoulders.
You want to take
a shower with me?
I'll do it myself.
You want to come join me?
I can't do this.
Uh... I'm sorry.
It's my mistake.
Well, there's no need to rush.
Thank you,
but I-I-I have to go.
I'm... I'm sorry.
Let me help you.
Thank you.
You married?
Yeah.
13 years.
13 years.
Yeah.
How old are you?
We were married young.
I see.
What?
Well, I can understand
why you're here.
It must be hard giving
your youth away to one person.
It's a lot of things.
She cheated on me
back in school.
I thought, uh...
You know, It's before we were
married, but I... yeah.
Are there things she won't do?
Things you want to try?
Uh, yeah, sure.
I like to try things.
Is that okay?
God.
How are you doing?
I'm good.
You want to fuck me now?
Fuck!
So, any plans for the rest
of the day?
Sorry.
You don't have to answer that.
No. I, uh...
I have no more appointments,
If that's what you're asking.
I might go lingerie shopping.
Hey, do you always, uh,
kiss on the lips?
I thought that wasn't
part of it.
You're sweet.
Well, Christy.
It was nice to meet you.
You know,
you should make an appointment
with my friend clio.
She's the top girl
at the agency.
She only sees referrals.
Maybe the three of us
could have some fun together.
Sorry, but this was a, uh,
a one time thing.
Well, I'll tell her about you
in case you change your mind.
Trust me,
You'll definitely like her.
Thank you.
- Thank you.
- Sure.
- Dad!
- Hey.
Wha... what are you doing home?
We got back early.
Thought we'd surprise you.
Where you been?
Uh, we had a meeting with
some of the agents on Stiegel.
Weekend? That's a drag.
- Yeah.
- Your hair's wet.
You been to the gym?
Yeah, stopped on my way back.
Good for you.
Want to come eat?
Uh, yeah. Smells amazing.
With more
than 800,000 federal workers
standing to lose their
paychecks...
You nervous?
I'm just wondering
If It's the smart move
to do this right now.
He knows I can't talk
about Stiegel.
Nigel Coaker's on "meet
the press" every other week.
He's barely gonna
know who Stiegel is.
Which one?
Your call.
You know, don't over-think it.
Just relax.
Let him see the man underneath.
Many estimates suggest
a shutdown could cost
the government...
Nice. Just a few more.
Good.
So, Sam, your mother...
um, you've cited her as being
a source of inspiration...
was arrested
on a number of occasions
in protests during the '70s.
What does she think about you
becoming a federal prosecutor?
Well, she passed away
before I got the job, but...
I hope she'd be proud of me.
Would she have supported
your prosecution of,
uh, medical marijuana
facilities, for example?
Well, Nigel, my mother
taught me from an early age
to fight for justice, protect
those who are vulnerable.
The law's the best way
to do that.
The U.S. attorney's office
prosecutes those who break it.
We don't decide
what the laws are.
No, but you pick
the cases you pursue.
So, that means there is
a moral intent.
Now, If 20 states
have a medical exemption
for it, uh,
how can the issue
be black-and-white?
Because it is.
Nigel, I want to thank you
for including me in your piece.
Oh, anything for Jeannie.
Listen, Sam,
If you're interested,
I'd like to talk to the magazine
about doing a longer profile
on you,
maybe I can trail you
in the office.
You know, um, do a "day
in the life" kind of thing.
Well, our meetings
are usually confidential,
but I'm sure
we can arrange something.
Look, I got to get James
to school.
You got any more questions?
Yes.
When are you running?
Mama's gonna pick you up.
Your father seems to
think he'll go far.
If he can handle the pressure.
What do you think?
I don't think he likes me.
Oh, he's just sensitive
about his mother, that's all.
Mm, well, I think
he's intimidated
by the size of my reputation.
Hmm?
How are you two doing?
Great.
Things are a little crazy,
but we're great.
Well, I'm glad to hear it.
There's a piece
about the Attorney General race.
Oh, yeah? I need to watch that.
They mention me?
No, they weren't
singling anybody out.
You want me to record it?
Sam?
Uh, yeah, that'd be great.
Thanks.
Is there a history
of cancer in your family?
Uh, my mother
died from liver cancer.
But, you know, she was
a heavy smoker and big drinker.
Have you been with any
new sexual partners recently?
Well, uh, I'm married.
But yeah.
One other one a few days ago.
It was just one time, though,
and I-I used a condom.
Well, there is a bump,
but It's probably
an ingrown hair or something.
In all likelihood,
I think you're fine.
Ladies and gentlemen,
senator Edward Pollan.
Thank you, Jeannie.
Your exemplary work with
the edible schoolyard project
is an inspiration to all of us.
You know, I often ask myself
what we can do in Washington
to help shape
our children's sense of place.
Sam Ellis.
- George Hiller.
- Yes.
Glad to finally
meet you in person.
Absolutely, sir.
That country club thing,
that was a heck of a move.
I understand that you're
looking at Attorney General.
Well, I'm not looking at any job
beyond my current employment.
I got something better.
What'll you two ladies have?
I'll take a champagne, please.
- Bourbon for me.
- Yes, ma'am.
Who are you?
Jeannie?
Noah.
How's the boss treating you?
Oh, total slave master.
He drag you in for that FBI
meeting last weekend?
Uh, no.
Guess it must've been
above my pay grade.
Well, don't worry.
You'll make it.
You want a drink?
Senator Pollan?
You sure?
He's gonna give up his seat?
I got him to promise
not to go public yet,
but It's done.
Now, Pollan Says he's gonna
announce in a year.
When he announces,
we pull the trigger.
You quit your job
and you jump in the race.
But I got to know now whether
you got the balls for this.
I'll have to think it over.
Well, think it over.
But remember,
I'm the other woman here,
so don't keep me waiting.
Now, Nigel Coaker's
already agreed to write
the longer article,
which will keep things alive.
You just cultivate that clean
image, 'cause your mythology
is your best asset.
Look, I know you're...
Hi, there. So nice to meet you.
I love your tuxedo.
Is that Armani?
I'm the one who gets you there.
I win these things.
So, why don't we
pool our resources?
I'll bring in my boys, and you
and Jeannie bring in yours,
and We'll work together and get
the right team around you, and
there's just no telling
where this stops.
You with me?
Absolutely.
We should definitely keep
talking.
It was very nice
to finally meet you.
You should see my friend, clio.
Care for a nightcap,
congressman?
What, are you drunk?
You're not drunk enough.
Would you come to bed?
We should be celebrating.
Aren't you excited?
We would be scrutinized
under a microscope.
You know that, right?
We have anything to hide?
Of course not.
But you know these campaigns
get personal.
Certain level of brutality,
exposure.
Just want to make sure
It's the right moment
while James is so young.
Well, James
isn't like his friends.
He obsesses about presidents
the same way other boys
obsess about dinosaurs.
I mean, isn't this exactly
what you always wanted?
What?
I just noticed how adorable
you are in my shirt.
I just... right now.
Come here.
Come back up here.
No, no. Don't do that.
Mnh-mnh.
This way.
I love you.
I know all the sacrifices
you've made for this.
I'm just not sure about Hiller.
Everybody knows he plays dirty.
Well, his candidates win.
I need to know you still
really want this.
That you're, um, the same
idealistic guy I fell for...
Who's gonna change the world.
Maybe one with
a little less hair, but yeah.
Same guy, I hope.
Then I'll be there.
I believe in you, Sam.
Just do whatever you need to do
to make it happen.
Executive privilege.
Hi, this is, uh,
Bob fisher calling back.
Uh, I'd like
to make an appointment with, uh,
with clio.
Hi, Bob. Um, yes, clio.
Christy had, uh, said
she'd, uh, tell her about me.
Um, I'm sorry, Bob.
She's out of town at the moment.
Well, when will she be back?
I'm not sure.
Well, when will you know?
I don't know, but, um,
I-I can make a note to call you.
Uh, okay.
Is there another girl
you'd be interested in?
Did you look at Donna
on our website?
She's available.
Donna, yeah.
The brunette.
Right.
Yeah, that's fine.
Sure.
When?
You know, I've been asking
myself what possible wisdom
I can impart to the bright
young minds of tomorrow.
And I was gonna say,
"be anyone you want to be."
If you want to be an attorney,
be an attorney.
You want to be a ballerina,
be a ballerina.
If you want to be a fireman,
be a fireman
or an astronaut or a playwright.
Technology.
I mean, he can talk directly...
But then I realized
that's ridiculous.
When are we gonna talk
about ethics reform
and campaign finance?
I can't be a ballerina,
an astronaut, or a playwright.
I'm just not built that way.
Because really,
you can only be you.
Get your message across.
But maybe that's
what I'll impart.
Be you.
- Coaker's piece.
- Morning, Sam.
Whoever that is.
Be honest about your weaknesses,
but capitalize
on your strengths.
Get to the core
of who you really are,
because the sooner you
figure out who that is...
The sooner you can decide
which grad school
to blow 100 grand on.
Thank you.
This bother you?
- No.
- No?
I can touch you any way I like?
Uh-huh.
Huh?
What If some guy
wanted to cum in your eye?
On those pretty lashes.
You're so pretty.
Why do you let guys
do this shit to you?
I don't know.
It's just
what some guys are like.
Well, some guys
aren't supposed to be.
Especially in my line of work.
Doesn't make a difference,
does it?
That's not the point.
It's just
basic human engineering.
Fighting that really
make you a better person?
The world doesn't work
the way it does when you're 19.
You'll see.
Oh, whatever.
Rules are just rules
someone made up.
None of my clients are 19.
And most of them are married.
If that makes
you feel any better.
I didn't say I was married.
Sorry.
I talk too much.
Don't get mad, okay.
I just don't see
why pretending you're someone
you're not makes you any better.
That's all.
Sure you're okay doing this?
I mean, come on.
Isn't there something
better out there for you?
Did you have a favorite subject
in school?
I like what I do.
And I like you.
You want to see me again?
I never see the same girl twice.
Oh, poor Bob.
It's okay to come out and play.
We knew Sam
was destined for politics,
but I always thought
Jeannie would end up
being the prosecutor.
Really? Me? Wow.
You're the one
with the background.
You could jump back in any time
you wanted.
Probably.
I just didn't realize
I'd miss James so much
being in the office all day.
Your charity work
will look better
on a first lady's rsum.
Oh, God.
No pressure, Sam.
Who wants dessert?
Sam.
Come in.
Pollan's calling a
press conference for next week.
Thought you said we had a year.
It doesn't matter
what I thought.
I couldn't hold him off
any longer.
Well, what about Stiegel?
Am I supposed to drop the case
in somebody else's lap?
Pollan's got cancer.
And It's getting worse.
I'm... I'm sorry about that.
Look, Sam, I-I know
you wanted to try that case,
and I respect you for that,
and I know
that Kirkland's probably gonna
but this field is gonna
get real crowded real fast
once the news gets out.
This is game time.
You announce, Coaker
writes his piece,
you're the man to beat.
Okay.
"Okay"? Is your head in this?
Just took me by surprise,
that's all.
Well, this is the perfect time
to get used to surprises.
You ought to get yourself
some bigger nuts.
You got one week.
Executive privilege.
Yes, hello. This is Bob fisher.
I need to cancel
all my upcoming appointments.
Things are a bit crazed
right now.
Oh, that's too bad, Bob.
I have a note here from clio
to tell you that she's in town.
Just for three days, though.
She knows you've been inquiring,
and she's willing to meet.
Clio?
Her schedule's almost
full, but she's free Tuesday.
No, that's fine. Thank you.
Constantino is running for sure.
There's no way that's happening.
Please give
me another viable name.
Bradford.
Bradford? Mm-hmm.
I like your pictures. Noted.
She's got charisma,
but she doesn't have money.
She doesn't have donors.
Constantino's gonna
top our million in commitments
by the end of this week.
Constantino.
Running or not running?
He'll run If I don't.
Oh, I like the balls
on this guy.
This is what I like.
This is what we're selling.
Confidence, hope, optimism
versus a three-time loser.
Success versus failure,
all right?
Versus corruption, actually.
- Ideas?
- E.J.'S right, guys.
I just think we need a platform
before we want to start
getting the message out.
I want to have the announcement
on a college campus.
I want him surrounded
by people under 30.
I want him swimming in people
under 30, you understand?
Hello?
Hi, is this Bob?
Uh, yes.
Hey, It's Laci.
I'm... I'm sorry
to call you directly,
but I might be changing
agencies,
and I just
wanted you to have my number.
Can you talk?
Uh... Not exactly.
I-I just wanted you to know
how much I enjoyed
the other day.
And it'd be great
to see you again.
Uh...
Okay, well, I-I have it now.
Yeah.
Sorry again.
I hope I'll see you soon.
Okay.
Okay, bye.
What phone was that?
Uh, FBI phone.
They heard something
on the wire, needed advice.
I'll see you tonight, okay?
Of course.
They're kind of overpriced.
That's the point.
It's my treat.
Isn't my wife a knockout?
Yeah, very flattering.
She gets self-conscious.
I understand.
A lot of women do.
- Where are you from?
- Brazil
Brazil? Well, never been.
I think you would like it.
Probably would.
What's your name?
- Tora.
- Ah. Sam.
Do you think
they're too young for me?
Not at all. They're stunning.
We'll take them.
You didn't miss
anything at the conference.
Your son is a model student.
Good.
I'm sorry, sir,
but your card was declined.
It was?
It's probably just the machine.
It happens every now and then.
Would you like me to call them?
No, no, no, no, no, no, no.
It's fine. Try this one.
Hm.
What have you been buying
lately?
Everything okay?
What's going on, Sam?
What?
I thought we were having
a nice afternoon together.
Yeah, I'm just not sure
why you felt that I needed
a $400 pair of sunglasses
right at this exact moment.
You know, Jeannie,
I took time out of my schedule.
I canceled an appointment.
With whom? I jus...
is this about the...
the Brazilian girl at the store?
No.
But now that you mention it,
that was fucking embarrassing.
If you really are going
to become a candidate...
"If" I become a candidate?
You're gonna have to learn
to deal with flattery
from girls like that.
You can't just buy
whatever shit they're selling.
What's bothering you,
Jeannie? Just say it.
- Just spit it out.
- Is there someone else?
No.
I don't believe you. I'm sorry.
Well, what am I supposed
to do about it?
There's nobody else.
Come on.
Executive privilege.
Yes, It's, uh, Bob fisher.
Uh, does clio still
have any times available?
Hey, Bob.
Um, yes, she does... 5:00.
Yes, today.
You want me to pencil you in?
Okay, I'll take it. Uh, where?
We have two officers
that are gonna be contacts.
How'd it go today?
All right, I suppose.
Sam's not exactly an open book,
but he's good.
He's very, very good
at what he does.
It's only 4:30.
He's done already?
No, I think he's got a 5:00
outside the office.
Get out of the fucking way!
Hi, I need to check
the balance of my card.
It was declined.
Uh, all right, what are
my options for payment?
$2,000.
Can I open a line of credit?
Fuck!
Shit!
Sorry.
Come on.
Call 911.
Are you all right?
You okay? Hey, just stay down.
- No.
- You sure?
I'm fine.
Hey!
No, they're not ready.
Not now.
Executive privilege.
Hi, this is Bob fisher.
I'm not gonna be able
to make my appointment today,
but I, uh...
I-I think you may be
under investigation.
I don't know, I just...
I think they have surveillance
at Clio's hotel.
I could be wrong.
Can you help us?
Help you?
Uh, no. No, I can't. I'm sorry.
Just destroy your records.
Just do whatever you need to do.
Just disappear.
Hello.
Please don't hang up,
Mr. Ellis.
I'm asking as a friend.
Can you help us?
Who is she, Sam?
What happened? Why were you
at the Saint regency hotel?
You can interrogate me later.
Just let me rest.
Sure.
Give you time to prep, right?
Jeannie, please.
This? What the fuck is this?
Hmm?
Hush money for your girlfriend?
It's, uh...
It's a donation.
You don't treat me
like some stupid
suburban housewife, Sam.
I outpaced you
in every fucking law class.
I was earning a higher salary
than you until...
fuck me.
I don't understand.
You're my best friend.
You don't do this kind of thing.
Not to me.
The nurse said
you fractured a rib.
I wouldn't move too much.
What am I supposed to do?
Do I, uh... should I leave?
'Cause I won't be the victim
here.
You saw what that did
to my parents.
I'll walk before that happens.
We're not your parents.
Then get it together.
If not for me, do it for James.
He looks to you
for how to behave.
And whatever mess you're in,
you need to dig yourself
out of it now.
I'm going to get our son.
You're welcome.
We're sorry.
You have reached a number
that has been disconnected
or is no longer in service.
Hello.
Noah, It's Sam.
I need you to check something
out for me.
Uh, sure. What's up?
Nigel Coaker called three times.
I don't want to talk to him.
Noah's in your office
with the meeting you asked for.
Okay.
It's been mostly FBI so far.
We've handled a couple
of warrants.
They put in a request
for a wire,
but I think It's too late.
The agency's rolling up fast.
What do we know?
Some interstate,
some international activity.
For the right price,
a V.I.P. Client
could bring a prostitute
to New York or Paris.
At the very least, I think
we've got them on the mann act.
We sure about that?
Not 100%.
And the agents want to move now?
Who's on it?
Park and Strellitz...
solid guys.
They don't want
to see it slip away.
Well, I want to come
on board and help out.
And I'll lead the case.
Is there a reason
you would need to, sir?
Is there a problem?
No. It's your call, of course.
It's just I was hoping to
try the case If it came to that.
I used to volunteer at a clinic
that helped prostitutes
get out and get clean,
and I saw a lot
of girls go through there.
Even at the high end,
there's a pretty intense
psychological toll.
I think what Flynn
is trying to say,
sir, is that we'd like
to stay on the case
unless there's a compelling
reason for us to switch.
You sure you want
to spend your time on this?
You think I'm chasing headlines?
Is that it?
You're right, Ms. Flynn.
It is an important issue,
and that's
why I want to be more involved.
I want to make sure
it stays on the right track.
And If it goes to trial,
you can have the case.
Fair deal?
All right, tell the agents
we're transferring the case.
I want to see them in here
at their earliest convenience.
Noah, hang back a sec.
A buddy at the bureau
slipped me the lead on this,
and I don't want to burn him,
so If anyone asks,
I heard about it from you, okay?
You got it, chief.
James, honey, no.
Otherwise, they're gonna
keep you back in that class.
You okay?
Yeah.
Fine.
Sure. Already read it.
Okay.
See you tonight.
Okay.
Word is the FBI
sent it upstairs yesterday.
Why the fuck would they do that?
Look, I talked to my buddy
at main justice.
He said they split it.
They bumped the case
to New York,
and the rest is going to opr,
which only happens.
If someone in this office
is implicated, right?
Jesus.
Any idea who that might be?
You know,
Noah, I'm gonna call you back.
Jesus.
Hey. H...
I know you called.
Leave a message.
Detective Brixy.
Ellis, how you doing, man?
You gonna nail Stiegel
to the wall?
You are a regular fucking hero
down here, man.
Yeah, I know. Thanks.
Couldn't have done it without
some solid police work, right?
I-I need you to run a number
for me.
I need an address.
Can I help you?
Uh, yes.
I, uh... is Jennifer here?
Just a second.
Thank you.
Hi.
I'm sorry to bother you here.
Um...
It's Jennifer, right?
What the fuck
are you doing here?
Can I come in?
My mom's in there.
It's really, really important.
Uh, is there somewhere else
we can talk, then?
They already brought me in
for questioning this morning.
It sucked.
Cops really creep me out.
What did they ask you?
They said I can't discuss that.
Listen, you need to get
a... a message to the agency.
You need to tell them not to
volunteer any information, okay?
The FBI doesn't have a case.
- Everybody's in custody.
- It doesn't...
no, I mean they
got every single person.
You have to think of a way,
though.
There has to be some way
to get in touch with somebody.
There's nothing. No, I'm serb...
- what about the book?
- There's nothing.
- They're gone.
- Can you text somebody?
- One of the other girls?
- What the fuck, man?!
You think they're just gonna use
up their one phone call
- to see how Laci's doing?
- Just think!
- Just think! Just think!
- The fuck?
- There is nothing!
- Just think of everybody!
- They are gone!
- Help me out!
I never even spoke
to them in person.
It was all just over the phone.
Fuck. I am so fucked.
This is, uh...
shouldn't have said anything.
You don't have anything
to worry about.
I recognized you, you know.
You're a lot better-looking
in person than you are on TV.
I was gonna go poli-sci
before my mom got diagnosed.
She has cancer, doesn't she?
My mom died from cancer
when I was about your age.
You guys close?
Yeah.
She was kind of out of control.
But...
I just got into this
to help her out.
I'm all she's got.
But once you're at the party...
You should get out.
I-I already switched agencies.
These guys have been
courting me for a while.
They're super-discrete.
It's okay.
It's all good, right?
You don't have
to worry about anything.
Everything's gonna be fine.
Wait.
Can't we, uh...
I've got, uh...
It's all I got.
I can go to the bank
after If you want.
Right here?
Yeah.
Sorry I'm late.
All rise.
The honorable Catherine Liu
presiding.
Well, we're off
to a roaring start.
Apologize for the delay,
your honor.
Be seated.
Not you, Mr. Ellis.
You're not going
to be here that long.
Let's hear your motions.
Right. Uh...
Hey, um, there's two FBI agents
that want to speak to you.
I put them in your office.
I hope that's okay.
That's fine. Thank you, Dalia.
And next Friday's my last day.
I don't know If you knew that.
Let us know where you land.
Mm-hmm.
And I wanted to apologize.
I never meant to complicate
your life or... or your wife's.
You didn't.
- Gentlemen.
- Mr. Ellis.
- Sam Ellis.
- Agent park.
I'm agent Strellitz.
Agent park.
Have a seat.
You know why we're here?
You tell me.
Why this get passed up to main?
How familiar are you
with executive privilege?
Uh, not very.
I stepped in 'cause
I was concerned about, uh,
some of the warrants
y'all asked for.
How did you hear about the case?
Uh, Noah, one of my
a.U.S.A.S told me about it.
Our investigation started
with a particular elected
official moving large sums
of money around.
We thought
he might be embezzling funds.
Turns out he was a client
at the agency.
- Hmm.
- Started to build a list.
High-profile public officials,
mostly state.
All of whom are clients
and many of whom...
and many of whom
were social friends
of a colleague of yours here.
Kirkland?
Mm-hmm.
We think maybe they asked him
to hold up the investigation.
Has he ever mentioned the case
to you?
Uh, no. Not at all.
He ever mention the agency
or prostitution in general?
Maybe the occasional
off-color comment.
We're using an escort
as a witness
on an unrelated
identity-theft case,
but... I believe she worked
for a different agency.
And you yourself
have never had any contact
with the agency
or any of its employees?
Not that I'm aware of.
You were in the hospital
on Tuesday.
Is that correct?
Yes, I was hit
by a car crossing the street.
Then you passed out four blocks
from the Saint regency hotel.
I'm not really sure
where I passed out.
The police report
could clarify that.
I'd be careful here, fellas.
Do you have a case?
'Cause it sounds
like you're fishing.
That's exactly why I wanted
to check the warrants.
If you have any information
that could assist
the investigation,
we'd be extremely...
do you have a case?
We suspect
that someone tipped the agency.
They started rolling up,
destroyed all their records.
That's why we moved in.
But we think we were too late.
Okay.
So, you gonna charge
them with something?
No.
Well, hopefully
You'll get them next time.
Y'all should've
come to me first.
It was nice to meet you.
Mm-hmm.
Mm-hmm.
Are you
a married man, Mr. Ellis?
13 years.
I'm married 38 years myself.
I've seen every kind of husband.
You can imagine
for every sort of indiscretion.
Guys telling themselves.
It's just a little vacation
from reality.
Or that they're some other guy
when they step into that room.
And I have seen
grown men break down
and cry
when the chickens come home.
Even If you're getting away
with it,
you only get to be one person
under the eyes of God.
And these guys,
they got to be asking themselves
at the end of the day.
If you're the guy that walks
through that door
or If you're not.
Have a good day, counselor.
You know, they say that
jogging is shit for the knees.
So I hear.
You followed me?
You want to grab a coffee?
We need to have a chat.
How's your lovely wife?
Probably sitting
a lot more than I have lately.
And I heard you had
a visit from the FBI today.
They were briefing me on a case.
Mm-hmm. Is that all?
That's funny,
'cause, um... My sources
said it was a little bit more
than that.
Yeah?
What did they say?
I think you know.
Hmm?
You know they haven't got a case
against you, Sam,
and there's no doubt
the pressure from the top
will get them to drop it.
And from where I stand, I still
think people have the right
to know the truth about their,
um, assistant U.S. attorney and
aspiring future congressman.
You know It's really
the hypocrisy
that offends most people,
and you're quite good
at fooling everyone.
But soon, people are gonna
know what you really are.
Then they can make up
their own mind about it.
Now, I want to give you
the chance
to tell me your own story,
and maybe... maybe they
will forgive you.
If you make them understand.
When are you running the piece?
Soon.
I have nothing
to say at this time.
Edward Pollan,
the three-term senator
announced today
that he intends to retire
at the end of the current
legislative session.
The unexpected decision leaves
the playing field wide open
given pollan's 17-year tenure
in the office.
Normally one of
the senate's most outspoken...
Yeah.
Want cheese on your burger?
Yeah.
Yeah.
Hi, mom.
Here you go.
Can I give Jack a lettuce leaf?
Sure.
Just wash your hands, okay?
So, where have you been?
Around.
I saw the announcement.
You talk to Hiller?
Not yet.
He wanted some
photographs of your mother
for the website.
There's a box in my office.
Back to business.
Something wrong?
No, sweetie.
Just, um... just hungry.
Thank you.
Just take your time.
If I talk to you, will you
give me time to resign
and get my affairs in order?
That's a poor choice
of words, but okay.
Well, first, I-I
want to apologize to my family.
To my wife and son.
And my colleagues
at the U.S. attorney's office,
with whom it has been
a great honor
and privilege to serve.
There are no excuses.
Why take the risk?
I don't know. I don't know.
It's gonna take me a long time
to figure out.
Jeannie thinks the world of you.
Off the record.
How are you gonna
break it to her?
Well, she already knows,
I think.
You think?
Why do we
hold public servants to a...
to a higher standard when it
comes to marriage and fidelity?
We're flawed like everyone else.
I set out to help people.
I never said
I was better than them.
Go talk to your wife.
Jeannie, we need to talk.
It's over.
I'm gonna resign tomorrow.
What? Why?
Coaker knows.
Knows what?
Come on, Jeannie.
You already know.
What is it I'm supposed to know?
You want me to say it?
For the past few months...
I've been a client
of an escort agency.
"Been a client"?
How would you want me to say it?
You make it sound so clean.
I have been so afraid
that somebody
would find out
that now I feel I...
I don't know. I feel relieved.
I know that sounds horrible.
When this blows over, I'll get
a job on the civil side.
Something with less hours
and more money
so I can spend more time
with you and James.
Maybe you can go back
to practicing law,
If that's something
that you wanted.
Jeannie, I need your help here.
I'm splitting apart here.
I can't imagine...
just shut up!
What are we talking about here?
How many other girls
did you fuck?
5, 10? I mean, you can tell me.
Do you not think the wife
has a right to know?
What was it like with them?
I don't know, Jeannie.
You don't know?
Why didn't you just
have an affair, Sam?
That was my worst fear
all along.
But that...
that would've made you human.
This makes you sick
that you view women that way.
And there isn't one person
I can blame,
not one bitch
I can point the finger at.
You didn't even give me that!
Sorry.
If life
with us was so fucking terrible,
why didn't you just fucking go?
I didn't want that.
I never wanted that.
Then what, Sam?
Help me understand.
Was our routine so stifling?
Was that it?
Was it your crazy mama
who wanted you to be
the next Kennedy? Was it me?
Was it my dad?
I know he talks down to you,
but he put a roof
over our heads.
He started your political
career.
Thank you.
Thanks for reminding me.
You know, I felt suffocated,
too, but you know what I did?
I started a fucking vegetable
garden.
But you...
You couldn't even
talk to one journalist
without destroying everything
we worked for.
No, he already knew, Jeannie.
He already knew.
You think you can do any better?
I'd like to see you try.
Riding me is not the same
as doing it yourself.
Coaker never liked me.
He was doing this for you
and your father.
This was my fault now?
So, we should all feel sorry
for you?!
I never asked anybody
to feel sorry for me.
Please tell me it was worth it
for that few minutes
of excitement.
Or is that why you did it?
So you could have a secret
from me.
From everyone
who believed in you.
Well, at least it was mine.
It's okay. It's okay.
It's okay, buddy.
I suppose you'd like to come in.
How'd you find out?
Just because I'm old
doesn't mean I'm lazy.
Here you go.
Attagirl.
Don't write the piece.
It's a matter of time
before he brings himself down.
That doesn't mean
you have to humiliate me
in front of the entire world,
in front of my son.
If It's not me, it'll be
someone else eventually.
Let it be somebody else.
Why the fuck should I?
'Cause I'm asking you to.
I didn't write the piece
in the first place.
Now It's getting interesting,
and you want me to stop.
Look, I realize It's your job,
but is it worth destroying
my family
to sell a few fucking magazines?
I didn't break the law.
Where as you, my dear, now you
just found out your husband's
fucking prostitutes.
Now all you can do
is defend him?
How many students did you fuck
in exchange for better grades?
I mean,
is it really any different?
It's not about me, right?
This is about you protecting
your ticket to the top.
I mean, that's all
you really care about.
I don't think you're really
bothered about any of them
other women, I mean,
'cause you just like him.
I mean, what does he do?
Does he pull your hair?
Does he talk filth to you?
Or are you content to allow
his young whores
to do as they will with him?
Just as long as you can sit
on that fucking throne.
Oh.
You're your father's girl, yeah?
Now I know I'm digging
in the right place.
Fuck you.
Anytime, Jeannie.
Since you were 16.
Any fucking time.
Okay.
I beg your pardon?
Call it an even trade.
What?
We both know
you haven't been staring at me
since I was 16, Nigel.
More like 13.
I'm still the same girl, so...
Come on. What do you say?
Coaker's not gonna
run the story.
What did you do?
Remember everything
we talked about?
Remember all the goals
we set for ourselves?
Let's not throw that away.
But what If I
can't do it anymore?
Bit late for that,
don't you think?
I didn't think
you had it in you.
Go to hell, Sam.
Let me ask you one thing.
What did they have that I don't?
Nothing.
Sir, you wanted to see me?
Have a seat.
I know the FBI
asked you about me, Sam.
I'm sorry about that whole mess.
They were just grasping
at straws.
Shouldn't have happened.
Listen, I know you're gonna
go after pollan's seat.
Well, I haven't officially
decided anything yet.
Just wanted you to know
that I'm all for it.
We need guys like you in D.C.
Still see things clearly.
Been at it as long as I have,
everything looks gray and murky.
Thank you, sir.
Fucking "a."
Look at that.
Wow.
Hmm.
Better than we could've
imagined.
Senator?
Senator?
Your wife just called.
She won't be able
to make it on Tuesday,
but she'll be coming down for
the governor's ball on Saturday.
All right, that's fine.
Just make sure she has a pick up
at the airport.
Yes, sir.
Do you want
us to come in with you?
No.
We have some private business
to discuss.
You go have lunch.
I'll call you
when we're finished.
Senator.
George.
Good to see you.
Coffee?
No. Kicked the habit.
Everything in moderation, huh?
That's right.
How's the family?
Your son doing all right?
Can't run him for congress
till he's 25.
Well, We'll see.
So, you liking it up here?
Well, Jeannie doesn't love it,
but her charity
keeps her at home mostly.
I like D.C. it suits me.
Good.
'Cause you might be here
for a long time.
If I have anything
to say about it.
Reelection campaign headquarters
are opening up next week,
and I talked to the governor
this morning.
You can expect
a formal endorsement.
Glad to hear it.
Sam, I do want
to talk to you, though,
about your...
Your zipper problem.
Now, it doesn't surprise me.
And, uh, I don't really care
what you do in your spare time.
But the day
you signed on for this,
you put your life on probation.
Your time on this planet
as a human being
who eats and shits
and fucks like the rest of us,
that's over.
You got a patriotic duty
to be squeaky clean
for these people
who would turn on you on a dime,
and that is the contract.
There may be some people
who want the truth...
In a courtroom.
But outside,
they want to believe that you're
somehow better than they are.
They need that fairy tale.
It's the only thing
that society has to keep it
from sinking into the muck.
That and wise policy.
It's under control.
That's all behind me now.
Well, that's...
that's all I wanted to hear.
I suppose that, uh,
If we ruled out every candidate
who ever stepped out
on his wife,
it'd be just pussy-whipped nerds
running the country.
We don't want that, do we?
People still need heroes.
Let's give them one.
Good.
Now, here's the first round
of donations from our friends,
and that's just the beginning.
And, uh, Sam,
I wouldn't spend a lot of time
on ethics reform right now.
You don't want to make a lot
of promises on that.
And besides, you got a lot
of other subjects
that you can tackle first.
Well,
I don't know about you, George,
but I can handle two things
at once.
You are a quick study, Ellis.
You'll do all right.