A Christmas Together with You (2021)

[bunniefuu]

This program is rated G

and is suitable for
general audiences.

♪

♪

Wait, how many cups
do we need?

We need enough for 50 but
they need to be there at 4:00

because the Christmas concert
starts at 5:00.

Got it.

Good morning, Gretchen.
Good morning, Megan.

Morning Lisa.

So? How did last night go?

Uh, last night? I didn't do
anything special.

Oh, I thought you and Colin

were going to that restaurant
on 11th?

Nope, just a quiet night in.

Oh, I thought that you said your
friend used them for their...

Uh...

-Ok, what's going on?
-Nothing

Oh, really?

Ok, fine.

Colin and I did a little
taste test for our wedding

and I didn't wanna, you know,
upset you.

That's ridiculous.

I'm fine.

I mean, yes, tomorrow was
the date I was planning

on getting married, but I've
totally made peace with that.

Mm-hm.

Hey, seriously, it's been what,
six months since we broke up?

You guys don't need to act
any differently around me.

I know. We know.

But you have to admit,
you weren't exactly receptive

when I invited you to spend
Christmas with us.

I know, and it was really kind
of you, I just, I don't know...

I feel like I need something
different this year, you know?

Different? Like what?

I'm sure I'll figure
something out.

[struggling grunts]

Hey!

[thud]

Well, that's one way to do it.

♪

Ok. One Frank Emory special
for you

and a double espresso for me.

You know, you don't have
to keep doing this.

I'm perfectly fine
ordering something

that's actually on the menu.

I know. I like doing it.

Listen, I don't want
the other customers

to start to get jealous.

Come on, you know you're more
than just another customer.

Woah.

It's hard to believe but it
actually tastes even better

than it sounds.

I just threw it together.

If you can just throw
this together,

imagine what you could do
with a real restaurant?

I guess we'll never know.

What happened to that place you
and Lisa were looking at?

That was just sort of for fun,
and way out of our price range.

Besides, I don't know,

I mean, we're...
we're comfortable here.

Well, as long as you're happy.

I am. I'm definitely happy.

So, what are the big plans
for the holidays?

Well, as you know,

I usually spend Christmas
with Brian's family.

So, that's clearly not happening
this year.

What about you?

My plans involve a couch,
a remote

and a man named George Bailey.

It's A Wonderful Life.
Classic.

Never does me wrong.

Mm.

Look at us, aren't we just
the life of the party.

[laughing]

What's that?

Ah, just some light reading.

No, inside.

Oh, that's nothing,
just an old photo.

Mind if I take a look?

Pretty handsome guy, huh?

Is this you and Helen
when you were younger?

Well, actually it's...

"Merry Christmas, love always...
Claire Collins."

And the plot thickens.

It's nothing.

I was pulling down
some Christmas lights,

it just happened to...

It's ok. You don't have
to explain.

I just don't want you to get
the wrong idea.

Helen was the love of my life.

I know.

But, I mean, we all have
old flames.

It's nothing to be
embarrassed about.

Well, I suppose you're right
about that.

When was this taken?

Long Grove High.
Christmas party, 1971.

High school sweetheart?

No, she was much more
than that.

She was the first woman
I ever truly loved.

Look at how she did her little v
like a heart, in "love".

Anyway, it's silly...
and it was a million years ago.

You ever thought about
looking her up?

Oh, no. No. I wouldn't even
know where to start.

Besides, you know,

she's probably got her own
family, husband.

Last thing she needs is some
old boyfriend tracking her down.

Or that's exactly
what she needs.

Come on, aren't you a little,
a little curious?

Hm?

[phone chimes]

I have to get some cards to the
post office before it closes.

Do you want to take a walk?

I don't know. I gotta check
my schedule.

I'll take that as a yes.

I have to grab the cards but
I'll meet you out front in five.

Sounds like a plan.

Ok.

So what else do
you remember?

-About what?
-Claire?

Mostly little things, I suppose.

Wherever we went, she was
always humming a tune.

Even on our first date.

You remember
your first date?

I do.

I took her to this concert hall
to go dancing.

They had a live band,
everything.

When we got there,
the whole place was sold out.

Felt like such a fool.

But Claire, she didn't seem
to mind at all.

We went for a walk
down this little path,

down by the lake.

And she's, out of nowhere,
she started humming.

She reaches out her arms
and we start dancing.

Right there in the snow.

No band, no crowd, just the two
of us and the stars.

I never wanted that dance
to end.

That is so romantic.

So what happened?

How do you mean?

Why'd you two break up?

Oh, I don't know,
what always happens?

People grow up, they move on
with their lives.

There's no point reminiscing
about it.

Clearly wasn't meant to be.

I can relate to that.

♪

Oh, come on, think.
It was, the name was...

Long...

Long... Long Grove.

Hello Claire Collins.

Hey.

Hello Jim, sorry
for the random email

I am a friend of Frank Emory.

We are looking for a fellow
acquaintance, Claire Collins.

[exhales]

[sighs]

[notification chimes]

[phone ringing]

I was wondering what happened
to that.

Go ahead. Open it.

I don't understand.

Ok. So, last night I started
thinking, right?

I mean, neither one of us have
any plans for Christmas.

We're both going to be alone,

so why not go on an
adventure together?

-An adventure?
-Yeah.

-To find Claire.
-I see.

So, anyway, it took me
like all night, right,

but then this morning,
this guy writes me back.

He knows exactly
who Claire is,

he knows where she lives
and get this...

She lives alone.

You did all that for me?

Yeah, I mean you've been
carrying the photo around,

you're obviously thinking
about her.

Look, I can't be positive

that she actually
still lives there...

-Megan.
-Yeah?

This is all very generous,

I just, I don't think
I can do it.

Oh.

It's... I appreciate the effort,
really.

I just think some things

are probably better left
in the past.

Yeah.

Ok, of course.
No, I get it.

I probably should have asked
before I got started, right?

I just... I guess I got
carried away.

No need to apologize.

The fact that you even care,
that alone, is probably

the best present that
I've received in years.

Well, now that we've got
that covered.

Um... You're almost out of
coffee, so I'll go top you up.

All done here?

Yeah. Yeah.

Hey, is everything all right
with our girl?

Yeah.

She'll be fine. She's just
a little emotional right now.

Today was supposed to be
her wedding day.

Oh, sh**t. I completely forgot.

Anything else for you?

No, no, I'm good.
Thanks.

Frank.

Did you forget something inside?

I've been thinking
about your proposal.

You don't have to.

I shouldn't have
gotten involved.

I was thinking you were right.

I promised Helen that
when she was gone,

that I wouldn't spend
the rest of my life

moping around all by myself.

Maybe finding that photo
of Claire was a sign.

A sign that it's about time
I keep my word.

If you're willing to help me
do that,

I'd be a fool to turn you down.

Really?

Yeah.

Trust me, I know it sounds
a little crazy,

but I can't even explain it.

It just feels like something
I have to do.

Well, it is a little crazy,
but it's also kind of sweet.

I mean, Lisa,

you should have seen the way
he was looking at her picture.

I get it.

Besides, I think you could use a
little vacation right about now.

-Promise to keep me posted?
-I promise.

Frank, let me help you
with that.

I got it.

You ready for this?

Let the adventure begin.

♪

You know, I was
a little concerned

you might be one
of these crazy drivers,

but I'm happy to say,

this has been a most
pleasant ride.

Really?

No one's ever complimented
my driving before.

You know, Brian always just used
to complain about it.

We know the man

didn't have the best judgement
in the world.

Hey, I'm sorry, I was... I was
trying not to bring him up.

It's just still weird, you know?

You think someone's
committed to you

and then you just envision
this whole life together.

And then poof,
they're gone.

Let me help you.

What did Brian buy you as
a Christmas gift last year?

A... a toaster, yeah.

Was it a magical toaster?

No, no, it was pretty fancy,
though.

I mean, you could connect it
to your phone and...

My point is that he didn't have
the slightest clue

about how to make someone
like you happy.

Someone like me?

Someone with your spirit.
Trust me, it was for the best.

I mean, there are a lot of happy
single people

in the world, right?

Maybe I'm just done with love.

Oh, that's not true.

What makes you say that?

If you were done with love you
wouldn't be driving an old man

hundreds of miles on the
off-chance you might help him

find a woman he hasn't seen
in almost 50 years.

Trust me.

You'll find your
prince charming.

You just have to keep
your eyes open.

Do you want to buy a wish
from Santa?

They're only a dollar.

Well, aren't you adorable.

She's raising money for school.

Well, funny enough,

a wish from Santa is exactly
what I've been looking for.

Thank you.

-Happy holidays.
-Happy holidays.

[dog barking]

Oh!

Max! Come on, boy!

Oh, oh, oh!
Come on, Max.

Sorry, hold on a second.
I'm really sorry about that.

Yeah, no, no, I'm still here.
Are you ok?

Um, yeah, I think so, yeah.

No, no, I know. I'm gonna be
there as soon as I can.

Here, let me,
let me give you...

Oh no, you don't have to.

No, for the coffee.

No. Yeah, it's fine.
Yeah, no, no.

Everything's fine. Ok.

No, yeah. No, I'm still here.

Yeah, no, everything's fine.
Everything's fine.

He was on his phone the entire
time and then he just shoves

this wad of cash into my hand
like that's gonna fix something.

So you didn't get the coffee.

No, I'm sorry.

Do you want me to get you
another one?

Nope, nope.

I think you've had enough trauma
for one day.

Ok, you know what we need?

Some music to get back
in the holiday spirit.

[flipping through
radio stations]

♪ The snow is snowing, ♪

♪ the wind is blowing ♪

What, you don't like this song?

I love this song.

It's just, of all the Christmas
songs in the world,

you land on this one
while we're looking for Claire.

What, why?

Forget it.

Ok, no, no, no.

You have to give me
more than that.

We've got a long drive.

Ok. Well, so this is right
around Christmas, right?

Mm-hm.

Claire and me had only been
on a couple dates.

We hadn't even kissed yet.

Oh.

I'm sorry. Please continue.

Anyway, we go out to this local
ice rink

and the whole time I'm waiting
for the right moment

but the longer the night went
on, the more nervous I got.

Before I know it,
the date's over.

I'm driving her home.

We pull up in front
of her house,

we're just sitting there.

Neither of us know
what to say.

And then this song comes
on the radio.

♪ I've got my love
to keep me warm. ♪

[chuckles]

It was the perfect moment.

What I'd been waiting
for all night.

So, did you kiss her?

Never got a chance.

What?

Just as the song was coming
to a close,

I look over to say good-bye.

And Claire's leaning toward me,

I'm like a deer
in the headlights.

I had just enough time to blink
and before I know it,

she plants the most
spectacular kiss

smack in the middle
of my lips.

She kissed you.

Wow.

She was fearless like that.

Whatever she wanted, didn't let
anything get in the way.

She sounds like
an amazing woman.

Every time I hear that song,

it feels like I'm still sitting
in that car.

Like she's still sitting
right next to me.

♪

-Hey, everybody.
-Hey Steve.

Oh, Steve!

Hey!

I missed ya buddy!

We thought you got lost
in a blizzard or something.

Yeah, sorry about that.
Holiday traffic was a nightmare.

I bet.

If you'd come last week
like I suggested,

you wouldn't have had
that problem, son.

Yeah, I know.
Work's just been crazy.

I...

Oh, we're just happy
you're here, honey.

Thanks, Mom.

So, how's the place holding up?

Not quite the Four Seasons yet

but we fixed that leak
in the roof,

put a couple coats of fresh
paint in all the rooms.

You guys didn't have
to do that.

It just needed to be done.

Well, I appreciate it.

How long are you here for?

Two weeks.

I know it's not ideal,

but I promise I will make
this place

my number one priority
as long as I am here.

Glad to hear.

Now, who's ready to light
that baby up?

Hold on, not until everybody's
had a chance.

You can't break traditions.

Thanks, Mom.

All right everybody,
on your feet.

Here we go.

One, two, three.

[cheering and applause]

-Wait, this is it?
-That's it.

Maybe she still lives there?

Only one way to find out.

Should we ring the bell?

Don't think there'd be
much point.

That's all right.

Oh, we've come so far.
We can't quit now.

Frank, look.

Thank you for your interest
in our services,

we look forward to helping you
find your new home.

Pinesville Real Estate company.

Let me see.

She's looking for houses
in Pinesville.

What, you know it?

Her family used to go there
every Christmas.

They talked about it like it was
some kind of a paradise.

She used to say,
wherever we got married,

this was where we were
gonna live.

Sounds like the perfect place
for a reunion.

♪

Frank, wake up.

Frank, you have to see
this place.

Frank!

Oh!

[tires screech]

What just happened?

I'm sorry.

You, you scared me.

I scared you?

Yeah!

My whole life just flashed
before me.

I said I'm sorry, ok?

Look, we're fine.
Everything is fine.

Ok. So, now we just need
a place to stay.

Wow, this is beautiful.

Excuse me?

I'll be with you in a second.

Hi! Where'd you come from?

This dog looks exactly like
the dog from the truck station.

Highly unlikely.

Yeah, 'cause that would mean his
incredibly inconsiderate owner

would be somewhere...

Here.

-Hi.
-Hi.

I'm sorry, I didn't...

No, you're right.
I was definitely inconsiderate.

Wait, you didn't like,
chase me down to...

No, no.

It's just a really unfortunate
coincidence, so.

Uh, Frank, this is...

Steve.

Oh, you're the rude guy
from the gas station.

Right.

Yeah, I'm actually glad I got
to see her again

because I owe her an apology.

I'm sorry.

I was just really stressed out
because I'd been sitting

in traffic all morning and I had
my mom on the phone

because I was late for this tree
decorating thing.

Anyway, that's no excuse,

so if there's any way I can make
it up to you, just let me know.

We're looking for two rooms,
son.

Can you help us with that?

Right. Yeah.

We book up really fast
during the holidays,

I'm sorry, but we're
completely full

through to the end
of the month.

Excuse me, young man.

Yes, you.

Would you excuse me,
one second?

Yes, what seems to be
the problem?

Well, the problem is my husband
and I almost went

into full-blown hypothermia
last night.

The heater is obviously broken.

Don't even get me started on
the health code regulations

that that mongrel is violating.

Young man, did you hear
a word I said?

I have.

Well, will it be fixed today?

Unfortunately, it's the weekend.

I won't be able to get anyone
out for a couple of days.

Well, that's unacceptable.
I would like a full refund.

Mrs. Johnson, the Pinesville
lodge would be

more than happy to grant you
a complete refund.

Good.

When do you think
you'll be checking out?

Oh, immediately.

This is actually one of
my favorite rooms.

You've got your exposed beam
vaulted ceilings,

living room over here
and the sofa,

and your king bed right there.

Frank, you take the bed.

No, no, you've been driving
all day.

The least I can do is...

This trip is for you.
I'll take the couch.

Ok. So, if there isn't
anything else.

Oh, um, I believe I heard
something about a broken heater?

Ah. Right.

That should fix it
for a month or so.

Before you go, I just...

No, that's really not necessary.

I just wanted to give you
something for your help.

Oh.

Yeah, I suppose it would be rude
to refuse a tip from a guest.

[clears throat]

Ok, um, well you two have
a great night.

[laughs]

This might be a little late
to ask,

but you don't snore, do you?

In almost 70 years I haven't
heard a single complaint yet.

Ok, good.

'Cause I need a good
night's rest.

You ok in there?

I was just thinking about
Claire's engagement ring.

You didn't tell me
you were engaged.

No, we never were.

Used to talk about it, though.

There was an old jewelry store
in town we would pass by.

Sometimes we would go inside
and we would pretend

which rings we would buy
each other if we ever did.

That's really sweet.

I worked construction
one summer, all summer,
just saving up.

I still couldn't afford the one
I thought she deserved.

So what did you do?

I made it myself.

I'm sorry, did you just say you
made your own engagement ring?

Well, you know,

I was always pretty good
at that kind of stuff.

I learned how to weld
in high school.

Took a little drilling,
filing, polishing.

Shined up pretty good
in the end.

Well, I bet it was beautiful.

I'm pretty sure that Brian
bought my ring from a catalogue.

-So what happened?
-What do you mean?

I'm pretty sure when you buy
a ring, you propose.

It's been a long day.

Why don't you get some rest
and I'll...

I'm trying to help my friend
track down an old girlfriend

and we think she might be
one of your clients

and I just thought maybe
if I give you her name
you might be...

Hello?

That was rude.

You're late.

Ready for the tour?

Oh, um, I think you might be
mistaking me for someone else.

I was just walking by.

My apologies.

Are you the owner?

Jerome's the name.

Can I ask why you're selling?

Thirty-five years my wife and I
ran this place.

Made a lot of great memories.

You just reach an age
when you know it's time

to pass that joy
onto someone else.

Well, I'm sure you'll find
the perfect fit soon.

Anyway, you have yourself
a happy holiday.

You too.

Lisa: Sounds like you're
making progress!

Yeah, I'm pretty sure
we're in the right town,

which is completely adorable
by the way.

Well, with a name
like Pinesville,

it's pretty hard not to be.

You should see this little lodge
we're staying in, it's so cute.

There's literally a holiday
agenda in our room.

Sounds like somebody's getting
back into the holiday spirit.

I'm certainly trying.

[laptop dings]

Uh, hang on one second.

Excuse me.

Megan, how can I help you
this morning?

Uh, I was just trying to get
on the internet

and I think something's wrong
with your Wi-Fi.

Uh, that would not surprise me.

Sorry, I just... I have
some kids coming in,

they get a present,
take a picture with Santa, so...

That's really cute.

Yeah, anyway,
it's not your problem.

I will make a call

and I'll get that internet
back up as soon as possible.

How, how, how long does that
usually take?

Probably a couple hours.

Oh.

Well, since I apparently
have some time on my hands,

maybe I can help you?

Oh, no, no. I couldn't impose,
it was...

It's fine, really.

Besides, when a wrapping
tragedy strikes,

I'm actually the girl
you want to call.

-Oh, really?
-Mm-hm.

Hm.

Ok then.

Meet me in the back office
in ten?

I'll be there.

Fantastic, thank you.

Who was that?

You completely forgot
I was here, didn't you?

No.

I just got a little distracted.

Yeah, by that gorgeous
wrapping guy?

No.

Yes, but I wasn't focused
on his appearance.

Mm-hm.

Ok, I'm hanging up now.

Have fun!

I will not be having any fun.

Bye.

So, let me get this straight.

You gave up your own Christmas
to help a customer,

who comes into your coffee shop,

find a woman that he hasn't met
in almost 50 years?

Frank's not just
another customer.

He's been coming for years,
he's practically family.

Finger.

He's very lucky to know
someone like you.

I guess.

Anyway, enough about me.

What about you?

You don't have anyone you need
to be buying jewelry

or bicycles for?

Even if I did, I don't know
where I'd find the time.

That bad, huh?

Yeah.

I live in Dallas, you know,
that's where I work full time.

I just bought this place
a year ago.

You just bought a lodge
out of the blue?

No, no, not completely
out of the blue.

This is where I grew up.

This is where my parents live,

this is where
my old friends are.

When I saw it come up for sale

I thought, it might be
a good investment.

You know, a way to branch out
on my own.

Anyway finger.

What do you do in Dallas?

Oh, I am the head of hospitality
for a chain of luxury hotels.

That sounds fancy.

Sounds is the key word.

Truth is, I spend most of
my time trying to figure out

how to get them to fork out
more cash for shiatsu massages

and imported bath soaps.

Ok, am I missing something,
because it sounds like

you don't like your job and
you just bought this lodge,

so why don't you quit?

Uh, I don't know.

You know, people come
for all the traditions

and I am doing my best
to keep them going.

But, if I'm being really honest,

I don't know if I can keep
this up every single year.

I like the traditions.

It reminds me of my childhood.

-Oh yeah?
-Mm-hm.

Well, then you must have
grown up in the North Pole.

No, but it's definitely my
favorite time of the year.

Huh.

It was just me and my dad
at home, you know?

And, he'd always make a really
big deal around the holidays.

We used to do this thing
on Christmas Eve

where he'd take me up
to the roof,

we'd sit on a blanket, sip
eggnog and look for Santa.

You know, it literally wasn't
until middle school

that I realized those were
just sh**ting stars.

Besides, we didn't, you know,
we didn't have

a lot of money
for fancy presents,

but we had each other.

We had those memories,
you know?

Yeah.

I know what you mean.

Oh, I forgot to pull my finger
out of there.

Sorry!

My mind was...

Yeah.

Mom, Dad, this is Megan.

h*, h*, h*. Merry Christmas,
young lady.

Dad, you don't have to do
that to everybody.

Nice to meet you, dear.

Pleasure to meet you too,
Mrs...

Claus!

Of course. Mrs. Claus.

Sorry, I'm late!

Hey, buddy.

-Hey.
-Hey.

Kyle.

I'm sort of the concierge
slash handyman.

[chuckles]

So, you staying for Christmas?

Oh, I'm actually not sure yet.

What, you didn't tell her about
the Christmas Eve party?

Oh, we were working our way
up to that.

Well, it's only the biggest
event of the year.

My band's performing
this year,

I mean, that alone is a pretty
big reason to be there.

Ok. Well, I'll have to talk
to Frank.

Speaking of which, I should
probably go check on him.

Nobody needs to check
on Frank.

Ah, there you are.

These are Steve's parents,
Mr. and Mrs. Claus.

I see. Well...

Merry Christmas.

-Pleasure to meet you both.
-Nice to meet you.

So, I can text you when the
internet's back up, if you
want?

Yeah, I think I left my number
when we checked in, so.

-You did.
-Yeah.

Anyway, all that wrapping
has built up an appetite.

Do you want to find
a place to eat?

You're the boss.

I'll wait to hear from you.

Sounds good.

Oh, would you two mind signing
the guest book on your way out?

It's kind of a big tradition
around here.

We'd love to.

Somebody seems mighty chipper.

I guess we misjudged our owner
friend over here.

Ok, just sign the book.

What about you? What did you ask
for Christmas?

Here you go.

-Uh, Megan.
-Huh?

I think you should take a look
at this.

Claire Alberts.

Hang on, she left an address
and a note.

"Thanks for a lovely time while
I transition to my new home."

Do you still have the photo?

-Yeah.
-Of course you do.

Frank, look.
This is Claire.

We found Claire.

Maybe the flowers are too much.

You said they were her favorite,
right?

You don't think it seems
too desperate?

There is a difference
between desperate and romantic.

What's that?

You haven't seen her
in how many years?

You still remember
her favorite flower.

That, my friend, is romantic.

Frank: You're sure this is
the place?

Yeah, it's definitely
the address.

This isn't a good idea.

I mean, what am I supposed
to say

if Mr. Alberts happens
to open the door?

I don't know, just say
that you're an old friend

who happens to be in town

and you thought you'd just
swing by and say hi.

I mean, what's, what's the worst
that could happen?

Good luck!

[knocking]

Nobody home.

Ok.

Hang on.

Hi, sorry, excuse me.

We're looking for
Claire Alberts.

Do you happen to know
where she might be right now?

To tell the truth, I haven't
seen her in a while.

You might want to try
Harvard Manor though.

Harvard Manor?

Yeah, yeah. It's the big place
up on Prairie Lane.

You can't miss it.

Ok, thank you.

Do you hear that?

It's a nursing home.

It's a retirement community.

I'm sure there's lots of happy
and healthy people in there

who are just looking
for companionship.

All right. How do I look?

Terrible.

[laughs]

You look dashing.

Hey trust me, you have nothing
to be afraid of.

Ok.

Here goes nothing.

Ok.

♪

♪

Hello there.

Looks like somebody's in
for a treat today.

Hi, I'm looking for
Claire Alberts.

Claire is such a sweetheart.

You know where
I can find her?

I think she's in
the dining room,

just down the hall
to the left.

Thank you.

[phone ringing]

Hello?

Hey, it's Steve.

You know, from the lodge?

I remember.

Yeah. Anyway, the internet
is back up

and I just wanted to let you
know in case you needed it.

Oh, well that's certainly
first-class service.

You know, I think you might
actually have a future

in this business.

Yeah, I hope you're right.

Fortunately, I don't think we're
gonna be needing it anymore

because I think we actually
found her.

Wow, um, that's great.

So, anyway, there's something
else that I wanted to ask you.

Oh, ok.

Yeah, you really helped me
out today

and I was hoping you'd let me
repay you.

Oh.

Yeah, we're, we're going
caroling tomorrow night,

my family, a couple people
from the lodge.

If you're interested,
maybe I could take you out

to dinner first,
show you around town.

Hello? Are you still there?

Uh, yeah.

Sorry. Look, it was really kind
of you to offer.

I just don't think I'm really
in the, you know,

having dinner kind of place
right now.

Right. No, that was...

I just feel like it would be
best to stick to the plan.

Yeah, you know, I totally
understand.

Well, you have my number
if you need anything.

Yeah.

Ok. Bye.

Bye.

[exhales]

Claire?

Ah, well, Ethel, looks like
it's time for..

Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't know
she had a visitor.

I'll come back
in a few minutes.

Claire?

Yes.

Claire Collins?

Frank?

Frank Emory?

Why... What, what are you
doing here?

Well, it's kind of a funny
story, actually.

I came here to...

Visit Mrs. Miller?

Who?

Ethel?

Oh, Ethel.
Right, of course.

And how do you two
know each other?

Uh, we're just old friends.

That is certainly a coincidence,
isn't it?

It certainly is.

Here, I will put those
in some water for you.

So you work here?

Uh... volunteer.

Ever since my husband passed,
three years back.

I just can't seem to sit still.

I'm sorry to hear that.

That's around the time
I lost my wife.

Well, I should get back
to work.

Nice seeing you, Frank.

Hey, uh, I know
it's kind of strange,

running into each other
like this,

but maybe we can get
a coffee, catch up a bit.

I'm afraid this place keeps me
pretty busy.

How about dinner?

I'll buy you the best steak
in town.

That's very kind of you,
Frank.

I, uh, it's just not
a great time.

I should get back to work.

Right, of course.

Take care of yourself, ok?

Yep. You too.

[sighs]

I'm sorry.

I just feel like I'm missing
something.

'Cause it sounds to me
like you told Claire,

the woman we drove
seven hours for,

in the dead of winter,

that you were actually there
to see a woman named Ethel?

No, you pretty much got it.

Frank, why would you do that?

I don't know.

I mean, it's... it's one thing
looking at a picture.

When I saw her in real life,
I just froze.

That's it, you're just
gonna give up?

Look, I appreciate everything
you've done.

The fact is, she just didn't
seem all that interested

in renewing any kind
of relationship.

Ok. Ok, all right.
It's settled then.

You're just gonna have
to woo her.

Did you say "woo"?

I sure did.

Megan, I haven't wooed
in over 40 years.

I'm no longer a wooer.

Hey, Frank, listen to me.

You're a naturally
charming man, ok?

But you just need
a little help.

Ok, so what are we gonna do?

It needs to be something
extra special.

Something that reminds her
of your...

That's it.

-What?
-Steve.

Hey. Somebody's looking
sharp tonight.

Oh, yeah,
I was just trying to...

You don't think it's too much,
do you?

Wait a minute,
are you nervous?

What? That's ridiculous.

Let me smell ya.

No.

Mm-hm.

Wow. You must really like
this one.

Ok. Yeah, I was hoping to make
a good impression.

Yes.

Come on, you are Steve Swanson.

You're like this big fancy
corporate bigwig, ok?

You are practically a legend
around here.

Yeah.

Hey.

Trust me.

You got nothing to worry about.

Hey, guys. You made
it just in time.

Frank, how you feeling?

Nauseous.

I think he's just
a little excited.

♪ We all like our
figgy pudding ♪

♪ We all like our
figgy pudding ♪

♪ And all this good cheer ♪

♪ We wish you... ♪

Thank you so much
for doing this.

It's no problem.

Besides, what kind of man
would I be

if I didn't support a valiant
pursuit of love?

♪ We wish you a merry Christmas
and a happy New Year! ♪

[clapping]

Oh, this is the house.

I don't know who's more nervous,
you or him.

It's definitely me.

♪ ...Let earth receive
her king ♪

♪ Let every heart
prepare him room ♪

♪ And heaven
and nature sing ♪

♪ And heaven
and nature sing ♪

♪ And heaven and heaven
and nature sing ♪

Thank you.
That was lovely.

Carolers: Happy holidays.

-Happy holidays everyone.
-Happy holidays.

♪ The snow is snowing,
the wind is blowing ♪

♪ But I can't handle
the storm ♪

♪ What should I care, ♪

♪ how much it should storm? ♪

♪ I've got my love
to keep me warm ♪

♪ I can't remember ♪

♪ a worse December ♪

♪ Just watch these
icicles fall... ♪

Frank. Please.

♪ What should I care,
if icicles... ♪

Enough!

I don't know what you're trying
to do here.

I can't.

I won't let you break
my heart again.

Did she just say
what I think she said?

Yeah, I believe she did.

I have to go, I'm sorry.
I'll see you tomorrow.

Are we really gonna drive
all the way back to the lodge

without speaking?

That was my plan, yeah.

It's just, I thought you would
have told me.

You know, I thought Claire
broke up with you.

I never said that.

You didn't say that you broke
her heart.

I thought we were
in this together.

Together?

And just exactly which part
of this trip was my idea?

That is not fair.

Ok. I was trying to help.

You didn't have to say yes
to anything.

I know, I'm sorry.

I didn't mean to take it
out on you.

Let's just forget the night
ever happened, ok?

I'm sorry, Frank.

Maybe if I sang better.

Might have helped.

[laughs]

Ouch.

I was planning on marrying her,
you know?

You don't have to explain.

No, I want to.

Things were different
back in those days.

Back then, if you wanted
to marry someone,

you asked her father
for permission.

Let's just say Claire's father
wasn't very fond of me.

He said I didn't have any money,
no future.

Didn't matter how much
I begged.

In his eyes, I was never going
to be worthy.

And the worst thing was...

I actually believed it.

I'm sorry, Frank.

I have no idea.

Well, now you know.

Guess some things just aren't
meant to be.

Yeah.

-Hey.
-Hi.

Um, have you seen Steve around?

Yeah, he's out front
with the kids.

Oh.

I was just heading out there
if you want to join.

Join what?

I'll show you.

Ok.

[kids laughing and cheering]

♪

Here we go.

Oh, it's beautiful.

Steve: Good. Very, very good.
Other leg.

Perfect timing.

We're just about to start
"Pass the Ornament".

You in?

Oh, uh...

Why don't you start us off?

Oh, ok.

All right, Ella.
Hit it.

♪

Ready?

[laughs]

[music stops]

Oh.

First one out?

You have got to be kidding me!

Kyle: Bye.

♪

Oh!

Woah!

[laughing]

Both of you, out!

[kids laughing]

I can't believe you risked
the title to save me.

Yeah, well... now that
I'm the owner,

technically I'm supposed
to let one of the kids win.

I'm pretty sure you looked
very serious out there.

Anyway, this has been
a lot of fun.

Thank you.

[phone ringing]

sh**t. This is the caterer.

Wait right there, ok?

Hey, this is Steve.

Uh-huh.

You've got to be kidding me.
The lunch starts in two hours.

Yes, I understand.

Sometimes things are
out of your control

but this is the third time

you guys have cancelled
an event on me.

Unbelievable.

Yeah, thanks a lot.

[groans]
Oh.

It's the annual veterans
luncheon.

The mayor is gonna be there,
the city council.

How many people total?

We're thinking 30.

Well, there was a restaurant
for sale in town.

I met the owner the other day.

Jerome?

Yeah, Jerome.
You know him?

Yeah, he's the one that used
to do all of our catering.

Well, maybe... I don't know,

maybe he will let you borrow it
for the day.

I don't know.

Even if he did, where am I
supposed to find someone

who can cook 30 Christmas
lunches in two hours?

I'll do it.

Trust me.
Everything will be fine.

-I got it!
-Ok.

Haven't fired up the ovens
in a little while.

She'll definitely need
a little dusting.

That's no problem.
We really appreciate this.

Yeah. Thank you.

Oh, potatoes.
Good. We can use those.

Um, Kyle, can you start
chopping them?

Yes, ma'am.

Can you preheat
the oven to 350?

-You got it.
-Thanks.

We got here as fast
as we could.

You guys are fantastic.

Let's see. We've got
the cranberry sauce.

I've got mushroom soup.

And everything you need
for green bean casserole.

Ok, which I could help you
get started.

It is kind of a tradition
of mine.

Oh.

Trust me, you do not want

to get between her and her
green bean casserole.

Got it. Wouldn't dare.

How else can we help?

The dining room needs
a little sprucing up.

Sprucing I can do.

Thank you very much
for your service, sir.

♪

How're we doing back here?

Uh, 40 more minutes.

Ok.

They're just starting to get
a little restless out there.

You don't have to tell
me twice.

Actually, I didn't.

I'm a born entertainer buddy,
trust me.

You need 40 minutes?

I'm gonna give you 45.

Ok, how can I help?

Can you grab that for me?

Yeah.

And voila.

Ready to serve.

Wow.

This looks incredible.

Now, I usually reserve this
for special occasions,

but we have such a great crowd
here tonight that I thought...

Ok, who's ready to eat?

[crowd cheers]

You're a life saver, sweetie.

Thanks, you as well.

[chatter]

Ok, now I really owe you.

It's fine.

That actually felt really great.

Yeah, well you're a natural.

Not entirely a natural.

I did spend a couple years
in culinary school.

Oh.

I actually used to...

What?

I had this dream that I would be
this big-time chef.

Well, what happened
to the dream?

My... my dad got sick.

Oh. I'm sorry to hear that.
I didn't know.

It was a long time ago.

And I wouldn't give back
a single second

that I got to spend with him.

Culinary school just didn't seem
like a priority anymore.

Yeah, well, culinary school
or not,

I think any restaurant would be
lucky to have you.

Thank you.

I'm just... I'm really happy
at the coffee shop, you know.

Lisa and I have been friends
for 10 years.

We've got a good system going.

I meet lots of interesting
people.

Well, maybe it's just me,

but you look pretty at home
in that kitchen.

I'm sure if I talked to Jerome
he'd give you a good deal.

It certainly wouldn't hurt

to have a talented caterer
in town again.

It's really nice of you to say,
it's just...

a really big commitment.

Oh, believe me, I know.

But if it's something
you always wanted,

maybe it's worth the risk.

It's just a lot to think about
right now.

I mean, I've already got
my hands full

with this whole Frank situation.

Yeah.

You really care about him, huh?

Yeah.

I mean, he's...

he's the closest
thing that I have to a father.

You should have seen how sad
he was last night.

What are you going to do?

I don't know.

All I know is I got him
into this mess

and I have to find a way
to fix it.

Pardon me, young man.

Frank. Nice to see you.

You haven't happened to see
my other half around, have you?

I have.

Yeah, she just had to run
a quick errand, I think.

Uh, did you eat?

We have a few plates left over
if you're hungry.

Well, I've certainly never been
one to turn down a free meal.

All right.

I'm really sorry about
the other night.

You know, the whole
caroling thing.

It's all right.

I appreciate everything
you've done for us.

Right, um...

You know, speaking of
appreciation,

I was hoping that I could find
a way

to repay Megan
for all of her help.

I guess I just thought,
I don't know,

maybe you could give me
some advice.

Listen, there is something you
ought to understand about Megan.

She's a sensitive soul.

Got the biggest heart of
any woman I've ever known.

If you plan on repaying her,

I suggest you make sure
you're doing it

for all the right reasons.

Of course.

[Claire humming]

I love lilies.

Maybe they're not as elegant
as roses, but they last.

They're loyal.

Hm.

Always been my favorite.

I know.

Frank told me.

Frank Emory?

Yeah.

I'm sorry, do we know
each other?

No, we haven't officially met.
I'm Megan.

He said you always used
to wear them in your hair.

It was a long time ago.

Maybe, but Frank remembered.

That's why he brought you
the lilies.

He said those were for Ethel?

Oh, my.
What in the world?

I helped Frank find you.

And I think he just,

he didn't know what to say
when he actually did.

Well, obviously Frank is very
lucky to have someone

as kind and caring as you are.

Sometimes it's better if things
are just left in the past.

I know he hurt you.

Hey, and I know what that's like
to love someone

and have them just completely
walk out of your life.

But I know Frank.

Maybe not when he was 18,
but I know him now.

And he's a good man.

I understand if you don't ever
want to see him again, I do.

I just... I really needed you
to know

the man that he has become.

I'll let you get back to work.

Hold on a second, Megan.

Maybe I've been a bit unfair.

I suppose the least I could do
is give him a chance

to say what he has to say.

[laughs]

Hey.

There you are.

I thought you'd skipped town
on me for a minute.

No, I just ran out to get a few
things for the drive home.

So, you're ready to hit
the road?

You know, I was thinking,
it's getting a little late.

Maybe we could stay
another night?

You don't have to get back
to work?

No. Lisa can take care of it
for another day,

and besides, Steve was telling
me about this really great

Italian restaurant on
the other side of town.

Thought maybe, I don't know, we
could check it out before we go?

What do you think?

I think you've been incredibly
generous with your time.

If you want to stay
a little longer,

I certainly owe you that.

Great.

Absolutely. Uh-huh.

I'll be back to go over
the proposal on the 3rd.

Sure thing, bye.

You're certainly staying busy.

Gotta pay the bills.
What's up?

I think it's time for a bit of
a man-to-man discussion.

Now's not really the best time,
Dad.

If I waited for the best time,
I'd be waiting until you retire.

Fair enough.

Ok. Well, what's
on your mind then?

When you asked if
your mother and I

could help out with the lodge,
we were happy to do it.

We love this place as much as
anybody else.

But, it wasn't exactly part of
our retirement plan.

No, I know it wasn't.

But I do really appreciate
what you guys have done.

When you first bought
this place,

you told me you were looking for
a new kind of life.

You said you wanted
to settle down.

I think maybe it's time
you admit

that that's just not what
you really want.

And maybe it's time to admit it
to that nice young woman

you've been spending
so much time with.

Yeah. I don't know.
Maybe you're right.

I hope you keep the place.

This town wouldn't be the same
without it.

But if you do, I'm afraid
you're just gonna

have to start taking care of
things on your own.

I understand.

You'll figure it out.

You just gotta decide what
you really care about.

Nobody can do that but you.

♪

Good evening.

Frank Emory,
party of two.

Ah, it seems your guest
has already arrived.

Our guest?

I don't...

How did you?

Go ahead.

You don't want to keep
your date waiting.

Right this way, sir.

I'll take that for you.

Hello, Claire.

Hi, Frank.

That Megan sure is full of
surprises, isn't she?

She certainly is.

I believe this belongs to you.

She was so innocent,
so naive.

We both were.

Of course, that doesn't make...

Look, I know it was
a long time ago

but I never had the chance
to apologize.

I owe you that.

I looked for you, Frank.

For the longest time
I searched for you in crowds

as if you'd suddenly reappear.

I was so sure
you'd come back.

Well, I felt like such
a coward.

I did the only thing
I could think of.

Went straight into the army.

Four years of service
can give a person

a whole new perspective
on life.

When I finally got out,
I came back, to find you.

-You did?
-I did.

Of course by then it was
already too late.

I found out you were
already married.

Already starting a family
of your own.

You could have called me.

At least I would have known
you were ok.

You seemed happy.

I didn't want to bother that...

I figured the best thing to do
was to just let you be.

I had no idea.

Well, pretty soon after that
I met Helen.

We got married, had 30
wonderful years together,

but when I found
this photo of us

I couldn't help but wonder
what if.

What if you gave me
another chance?

Lisa: You cooked lunch
for 30 people?

Yeah, the caterer cancelled.

What was I supposed to do,
let the whole thing fall apart?

Lisa: That's what a normal
person would do, yes.

Maybe.

I really enjoyed it, though.

You know, something about being
in that restaurant.

I mean, the smells,

seeing their faces when
we brought the food out.

This is the place
that's for sale?

Yeah.

I don't know, maybe
I'm crazy,

but it kind of sounds like
the perfect opportunity.

Opportunity for what?

For you.

You said that this place
was a holiday paradise,

which you love.

Lisa: Not to mention
that lodge guy,

which clearly you have
something going on with.

Ok. Uh, I am not saying
that's true.

Even if I was, I couldn't
just abandon you.

,
but let's be honest.

It was never your dream job
to serve pastries and coffee.

Yeah, but I have no complaints.

Besides, it's not like I have
a pile of cash lying around

to buy a restaurant.

Well, you could, if I found
a new partner.

Colin and I have been
talking about

going into business lately,

and I am sure he'd be happy
to buy out your shares.

Ok. Well, now it sounds like
you're trying to get rid of me.

All I'm saying is that you don't
have to worry about me.

f
for a change.

Yeah. Maybe.

Think about it.

After I came out of the service,
I moved to Chicago.

Opened up a hardware store,
did pretty well too.

Till the big change came in.

And what about your family?
No kids?

We tried for a while.
It just wasn't meant to be.

You?

Two daughters,
five grandchildren.

Wow. That's great.

You remember how many moonlight
strolls we used to take?

That was certainly
a simpler time.

I always wanted to take you
to some place fancy.

Just wasn't in the cards
back then.

Well, I never much cared about
all that.

I mean, back then I was just
happy to have you by my side.

Oh, I can't remember the last
time I had so much fun

just walking around down here.

I can't remember
walking this much, period.

[laughs]

Hold on.

Wait a sec.

Really? A reindeer?

I think it's a good look on you.

Although, it feels like
it's missing a little something.

Uh, wait a second.

Oh, ok. Mm-hm.

Yep. There we go, much better.

Well, if we are gonna play
that game.

There.

-Now we're a team.
-Yeah.

You know what this moment
calls for?

I think I do.

A selfie.

Of course.

This has been fun, Frank.

It certainly has.

[violin playing "Silent Night"]

♪

♪

What do you say?
One dance, for old times' sake?

♪

There's something
I have to ask.

What's that?

Why'd you leave, Frank?

I thought I was gonna spend
the rest of my life with you.

I was young, naive.

I listened to the wrong people.

If you really loved me

it wouldn't have mattered
what anyone said.

I know that now.

After you left, my father said
it was for the best.

I hated him for saying that.

But the longer I waited,
the more I knew he was right.

Look, about your father...

I'm sorry, Frank.
I thought I could let it go.

But, with you standing there,

the pain, it's like
it's yesterday.

Claire.

I'm sorry, Frank.

I'm not the girl in
the photo anymore.

Claire, please...
I can explain.

♪

[phone ringing]

Hey, what's up.

Not too much.

Just walking around, enjoying
a private little concert.

What happened?
Where's, where's Claire?

Oh, it was all just a little
too much for her right now.

Frank, I'm sorry.

Listen, stay where you are.
I'll be right there.

I'll be here.

Hey, there you are.

Hey, um...

I want to show you something.

Um... actually, now is not
really a good time.

It'll only take a second,
I promise.

Ok.

You've been so helpful,

I just wanted to do something
little for you in return.

This is, this is really nice,
but I really have to go.

Just wait one...
one second.

Wait for it.

There.

I heard there was
a meteor shower tonight.

I know we're not on a rooftop,

and I know this isn't
Christmas Eve,

but I wasn't sure
if you'd still be here.

So, this is the best
I could do.

I really appreciate this.

I just... I really have to go,
I'm sorry.

Before you go, there's something
I need to say.

Look, I know that you came here
for Frank,

and I know that you haven't
had the best experience

with love lately.

I just... I don't think this
place will feel the same way

without you here.

Look, you're a nice guy,

but at some point we have
to go back to reality.

Trust me. In a couple
of weeks

I am just going to be another
name in your guestbook.

I don't...

I, I have to get back
to Frank.

I'm sorry.

♪

Frank, I'm sorry.

Oh, you've got nothing
to be sorry about.

If it hadn't been for you,

I never would have
even tried.

If it hadn't been for me,
you wouldn't be sitting here

alone on a bench two days
before Christmas.

It's all right.

I got my second chance.

I got to feel like I was 18
all over again.

Besides, sitting out here
all by myself

gave me a chance to think
about what really matters.

I never had a chance to raise
a child of my own.

I may never speak
to Claire again.

That's ok.

I'm already sitting next
to the most

incredible, kindest woman
in town.

I don't know if I could ask for

a better Christmas present
than that.

[sighs]

♪

Hey, Mr. Emory.

Claire was in the rec room
last time I saw her.

Actually, I was wondering if
you could give her this for me?

No problem.

Thank you.

You sure you don't want to say
goodbye to Steve?

Yeah, I just want to get going.

Thanks.

Oh, Ms. Alberts.
I have something for you.

Mr. Emory left this.

Thanks.

♪

"Dearest Claire,

"Enclosed is a ring I made
over 50 years ago.

"I had planned on proposing
with it back then,

"but when I asked your father
for his blessing,

"he convinced me
you deserved a man

"who could afford
a diamond ring.

"Who could provide you
with all the luxuries

"and privileges you deserved.

"That I just wasn't
good enough for you.

"My mistake was believing him.

"It was the biggest regret
of my life.

"Love, Frank."

[knocking at door]

♪

[phone ringing]

I don't know about you,

but I can't wait to sleep
in my own bed.

Draw a nice hot bath.

[phone chimes]

Everything ok?

Um, yeah.

When I get home I can't wait
to light a nice fire,

pour myself a glass of...

[scream]
Ah!

[tires screeching]

You know, maybe we can
just keep him.

That a no?

Ok.

Here we go again.

Ok. I'm just gonna run him
in real quick.

I'll be here.

Ok.

Claire?

♪

♪

Good boy.

Pardon me, sorry.

I think this belongs to you.

All these years...
I had no idea.

I never wanted a diamond ring,
Frank.

All I ever wanted was you.

♪

♪

I'll take that dance now,
if it's not too late.

♪

Frank?

♪

♪

You came back

and I don't want to spend
another day without you.

[dog barks]

[laughs]

Guess I'm not the only one
who's glad you're back.

Guess not.

♪

♪