Love in Winterland (2020)

[bunniefuu]

Next week
on "Happily Ever After",

we're down to the final two.

Tanner Dylan,

international man of many hats,

has a decision to make...

who will be the one to join him
on the Final Date Week,

and will she prove to be
his "Happily Ever After"?

Ally, you've almost made it
to the final date.

This is huge!

I can't even believe
I got this far.

Is Tanner Dylan

the type of guy
you can fall in love with?

Well, nobody actually
goes on TV to fall in love.

That's not why I signed up.
We know that.

I signed up
to promote the hotel,

which is what we should be doing
right now.

Admit it. You like Tanner.

I mean, he checks off
a lot of boxes.

How many boxes?

All of them. Every single box.

So you do like him.

Maybe a little?

But it doesn't matter.
It doesn't matter.

I'm probably gonna be
going home next week,

and that will be the end
of my merry little adventure

into spectacle dating.

So can we please
get back to work?

Okay, okay.

Thank you.

So unromantic.

You missed a spot.

And over there, too.

There's an extra shovel
if you wanna back me up a bit.

You couldn't pay me enough.

And you don't.

Hey, I could use some help
in the kitchen.

When are you gonna get
a snow blower?

I've been telling him that
for years.

Guys, guys,

snow blowers are over-rated.
All right?

Okay, well, you missed a spot.

So I wanted to kick off
our winter campaign

with a "style the snowman"
for the kids, outside...

it's a big hit with families.

And then inside, I wanted
tones of gold and white,

and all things that felt
very fresh...

still appropriate
for California,

but definitely brings you
back to Christmas.

And our White Hot Chocolate Bar
has been a huge hit.

So, in sum,

"Park Swan Hotels...

You do you...
and leave the rest to us".

Nicely done.

No one sells winter
quite like you can.

Thank you, Trish.

You know who you remind me of?

Well, I'm hoping you.

Some would say
that's not a compliment,

but yes.

Now...

let's talk about
"Happily Ever After".

Any idea where you'll be going
for your Final Date Week?

I haven't been chosen.

You will be.
I can feel it.

Trish, I just...
I want to make sure

that no matter what happens
with the show,

my position here
won't be affected.

Don't worry.

Rosie will oversee all
your projects when you're away.

If I'm away.

When you're away.

Listen, this whole experience

has been a real boon
for all of us.

Swan Hotels gets free publicity,

and you get to date
a wonderful man.

Win-win.

Hi, Mom!

Hi, sweetie.

We saw the promo.

We're so excited!

And you looked adorable.

You're in the final two.

Yeah, which means
there's a 50/50 chance

that I can go home.

Hey, look who came by
to help your father.

Did you want to talk?

No, thank you.

I'm okay.

Come on.
You broke up years ago.

You don't have to spend
the rest of your lives

avoiding each other.

Now... talk!

Talk!

Hi, Alice.

Please don't call me that.

Congratulations on reaching
the Final Two.

You're watching?

No. Everyone else
in town is.

So it's come to this?

A dating show?

Says the guy eating cupcakes

with my parents
on a Friday night.

You're missing out!

Pretty darn good.

And by the way,
the night is young.

Is it?
Because it's 10 p.m.,

so I think there,
that means the night's over.

You've been gone too long.

We've stepped it up around here.
10:30 on weekends.

Better get to it, then.

Okay. Lotsa luck
on your TV date.

You guys are so cute together.

Mom.

I know.

I just want my baby girl
to be happy.

Right, dear?

Hi, sweetie!

So what's with
this Tanner fella?

It doesn't even look real.

Probably because
it will disappear after tonight,

along with me.

I disagree. I think it's gonna
be Ally and Tanner all the way.

Hi! Welcome back, Ally.

- Thank you.
- You ready for a big night?

Yeah, I guess so.

Great. Let's do this.

Good luck.

- Hey.
- Hey.

Now, remember...

this isn't a contest.

It isn't?

We prefer the word "journey".

I have a good feeling
about you and Tanner.

Do you say that
to all the girls?

Yes.

Great.

Any last questions?

Actually, yes.

Why do so many people cry
on this show?

It's, like, three dates.

A lot can happen in a few dates.

Some people fall in love
in a moment,

others take longer.

Love's funny that way.

All right. Your mic is good.

Perfect.

We'll see you out there.

Okay.

Welcome to another
journey for love,

where tonight,

Tanner Dylan will choose

who will be by his side

for the romantic
Final Date Week,

and together, they'll see

if they can find
their "Happily Ever After".

And here we are.

Hi!

Again.

Indeed.

So, how was your week
since last we chatted?

It was great.

I... I got a lot of work done.

Marketing's kind of
a non-stop job,

especially for a company
like Swan Hotels.

You know, we have locations

in Santa Monica, Santa Barbara,
and San Diego,

that are excellent destinations

for people looking
to go on a journey.

The, cameras aren't
rolling at the moment.

Sorry.

No, it's okay, I get it.

What did you do?

I don't know,
I've been, fairly busy

with this television program
called "Happily Ever After".

I don't know
if you've heard of it?

I have heard of it.

Okay, good.

So... have you found
your "Happily Ever After"?

I think
I could be getting closer.

But I must admit,
it's tricky, isn't it?

We've had, what?
Six dates?

I feel like we've barely
scratched the surface

getting to know each other.

What do you want to know?

Absolutely everything.

Okay.

Some people...

think that I can be competitive.

That can be healthy,
when properly applied.

Yes! Thank you!
That's what I think.

What else?

I've lived in a studio apartment

in West Hollywood
for over a year

and haven't fully unpacked.

Because you're always working.

Yes.

I eat takeout, mostly,
because I'm a horrible cook,

and I have
an impressively long list

of allergies
to plants and trees,

and...

my last serious relationship
was in high school.

Because you're always working.

Yeah.

Well, then, it seems to me

that the only way to get to know
the real Ally Wilson...

is to get her away from work.

All right! Is the game on?
What are we watching?

Looks like your ex-girlfriend.

Real funny.

This has been

the hardest decision
I've had to make,

but I think

I would like to spend
my final week

with...

...Ally.

Me?

Yes.

Are you sure?

I'm quite sure.

Ally and Tanner...

get ready for romance,

because you two will be spending

the week of your final date

in Ally's hometown
of Winterland, Vermont.

Yay!

She's coming home!

What was that?

We're going to Winterland?

You sure are!

What could be more romantic
and perfect

than spending winter
in Winterland?

I think I'm gonna cry.

How do you feel
about going home?

I'm still
a bit dazed, to be honest.

And kind of nervous.

I mean, the town I grew up in
is so small

that even if you don't know
what you're doing,

somebody else will.

Day and night, night and day.

And you're excited to be
reunited with Tanner?

"Reunited" is
a bit dramatic, but...

But you're thinking about him.

I mean, I'm thinking about
a lot of things.

Snow...

snowmobiling, snowshoeing,

snow-shoveling,
snowed in, snowed out...

what are my parents gonna say
on national television?

Am I gonna have
to go into hiding forever?

- Mom!
- You're home!

Hi!

This is Lauren.
Lauren, this is my mom, Molly.

Oh, Lauren.

It's so nice to meet you
in person finally.

You too! Your house is gonna be
so beautiful for the show.

What's happening here?

Your mom has been so helpful.

Where's Dad?

In the basement.

He'll be up in a sec.

Lauren, I'll be honest.

Tom's a little concerned

about all the cameras
hidden around the house.

That is perfectly natural.
You know what?

Here is a list of all the places

that we've discreetly
placed cameras

so we can capture
the important moments

without getting in the way,

and these are
the "no camera" zones.

Gotcha. Thank you.

Are you sure
you're okay with this?

Of course.

And...

as a token of our appreciation
for bringing our girl home...

Thank you, Molly.

It's beautiful.

Is this sweater from your store?

Handmade for you.

She makes everything.

She once knit a shower curtain.

I did!

And Tom has a ski shop, right?

Yes. 30 years now.

But when they met, he was
a stockbroker in New York,

and he gave it all up
to come here...

from Wall Street to Main Street.

And this is the street we like.

That's beautiful.

Why don't I show you
the room Ally grew up in?

I would love to.

I don't know
that we need to do that.

- Yes, please.
- No. I think... okay.

You know,
nothing makes for better TV

than a close-knit family.

Kinda nice in real life too.

'Course, we'd be closer
if Ally lived closer.

Mom, we FaceTime every day.

Face-to-face time is better
than FaceTime anytime.

Well, just to be clear,

my parents visit me
all the time in L.A.

Yes, she puts us up
at her hotel,

but we'd rather stay
at her apartment.

My apartment doesn't have
a spare bedroom or room service.

Well, as you can see,

we left a few of her things up.

These are her trophies
from the Annual Chili Cook-Off.

I thought you didn't cook.

I don't cook,

but chili is not cooking...
it is art.

She's very serious
about her chili.

Clearly!

First place three years
in a row, no big deal.

And very competitive, our Ally.

Well, maybe you'll have
a chance to win again

with Tanner.

So we have five scheduled
dates planned,

ending with the Festival of Lights
and a romantic dinner,

where Tanner and Ally will
decide if their journey continues.

And do all of these locations

have "discreet" cameras as well?

Yes, which is why it's important

to stick to
the pre-determined locations.

And our editor, Sandra,
is the best in the business.

What's this?

That is...

something that should've
been thrown out a long time ago.

They're lovely memories.

Well, that was fun.

Dad! Hi!

I thought I heard your voice.

Lauren, this is my Dad.
Tom, Lauren.

Lauren, very nice to meet you.

- You too.
- Welcome.

Thank you.

And this is Brett Hollister.

- So great to put a face to the name.
- Pleasure.

Hello, Al.

What are you doing here?

I was just helping Tom here
put in a water heater.

We're putting in a tankless.

Okay.

So I've got you and Ally
checking in at the inn...

I've got you in
for a late check-in.

Figured you'd want to hang out
with your folks.

No. I'm staying here.

Honey...
didn't Lauren tell you?

Yeah, we booked

the Winterlight Inn
for the cast and crew.

Your mother got us a great deal.

What are you doing?

You love the inn.

She worked there
during high school.

Great! Well, you'll be right
across the hall from Tanner,

in the "Snowbird Suite".

You know, Ally actually
named it the Snowbird Suite.

Really?

Perfect.

Well, Brett, thank you
so much for everything.

You've been so accommodating.

Easy.

And that's Brett for you.

Nothing he wouldn't do for Ally.

I could think of a few things.

And you know what, Lauren?

Just 'cause, well, I...
I'm feeling generous,

I'm gonna throw in

a complimentary
basket of muffins

and some extra pillow mints.

They're the best.
They're the finest, actually.

See you guys at the inn.

- Thanks again, buddy.
- Thank you!

- He's great!
- We like him.

What are you doing?

Mom. Promise you won't
spend all week

trying to get Brett and I
back together?

Honey, we're just glad
to have you home.

So, when is
this Tanner fellow showing up?

Tomorrow.

Yeah, Lauren and I wanted
to get things set up here first.

Oh, yes, right, I forgot,
you're producing the show now.

No. Maybe next season.

So, we're really excited
about meeting Tanner.

Aren't we, Tom?

P.O.P., in my opinion.

P.O.P.?

"Perfect on paper."
Not a good sign.

Like that Kyle P. fella
from last season.

What? Who is this man,

and what have you done
with my father?

Everyone needs
a guilty pleasure.

Guilty pleasures.

Mom, do you have any of your
Six-Layers-of-Snow Cake?

Are you kidding?

She was up all night
making it for you.

Yes!

Do I know my girl?

You do, you do very well...
too well, actually.

Oh, my goodness gracious.

Come to mama.

Now, isn't this much better
than FaceTime?

Back off, sir!
Back off.

This is so much better
than FaceTime.

I'm gettin' right in here.

Let's switch
these parts around, though.

- Okay.
- Yeah.

Yeah, that...
No, that frame, that's good.

Okay.

Hang on a sec.

Hey, come on in.

Okay.

This came for you...

Oh, great.

I'll just leave it right here.

Thanks.

If there's anything else
you guys need, just let me know.

...On national television.

Am I gonna have to go
into hiding?

Actually, there is one thing.

You were in a relationship
with Ally, right?

Yeah. Why?
Did she say something?

I saw her high school
vision board,

where you were prominent.

Yeah, well, high school
was a long time ago.

So there's
no lingering feelings?

No. No.

None whatsoever.

Okay, because she could
fall in love this week.

And then we will throw a party
in the lobby.

That sound good?

- Great.
- All right.

If you guys need anything,
just let me know.

Thank you.

Thanks, Dad.

- Drive safe.
- We will.

Good night.

Good night!
I'll call you tomorrow.

Walter! You still work here!

Oh, my...

Where else would I be?

Hi!

Gingerbread?

Of course.

You remembered.

It's the exact same.

How? It's so good!

Tanner Dylan...

entrepreneur.

A.K.A. unemployed.

...Formerly
in the coffee business.

Barista.

Musician,

chef,

pilot...

Also an astronaut!

How is this guy still single?

Because he's not real.

Who's not real?

Bigfoot.

Thank you, Walter.

I'll take it from here.

Good night, Walter.

Good night.

That my key?

Yeah.

Awkward.

Not for me.

Thanks to your TV date,
we're all booked out.

You're always booked out.

You've been gone a long time.

Tourists follow the snow, Al,

and when the snow goes,
so do they.

There's nothing but snow
outside.

Which has been
incredibly beneficial this year,

but I'm telling you,

every season is getting shorter
and shorter...

Just really impacts businesses.

My parents
didn't mention anything.

They probably just
didn't want you to worry.

Let me show you to your room.

I know where the room is.

I know.

But I insist.

It's part of our...
old-school charm.

You don't have any charm.

Well...

So... this Tanner guy.

Is he someone you could
really see yourself with?

Maybe.

Well, that's surprising.

Why?

The Ally I remember

wouldn't go on TV to find love.

Well, maybe you don't
know me anymore.

Ooh. That's fair, that's fair.

Although your mom says

you've been
avoiding relationships

by burying yourself in work.

That's not entirely true.

Yeah, she says you've been

on six one-hour coffee dates

since July,

half of which were decaf.

That is not true either.

No, no.
You're right, you're right.

One was green tea.

Okay, well, at least

I'm not in and out of
relationships every three weeks.

Oh h*!

Remind me not to tell Molly
anything again.

That's not gonna stop my mother.

And you're excited
to be reunited with Tanner?

I mean, "reunited"
is a bit dramatic, but...

But you're thinking about him?

Day and night.
Night and day.

"Night and day"?

I didn't say that.

Well, is that not your voice?

Yes, but it was in
a completely different context.

Hey. If you say so.

Let me just help you
with your bag.

Okay, I got this.
It's fine.

- I'm gonna give you a hand...
- I got this.

- Let me just help you.
- Look...

- I have it!
- Come on, don't be so...

...Stubborn.

Nice.

Sorry.

Great.

You know, that reminds me
of your jacket...

Remember, it ripped
right up the back,

senior ditch day?

I do.
That was also your fault.

In my defense, if you remember,

I told you not to climb in
that side of Sam's truck.

Well, you said a lot of things
back then, so...

Yeah.

And I meant them.

Like about coming with me
to California?

I was young.

We were young.

- We had a plan.
- You had a plan.

You said
you were coming with me,

and you didn't show up.

I thought that...

if we were meant to be,

then you and I would
find our way back together.

Or maybe you just loved the town

more than the girl.

Oh, come on.
That's not fair, Al.

Hi, guys.

Good night.

Welcome home, Al.

He just... he frustrates me.

Tanner?

No. Brett.

Who's Brett?

The ghost of boyfriend past.

Is he cute?

Objectively, yes,
but that's not the point.

Anyway, how are bookings?

Through the roof.

Trish is thrilled.

You get engaged,
we'll be booked for years.

That's Tanner.
I gotta go.

Good luck.

You didn't have to...

I didn't.
It's from one...

Tanner Dylan.

Let me ask you something.

Why does this guy
have two first names?

Or is it two last names?

Tanner Dylan, Dylan Tanner.

Whoa...

That's a nice snowflake.

It is, isn't it?

You, left this
in my truck 10 years ago.

Gee, thank you.

I wish I remembered to bring

your "Who let the dogs out?"
sweatshirt.

Are you kidding me?

I've been wondering
where that was.

Okay.

Look.

I've been thinking a lot about
what happened between us,

and...

I know it's a bunch of years
too late...

but I am sorry.

I just wanted you to know.

It wasn't all your fault.

Who has a vision board
in ninth grade?

Yes, thank you.

I just had plans.

I had a five-year plan,
I had a ten-year plan.

I...

You were right not to show up.

I wouldn't say that.

I mean, I...

I guess we just
wanted different things.

Guess so.

You know...

I think what messes us up
sometimes

is that picture we have
in our head

of how things
are supposed to be.

Maybe you're right.

Excuse me?

I'm sorry...

I thought I just heard you say

I'm right.

I said "maybe".

This is a moment.

I'm right.

It was a big moment.

Okay, why don't you show me
what you've done with the inn?

Let me just sit
in this for just a moment.

It feels good!

Oh, Buddy.

Yeah.

I really do need
to get another dog someday.

He was the best.

The inn looks great.

I mean, your dad
would be so proud.

Thank you.

He's the whole reason
I got into the hotel business.

I mean, he hired me.

He encouraged me
when I had those crazy ideas.

Remember when you had
that idea with the candles?

"Winter By Candlelight."

That's it.

You know, we still have 500
unused candles in the basement.

- Really?
- Oh, yeah.

My dad meant to do it.

His dream was to light up all
of Main Street by candlelight.

He just never got around
to doing it.

Then, when he passed away,

I planned on putting
the place up for sale, you know?

Then I thought about it...

What else would I rather do?

Extra marshmallows...
how you like it.

Thank you, Walter.

What about my cocoa?

Get your own.

Thank you, Walter.

It's been so long

since I've been in a lobby
like this.

What are you talking about?
You work in a hotel.

Yeah, but I work in the offices.

I don't get to see the guests

or, you know, get that feeling
when you're in a lobby.

But you're happy, right?

Yeah. I mean,
they relocate me every year,

so there's that, but...

I think I might stay put
for a while,

try and climb
the corporate ladder.

And how do you know
when you're at the top?

I don't know.
You hit your head, I guess.

Well...

You know what?

We have a ladder.

It's a step ladder.

Two rungs.

But, man...

I can see for miles
in all directions.

You know what?

Come with me.

This looks a little bigger
than I remember it.

You have been
by the beach for too long.

I could beat you
in a kid's sled.

These are kids' sleds.

How many times have you beat me?

What...?

Still so competitive.

Get out of my way!

What, you barely won!
That's not fair.

One time. One time.

Ally?

Tanner! You're here.

I am here.

This is...
This is Brett.

- Hi.
- He's...

...Ye olde keeper o' the inn.

Good to meet you, Brett.

Welcome to... Winterland.

I'll, get you checked in.

Are you cold?

Freezing.

Yeah.

Hot chocolate?

Yeah, let's go.

So, this is your town.

Used to be.

I haven't been back
in a long time.

Hey, Lola.

Hey, Ally! Welcome home.

Thank you.

You seem to have left
quite an impression.

That's the antique shop.

That's
the Winterland's barbershop,

home of
the Avalanche Barbershop Quartet

and a haircut.

That's Sebastian,
he owns the candy store.

Ruth!

What happened?

Ally, nice to see you.

It's not the same
without our long winters.

I gotta run.

You all right?

Yeah. No, I'm...
I'm just... I'm surprised.

They've been here forever.

So, does everyone
know everyone around here?

Pretty much.

It's charming.

You think so?

What, don't you?

I never used to.

Okay...

I need you to keep walking.
Do not make eye contact.

With who?

"Mean Helene".

Hi, Ally!

- Hi...
- Mean Helene.

She doesn't look very mean.

No, of course she doesn't.

She looks super-sweet

as she pretends
to forget your name,

puts snow in your boots,

and then tries to steal
your boyfriend.

- Recently?
- Junior year.

College?

High school.

But she obviously
hasn't changed.

Did you see that smile?

Clearly a lunatic.

Clearly.

Thank you.

This is brilliant.

Exactly what I hope for
in a small-town American diner.

Ally!

Darla!

This is Tanner.

Oh, goodness.

You're even more handsome
in person.

Thank you.

Now, don't you break her heart,
if you know what's good for you.

We'll put that in our vows.

I'm serious.

I assure you, Darla,

my intentions towards Ally
are purely honorable.

Follow me.

Morning.

Hey, Darla,

do you think maybe there's
anywhere else we can sit?

There is nowhere else.

Just pretend we're not here.

Hello, Brett.

Good to see you, Tanner.

So, your usual?

Can we get a minute?

You can. But you already know
what you're having.

I will have a Winter Scramble...

...Winter Scramble
and a Mountaintop Muffin.

...and a Mountaintop Muffin,
please.

Make it two.

You know the menu by heart?

I mean, it hasn't changed
in 20 years, so.

Before I forget.

What?

It's so cute!

Thank you.

It's a koala bear.

Your favorite animal.

The, polar bear
is her favorite animal.

That would be
the correct answer.

I love all animals.

Here we go!

Are you ready for Tanner
to meet the parents?

I'm sorry, what?

Dinner, Tanner, your parents?

Are you emotional?

No, I'm allergic.

Oh, right, flowers! Sorry.

They're for your mother's house.
Decoration.

Are you okay?

Yeah.

Laur, can I be honest with you?

Of course.

I came on the show
for the wrong reasons.

To promote your hotel.

That obvious?

So obvious.

It's just, being back here,
I'm feeling...

unexpected things.

About Tanner?

More about Winterland.

Seeing everybody
I haven't seen in so long,

I think I never...

I guess I never let myself
think about what I left behind.

Maybe that's why you haven't
been back in so long.

What do you mean?

It's easier to forget
how we feel about something...

or someone...
if we don't ever see them.

I know what you're doing.

What am I doing?

You're trying to create
some dramatic storyline

between me and Brett,

and there isn't one.

Okay.

Okay, it's just nobody likes
to see their ex, that's it.

Okay.

Especially when
they're everywhere.

Ally, I have done a lot
of these Hometown Dates.

People come
on Happily Ever After

for all kinds of reasons...

and sometimes they find
what they're looking for,

even when it's not
what they thought.

My advice?

Just let things happen
however they're gonna happen.

Go!

Get in there, get in there,
get in there!

Oh no!

I hope you don't mind.

Sam said I could
putter around a little bit.

Yeah, sure. It's...

You know there are no cameras
in here, though, right?

I welcome the reprieve.

All right.

What are you doing?

I'm baking a rhubarb pie

to bring over to Ally's family
tonight.

Of course! He bakes.

It's my mother's recipe.

Rhubarb, huh?

Yeah.

Why? Does Ally
not like rhubarb?

I have no idea.

But...

the important thing is, you do.

I don't.

You don't?

I've never tried it.

Then why are you doing it?

I wanted to do something
impressive for Ally's parents,

and I thought it'd be impressive

to bring something
from my mother,

and now I'm uncertain.

And I have half a pie.

I don't suppose you know
what type of pie Ally likes?

It's been a really long time
since we hung out, so...

Right. Of course.

But when we did...

She really loved
French Silk Pie.

That's my absolute favorite.

See?

It was meant to be.

Brett?

Thank you.

Thank you.

Pleasure.

I should probably warn you,

my parents can be a lot.

In what way?

Embarrassing questions,

mild to moderate interrogation.

So they're parents.

Actually, they're pretty great.

I'm lucky.

I look forward to meeting them.

Hi! This is Tanner!

Hello.

Lovely to meet you, Tanner.

Mrs. Wilson.

- Molly. Tom.
- Yeah.

Nice firm handshake there.

My father always said

it was important
to have a good handshake.

Smart man.

I brought this for dessert.

Brett let me borrow his kitchen.

Oh, my, I'm impressed.

It's French Silk pie.

Brett said it was your favorite.

- He did?
- Isn't it?

It is.

Let me take your coats.

- Thank you.
- Thanks, Dad.

Thanks, sweetie.

Thank you.

- Thank you.
- You're welcome.

What happened in here?

Lauren rearranged a few things.

Why?

Better for camera.

- Let me take that.
- Thank you, dear.

Mom, I'm excited for Tanner
to try your Blizzard Stew.

Honey, I didn't
make dinner tonight.

Lauren brought in catering.

Looks better for camera.

I was looking forward to it.

I'm sorry.

Tanner...

I've got something
I think you'll be interested in.

Mom, I don't...

Oh, boy.

She hates this.

Well, as you can see,

she was always
very goal-oriented.

Takes after her father.

Yeah, but I learned
to smell the roses, didn't I?

Before I met Molly,
I was working 24/7.

Sometimes that's what it takes.

I thought so too, honey,

but there's a lot of life
you can miss out on

if you're not careful.

Her first cider stand.

I love cider!
Did she make a tidy profit?

Well, she sold out
in the first hour.

Why am I not surprised?

Here she is

winning the chili contest
three years in a row.

And it would have been four,

but Helene Green sabotaged her.

"Mean Helene".

We don't call her that anymore.

Here's Ally in seventh grade.

That's...

Yikes!
It was her awkward stage.

I think that's enough, probably.

If you want a future together,

you need to know the past.

Wherever Ally ends up,

this place will always be
a part of her.

That's a lovely sentiment, Tom.

And true.

Tanner, I think I should
show you Ally's room.

I don't think
you need to do that.

I think so.

I forgot how beautiful
this view is.

So how are things at the shop?

Could be worse.

But could be better?

Dad.

It's business, that's all.

Come on.

I've got someone to interrogate.

So, Tanner, what

I can't quite figure that out.

Well...

lately, I've been working
with this coffee company

that I created with a friend
after we visited Tanzania.

But I must admit, recently,
I have become somewhat restless,

thinking about venturing out,
trying new things.

Well, you want to be
careful about that.

You don't want to become

a Jack of all trades,
master of none.

Quite right, sir.

So...

if you and Ally were
to fall in love and get married,

where would you live?

Do you want children?

Mom!

What?

Grandchildren
are important to me.

You don't have to answer that.

No, no. It's fine.

I very much want
to have children...

eventually.

How eventually?

Mom!

Well, when I met Molly,
I knew right away.

I'll get it.

Yes, well...

we do have our ups and downs.

At times, he drives me crazy.

Likewise.

But we love each other
no matter what, right?

Sure do.

S'mores,

compliments of the inn.

What?

Lauren ordered it.

All right, I'll set this
in the kitchen,

and I will be on my way.

Great.

I think you should stay.

I...

Yeah.
No, I really shouldn't.

Come on, take some
of the heat off Tanner here.

You sure?

Absolutely.

All right!

Tell you, Tom's famous
for grilling Ally's dates.

Well, you hung in there
and kept coming back for more.

Well, Ally was worth it.

And what made you
sign up for the show?

Actually, I didn't.

A friend of mine
signed me up for it.

Same with Ally.

I was surprised
when they picked me.

Not as surprised as I was
when you picked me.

Why wouldn't he pick you?

I'm just saying, you know,
I picked you once.

I'm sorry about him.

We all have histories.

Ancient history.

Although,
if we're remembering accurately,

I think I asked you out first.

No. No, no, no, no.

I asked you to go sledding.

Sledding behind the inn
is hardly a date.

It was to me.

I mean, albeit I was 15.

14.

Tanner...

I'm so sorry.

Oh, don't be.

I came here to know more
about you,

and I am.

Okay, okay, all right, Tanner,

I think there's one question
that all of us are wondering...

what was that one thing

that made you choose Ally, hmm?

I don't really think
there was one thing.

I think it was more
of an intangible quality.

Intangible, hmm?

I...

Could you be more specific?

I could...
but I'll save that

for a more private moment
with Ally.

Save it for the cameras.

Gotcha.

Brett, can I talk to you
for a second?

Okay. Yep.

What are you doing?

I'm trying to make sure

that you don't get mixed up
in all this craziness.

Look...

He seems like a nice guy,
this Tanner guy,

but what do we really
know about him?

- "We"?
- Yeah!

So he's good at everything.

Who's good at everything?

Who?

Yeah!
And what's your end game?

Proposal?

A ring?

I don't know,

and even if it is,
it doesn't concern you.

I'm trying to make sure
that you don't get hurt.

Thank you very much,

but the only person
that's ever hurt me was you,

so I can take care of myself.

Thank you, Tanner.

Feel free to run down
Main Street, screaming.

Believe it or not,
I think I've had worse.

I'm sorry about Brett.

No. I understand his concern.

He cares about you, they all do.

As they should.

You are amazing.

And you are smart

and beautiful and funny,

and your smile
lights up the room.

But most of all,
you are genuine,

just like this town,

and that is precious
and incredibly rare.

I'm sorry.

It's okay.

It's fine.

You owe me an apology.

You're right.

You're right. I'm...

I'm butting out.

Your personal life
is none of my business.

And?

I am incredibly sorry, Ally.

Good.

I mean, you can hit me
with a snowball, if you want.

It's tempting.

You probably don't remember
how to throw one, do you?

Okay.

Rusty!

I can't believe
you did all this.

It took me way too long.

It's beautiful.

Thank you.

I should probably
sell it, though.

What? You can't sell this.

It's kind of big for just me,
don't you think?

Well, maybe one day
it won't be just you.

I hear you have
an endless string of dates.

Your Mom.

I'll tell ya.

Who else?

Well, take a seat.

They never last, though,
you know.

Maybe I'm just...

fated to be single.

Well, she says that you...

Never give anyone a chance.

I know, I know.

The thing is...

you know when you know, right?

I mean, it's either there
or it's not.

I don't think that's true.

I mean, for me, it is.

But some things just take time.

Okay.

How long have you known Tanner?

Five episodes.

That's practically a lifetime.

Actually, six.

You know, there was
a meet-and-greet.

A meet-and-greet.

You know, maybe I should
go on a dating show.

"Small-town guy looking
for his Happily Ever After".

Not an entrepreneur...

but he is a painter,

if you count houses.

Sure, I mean,
girls'll eat it up.

Right. I thought so.

So what's
today's romantic encounter?

I thought you were butting out.

Was I?

Yeah.

Skiing.

Of course, he skis.

He does,
so stay off the mountain.

Yes, ma'am.

I'm serious.

Okay. Coffee?

I'm leaving.

Okay.

Be careful on that mountain.

Yeah, right.
Been doing this my whole life.

Tell Dylan I said hi.

You know his name.

The mountain
looked pretty quiet.

You know,
it's an up-and-down business.

Dad, you don't
have to protect me from reality.

I'm on a reality show.

Well, you can't change
Mother Nature.

There. How's that feel?

Good.

You can't change Mother Nature,

but you can change human nature.

I mean, I market winter
in a place that has no winter,

so maybe I can help.

And I appreciate that, sweetie,

but you're busy with
your own life and career,

and now maybe a relationship.

Your mom and I agree...

it's not your job
to worry about us.

You worry about me.

We can't help it.
We're parents.

We're family.

It's not worry, Dad, it's love.

You ready?

One second.

Good.

You have everything.
Good.

- Now we're ready.
- Perfect.

One more thing.

Tanner...

I've been thinking
a lot about you.

Oh, you have?

And I'd feel more comfortable

if I could see your tax returns
from the last two years.

I'm messing with you, man.

Just kidding.

Go on.
You guys have fun.

Okay.

It's beautiful.

You sound surprised.

I guess it's just been a while.

I used to be
on this mountain every day.

I took it for granted, I think.

My trees are all grown up!

Your trees?

Yeah! I helped
plant that grove with...

Brett?

Yeah, he may have been there.
I'm sorry.

No need to apologize.

Let's talk about your exes.

Okay. I'm an open book.

Would that book
be a romance novel?

I don't think
I've ever read one of those.

Probably for the best.

Have you ever been in love?

Tough question.

Is it?

Let's just say
I thought it was, at the time,

but it turned out not to be.

What was her name?

Daphne.

Did Daphne break your heart?

Split it right in two.

But that's what life's about,
isn't it?

Learning from our past mistakes?

Yeah.

Tanner Dylan has
a difficult decision to make.

And will she prove to be
his "Happily Ever After"?

Hey, what are you watching?

Sharks.

Look, come on, man.

I'm just trying to get caught up
with the show, and...

What?

All these years,
and you're still stuck on her.

You know what?

She'll be gone in a few days,

and then everything
can get back to normal.

Except you won't.

Sam, cut me some slack,
would ya?

She was my first love.

You know that.

She was my first date,
my first kiss.

I mean, nobody ever truly
gets over that.

I got over mine.

Ditto.

You're both heartless.

If this is about you and Ally,

you need to make a move
before it's too late.

There's no move.

Walter, come on. Guys.

Like, if it were meant to be,

we would be.

Not that again.

Yeah.

Coming from this guy,
the sage of Winterland, huh?

He's right.

You can't rely on fate.

Sometimes
you need to make things happen.

Look, I make things happen.

You want to make the inn busier,

but you won't advertise.

We've always run
on the word of mouth.

And how's that been going?

How long did it take you
to fix up your house?

A few years.

Try five.

And what's going on
with getting a new dog?

I'm waiting for one to show up

with a leash
and a bag of kibble.

All right.

Fine.

Sam...

I'll go to the shelter.

Better yet, talk to Ally.

A lab mix would be nice.

Buddy was a lab mix.

Yeah...

Yeah. Good.
You can name him "Loneliness".

I'm the king of the world!

Hello, hello!

Unbelievable.

What?

Someone put that up as a joke.

"Al"?

People used to call me that.

I mean, one person
used to call me that,

who we've already spent
way too much time talking about.

So...

You want to start with
something a little easier?

There's a blue run over there.

No, I'm good with this,
if you are.

Really?

Yeah, what do those two
black diamonds mean again?

Okay, so you're just
one of those guys

that's good at everything?

Would you like
a list of my flaws?

I would, actually.
Do you have one?

Well, I will give you a list...

at the bottom!

Go!

You weren't kidding!

This is awesome!

This goes on every year?

Yep.
It's a long-standing tradition.

We once did it in a blizzard.

It's fascinating.

What do you get if you win?

Glory.
And a trophy.

And valuable life lessons like

never touch your eye
after handling cayenne pepper.

Duly noted.

- Here they are.
- Hello!

Well, good luck, although
you're not gonna need it

with Ally as a partner.

It is just
a friendly competition.

That's not what you said in '07.

Well, sabotage changes people, so...

Sorry.
I'll be right back.

Hello?

Going stir-crazy

in Winterland?

Actually,

I forgot how cute it is here.
I'm having fun.

But you're still
plugging the hotel?

Every chance I get.

Good.

And speaking of fun...

we just closed a deal
on the Swan Hotel Phoenix,

and you are going to run it.

How fun is that?

What?

Of course, it'll mean
more hours,

but that's you, right?

More hours...
there's only 24 in a day.

Look, Rosie will be
the new you here,

and you'll be the new me there.

In Phoenix.

You'll love it.

It's all sun, no snow.

Start thinking
"cactus" and "sand."

I'm gonna have
to call you back, Trish.

I have got
a literal pot to stir.

A what?

Oh, hi.

Hi. I didn't know
you were entering.

It was a last-second decision.

And look who you're with.

I wouldn't say "with".

It's a chili thing.

You're trying
to throw me off my game.

Or maybe
I just needed a partner?

And you just happen
to choose Mean Helene.

Ally, she doesn't really
go by that anymore.

Right, because she's a completely
different person now.

Aren't we all?

No.

She runs a nursery.

Oh, those poor plants.

Pre-school. Children.

- Hey.
- Hey, teammate!

Ally, nice to see you.

You too. Good luck.

Good luck.

Okay. Hey.

Focus.

We have got
to win this cook-off.

Hope you brought
your fire extinguisher.

Why, are you making
molten lava again?

Molten lava?
You liked it.

Yeah, until my throat closed.

Well, I think

it's better than
"I Cayenne Stand the Heat".

Yes, I'm sorry,
that was the winning chili.

- Fluke.
- Twice?

Double fluke.

You are just jealous.

I don't get jealous.
I get trophies.

Don't you even
think about it. No.

Stop! No!

Careful! Careful!

No, no...

You!

Get off my chili.
Get off my chili.

Get off my chili.

Lucky I don't want mine to burn.

Are they always like this?

Always.

I can't tell
if they like each other

or if they never want
to see each other again.

That's how they are.

When Ally left town,

I thought I'd have my chance
with Brett,

but we never had what they had.

I see.

But you and Ally seem great.

Thanks.

No, no, no, no!

That is too bad for you.

As usual, this was
a tasty and tough decision...

but we've got a winner.

And the trophy goes to...

Bowl number three!

That's mine.

Working solo,

to Walter Spradling

and his "Yes, We've Got
No Banana Peppers".

Attaboy, Walter!

Hey. We'll put it on the menu.

How much are ya willing
to pay me, boss?

Eh...

"Eh..."

Congratulations.

I'm gonna have to up my recipe.

Well, there's always next year.

Give you an excuse
to come to town.

Funny how the things
we try and run away from

become the things
we miss the most.

What's with all the onions?

In case he tries
to kiss her again.

What are you, 12?

I'm not bringing that out
to the table.

That's okay.

I'm gonna sneak it
in his Greek salad.

Come on.
What kind of friend are you?

Tell her how you feel already.

How could she not know
how I feel?

Because you refuse
to come out and say it?

Same way you lost her
the first time.

So, we're all set up
for tonight?

Good.

Good morning, everyone.

Ally, what are you doing here?

Did something happen
with Tanner?

No. Tanner is fine.

Winterland... not so much.

What's this?

This is a possible solution

to the problem
that no one is talking about.

Okay.

A very special man,
who I get to call "Dad",

told me that
no matter where I live,

this place
will always be a part of me,

and he's right.

When Winterland is hurting,
I am hurting.

So, the problem...

how do we get our tourists back?

Change is constant.

The only thing we can do
is react to it,

and that's what matters,

so I think what we need to do

is react by fixing our branding,

because Winterland is about
so much more than just snow.

It's about hiking and canoeing
and mountain biking and fishing.

It's about people
who remember you,

even if you've been gone
for years.

It's the strength of spirit,

and that is so special
and so hard to find,

trust me,
I know it all too well.

Winter Scramble
and a Mountaintop Muffin?

Thank you.

Yes, please.

So...

here's what I'm thinking.

You know, we're never
gonna be the Swan Hotel.

That's okay.

They don't have what you have.

And what would that be?

Heart. History.

Cocoa with extra marshmallows.

So when you get back to L.A.,

will you be implementing
a new marshmallow policy?

Actually, I got promoted.

To Phoenix.

Phoenix?

Yeah.

I mean, congratulations.

Thanks.

You okay?

Yeah, I'm fine.

I just didn't think
that I'd be moving again.

And starting over.

Again.

You know, you'd think living
in a city of millions of people,

you wouldn't get lonely,

but I... I do.

I mean, when I'm not working,
which is almost never...

but I'm sorry, I don't know
why I'm telling you all this.

Because you can.

We know each other, right?

The good and bad.

You know,

I have known you
longer and better

than almost anybody else.

Ditto.

You know...

...I did

show up back then.

- What?
- In California.

Yeah, I know.

It was a couple months
after you left,

and...

I just... I realized
what a mistake I had made,

and how much I missed you,

so I showed up at your dorms.

I had this whole speech
planned out...

But then I saw you
at the end of the hallway,

with your new friends,
laughing...

What?
Why didn't you say something?

You looked so happy.

Like you belonged.

You were living your dream.

I didn't want to get in the way

of that bigger life for you,
you know?

So I left.

You broke my heart.

I left because I loved you.

And if it you makes
you feel any better...

I broke mine too.

I mean, it makes me feel
a little better.

Ally.

I know that this is...

really bad timing, but...

Do you think...

maybe...

Ally, we've been looking
for you everywhere.

We need to get you ready
for the Festival of Lights.

Just one second.

What were you saying?

It was...
it was nothing.

Nothing.

You guys go ahead.

Have fun.

Okay.

Okay.

There.

Microphone's good.

Thank you.

You know who you look like?

Who?

You look like the girl
who's gonna take the prize.

What prize?

Tanner.

I thought this wasn't a contest.

Of course it's a contest.

You're gonna have
your romantic dinner,

and then we will finish
at the Festival of Lights.

Cold feet?

Cold everything.

Hey.

Don't worry, that happens
to everyone at this stage.

You want my advice?

No.

You are a career-obsessed
workaholic with no social life,

just like me, so, no.

Please,
don't give me your advice.

Fine. What's your advice?

Follow your heart.

I thought you were gonna say
something about making good TV.

Well, following your heart
is good TV.

What is this?

It's a present for Tanner.

You have been working on it
all week.

Have I?

Good for me.

- Thank you.
- You're welcome.

It's beautiful.

You're beautiful.

Thank you.

So are you.

Handsome.

Or beautiful.

Or both. Sorry.

Is he doing
what I think he's doing?

No.

Everything all right?

It's just my microphone.

Yes.

Yes. Everything is great.

Maybe not.

Actually,
I have a present for you.

Something for you
to remember our journey by.

How thoughtful.

Interesting.

That's... unique.

And... awkward.

You know, Tanner,
I've been thinking.

We've spent
so much time together,

but I don't feel like

I really know
that much about you.

Okay, what would
you like to know?

Everything.

What happened with Daphne?

We met at Oxford.

Took a lot of the same classes.

Fell madly in love...

but then I got caught up
in all sorts of distractions

and lost focus.

She wanted stability.

And I suppose

I just didn't want to be
in one place,

doing one thing... forever.

But nothing really stuck.

So then you came on this show

to try and fine something
that would...

...stick.

Come on, come on, come on,
come on, come on.

Hey, what happened?

Seems the town's circuits
have overloaded.

- What?
- Don't worry.

We can film your scene
with the backup generator.

But what about
the Festival of Lights?

Maybe they can reschedule?

Reschedule?
It's the 100-year celebration.

The entire town is out here.

I'll be right back.

Ally, I...

Hey!

"Winter By Candlelight"?

Yeah.

There you go.

Here you go.

Just be careful. Got it?

Woo!

You know...

I don't think Main Street's
ever looked more beautiful.

I guess it's a good thing
I kept all these candles, huh?

But I got to admit,

it's actually...

it was inspired
by this lovely lady,

that we all know, Ally.

She came up with this idea
a long time ago...

She always said

that all you need
for a perfect winter's night

was candlelight

and friends.

And hot chocolate.

And family.

You know...

I guess it just took
a long time to realize

that what we've always wanted

was right here all along.

Maybe you're right.

Say that in my good ear.

Did you just say I'm right?

I said "maybe".

- I'll take "maybe".
- Okay.

Here, let me take one of those.

Thanks.

Ally?

Can I say something?

Sure.

I wasn't very nice to you
when we were younger.

In fact, I was awful.

You didn't deserve any of that,

and I'm sorry.

Thank you.

And I'm sorry
for calling you "Mean Helene".

Yeah, well, I had it coming.

And you always were good
at branding.

Friends?

Of course.

Ally.

Tanner, I can't believe
that I'm here,

never mind this far along
this journey with you,

but I'm so glad that I am,
and I'm so grateful,

because you are
such an amazing person.

I feel the same way about you.

Thank you.

It's just that...

I...

Both of us, we just...

I'm not sure that we...

We're not quite "it".

What?

Look, Ally, I think
you're amazing too.

I really do,

but I think
that we can both agree

that "amazing"
isn't necessarily a match,

and you and I are not a match,

at least not romantically.

You have no idea how relieved
and how happy I am

to hear you say that.

Can you just say it...

just say it one more time.

Ally Wilson...

you are not
my Happily Ever After.

Tanner Dylan,
you are not mine either.

"Gwartz".

I'm sorry?

My full name

is Tanner Dylan Gwartz.

So you don't have
two first names?

More like three last names!

Finally, I can just be myself.

Friends?

Yes.

Hey. Where you going?

Tell me when she leaves.

Who?

Who else?

You were right.

I waited too long.

She chose him.

Good, you're back here.

We can pick up
where we left off.

We broke up.

What?

But we're good.

In fact, I'd say we're great.

Good.

I am thrilled for you both,
truly.

But you're gonna have
to break up again.

On camera this time.

Has anyone seen the cameraman?

I'm sorry, Ally.

I know
that you'll find someone great.

But you are not
my Happily Ever After.

I'm...

Sorry, I'm not...
I'm not crying.

It's these onions.
I can't.

Thank you, Tanner.

Coming back to Winterland

made me realize
what I've been missing.

I left to try and find
something better,

and I was so focused
on climbing this ladder

that I had forgotten to live
along the way...

so I guess I did find
what I was looking for...

even if it wasn't
what I expected.

Well, I, for one,
am very glad to hear it.

And Park Swan Hotels
are like home,

but Winterland is home,

and if I can get
one more plug in,

the Winterlight Inn
on Main Street

is having a holiday special...

Cut! Ally.

Can I get a lift?

Of course.

But we have to hurry.
I have a plane to catch.

Where are you going now?

Oklahoma.
Going home to visit my family.

A hometown date.

Sounds lovely.

What can I say?
You inspired me.

You're welcome.

And I've edited out
several of your crying episodes

from the show.

I'm sorry, "several"?
How many times did I cry?

Well, you'll have
to tune in to find out.

Thank you for everything.

Okay, let's go.

Okay.

- Ally!
- Mom.

Aren't you supposed
to be with Tanner?

No, it turns out, I...

I have a new five-year plan.

Trish offered me a promotion,

and I turned it down.

To be with Tanner?

No.

Not that he isn't a nice guy...

No! Very nice.

I agree.

But I turned Trish down

because I want to spend time
with the family

and the friends
and the people that I love.

I'm not gonna
go back to Los Angeles.

I'm staying.

In Winterland?

It's home.

Oh, honey!

This is the best news.

And you can move back
into your old room.

Thank you, Mom,

but I'll probably
get my own place.

Why?

Because I'm 30.

You'll always be
our little girl.

Actually, on that note,
I have plans for the ski shop.

I have plans
for all of Main Street.

I'm going to restore this town
to its former glory.

Hold on!

Is that your... Blizzard Stew?

It is... okay...

Save me a bowl of that.

I've just got something
I need to do first.

Where are you going?

On a journey.

Yay!

I'm looking
for someone imperfect.

Someone who makes me think

and laugh

and makes me better.

Someone who I can annoy

and who annoys me.

Because when you love someone...

I mean,
you should feel everything.

Right?

I know
it's probably way too late,

but if there is any way...

that I can get another chance
with you...

I'll take it.

Turns out...

I'm looking
for someone imperfect too.

With a dog?!

- Hi!
- Hi!

I think I've been putting off
the important things

for far too long.

Meet Buddy.

Hi, Buddy.

So where's Tanner?

Tanner is on his own journey,

and I wish him well.

But...?

But...

he wasn't my Happily Ever After.

He wasn't you.

I'm...

so sorry.

Are you?

Not even a little.

Have I told you that
I also like romantic walks?

Are you making fun of me?

No. Never.

Ally Wilson...

you know you were

the very first kiss
that I ever had.

Great, right?

And if you'd let me...

I would really, really love it
if you were my last, too.

I would like that.

Yeah?

We aren't on camera, are we?

Definitely not.