Table Read

Moonstone Rescue Ep 2: St. Rosalia

38 min
Aug 26, 20258 months ago
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Summary

Episode 2 of Moonstone Rescue interweaves two timelines: Henrietta's experience at St. Rosalia Indian boarding school in 1905, where she discovers spiritual power through community and compassion, and present-day Maya's growing connection to Lupe's animal sanctuary while her estranged father Robert begins to recognize Moonstone Rescue as competition to his struggling veterinary clinic.

Insights
  • Holistic and alternative animal care practices are gaining community trust and client loyalty over traditional veterinary medicine, particularly when practitioners demonstrate empathy and possibility-focused approaches
  • Intergenerational trauma and cultural displacement narratives create emotional resonance that drives character motivation and plot complexity in contemporary storytelling
  • Community reputation and word-of-mouth marketing significantly impact small business viability; social perception can rapidly shift client bases between competing services
  • Mentorship relationships across generational and cultural lines can provide healing and belonging for isolated individuals experiencing family dysfunction
  • Land ownership and property development represent ongoing tensions between indigenous heritage preservation and commercial exploitation in small communities
Trends
Alternative veterinary medicine and holistic animal care gaining mainstream acceptance and market shareIndigenous cultural reclamation and genealogical research as narrative and personal identity driversReal estate speculation and land acquisition targeting rural/agricultural properties with cultural significanceGrief counseling and mental health support as normalized community infrastructureYouth mentorship through non-traditional community spaces (animal sanctuaries, art studios) rather than institutional settingsSmall-town social dynamics and reputation management in pre-digital and digital-age contextsIntergenerational trauma narratives in contemporary fiction and storytellingCommunity-based animal welfare and sanctuary models as alternatives to commercial veterinary services
Topics
Indian boarding school history and cultural assimilationHolistic veterinary medicine and alternative animal careAnimal sanctuary operations and managementGrief counseling and bereavement support groupsIndigenous land rights and property ownershipReal estate development and speculationIntergenerational family conflict and estrangementMentorship and youth developmentCommunity reputation and small business competitionCultural heritage and genealogical researchSpiritual practices and magical realism in narrativeWampanoag tribal history and cultureVeterinary clinic business operationsArt exhibition and creative entrepreneurshipAdolescent social dynamics and peer relationships
Companies
Moonstone Rescue
Animal sanctuary and holistic veterinary practice operated by Lupe that is attracting clients away from Robert's trad...
Rhodes Veterinary Clinic
Robert's struggling traditional veterinary practice losing clients to Moonstone Rescue due to reputation damage and p...
Aquina Tribal Council
Referenced as resource for genealogical research and tribal history; Lupe has connection to genealogist there
People
Maya Rhodes
14-year-old protagonist navigating grief, family estrangement, and mentorship at animal sanctuary while discovering a...
Robert Rhodes
Maya's father, veterinarian struggling with grief, business decline, and relationship repair; begins competing with L...
Lupe McGregor
Wampanoag operator of Moonstone Rescue sanctuary; mentor to Maya; former high school classmate of Robert; practices h...
Axel Grayson
Real estate developer and father of Maverick; attempting to acquire Lupe's property through realtor Terrence Delwood
Henrietta
Maya's ancestor featured in sketchbook; indigenous girl at St. Rosalia boarding school who discovers spiritual power ...
Jean Rhodes
Maya's grandmother; artist with exhibition of provocative sculptures; encourages Maya's independence and emotional ex...
Terrence Delwood
Realtor representing Axel Grayson's acquisition attempt of Moonstone Rescue property; dismissed by Lupe
Mrs. Silva
Community member whose cat was euthanized by Robert; holds him responsible and has become vocal critic of his veterin...
Maverick Grayson
Sensitive jock and son of Axel; develops interest in Maya; warned by father about proximity law and influence of 'dif...
Quotes
"Leave the Indian, save the child. That is what we are called to do for you all."
Sister BernadetteSt. Rosalia Indian School flashback
"People come to me after allopathic medicine has failed their pets. In my experience, pet owners often have unrealistic expectations for what can be done."
Robert RhodesMr. Dietz Cafe conversation
"I think they just want to feel like the person caring for their loved ones is coming from a place of possibility, not limitation."
Lupe McGregorMr. Dietz Cafe conversation
"The Wampanoag were the original inhabitants of this place. My roots here are deep and strong. You are standing on my land, Mr. Delwood."
Lupe McGregorMoonstone Rescue entrance confrontation
"Lying never makes anything better, Maya. It just creates chaos."
Lupe McGregorJean's art exhibition
Full Transcript
In episode one of Moonstone Rescue, 14-year-old Maya Rhodes grappled with life after the death of her mom, Nora. Robert Rhodes, once a warm and goofy dad, had grown cold and withdrawn, consumed by grief and the pressures of keeping his struggling veterinary clinic afloat. The strained relationship between him and Maya left her feeling isolated and alone. Luckily for Maya, her cat, Henry, is always by her side. Maya found comfort in Nora's sketchbook, which chronicled the story of their ancestor, Henrietta, a resilient young indigenous girl who was taken from her tribe and forced into an Indian boarding school in 19th century California. Henrietta's magical connection to an orange cat became both a source of strength and a cause of trouble. Maya also had a not-so-secret admirer, Maverick, a sensitive jock whose father, Axel Grayson, was the town's biggest real estate developer. Jackie and Hugo, Maya's best friends, spread rumors that Lupe McGregor, a woman from the Wampanoag Aquina tribe with a mysterious past, was actually a witch who put spells on the town's locals. But Maya had a secret. For weeks, she'd been spending time at Moonstone Rescue, an animal sanctuary run by Lupe. Lupe had become a mentor for Maya, offering her a sense of belonging and encouraging her to explore holistic healing practices. Meanwhile, Robert's growing lack of compassion alienated his clients. When he euthanized Mrs. Silva's cat without empathy, it caused an uproar in the community. Later at a local bar, Robert crossed paths with Lupe. Her sharp, perceptive comments about his self-loathing and sarcasm left him intrigued, though he remained unaware that Lupe was on the path to becoming his biggest competition. At Maya's middle school graduation, Robert's frustration boiled over, leading him to lash out at Maya and publicly embarrassing both of them in front of the community, and creating an even deeper rift in their already fractured relationship. Uncle Grayson approached Robert to warn him about Lupe and Moonstone Rescue. However, Axel's motives were far from pure, as he later creepily staked out Lupe's farm, clearly scheming to acquire her property. Angry with her dad, Maya once again sought refuge in Nora's sketchbook. In her room, she experienced a magical moment of her own. A glowing ball of light appeared, reminiscent of the one Henrietta had seen in the stories. Was this real or just a figment of her very active imagination? And let's not forget about Mrs. Silva, who, still mourning her own cat, began setting her sights on Henri, adding new complications to Maya's already fragile world. Moonstone Rescue, Episode 2, written by Dominique Muton. Interior St. Rosalia Indian School, classroom day. Henrietta stands in the corner of the room, holds a stack of books above her head. Her hair is freshly butchered and shorter than ever. She winces as her arms tremble. Straighten your arms, Henrietta! Super, St. Rosalia Indian School, 1905. The students in the classroom keep their eyes fixed on the hymn books at their desks, avoiding even a glance at Henrietta. After the night by the oak tree, the grown-ups at St. Rosalia's refused to let Henrietta out of their sight. They were harder on her than ever. Sister Bernadette, stiff and severe, walks slowly down each aisle. The frightening, click-clack of her shoes hit the wooden floor. Leave the Indian, save the child. That is what we are called to do for you all. She steps closer to Henrietta, leans in and whispers, And I do intend to save you from that wicked savage inside. Henrietta pushes the books up higher, her arms trembling violently now, but her gaze steady, defiant. Interior closet, day. A tired and haggard Henrietta sits in a dark closet. A ray of light from outside enters a crack in the wall and touches her face. She looks up with renewed resolve. Before long, Henrietta stopped talking altogether. Sister Bernadette opens the door and pulls Henrietta out. She's surprised, then satisfied, to see a blank look on her face. Here's the door, the door is open, and Henrietta is in the room. Henrietta, too, sleeps peacefully. As she seemingly became pacified, the nuns gave up on trying to break her. Satisfied enough by her silence. After another glance in Henrietta's direction, the matron turns to leave. The orange cat hadn't returned, and Henrietta was now more alone than ever. And yet, she was at peace. She finally understood her purpose. Henrietta's eyes open wide, a slight smile on her face. Montage, daily life at St. Rosalia. Interior classroom day. A male teacher holds up a leather strap and brings it down on the open palm of a small girl. The child winces, holds back tears. Her classroom later. The room is now empty, and the small child sits alone at her desk. Tears stream down her face. Henrietta walks over to her, reaches out a hand and smiles. The girl beams, smiles back. Interior dining hall day. Quiet children eat at tables. A stern nun narrows her eyes at a young boy who uses a utensil incorrectly. He beelines towards him, takes away his food, leaving him with nothing. Henrietta takes the bread off her plate and puts it on his. Interior girls dormitory night. A teen girl lies in bed shivering from the cold. Henrietta tiptoes with an extra blanket and places it over her. Frightened, the girl shakes her head no, but relief washes over her as she stops shivering. And montage. Interior girls dormitory night. The dormitory is bathed in moonlight. Henrietta kneels in the center of the circle surrounded by the other children. Each clutches a small offering. A feather, a button, a stone. By showing the others compassion and solidarity, Henrietta had won their trust. So much so, they forgot they had called her a witch not so long ago. Henrietta holds a sharp needle. She pricks her finger, lets a drop of blood fall onto a smooth stone in the center. The children watch wide-eyed. One by one, they add their offerings to the circle. A hush falls over the room as Henrietta raises her hands, palms open to the sky. One closes their eyes, murmuring unintelligible prayers. A faint hum vibrates through the walls, growing louder. The children open their eyes, startled as a soft glow appears in the center of the circle. The glow intensifies and expands into a ball of shimmering light that pulses with warmth. Henrietta looks up. Her eyes glisten with tears. Finally, they had seen it too. And it was at that moment that Henrietta learned the words that would free them all. Henrietta wordlessly mouths words we can't understand. Exterior Moonstone Rescue Pigpen Day, present day. Maya slams Nora's book clothes. She sits on the bale of hay as Lupe dumps homemade pig feet into trays. Three very big and very delighted pigs greedily grunt as they scarf down their lunch. Henri the cat and pumpkin look on from the other side of the fence. And it happened to me like two nights ago, just like how Henrietta saw. You believe me, right? Are you kidding? I've seen crazier things. Who am I to deny you a giant ball of light? Wish I knew what Henrietta said. Like, the exact words. Do you know who Henrietta's people were? Might be a good place to start. Chimash, I think? Mom researched it a little bit, but I don't know for sure. I can help you look into it if you want me to. Thrilled Maya's eyes light up. Really? Sure. A friend of mine works at the Aquina Tribal Council. He's a genealogist. I could ask him to help you look into it. Thank you, thank you. She stands, jumps up and down. For a moment, she seems to be a much younger child. Her infectious excitement brings a genuine smile to Lupe's face. Maya squats next to one of the pigs, pets him as he eats. Lupe opens a bale of hay, spreads it across the muddy pen. What was it like to drink up in Aquina? I loved being close to my family and culture. It's very beautiful there, when everyone knows each other, works together. Oh, we just started growing papas there. Papas? Oh, my God. They are divine. They are these little fruits that taste like banana, but so much better. And you can make a pie out of them. My mom makes the best pa-pa pie. For a moment, Lupe is lost in happy thought. It was wonderful. So why would you come back here? Lupe's smile fades slightly. She turns back to her work. Grab me a hay fork, would you? Maya hops off the hay bale and goes to fetch the fork. They hear a car pulling up out front. Lupe opens the pen, runs to see who it is. Maya follows behind. Exterior, Moonstone rescue entrance, continuous. A red car parks haphazardly, skids slightly in the gravel. It's Miss Kent. She is my massager. Megan Kent, 30s, jumps out of the car as Lupe and Maya approach. Her face is pale, her movements frantic. Lupe, please, I need your help. Megan points to the back seat of her car. A golden retriever whines and yelps. Her left back leg visibly mangled. Lupe immediately opens the door, examines the dog carefully. Maya shadows her, wide-eyed. What happened? She got out of the yard. A car hit her and kept going. This is an animal sanctuary. I'm not a vet. Please. Daryl Engels told me how you helped his dog, said he'd trust you with his own life. That was a one-time thing. I'm begging you, please. What is? What's her name? Fiona. Fiona whimpers as Lupe prods her lightly. OK, Fiona's leg is broken, but there doesn't seem to be much internal damage. I'll need to take her inside. Maya steps forward, ready to assist. I hope we carry her. Exterior Rhodes Home Day. Robert and Josh load heavy boxes into Josh's old van parked in the driveway. Robert struggles to lift one of Jean's large clay sculptures, an abstract carved man contorted around a woman's nude body. Robert grimaces in pain, grabs it as lower back. Ah, jeez, that weighs a ton. You're still sleeping on that old futon, aren't you? Who told you that? Hate to break it to you. You're not the man's mystery you think you are. Under eye bags, obvious back pain, snarkiness at level 10. Jean walks out, carries another box. Oh, it's why he's going back to grief counseling. She hands the box to Josh. Oh, careful with this one. Yes, ma'am. Ma, I told you, it's a cult. And I told you to get your stuff together ASAP. Talk to someone about, you know, from Maya. It's like Shakespeare said, give sorrow words. The grief that does not speak, knits up the old wrought heart and bids it break. Oh, I like that. God, first of all, Shakespeare sucks. Mrs. Silva walks by the trio. She glares intensely at Robert as she passes. Jean waves friendly. How are you, Mrs. Silva? Tired and old. Oh, in that case, allow me to formally invite you to my exhibition. Bring a friend if you want. Jean hands her a flyer displaying nude clay bodies in erotic poses. Mrs. Silva hands the flyer back, disgusted. I don't have friends, not anymore. Another nasty accusatory glance at Robert. There's going to be food and drinks and plenty of good company. I like you, Jean, even if your art looks like something out of Sodom and Gomorrah. But that son of yours is a killer. I'd hate to see your business fail because of him. She throws one more dagger at Robert and continues her walk. Josh and Jean both look at an incredulous Robert. I don't care if it's Jim Jones running that group. You're going. Interior Moonstone Rescue exam room day. On an old table, Fiona whimpers softly. Maya strokes the dog's head and glances nervously at Lupe, who remains focused as she grinds herbs with her mortar and pestle. What's that? This is a mix of Ella campaign leaves and linseed oil. It's applied as a poultice to the broken leg. Poultice? You put it on a cloth and apply it to the wound. Poultice? I like how that sounds. I'm going to realign the bones, stabilize the injury. If not done properly, it might never heal right. If you feel squeamish, feel free to step out. Nope. I got this. Good. Hold her steady. Exterior Moonstone Rescue entrance day. Megan anxiously waits in her car. Lupe opens the door of her house as Fiona limps out tail wagging. My baby. Megan gets out of the car, excited to reunite with her dog. She kneels, wraps her arms around Fiona. I've written out instructions that explain what medicines to give her and when. The splint can be removed at the vet clinic in town. Oh, I'm never going back to that place. Dr. Rhodes probably would have euthanized her. Well, I can't speak to that. She looks to Maya, who is out of earshot and mounting her bicycle to leave, Henry in tow. See you tomorrow. Lupe and Megan both wave bye to her. Poor little thing. Imagine losing your mother so young and getting stuck with such a jerk for a dad. It's just not fair. Did you know he paraded her in front of everyone on graduation night? Deplorable. Uncomfortable, Lupe struggles with how to respond. I didn't know that. Anyway, what do I owe you? Nothing. No, it's my pleasure to help. But how will you keep this place open if you don't charge? She takes out $100 bill. Consider it a donation. Megan's eyes plead with her to take the bill. Lupe relents. Thank you. It means a lot. Exterior Street Day. Maya, Hugo, and Jackie ride bikes down the street. Henry sits in Maya's basket. Maverick trails behind them. Where were you all day? We tried calling a bunch of times. You got a job or something? I had to help my grandma with the exibit- ooh, zz, zz, zz, zz, zz. I had to help my grandma with the exhibition. Well, we're going to need you if we want a chance to beat the Guinness record for the biggest sandcastle. We had to let Loverboy help. She looks back where Maverick trails behind them on his bike. He smiles, gives a thumbs up. It didn't matter. The tourists came and ruined it all anyway. Before Maya responds, Kyle and Doug zoom past them on tricked out e-bikes. Maya nearly loses her balance. The two boys turn back around, heading directly towards them at full speed. Jackie and Hugo quickly get out of the way. Maya pivots hard to avoid collision. Trashes her bike onto a lawn. Slides on the grass. Told you your ass was grass. Nerds. Oh, yeah. Oh, sorry. Yeah. That was it. Yeah. It's a little crime. Kyle and Doug yuck it up as they ride away. Oh, yeah? Go back to the 80s with those lame, cliche bully tactics. Jackie, don't. I'm surprised they didn't call us dweebs in four eyes. Maverick finally catches up, hops off his bike, and runs to help Maya. Maya, are you hurt? Where's Henry? Hugo points to a group of bobwhite quail running across the lawn. Henry stalks them from under a car. Interior Mrs. Silva's house, same. From an open window, Mrs. Silva stares at the scene on her front lawn. Horrified, she storms out of the house. Exterior Mrs. Silva's lawn, continuous. Mrs. Silva stands on her porch, hands on her hips. Get that bicycle off my property. Sorry, Mrs. Silva. My cat's under your car. We'll grab her and go. You ought to take better care of that cat. She shouldn't even be outside. Keep her indoors, where it's safe. OK, Mrs. Silva. Surprise your dad didn't teach you that. He knows all about cats. Mrs. Silva, still miffed, goes back inside. The kids look at each other, confused by the bizarre encounter. Interior Rhodes Vet Clinic Day. A cat owner exits Robert's office. Robert comes out a moment later, approaches Zara at the front desk. Who's next? No one. Zara begins packing her things to go. What do you mean, no one? She points to the waiting area. It's empty. Is there a holiday or something? Honestly, Robert, I think people are upset with you. What, on the internet? Please. It's a small town, and that stuff matters. Oh my god. I've been canceled? Is that what this is? Come on, you're a Gen Z whipper snapper. What does one do in this situation? Apologize. Interior grocery store day. Robert grabs milk from a refrigerated shelf. He spots Daryl Ingalls near the eggs. He approaches him. Pasture raised is the way to go. Daryl gives him a side glance, but doesn't respond. Hey, how's Misty doing? She's about due for her shots, if I'm not mistaken. Misty's doing just fine. She doesn't need any shots either. Oh, you go to a vet down in Edgar town or something? Moonstone's the only place I'll ever take my dog. Moonstone? Last one to know, huh? The old McGregor farm, it's Moonstone Rescue now. I've heard of it. That Lupe gal, it's a real sweetheart. Smart as a whip, too. Misty's arthritis? Gone. I'm sure whatever hocus pocus she used isn't. Robert, with all due respect, we won't be going back to Rhodes. Daryl pushes his cart away as Robert smarts from his words. Fine. I'll go. Confused choppers stare at him as he storms out of the store. Interior grief relief support group, Knight. Several group members convene in an outdated but cozy living room. All eyes are on the bawling red-faced Beth, 40s. She's in the middle of a thought but struggles to finish. Robert stares at her with utter judgmental snark on his face. Mom was my everything, you know? People say I need to move on with my life. Spread her ashes and pretend like everything's okay. Dennis, 60s, the host and group therapist leans forward. He has eyes that always look on the verge of tears. You don't have to pretend, Beth. Remember, you define moving on for yourself. It's been four years and I just can't. I don't care if people think I'm crazy. I mean, everyone's crazy, right? When in Norman Bates who said that? Dennis peers at Robert over his glasses. Norman Bates, sounds familiar. Is he a writer? A gentle hand reaches over and touches Beth's shoulder. It's loopy. She looks at Beth with genuine empathy. Robert perks up seeing her here for the first time. I can't imagine how you must feel. I can relate, though. Your mother's dead? No, but when you talked about having constant reminders everywhere. Go on, Lupe. Most of you know that I've struggled moving back to oak bluffs. I find myself triggered over the smallest things. In one minute, I'm mourning Tom. And the next, I'm paralyzed with terror. So you decided to keep his farm? The animals helped me. Maybe more than I helped them. By keeping the farm, I feel like I can transform this pain into something useful. This info causes Robert to have an epiphany. Wait. You're the one opening moon bone rescue? Moon stone. Moon stone. Like the rock. Correct. When at Tiger's Eye. At least it's durable. Robert or maybe carnelian? What do you care? I don't need to discuss my personal business with you. Isn't that why we're all here? To share our innermost secrets and reveal our souls. Robert, if you're going to rejoin this group, you'll respect boundaries, OK? Fine. Last warning. Are you done? Robert concedes, nods. Dennis waits a beat as if expecting Robert to try for the last word. Robert motions for Dennis to continue the session. Beth, to go back to your... Cardi pooper. The entire group turns to Robert, annoyed and frustrated. What? OK. Oh, my God. Exterior grief relief support group, Night. Exiled, Robert stands outside alone. Group is over. The others leave the house and walk to their cars. Robert spots Lupe just as she gets into her truck. He runs over to her. Hey, wait a second. Lupe closes the car door, rolls down the window an inch. Look, I'm sorry I was rude. It's kind of why I'm here. I'm a rude person and my clients are mad at me. They hate my guts and they... Well, they love Moonstone. I guess you should thank me, huh? She starts her car. Robert flounders for words, blurts out... You want to grab a glass of water? LAUGHTER Interior art studio, Night. The studio is bright, pretty. Maya helps unpack boxes as Jean organizes sculptures on a display. Jazz music plays softly through a speaker. Oh, you can't avoid your father all week, you know. Why not? He does a good job of avoiding me. Plus, this is my last summer before high school. Me and my friends have stuff to do. Oh. Looks like one of your friends is here now. She signals to the street-facing window. Maverick waves from outside. Maya makes a contemptuous face. Before she can say anything, Jean opens the front door. Don't let him in! It's too late. Maverick is in the studio, filling the room with his eager energy. This looks awesome, Mrs. Rhodes. He can't help but stare at the nude sculptures everywhere. Glad you think so. I hope my art doesn't offend you. Not at all. My mom has one of your pieces. She's a big fan. Oh, isn't that sweet. And remind me, who is your dad again? Axl Grayson. Oh, he's the one with all the muscles. That's him. He'd make an excellent model. Grandma! A bit hulkish for my work. I'm like a little leaner. But still, I'm very good for Zeke. God, please stop. It's fine. Trust me, he works on his body a lot. He likes the attention. My mom calls it peacocking. But you're not like him, are you? Maverick grins ear to ear. That's the nicest thing anyone's ever said to me. At these words, Maya looks at Maverick, almost sympathetic. Interior, Mr. Dietz Cafe, night. Loupe and Robert sit at a table in a folksy mom and pop cafe. She's got tea. He's already finished his coffee. So this clinic you're opening. Oh, my god, you are obsessed. Just professional curiosity. Worried, I'll steal your clients? Should I be? It's not a vet clinic. I'm building an animal sanctuary. I also practice holistic medicine. Pseudo science. No offense. People come to me after allopathic medicine has failed their pets. Oh, by allopathic medicine, you mean science. OK, sure. After science has failed their pets. In my experience, pet owners often have unrealistic expectations for what can be done. Oh, well, I don't find that at all. I think they just want to feel like the person caring for their loved ones is coming from a place of possibility, not limitation. Giving people false hope isn't ethical. You are exhausting. After all of these years, you are exactly the same. Robert thinks for a moment as if a memory has come back. Have we met? Like before now? I'm not surprised that you don't recognize me. I used to wear my hair and pigtails back then. Don't tell me you went to Oak Bluffs High. Just for senior year. So you were the nerd and I was the jock, unrequited love. Well, I can assure you that was not the case. Did you even ever play sports? Not, I really. Yeah. I was too busy listening to insane clown posse, getting detention for being allowed to. That part, I remember. Pollyatchy. Robert smirks as Lupe takes a sip of her tea. Exterior street night. The streets are busy with tourists. Lupe and Robert stand outside her car, not really knowing how to end the evening. See you at group next Thursday. I should go. Not sure they'll be welcome to be back though. Well, I guess I'll see you when I see you. What about tomorrow? Tomorrow. My mom's an artist. She's having this exhibit thing. And my daughter, Maya, would be there too. I'm not big on crowds. It'll be small, intimate. You'd like it. I have to warn you. My mom's art is unconventional. It's tempting. I'll think about it. Lupe gets into her truck and closes the door. She watches as Robert walks away and breathes a large sigh of relief. She takes another deep breath in, then out. Exterior art studio night. Maya and Jean stand outside with Maverick. Jean gives him a flyer for her exhibit. Now make sure you give it to your parents. I want to see you all there. Axel's car pulls up. Here's my dad. Thanks, Mrs. Rhodes. Call me Jean, please. Bye, Maya. Bye, Mav. This abbreviation of his name puts a wide grin across Maverick's face. His moment of reverie is interrupted as Axel honks the car horn. Interior Axel's car moments later. It's silent between Axel and Maverick. Why am I picking you up here? I was hanging with Maya. Why? She's cool. I like her. There's something wrong with that family, especially that grandma character. She's different. In a good way. You ever hear of the law of proximity? No. Now when people spend enough time together, they adopt each other's habits, traits, values. We become who we surround ourselves with. Birds of a feather flock together. Axel looks at his son, surprised by his acute comprehension. Exactly. What's that? Maverick folds it in half, puts it away. Nothing. Interior roads home night. Wearing a pretty summer dress, Maya feeds Henry. Robert walks in and pats her on the head. Hey, kiddo. No response from Maya. You're really not going to talk to me. Maya doesn't look at him. It's been four days. This is ridiculous. Jean enters the kitchen, bright red lipstick on her mouth and her locks in a beautiful updo. What's going on here? Maya's still mad at me. Maya ignores him, turning to Jean. So Grandma, can I bring Henry to the gallery tonight? No. Of course she can. She's part of the family. Mom, are you serious? Maya smirks triumphantly at Robert, scooping Henry up and heading toward the door. Interior Jean's exhibition, Night. The gallery is bustling. Dozens of people mingle, sipping wine and admiring Jean's provocative sculptures. Jackie and Hugo hang out near the snack table with their parents. Jean moves gracefully through the room, chatting with potential buyers. Maya brings around a tray of hors d'oeuvres to the guests. Robert, ill at ease, looks around the room. His face brightens as he spots Lupe entering. She looks elegant, her presence drawing a few surprised glances from onlookers. Maya notices Lupe and Robert's reaction to her. Confused, she sets down the hors d'oeuvres tray and watches their interaction intently. Later, a worried Maya stands by a sculpture holding Henry. She glares at her dad and Lupe chatting in a corner of the gallery. Lupe laughs at something Robert says. Unbelievable. He's not even that funny. She turns to Hugo, who's munching on hors d'oeuvres nearby. Hey, I need your help, but you can't ask why. That depends. What's in it for me? I want to tell Jackie about your Twilight fan fiction. Hugo sighs, clearly defeated. Well played. What do you want me to do? Just distract my dad. Why is he talking to the witch? She's not a witch. Anyway, just go ask him something weird. Something so annoying he has to stop talking to her. Fine, but you owe me big time for this. Hugo grabs a plate of snacks and walks to the corner of exhibit. He reluctantly approaches Robert and Lupe, interrupting their conversation. It's actually connected. Excuse me, Dr. Rhodes? Yes? So I ate six bags of hot Cheetos, and now I've had uncontrollable diarrhea for three months. Is that bad? Oh. Oh. Robert and Lupe freeze, caught completely off guard. Um, I'll let you two handle this. Lupe steps away gracefully, leaving Robert to deal with Hugo. What? Yes, of course that's bad. Why would you wait three months? Nearby, Jackie overhears the odd conversation. Sensing Hugo needs help with his shenanigans, as she jumps into the conversation and improvises. Dr. Rhodes, what's your opinion on Nutropics? For pets, I mean. Uh, I'm not sure that's... Am I dying? Also, do you think dogs can benefit from yoga? I read this article... OK, one at a time, please. Across the gallery, Maya grins in satisfaction. Her mission accomplished. Robert sighs, visibly exasperated, as Maya strolls over to Lupe, who's now admiring a sculpture. Your dad is pretty popular tonight. Yeah, he's great with people. You still haven't told him? He won't understand. Tell him by tomorrow. Or I'm sorry, but you can't be at Moonstone. Wait, but... Lying never makes anything better, Maya. It just creates chaos. Lupe touches Maya's cheek gently and gives her a reassuring look before she heads to the exit. Robert observes from afar. Jackie and Hugo walk over to Maya. You've got major explaining to do. Exterior Moonstone Rescue entrance day. Driving her truck, Lupe pulls into the driveway of her home. A flashy car is already parked there. Terrence Delwood, 40s, steps out, sporting slicked back hair and a big, cheesy grin. Sorry, we're closed. Terrence extends a handout. Lupe reluctantly shakes it. Terrence Delwood, realtor. I believe you already know my client, Mr. Axel Grayson. He reaches into his satchel, hands or a stack of legal docs. I'm not interested in selling. Lupe gives him back the papers without looking at them. Too bad. This place is a money pit. My advice is to get out before you're in too deep. Besides, your roots aren't really here anyway. Delwood squirms under Lupe's hard glare. I understand that you and the late Mr. McGregor have been separated for many years. Mr. Grayson is prepared to pay twice the market value of the property because he's got sentimental attachment to it. Delwood leans in closer with a false sense of familiarity. Take the money. Get yourself a cute little place in town. You love animals? There's a local vet clinic. It's looking a higher. Lupe continues to stare at Delwood. After a few uncomfortable moments of silence, she steps forward. Ogesh Kepi. I'm sorry, what? Ogesh Kepi. It's the Wampanoag name for oak bluffs. Ah, interesting. I didn't know that. The Wampanoag were the original inhabitants of this place. Sentimental attachment. I can trace my ancestry all the way back from before the Mayflower ever reared its ugly head. My roots here are deep and strong. You are standing on my land, Mr. Delwood. And I am done talking to you. I apologize if I offended you. If I ever see you or Axel here again, I will call the police. Or maybe I'll just deal with you myself. Delwood gives her a puzzled look. Oh, I'm sure you've heard the rumors about me. Well, they're 100% true. Just ask the late Mr. McGregor. Delwood turns white and slowly backs up. I'll be sure to convey your feelings on the matter to Mr. Delwood. That's good, Axel. I'll be sure to convey your feelings on the matter to Mr. Grayson. He stumbles into his car. Lupe laughs to herself as he speeds away. End of episode two.