In this episode of What Was She Thinking, we break down the complicated relationship between Alex and Elle from Cross Season 2.

Alex appears to be the total package—emotionally aware, thoughtful, and committed to growth. But when his actions put Elle in danger without her consent, we’re forced to ask: Is being a “good man” enough if he’s not safe for you?

We explore the tension between emotional intelligence and emotional responsibility, and why apologies don’t always repair broken trust.

Beyond the relationship, we also dive into the deeper themes shaping the series, including sex trafficking, mistrust of the police, and the ongoing impact of grief. These real-world issues influence how the characters move, love, and make decisions—and reflect larger conversations happening in our communities.

At the core of it all: What does it really look like to choose yourself, even when something feels good?

0:00 – 6:30 — Opening

6:30 – 9:50 — Intro to Cross: books, film legacy, and Aldis Hodge (plus… yes, he and Mustafa are easy on the eyes 👀)

9:50 – 18:00 — Season 1 recap: trauma, grief, mistrust of police, Black identity in policing, Alex & John’s friendship, and Alex & Elle

18:00 – 22:00 — Season 2 setup: Alex & Elle’s shifted relationship, her connection to the kids, and Alex & Kayla (…no chemistry?)

22:00 – 25:20 — Season 2 themes: sex trafficking, immigration, and systemic issues

25:20 – 29:00 — Introduction of Luz & Donnie; billionaire under threat

29:00 – 33:50 — Vigilante justice + Kayla’s personal struggles

33:50 – 37:00 — Season 2 storyline recap; John’s biological mother returns

37:00 – 40:00 — Black men and vulnerability; emotional support and parenting decisions

40:00 – 45:00 — John’s mother, incarceration, and revisiting old wounds

45:00 – 47:00 — Episode 2: Luz targeting those indirectly tied to trafficking

47:00 – 53:00 — Luz’s backstory, her network, realism of vigilante movements, and protecting children (Epstein comparison)

53:00 – 57:30 — Society’s view of women; Alex’s internal conflict; “reap what you sow”

57:30 – 1:01:00 — Luz discovered by a supporter; key decisions unfold

1:01:00 – 1:04:00 — End of Episode 5 + predictions for Alex & Elle

1:04:00 – 1:09:00 — Final thoughts: Aldis, standout moments, and Kayla predictions

1:09:00 – 1:13:00 — Why it’s binge-worthy: eye candy, real conversations, and relevant issues

1:13:00 – End — What Was She Thinking final thoughts