A Suite Holiday Romance (2025)

[bunniefuu]

In the glitter of tinsel and time,

author Hazel Holley gave us Cordelia,

a little girl who wandered the halls

of the Grand Fairbanks Hotel,

where the chandeliers whispered stories

over marble polished floors.

The magnificent hotel was more

than just a setting, though.

It was a character.

Through Hazel's beloved Cordelia books,

read by millions of

children over the decades,

Cordelia became their companion.

Graceful, curious,

and quietly brave,

she reminded us all that

sometimes not quite belonging

is its own kind of magic.

Awesome. Here you go.

Have a great day.

Thank you. Oh, nice of you to join us.

It was just announced on

Insta that the Braxton jewels

are coming to New York.

- The Braxton what now?

- Don't you read the news?

I don't consider Insta news,

and your algorithm only shows you

gossip about the royal family.

The Braxton collection has never

been on public display before.

- This is a big deal!

- Yeah, big deal.

- We have to go!

- Okay.

- I'm going to be a little busy.

- Huh?

- The book I'm writing?

- Oh.

I'm moving into the Grand

Fairbanks Hotel until Christmas?

Right. Ugh. The apartment

is going to feel so lonely without you.

- Who's going to do the dishes?

- Okay. It's just for 10 days.

Uh, no. It is for the 10 most festive days

- of the year, Sabrina.

- Yeah. You know,

ghostwriting a memoir in a five-star hotel

or listening to Barry do

his annual disco version

of "O Holy Night,"

not really a tossup.

I am so curious

whose memoir you're writing.

You would tell me if it

was someone royal, right?

You know I signed a nondisclosure.

Ugh. Well, they must be rich

if they are putting you up

at the Grand Fairbanks.

I know. It makes sense

that we're under the same roof.

The deadline's so tight to Christmas.

- How did they find you?

- I wrote that piece

for the 50th anniversary

of the Cordelia books.

Oh. This is a huge deal, Sabrina.

Your first published book.

I know. I'm just...

I'm just starting to feel

a little nervous writing

somebody's life story.

Ooh, idea. Why don't we

grab a drink at the hotel

once you're all settled?

You know, maybe we will meet

a famous actor or a handsome royal.

I bet that's where

the Braxtons are staying,

and Lord Braxton is incredibly private.

He would definitely hire a ghostwriter.

- Nice try. NDA.

- Ugh! A-OK.

At least promise me to enjoy the

hotel while you're there?

You've been all work

and zero sparkle lately.

- Okay. I promise I will try.

- Hmm.

The floor is yours.

On to the next chapter.

Hi. Sabrina Parker, checking in.

Miss Parker, merry Christmas,

and welcome to the Grand Fairbanks.

I'm Leo. I'll be your concierge.

Oh. So nice to meet you.

We have you staying

in the Cordelia Suite.

The... Cordelia Suite?

Mr. Westcott is expecting you

in the penthouse suite

for high tea at 4:00 PM.

The holidays are a magical

time at the Grand Fairbanks.

One never knows what might happen.

Ooh!

I understand. The piece

was appraised at $2.4 million.

Excellent. Alright.

I'll ship it out today.

Happy holidays, Mr. Clooney.

Sabrina, it is so nice to

finally meet you in person.

- You're lovely.

- Oh, you, too. Thank you,

and thank you so much

for the suite, Mr. Westcott.

- Well...

- It's really special.

Cordelia brought us together,

and I thought it was

just most appropriate.

- Yeah.

- And you managed to capture

the essence of Hazel

Holley in your article,

and that is not an easy thing to do.

I think that she is the greatest

children's author of all time,

and the Cordelia books

are why I became a writer.

Why don't you have a seat?

Yes. Of course.

So, where do we start?

First painting I ever sold?

The time I traded a

sculpture for a penthouse?

I... I don't know what would

be interesting nowadays.

This... this is all just my life.

You have brokered some

of the biggest art deals

in history.

Why tell your story now?

I'm not getting any younger,

and I'm hoping that what we do

will inspire people to dream

like I did.

I love that. Okay. Let's

get started, since we only have

- until Christmas Eve.

- Okay. Alright.

You said you're going out of the country?

Yes. I just moved to Rome. I'm

opening a new gallery there.

Oh, wow. Uh, do you mind if I

record our conversations?

No. Please. So, Sabrina,

this project is... is very,

very important to me.

Oh, me, too.

"Hazel Holley's

prose reminds us that life,

much like the hotel at Christmastime,

glows with doors waiting to be opened,

and perhaps that's

Cordelia's lasting legacy,

the quiet understanding that

even the briefest places

"we pass through leave their

light with us forever."

My article.

Yes, and it's beautiful.

If what you write for me is

half as eloquent as that,

I will be a very happy man.

- Okay.

- Let's get started.

Twenty...

I'm starving.

Um...

Okay.

Hi! Yes. Can I order

your cranberry Claus turkey sandwich?

No. No. You're closed.

Is... is your bar kitchen still open?

Three more minutes. Okay.

Can you put an order in

and I will be right there to pick it up?

Okay. Thank you so much.

You are a lifesaver!

Everything seems

to be going well so far.

Thank you. Yes. I'll... I'll do my best.

Um, I'm going to have to call you back.

Mmm.

Thank you.

- Excuse me.

- Hmm?

Why are you eating my sandwich?

Oh, no. This is not your sandwich.

- This is my sandwich.

- I think you might be mistaken.

No. I think you

might be mistaken.

That's a great robe.

You headed off to a slumber party?

Sorry. You can have mine.

That's very sweet of you. I appreciate it.

- Okay. Well, goodnight.

- Listen. Wait. Wait.

I'm... I'm teasing you.

Please, stay. Eat.

Why stop now?

Sure. Um, so, are you...

You're visiting from... England?

London. Yeah.

Holiday? Work?

- Um, a bit of both.

- Mm.

I work for a charity,

and we have a... we have

an event in the city.

And you? Are... are you visiting from...

- Oh, I live here.

- Okay.

I mean, I'm... I live

in Brooklyn. I'm not...

I'm in the hotel for a writing assignment.

Something tantalizing, I hope.

I can't really talk about it.

Oh, stop. Well, now,

you've got me intrigued.

Let me... let me guess. Um...

- Politicians.

- Mm.

No. Too droll.

Um, saucy celebrities.

Too crass. Okay.

Um, God. It's not royals

behaving badly, is it?

Okay. So, which one of those are you?

None. Sad thing. My... my drama

potential is virtually nil.

Okay. Well, I should be getting

back to my slumber party.

Wait. Wait. Um...

You know, the night's still young.

Maybe I can buy you a drink?

Aw. You said you weren't saucy.

Technically, it's morning,

and the bar is closing.

Well, look. Um, if you ever

fancy another stolen sandwich

and painfully awkward small talk,

I'm here until Christmas.

- Enjoy.

- You too.

- Yours.

- Mine.

And I'll...

- Merry Christmas.

- Merry Christmas.

So, how did

you get into the art world?

My father was a painter.

Did he do anything I would have seen?

Not unless you went

to Plattsburgh, New York.

He was a house painter.

He would work hard all day,

but at night, he would come home,

and he would paint these

beautiful, vivid landscapes.

I remember sitting and

watching him paint for hours

when I was a child.

Where are those paintings now?

They're in my private collection.

- Mm.

- And they are appraised at

zero dollars.

But to me, they're priceless,

because they always remind me

of a very important lesson.

- Which is?

- My father never believed

that his art had value.

He painted houses till the day he died.

Which is why you help artists

find audiences and make a living.

Everyone must know their worth.

Excuse me, young man.

A butler should glide silently,

never too eager,

always composed.

Almost sounds like

you're speaking from experience.

Are you?

I was a butler when I was young,

right here in the Grand Fairbanks,

and very few people know that.

Okay. We... we have to include this.

I don't think that's a good idea.

Oh, Grayson, I mean,

all parts of your past only

add to your brilliance,

and it also helps make you

a little more human

in the best possible way.

- I don't think so.

- Oh.

Well, at least tell me about it,

and then we could decide later?

You are very persistent.

I want your readers to

feel like they know you,

truly know you.

Well, I suppose I could share a little,

and then we'll figure it out.

- Thank you.

- Where to begin?

It was Christmas, 1969.

I was 18, and I thought I had it all,

a uniform, a decent paycheque.

And I was the butler to Hazel Holley,

right here in this suite.

Grayson, what would you

give a turtle for Christmas?

I beg your pardon, Ms. Holley?

I'm writing Cordelia At Christmastime,

and she's quite keen on

giving her pet turtle a gift.

Mm. Perhaps she could transform

its tank into a snow globe,

a sort of miniature winter terrarium.

Splendid. I like that.

Glad I could be of

assistance, Ms. Holley.

- Oh, please, call me Hazel.

- Mm.

Miss Holley makes me

sound like a spinster,

- or worse, a librarian.

- Ugh.

Please, sit.

Oh.

So, Grayson, tell me about yourself.

Oh. Born and raised upstate.

I've been at the hotel

three years now, since I was 15.

And what do you plan to do after this?

This. I'm content here.

I meet all kinds of interesting people,

- like Grace Kelly...

- Mm.

- Sammy Davis Jr.

- Mm.

- Oh, Nat King Cole.

- Mm-hmm.

Oh, Frank Sinatra.

- You.

- Ah!

Well...

- But I do wonder.

- Mm.

Imagine a life where

you're not just a part

of someone else's story but the

author of your own. Hmm?

I'll think about it.

Mm. This needs just a

touch more amaretto, mm?

- Yes.

- Yes.

Hazel treated life like an adventure

that she was personally invited to.

I really hope that you decide to tell me

more about Hazel and

Cordelia and the hotel.

I mean, I know that readers will love

this chapter of your life. I already do.

Take some time and get

to know the Grand Fairbanks.

She's like Hazel,

one of a kind.

Beautiful. It just

came in this morning.

Yes. It'll be here.

Oh. Careful. It's been known

to cause spontaneous twirling.

Would you like to try it on?

Oh, thank you, but I... I

couldn't. That's not necessary.

Girl, you don't have to buy it

to feel beautiful in it.

Okay.

Oh, it's gorgeous.

You planning on lifting that, too?

Ha, ha.

I'll give you a minute.

I'm, uh... I'm Ian. Please

to properly meet you.

I'm sorry. Do you mind? Uh...

Oh! Yes, of course. Yeah.

Uh, okay. Let me see.

Got it.

Absolutely stunning.

The necklace. I... The...

I mean the necklace.

- Yeah.

- Yeah.

Stunning.

Um, I don't think so, though.

Why don't I put it on hold

in case you change your mind?

Anticipation is the soul of enjoyment.

Elizabeth Gaskell.

Impressive. She's

the subject of my thesis.

What's your name, my fellow

literary aficionado?

I'm Sabrina Parker.

I'm staying in the Cordelia Suite.

Lucky you. I love those books.

Oh, don't even get me started.

I'll put this on hold.

You know, I need to leave

before she convinces me

that I need to buy the matching earrings.

Right. Um, fancy some air?

So, as a literacy lover,

you must be enjoying the Cordelia Suite.

Guilty as charged.

I mean, there's nothing better

than seeing the look of joy

on a kid's face when they... when

they read a good book.

- Thank you.

- Do you have kids?

No. No. No kids. Not yet.

Uh, the charity I'm here with

is a literacy initiative

called Read For the Stars.

That's wonderful.

The benefactors of the charity have, uh,

a bit of a soft spot for the city.

I have to say, I'm starting to see why.

The energy, the people.

You must love it here.

Oh, I do.

I do, especially around the holidays.

I mean, it just gets a little brighter,

a little softer.

Even the cab drivers are nicer.

Well, it's my first time in the city,

so if there are any secret

hotspots you know about,

I hope you share them.

Um...

- Oh, uh...

- Oh, here.

- Thank you.

- I will...

Sorry.

Oh, dear. Um, one second.

- Yeah.

- Hello.

Okay. Don't do...

Don't do anything until

I get there, alright?

I'm coming... I'm coming right now.

I'm sorry. I think

I'm going to need to dash.

Oh, of course.

Um, I hope I can meet you

later for a drink?

Oh, I, um... I already have plans.

Uh, another time, then, I hope.

Do you have anything

that matches those earrings?

Come on, Ian. Take a hint.

So sorry.

If money were no object,

which it is not,

which of these would you chose?

How can a girl pick just one?

Oh.

Do you mind if I

see the ring? Sizing, of course.

Oh, oh, oh, oh! Hello. Well, it's time

for your nap, eh? That jetlag

must be catching up with you.

I'm sorry. He's not himself.

- To be continued.

- Well, we'll see,

because they look expensive. Let's go.

- They aren't that expensive.

- Well, uh... Duh, duh, duh!

Oh, come on. Let's go.

Have you lost your mind?

An angel walks among us.

How could any mortal man resist?

Please, please tell me

she doesn't know you're Lord Braxton.

Oh, Spencer, I promised your mother

I would keep you out of trouble.

Mother will adore her, alright?

Tabitha... Tabitha. Tabitha. Tabby. Tabby.

Tabby Cat is working at the hotel

while she finishes her PhD.

She's studying Elizabeth

Gaskell and has a fondness

for roasted chestnuts.

I've never met anyone

who loves roasted

chestnuts as much as I.

You remember why we're here, right?

The exhibition to raise money for charity,

not to... to satiate your love life.

I'm perfectly aware why we are here.

Why else would I agree to

this public appearance?

No. The press... the press is

like a fruitcake at Christmas.

Nobody truly wants them.

They just keep turning up.

So, what's going on with Tabby Cat?

We're going to see the Rockettes.

- Ah.

- And I was just picking

something nice for her to wear.

You know,

a scarf is something nice to wear.

Perfume is something nice to wear,

not $50,000 worth of extravagant jewelry.

- Oh.

- I suppose I should be grateful

it wasn't an engagement ring.

I just met her.

Are you mad?

- Are you?

- Am I?

You proposed to Sherry

at Chamonix after 48 hours.

- So?

- You proposed to Elena

in Greece after about two weeks.

- Opa.

- And let's not forget Ingrid,

whose proposal I found

out via skywriting.

Wrote it in the sky. That's sorcery.

You propose marriage faster

than the ball dropping

- on New Year's Eve, mate.

- It's called being romantic.

You ought to try it, Mr. Humbug.

- I would love to try it...

- Huh.

If I wasn't solely in charge

of keeping you out of trouble.

- Is this about your ex?

- Ah.

Sorry.

Look. I haven't found the one, either,

but Tabby Cat certainly has potential!

- Dah, dah, dah!

- Potential!

I don't want to hear it. We

have bigger kippers in the pan,

you and I. We are meeting with

the museum curator,

so I need you to be

on your best behaviour

to go over the final arrangements.

That sounds about as romantic

as the time that you

and I got food poisoning

from the chippy at uni.

Ugh. Don't remind me.

Could you have ordered a bigger drink?

I tried. They wouldn't let me.

Oh.

- Really?

- What?

I always wear this when I go out,

which you would know if

you ever came out with me.

The tag is still on.

Whatever. Where are them royals at?

You know, probably petting

their polo ponies or foxhunting.

- I don't know.

- You are no fun.

Let's let them be royals

on their own, okay?

Whatever. Cheers.

- Salut.

- Ah!

The museum is thrilled you chose us

to debut the Braxton jewel collection.

Well, as you may know,

Lady Braxton grew up in New York,

so this city has a very

special place in her heart,

and with the proceeds

going to the Read For the Stars charity,

it wasn't exactly a

difficult decision for us.

- Are you eavesdropping?

- We're just grateful

to have real royals in attendance.

- Can you be cool?

- I'm cool. Are you cool?

- Can you be cool?

- Can you be cool?

I think that is Lord Braxton.

Who? Him? Oh!

Oh, uh...

Sabrina?

Huh.

Ian?

Hi!

Okay. So, wait. Let me get this straight.

Lord Braxton... like, the Lord Braxton,

who has not revealed that

he is a Braxton... is into you?

- Maybe?

- And obviously,

- you are into him, too.

- I just met him.

He's nice, a little private.

Yeah. He is notoriously private.

That's his thing. He's like an enigma.

He never lets himself

be photographed in public.

I don't know why, because

he is clearly hot.

He's really cute. But

I mean, like, what would

- what would he want with me?

- Oh, please. You are my queen.

You could be his queen.

Oh, there is one thing, though.

He is a serial proposer.

What, like, marriage proposals?

Mm. He proposed to a woman

after three days once.

They call him the runaway lord.

His actual name is Spencer, though.

Oh, no. No, no, no, no.

He said his name was Ian.

- Yeah. Of course he did.

- What do you mean?

Well, Sabrina, he's not

going to use his real name.

He is a royal. He's obviously

keeping things on the down low.

Okay. That seems just, like...

- Do you think?

- Mm-hmm. All I'm saying is,

keep your eyes peeled for a

little blue jewelry box.

- Oh, come on.

- I got to go.

The cats won't feed themselves.

- Keep me posted.

- Goodnight!

- Goodnight!

- Sabrina.

- Oh.

- Hi. I'm sorry.

The concierge told me you'd be out here.

- Mm-hmm.

- Um, is

- is your friend alright?

- Oh, my friend.

Yes. Sorry. She was just royally f

really flustered,

just about the magic

of the holiday season!

Well, uh, actually, that's

that's what I wanted to talk to you about.

I was kind of hoping you'd show me

one of those secret holiday

spots only locals know.

Huh.

Do you like to party?

I think so.

Huh.

Maybe "party" means something

different across the pond.

I mean, it's

not Piccadilly Circus

or Buckingham Palace,

but it's my idea of a good time.

I practically grew up here.

It's where I discovered

the power of story,

how it shapes us,

how we get lost within the magic,

and they have the largest collection

of children's Christmas

books in the state.

At Christmas, they always held

all kinds of events,

author signings, book readings,

white elephant book exchanges.

My mom volunteered here,

so it's always been my

home away from home.

Used to? They don't anymore?

People just aren't interested.

Without the resources, it's

hard to get them engaged.

Mm-hmm. Yeah. No. I understand.

Books are getting lost in

our high-tech world.

So, tell me about that, um,

that charity that you mentioned.

Read For the Stars.

We offer one-to-one tutoring

to children with learning difficulties.

We give them the skills

and the confidence

they need to thrive.

We've seen kids go from barely reading

to giving speeches to

hundreds of people.

It's... it's transformative.

It's rewarding to see them grow.

Stays with you.

Yeah, it really does.

You... you could be

anywhere in the world,

doing anything,

but instead,

you're here,

doing something that actually matters.

This charity, it means everything to me.

And I have to say, I'm finding

the company in New York

even more captivating than the skyline.

Okay. So, the lights on

the Empire State Building

change colour depending

what's going on in the city

or even around the world.

Millions of people are rushing

around this tiny little island,

and somehow, we can all look up

and feel like we're part

of something together.

I love that.

Strangers connected by

hopes and dreams.

Just a little insecurity

with all these go-getters.

I'm curious. What do you

have to be insecure about?

I don't know. All sorts of things.

Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa!

Thank you for that. Uh...

I guess I'm insecure about

my clumsiness.

I mean, well, you know,

reindeer crossings and cabs,

it's making it an obstacle

course in this city.

If you hold my hand,

I'm not afraid of a bit of adventure.

Where to next?

You know, your energy is contagious.

Well, then you must be the spark.

- Sorry.

- Yeah.

Huh. What is there to do in Atlantic City?

Uh, random question.

- I know.

- Gambling.

Ah. Well, no worries, then.

Or get married.

I have to run. Um, I'm so sorry.

- Something's just come up.

- Oh, I hope nothing serious.

No, no! It's, uh, a

date. Uh, an engagement.

Um, you know what? Let's... let's

call you a cab. Yeah.

- Okay.

- I know. I know.

A crazy, crazy thing, the weirdest thing,

but we're... we're...

Everything's been great.

I had such a lovely time,

honestly. I really did.

- But...

- No, no. Just can't have

too much of a good thing.

You know what I mean?

Uh, Grand Fairbanks. Go!

Quick!

I've never seen Spencer so focused.

Just straight as an arrow.

Speak with him? Um, he's

actually in the shower

at the moment, so I'm afraid

he can't talk just now.

You know what? I left

the kettle on the boil.

Can I, uh... Can I give you a

call back? Lovely. Yep.

Thank you. Bye, bye, bye, bye, bye.

Where on Earth have you been?

I was looking for you half the night.

Where haven't I been? Oh.

Hands. Show me your hand.

- Hand, hand, hand, hands.

- Why? Why?

I thought you'd gotten married.

Married? It's only 10:00 AM, mate.

I don't consider nuptials

until at least noon.

Eh, I'm not in the mood for your

banter this morning, alright?

I'm in the mood for brekky

or brunch or lunch. Wow.

You know what I'm in the mood for?

I'm in the mood for you to grow

up. You're a lord, Spencer.

Yeah. Once you've grown up, you

can never go back, Ian.

I'd be happy to discuss this further,

right after a little nap.

- Humour me, Grayson.

- Mm.

How does a butler become

one of the world's most

powerful art dealers?

You have a gift of turning prying

- into a compliment.

- Thank you.

But I suppose it's not fair

to, um, keep you hanging.

What do you think Cordelia

wants for Christmas,

a spaceship or a fire truck?

Choose carefully. This will

determine her future occupation.

A spaceship.

I think she should be an astronaut.

You're a good man, Grayson.

Most men would say

she needs another doll.

We know she can do anything.

- She's the future.

- Mm.

Good heavens! It's 6:30 already!

- Didn't your shift end?

- Well, I'm not in a hurry.

You're 18 years old. You

should always be in a hurry

to meet a pretty girl

or advance your career.

Actually, I'm staying to work

the Mistletoe Social tonight.

- Oh, good initiative.

- Why aren't you going?

It won't be a party without you.

Oh, you'll be fine.

Life has a funny way of showing up

when you're not looking for it, Grayson.

So, did you go?

- Come with me.

- Where?

To the Mistletoe Social. It's tonight.

Do you believe it's still

around after all these years?

Yeah. I... I... I've heard

something about that,

but I... I mean, Grayson,

time is ticking, and we only just began.

Come with me to the social.

I'll tell you the rest of the story.

- I don't even have a dress.

- Well, I happen to know

some people who know some people

who have exquisite taste.

Miss Parker.

You may have just outshone

the Christmas tree,

which is not easy to do at

the Grand Fairbanks.

You look positively radiant.

Couldn't have done it without you, Leo.

My pleasure.

Sabrina.

- You look like a work of art.

- Thank you.

Call it an investment

in our creative process.

Well, now. I said yes to

sequins and champagne.

- Yes.

- Now, it's your turn

to say yes to the past.

What happened at the social?

Being subtle is not your strong suit.

- It is not.

- Yes, I did indeed attend.

- Mm.

- Shall we?

Yes.

I met someone here,

on the floor.

On the dance floor?

Something like that.

Are you okay?

- Fine, thank you.

- You're underneath a table.

- I'm hiding from my date.

- Why?

When he got up to dance, a jewelry box

slipped out of his pocket.

I'm worried it's meant for me.

You don't want jewelry? That

would be a first in this hotel.

The box was the square kind

that holds an engagement ring.

We've only been going steady a year.

So, what's the issue, Miss, uh...

Ash. Charlotte.

I'm only 18. I can't marry anyone yet.

I thought that's what

these parties were for.

Girls with parents on

the New York social register

meet Ivy League boys and get

married here at the hotel.

Ugh. That sounds dreadful.

I want to do more with my life

than eat cucumber sandwiches

at the Ivy Court. Thank you very much.

What is it you want to do?

Study fashion in London.

If my mother finds out Timothy proposed,

she'll be on the phone

with the wedding planner

faster than she can run up her

Sterling's charge card.

You can't stay on the floor.

Dance with me, then.

I can't.

Please.

- Grayson?

- Yes.

- Grayson Westcott.

- Yes.

It's Bunny, Bunny Malette!

Oh, yes, Bunny.

You look wonderful.

Well, thank you.

- I'm Sabrina.

- Oh, yes.

- Hi.

- This is Sabrina Parker.

We're working on something together.

Sabrina, would you mind

if I stole Grayson

for a quick little drinky-poo?

- Oh, of course.

- Yeah.

Have fun.

Mother should be here, not me.

Thankfully, barely anyone

recognizes me here in New York.

Well, it's important

to me that you're here,

especially since the Mistletoe organizers

chose Read For the Stars as

this year's charity.

You are forever the do-gooder, Ian,

and I am grateful to you.

Thank you.

I'm serious.

You're a kind man,

and you make me look good.

- Meow.

- There she is!

Looking dangerous ravishing

this evening, darling.

Then you'd better keep

your wits about you.

Oh, I refuse.

Ian, excuse me.

May I introduce Miss Tabitha Johnson?

Yes. We met at the boutique.

- Hi.

- Oh.

This charity is so important.

I wish my brother had something

like this when he was little.

It was hard watching him struggle.

This charity is the air in my lungs.

Well, I hope he got the help he needed.

A little later than we

would have liked, but yes.

- Thank you.

- Good. I'm glad to hear it.

As am I glad to hear it.

Yeah?

Would you excuse me for a moment?

- Of course.

- Um, short leash.

Sabrina.

Look. I'm terribly sorry about last night.

You look absolutely stunning.

Mm. Stunning enough for you to

stick around this time?

I, uh, I called you,

and I texted you earlier. Did

you not receive them?

Oh, no. I received them.

Not to judge a book by its cover,

but it seems like you're

a little miffed at me.

Well, where's your date for the evening?

Oh. Did you already shove her in

a cab and send her home alone?

I see. Not my finest moment.

Do you believe in second chances?

I believe you're on your third.

But I'll let you buy me a drink.

For charity.

- Should we take a seat?

- Yeah.

So, how's your top-secret assignment

coming along?

It's different from what

I thought it was going to be,

but it's good.

- Still classified?

- Yes, and if I told you,

I'd have to write you out of the book.

You know, if you really are CIA,

you're totally wasting your

talents with me.

I haven't been inside 10

Downing in years.

Oh, like you're not

close with the prime minister.

I wouldn't say we're on a

first-name basis. No.

Well, whatever it is, it

must be pretty special

to land you a stay here.

You know, you didn't mention

that you're here with the Braxtons.

Well, discretion's my middle name,

especially when that name

tends to arrive before you do.

Mm.

But this, this...

The fundraising, the cause,

that's what really matters to me.

That... That's...

That's wonderful.

I mean, something like

Read For the Stars

would just be so good for this city.

I was one of those kids.

I struggled. The words blurred.

The... the letters

danced around the page.

It made me feel like I was

a bit of a lost cause.

Then one tutor thought

I was worth the trouble.

He had me read out loud with

rhythm.

Mm.

It was like music.

Something clicked.

Changed everything.

Well, is a New York chapter a possibility?

We're trying to reach

as many children as we can.

You know, you are

you are not how I expected you to be.

You're very humble, very grounded.

I aim to be pleasantly unpredictable.

Oh, well...

I mean...

What?

You know, I should... I

should get back to the party

and leave you to your obligations.

Sure, but I want you to know

this has been my favourite

obligation by far.

So, how was Bunny?

Dramatic, elegant, and

slightly over-perfumed

As expected.

Okay. Grayson, you have to tell me now.

Did you end up dancing with Charlotte?

I did.

Would you care for a spin?

Sure.

I shouldn't be dancing with you.

First rule of being a butler

at the Grand Fairbanks

is doing whatever a guest says.

There's still plenty of time

for your boyfriend to propose.

Then we'll dance all night,

and tomorrow, peppermint

cheesecake at the Carousel.

My treat.

May I cut in?

Oh. Uh, of course.

Great.

- Grayson.

- Hi.

Where'd you disappear to?

Sabrina.

May I have this dance?

I'd like that.

Sabrina, I need to tell you something.

The last few days,

I haven't been able

to get you out of my mind.

It's like unwrapping

a Christmas present

you didn't know you wanted

but now you can't imagine being without.

I feel the same.

- Ian.

- Yes?

- Are you...

- Hopelessly in need

of seeing you again?

But I have to go.

Obligation beckons.

Again? Really?

I'm sorry.

I promise I'll explain everything.

Maybe four dozen

cookies? How does that sound?

Perfect. Thank you so much.

I really appreciate it.

You're the best. Thank you.

Absolutely. Yeah. I'll make

sure that they're there.

- Hey. Oh, hold on. Spencer!

- Yes?

What time did you get in last night?

I was looking for you all morning.

- Oh, not bad. Half four?

- Half fo...

What happened to a short leash?

I chewed through it. See you at the car.

He chewed through it.

Okay. What is your deal?

Uh, you're going to have

to be more specific.

I don't know if you're coming or

going or what is going on.

I mean, what is with all the mystery?

You know, it's funny you

mention mystery, actually,

because I have a... a little

surprise that I planned tonight

- if you're free.

- Oh, goody. More mystery.

I promise I won't

run out on you this time.

Please?

Okay. If you do,

you better keep running all

the way to merry old England.

I wouldn't dream of it. I promise.

Ian!

I do, however, have

somewhere to be just now.

Why am I not surprised?

Hi. Yes. Delivered promptly at 7:00.

- Ian!

- Yes, please.

Oh!

Thank you. Yeah. Got to go.

Got to go. Bye. Spencer!

Thank you so much for this.

This place is perfect for the exhibition.

Well, the response

has been incredible.

You can see here that the descriptions

are per your approvals.

Great. Yeah. Amazing. Thank you.

And we were particularly intrigued

by the chocolate

diamond engagement ring.

Who wouldn't be?

So, is it true the queen herself gave it

- to the elder Lord Braxton?

- Oh, yes.

The royal family badly wanted

Grandfather to settle down.

He finally did when he

proposed to my grandmother.

A commoner.

She was the only woman

who could tame him.

- Mm.

- After he passed,

Grandmother gifted the ring to me

in hopes that I'd finally settle down.

One can only hope.

One can only try.

That handsome young

man you were dancing with

last night, he seemed to have

departed pretty quickly.

Yeah. That's actually Lord

Braxton from the Braxton family.

He, um... he had something to attend to.

The Lord Braxton?

I know. I don't feel like I fit in

with the royal world, but...

I do enjoy his company.

Okay, enough about me.

I was searching the Times archive,

and I couldn't find

any wedding announcements

for a Charlotte Ash.

What happened after

the Mistletoe Social?

Well...

No engagement ring.

Timothy broke it off with me.

I was so relieved, I nearly kissed him.

My mother, however, was crushed.

She's practically thrown me

at every eligible bachelor in the city.

So, that's where you've been?

I told her I'm done with all that nonsense,

and she finally gave in.

I leave end of January

for the Royal Academy

of Design in London.

My mother thinks I'm going

to snag some British Earl,

but I want my own fashion line.

Well, have you always

wanted to be a designer?

Mm-hmm. I've been dressing my

Cordelia doll in high fashion

since I was a little girl.

Well, are you free New Year's Eve?

We can ring it in together.

I like you, Grayson,

but... I leave in a month.

I've been waiting for this my whole life.

I need to make my way in the world.

Well... we can still spend

the time we have left.

Of course.

Sorry, it's...

It's Lord Braxton.

He wants me to meet him at

this mysterious thing tonight,

but I just...

I don't know where all this is going.

You know, he lives in another country.

It would never work.

Sabrina

only go because you want to.

That's all that matters.

You're gonna love it. Merry Christmas.

- Thanks. Merry Christmas.

- Thank you.

Spencer's friend. How can I help?

It's Ian, actually.

- Tabitha.

- Yeah.

I hope I haven't been

contributing to your anxieties.

I realize Spencer is a lot to contain.

Oh, no one's more aware, trust me.

He just needs a little guidance.

Provided he's not being

guided down yet another altar,

I'm all for it.

This hotel has no shortage

of wealthy, attractive men.

If that were my goal, I wouldn't

be standing here talking to you.

Noted.

Why do I have the feeling

that you're here for

this?

You are good.

I know.

Thank you.

Wow.

Maybe I should have

been less mysterious.

Okay. I-I overdressed.

Just give me ten, um...

Don't you dare.

It's perfect.

What did you do?

What is all of this?

It's your home away from home.

Oh my gosh, the smell in here,

it is taking me back.

My mom and I would make these

cinnamon star cookies,

and Christmas officially began

the second they hit the oven.

Do you have any traditions?

Yeah.

My favorite was, uh, the gratitude jar.

We'd each write something down

that we're thankful for,

and then we'd take them out

and we'd read them aloud

in front of each other before Christmas.

I thought you were going to

say church at Sandringham

followed by a mile-long buffet.

Okay, just because I'm English

doesn't mean my life was

an episode of The Crown.

Just because I'm a writer

doesn't mean I'm Dorothy Parker.

What do you mean by that?

Last year, I wrote this article

that got a lot of positive buzz,

and that led me to getting

the job that I have now,

which is bigger than anything

that I've ever done before.

I'm worried that I might be

in a little over my head.

Aren't we all?

Did you put this all together overnight?

I was feeling inspired.

Excuse me, Ian. It's time.

Yeah, yeah. Um, could you hold onto this

for one second for me?

Yeah, sure.

Thank you.

h*, h*, h*, everyone!

Father Christmas here.

Now, who is ready to read.

Cordelia at Christmas time?

"Christmas at the Grand Fairbanks"

"was always Cordelia's

favorite time of year."

"The lobby Christmas trees

stretched all the way up"

"past the second floor,"

"and the pastries were extra tasty."

I'm sorry. That's my phone.

- Okay. Sorry.

- Looks like Santa got

a phone call, but his friend's

going to take care of it.

"Cordelia loved many

things at Christmastime,"

"the twinkling lights,

the smell of cinnamon and pine,"

"but more than anything,

she loved giving gifts."

Do you think you'll get

married at Westminster Abbey?

Don't you mean Buckingham Palace?

No, that is only for

official state visits and

the occasional garden party.

- Ooh, who knew?

- I knew.

And I also know that there can

only be one thing in that box,

and it goes on your finger,

and it sparkles, and it is probably huge.

Okay, that's crazy.

We only met four days ago.

Yeah, but love doesn't wear

a watch, unless it's a Rolex.

He doesn't even know

that I know that he's a lord.

Even if he wasn't one,

why would he be interested

in someone like me?

You are a successful writer.

Published writer, maybe.

I mean, it's still not my main income.

I still need to work here.

No. I just... I need to... I need

to get my feet on the ground.

I need to focus on this book.

I have five more days

to learn as much

as I can about this person

before they say, "Arrivederci."

This memoir needs

to leap from the pages.

Ooh, I have an idea.

Why don't you bring

Lord Braxton to Barry's

ugly Christmas sweater party?

I promise not to wear the tiara this time.

Okay, then I'll think about bringing him.

So, did Charlotte agree

to meet you for New Year's?

No, the story doesn't end

with Charlotte and I

eating cheesecake in a diner.

Yoo-hoo, Grayson.

You feeling all right?

You didn't refill the nuts

and this martini's been bone dry

all afternoon.

Oh, I do hope you don't have a fever.

Christmas is the worst time to get sick.

All the best doctors are in Florida.

I feel fine.

Oh.

I recognize that look.

It's the same one I had

when I followed Marlon Brando

around the Beverly Hills Hotel.

- You're a lovesick.

- I met someone.

She loves your books, by the way.

Oh, she sounds delightful.

But she's completely out of my league.

She's going to study design in London.

Out of your league? Nonsense.

There must be

something you can give her

that no other man can compete with.

I'm not really sure what that might be.

I might. Yes, okay.

Meet me on the

seventh floor at 2:00 AM.

Wear all black. We're staging a heist.

- A heist?

- A heist?

- A big one.

- Oh, dear.

Come with me.

I waited for Hazel right there.

Why do we need gloves?

So we don't leave fingerprints.

What?!

My illustrator gave me this painting,

but I didn't want to hang it in my suite,

so I loaned it to the hotel.

Technically, I still own it.

Well, if you still own it,

then why are we stealing it?

If it's mine, then we're not

really stealing, are we?

And I want to give it to you.

- To you?

- Yes, to give to Charlotte.

What does this have

to do with Charlotte?

Because you love art,

and she loves Cordelia,

and this is something

only you can give her.

I'll be fired if the hotel finds out.

Think of it as regifting. Hmm?

Everyone does it around the holidays.

Do you want to win her over or not?

Yes, I do.

All right, well, then, I'll

write you an official letter

saying that the painting belongs to you.

But how was it ever going to work?

Charlotte was going to London.

I loved her so much.

A grand gesture to convince her

to stay was my last hope.

Did it work?

Let's just say the biggest risks in life

are the ones you don't take.

I'll see you tomorrow.

Okay.

Thank you.

I thought you said formal wear.

Ooh. I meant festive.

Sabrina, you're here!

Oh, of course! I wasn't going to miss it.

Um, this is my date.

Mr. Bond, I presume.

Well, um, I hope you

don't mind me staying,

despite violating the dress code.

Sabrina, I didn't think... you...

Anna?

Are you having a stroke?

Hi. It's nice to see you again.

It's Anna, right? I'm Ian.

Oh, I... I know who you are.

Hey, it's time for eggnog, right?

Eggnog? Eggnog?

Eggnog! Eggnog! Eggnog.

That accent really makes

some people act ridiculous.

Right, guvnor?

Hit me.

- What are you doing?

- I'm getting a drink.

No, back there.

It is protocol to curtsy

when you meet royalty.

Okay, well, he doesn't know that

I know that you know

that he knows that I know

that you know that he's a royal.

That's a lot to unpack.

What if he is going

to propose here tonight

in front of everybody?

No!

None of that's happening, okay?

Just... be cool.

I'm cool. I'm cool!

Oop!

Okay, everybody,

let the games begin!

No!

Dashing through the snow

In a one-horse open sleigh

So, why aren't you dating a princess,

or Baroness, or someone famous?

I'm not sure I'd exactly

say they're my type.

I'm a very simple guy.

I like a good pub and a Sunday roast.

Okay, my equivalent would be

a good book and Famous Ray's pizza.

I don't often meet

women like you, Sabrina.

I think I'm moving in the wrong circles.

Oh, well, I'm too square

to be in any circles.

I don't know. I've probably been

too absorbed in my writing.

I haven't really left time to find

love.

I find love a little tricky, too.

What do you mean?

When I was at Oxford,

my girlfriend at the time

went home on Christmas break.

And when she came back,

she said we were incompatible.

Oh. Did you love her?

Let's just say our definition

of love was a little different.

Hers had conditions, mine didn't.

I think love should be unconditional.

Even our worst days,

it's an opportunity to grow.

I've always thought that, too.

- Can I tell you a secret?

- Yeah.

I read every one of your

articles I could find.

Oh, all three.

I like your perspective.

You treat people with fairness

and you try to find

the good in people,

regardless of the situation.

There's something I need to tell you...

- Okay.

- About, uh,

what I do for a living.

Okay, okay, group selfie,

for my Insta! Everyone get in!

Okay.

- Here, let me take it.

- No, you have to be in it.

Trust me, I'm better

on this side of the camera.

Okay.

Everyone say, "tuxedo".

Tuxedo.

So, what were you

gonna tell me at the party?

I'm sorry?

Before Barry interrupted us

with the photo.

- Here comes the bride

- Oh, yes, I was, um...

Oh, there's a wedding.

Isn't that romantic?

No.

Wait. I think that's

Tabitha from the boutique.

I wonder who the lucky guy is.

Oh, his luck's about to run out.

Would you excuse me

for just one second?

Love united in all eternity

So good. Could I borrow you?

- Yes.

- What's going on? Why...

- It's called a capella.

- Why... why... why...

What?

Is Tabitha holding a bridal bouquet?

Oh, she caught it.

Oh, yes, yes.

The other girls never stood a chance.

Listen to me.

What is going on?

- What?

- What is going on?

Breathe, Ian. Tabitha and I saw

the party and then we joined in.

It's called having a laugh.

You ought to try it sometime.

Having a laugh?

- Yes.

- I should just have a laugh.

A laugh.

I should just have a laugh.

I don't think that was a real laugh.

Oh, come now, you're fit to be tied.

Go back to your date

before some more

attentive bloke snaps her up.

Hey, hey.

I'm very attentive.

Not attentive enough.

Try these strawberries.

- I don't want a strawberry.

- They're fresh.

- Just one bite. Ian...

- I don't want a strawberry.

- I don't want a strawberry.

- Ian! Ian!

I'm so sorry.

You know the groom?

Oh, he's not the groom, thank goodness.

But yes, he's an old friend from uni.

Oh. So, he's here for

the Royal Exhibit, as well?

I hope so. Yeah.

Um...

Oh, excuse me.

- Yeah.

- It's London.

- I'm sorry. Would you mind?

- No, go ahead, sure.

Hello, Lady Violet.

Yes, yeah, absolutely.

You're coming to New York?

Lovely.

Tomorrow?

H-he will be elated.

Bye. Bye.

Lady Braxton and Lady Violet

are coming to New York

for the Royal Exhibit opening.

You mean your mother

and your grandmother?

Wait. You think I'm...

Hello, hello, hello.

Hi, I'm Sabrina.

Hello, Sabrina.

You're Ian's college roommate?

Yes. Poor fellow's been

stuck with me ever since.

And you're here for the Royal Exhibit?

- Y-yes.

- Yeah.

- Yes.

- Yes.

You should come.

Ian'll put your name on the list.

You know, I'm sorry.

I didn't catch your name.

My name?

Oh, excuse me. The strangest thing,

all of a sudden,

just got absolutely exhausted.

I think it was all the

excitement of the day.

- We should...

- We should what?

You know, we have so much

to do now that Lady Violet

and Lady Braxton

are coming to New York.

- They're coming?

- Yes.

- To New York?

- Tomorrow.

- Oh, sh...

- Should we retire?

- Yes.

- To the rooms?

- To the rooms.

- To prepare.

- Yes, yes.

- Yes.

Lovely to meet you.

Yeah.

I'll go see Tabby to a cabbie,

then I'll meet you up

in the room, all right?

- That's perfect.

- Great.

- Tabby...

- I really am sorry.

I did have an amazing night tonight.

I...

I hope I get to see you tomorrow.

Small thing...

Yeah.

Delicious!

Oh, I had so much fun with you tonight.

As did I.

So, what are we getting up

to tomorrow evening?

Well, about that...

I'm afraid we're going to need

to hit pause for a short time.

But I'm coming to your royal opening.

Well, that was before I found out

that Mumsy is going to be attending.

And, well, we wouldn't

want you two to cross paths.

And why is that?

Well, I may have a history

of moving too quickly

in relationships,

and I wouldn't want her to think

that you're just another one of my...

Oh, go on.

One of your mistakes?

Yes, but no.

No, no.

Look, I'm just trying to make this easy.

I can make this real easy.

No, Tabitha. That's...

That's not what I meant.

- Good night.

- Tabitha, I...

I'm usually the one

getting you out of hot water.

Hmm.

And I've got myself in the

mother of all muddles.

You think you're up the spout?

I think Tabitha just dumped me.

What did you do?

Why do you assume I did something?

You have a bit of a track record, man.

Yes, well, you're one to talk.

Why didn't you tell Sabrina the truth?

Because I was already dreading

telling her that I'm your secretary.

Now, somehow, adding

'not a royal' to the pile.

Ian

you are loyal, brilliant,

and the only reason I'm remotely

functional in public,

or private for that matter.

I sometimes regret

asking you to be my secretary.

I'm holding you back.

I wouldn't trade our years together

for anything in the world.

Nor I.

So, go tell Sabrina that

you panicked for my sake,

protecting my privacy.

I'll join you both for dinner,

and then we'll set the record straight.

Thank you.

Of course.

I just wish I could tell her on my own.

Why is this so hard?

Because, old boy,

you're properly smitten.

As am I.

Where are you going?

To find Tabitha, to make things right.

Well, wait. You need

to be back by first thing.

Your mother arrives

in the morning. Spencer.

How is your suite, Lady Violet?

Positively splendid.

Thank you for rearranging

everything at the 11th hour.

Of course. And Lady Braxton?

Oh, she's much improved.

And she insists that she

feels entirely at home here.

So.

Where is Spencer?

Oh, well, you know Spencer.

I'm sure he'll be here any moment.

Ah, it appears he's avoiding his mum.

How's he been behaving?

Honestly? He's a changed man.

Ah, and that means

that he's met someone,

but hasn't yet proposed.

I think you might quite like this one.

She's a post-grad at NYU

studying Elizabeth Gaskell,

and she runs

a boutique here in the hotel.

Hmm. Academic and gainfully employed.

We may have to take her seriously.

And what about you, Ian?

Is that flush on your cheeks

from the crisp winter air

or is there someone new in the picture?

Is it that obvious?

Yes.

Her name's Sabrina Parker.

She's a guest at the hotel, a writer.

Well, you know

we only want the best for you.

I consider you as part of this family.

Speaking of my... role,

there's something I wanted

to speak to you about

in regards to Read for the Stars.

Mm.

I was thinking

we should make a permanent

chapter here in New York.

New York?

The children here deserve

the same opportunities I had,

and with your family's

longstanding affection...

It's rather a lofty idea.

I know.

But I wouldn't be asking

if I didn't feel so strongly.

Very well. I'll give it some thought.

But now, I need you to find my son.

Oh, I will find Spencer, I promise.

Thank you, Ian.

What would we do without you?

So, did Charlotte meet you

at the New Year's party?

Yes, she did. We had a wonderful night.

Five, four, three, two, one.

Happy New Year!

It's the most magical kiss of my life,

as if time had stopped.

That's so sweet.

But Sabrina,

time doesn't stop for anything,

not even love.

I love you, Grayson.

But we both know I have to go.

I know.

But there's something I need to give you

before you make up your mind for good.

I've already made up my mind.

London is my... dream.

You don't want me to have

to give up my dream, do you?

Will I ever see you again?

I promise I'll come back.

I don't know when.

But we'll be together again

somehow

some day.

Wait.

You... you didn't stop her?

No.

I decided I'd rather

break my heart than break hers.

So, I take it you didn't go to London

to find Charlotte?

No.

I enjoyed every minute that

I spent with her, but

we were just too different, so...

But after all these years,

I've learned to live

with the decision I've made.

Come on.

Please

leave a message at the tone.

Spencer,

I need you to come back here.

Your mother's on the warpath,

and we're supposed to be having

dinner with Sabrina tonight.

I just...

Just call me back, or text me,

or send a carrier pigeon. I don't care.

I-I can't do this on my own, mate.

I really need you.

And I don't ask for much.

Spencer, I know you're hurting

over Tabitha right now,

but please,

I hope you're not planning

what I think you're planning.

If she really is

as special as you say she is,

you have to take your time with her.

Just come back, mate.

Talk to me.

Please don't fall back

into your old tricks.

End of messages.

To delete...

Hiya, handsome.

Hello, gorgeous.

You ready?

Yes.

- Great.

- I'm ready.

Sabrina "Dear Ian,

somewhere along the way",

"I convinced myself

that love would be enough."

"But love doesn't always build

bridges between two worlds."

"Sometimes, it shows us how

far apart we truly are."

"So, I'm choosing to break my heart"

"before I break yours."

A penny for your thoughts.

You're not yourself today.

Sorry, I'm just my head.

Something to do with that Lord Braxton?

In a way.

You know, we are like

you and Charlotte, so...

I took your advice.

What advice?

We are from two different worlds.

So, I broke it off with him.

That's the lesson you took away

from the story I've been telling you?

Yeah, and that you were good

with the decision that you made.

No, no, I said I was able

to live with the decision.

I live with regret every day.

No, but you've... you've lived

such an inspiring life

the artists you've discovered,

the lives that you've changed.

No, no. I should have tried harder.

I should have made it a priority.

When one finds a love like this,

you do anything you can

to not let it slip through your fingers.

You need to know the end of the story.

Please.

"My dearest Grayson...

Charlotte "My father's business"

"has gone bust."

"Our friends in London have

offered to let me stay for free,"

"if I help look after their daughter."

"Please don't worry about me.

This is a temporary setback."

"All my love, Charlotte."

You're young, Grayson.

You have your whole life ahead of you.

And if you reach a point in life

where the only soul you have

to love is a little girl

and her pet turtle, well,

then, you have something,

and something is always

better than nothing.

Did you believe that?

No.

Not following her cost me

the love of my life.

And Hazel was about to leave too.

I'm stagnant here.

I need a new adventure.

You should consider moving on too.

Why would I leave the Grand Fairbanks?

I have other guests who need me.

Have you not listened to a word I've said

about being the author

of your own story?

This is all I know.

You're not like other butlers.

Most keep their heads down, but you,

you're always thinking, always observing.

Now, I have a friend in

Los Angeles, he's an art dealer,

and he's looking for a new assistant.

I love art, but I don't know

anything about selling it.

Well, he'll train you. You already know

the high society life better than anyone

their style, their taste.

Yeah, but Los Angeles

is flashy; It's not me.

Darling, that's exactly why you should go.

Recognize opportunity

when it knocks, Grayson.

It's time you and I, and Cordelia grow up.

That's when Hazel stopped writing

and moved to the Amalfi Coast.

Yes.

After a lot of soul searching,

I took her advice.

My confidence was tested 1,000 times,

but I kept going,

without my dear Charlotte.

Here. There are, um,

many more letters in here, if

you care to look at them later.

Thank you.

Charlotte "Dear Grayson",

"I desperately miss New York,

"and, most of all, I miss you."

"Design school's a distant memory,"

"and my days are filled

babysitting children"

"that are not my own."

"I often dream about

what would have happened"

"if I had stayed with you."

"Perhaps I would be

caring for our children,"

"happy and content."

"Yours, Charlotte."

It's safe to say,

we might do this again.

Everything looks fantastic.

Thank you so much.

When the ladies arrive, I...

Lady Violet, Lady Braxton,

you both look beautiful.

Well, we couldn't be

upstaged by our own jewels.

Oh.

Still no Spencer.

Traffic.

I thought the chocolate

diamond engagement ring

was to be the centerpiece of the exhibit,

but I don't see it on display.

Lord Braxton was here earlier

and he asked to take it.

I thought you knew.

Would you ladies

excuse me for a moment?

Sabrina.

I thought I'd never see you again.

The letter, I know. I'm sorry. That was...

There's... there's

something I need to tell you.

- No, please, let me go first.

- I just need to explain...

Ian, the press

want me to say a few words.

Could I please have

a copy of the speech?

- Yes, of course.

- Thank you.

And who is this vision of loveliness?

Oh, I beg your pardon.

Please allow me to introduce

Miss Sabrina Parker.

Delighted to meet you, Sabrina.

Charmed. Don't you think

we could start with

something a little less formal?

Yes, of course.

Your collection is just stunning.

Oh, and your locket is beautiful.

I've had it since I was

a young girl in New York.

Oh, wow. I knew that

you were fond of the city,

but I didn't know that you lived here.

Oh, I love New York,

especially at Christmas,

and the cheesecake is like

nowhere else on earth.

Come along, Mother.

You need to join me at the front.

I just wanted to say

it was so nice to meet you

and I... I think the world of your so...

Emily Merry Christmas!

Thank you. Thank you so much,

guests and members of the media,

for coming to "A Royal Affair."

- Shall we?

- A sneak peek of the Braxton

family jewel collection.

And we are just so thrilled

to have both Lady Braxton

and Lady Violet here.

Round of applause.

We are so proud to announce that 100%

of the proceeds from this exhibit

will go to Read for the Stars,

the crown jewel of the

Braxton Family Foundation.

And I would like to thank my mother,

Lady Braxton, for travelling

all this way with me.

Oh, and the current Lord

Braxton, my son, Spencer.

Oh, wait. He...

Thank you, Mumsy.

Hello,

all you wonderful people

and members of the press.

Now, I'm not big on speeches,

but I just want to say thank you

all for coming, and thank you

especially to my

charming date this evening,

Miss Tabitha Johnson.

Please join us.

Tabitha, Mum.

Now...

Oh.

If he's Lord Braxton, that makes you...

Sabrina, this has been

a terrible misunderstanding.

I'm so sorry.

- Oh my God.

- Sabrina...

Now, evenings such as

this don't just come together...

Oh my gosh.

With jewelry and lofty donations.

Sabrina.

Though we are grateful...

Sabrina.

Sabrina

please wait.

I tried to tell you, I really did.

Tell me what?

You mean tell me who you really are?

I mean, have you been lying this

this whole time?

Has any of this been real?

The way I feel is as real as it gets.

I just never thought in a

million years someone like me

would be good enough

for someone like you.

But I was falling for you, Ian,

not a title.

I just... I clearly...

I clearly don't know you at all.

So, please join me in applause

for those dedicated souls who

helped put all this together.

Ian, join us.

Oh, it's all good. Let's get a picture.

Okay.

Smile, Ian. It's a party.

Okay, that's enough.

I can't believe that

tomorrow is Christmas Eve.

- I know.

- Thank you.

I'm going to miss you, Sabrina.

Me, too. It's been fun.

Yes, it has, and I will

make myself available

to you from Rome,

in case you need anything.

I want this memoir

to defy your expectations.

Well, I'm sure it will.

This process has been far more cathartic

than I imagined it ever could have been.

I'm so glad it helped.

It did. So, speaking of which,

what's happening with Lord Braxton?

Oh. The man I fell for

is not Lord Braxton.

No, I am living proof that

fairy tales do not exist.

Well, that's unfortunate.

But do you care for this man?

I do.

I mean, I did. I just...

I don't know that I could trust him again.

Well, I hope you get

the chance to find out.

Ian, are you all right?

We've got to leave soon for the airport.

Lady Violet,

there's something I have to say.

The tutor you secured for me

back in Eton changed my life,

and not just because

he taught me how to read,

but because he showed me

I wasn't broken.

The children here in New York

have the same potential.

I don't want to just drop in and disappear.

I want to build something

lasting, like we did in London,

like we could all over the world.

Let the Braxton

name stand for something;

let it stand for hope

for children everywhere.

I have a plan.

"Dear Grayson,"

"I hope that you are enjoying Christmas."

"It's hard to believe a year has

passed since I got married."

"The irony of my new station

in life is not lost on me."

"Although,

there are some undeniable perks"

"that come with the title."

"With love, Charlotte."

She's going to study design in London.

Your locket is beautiful.

I've had it since I was

a young girl in New York.

Oh!

Grayson!

- Grayson!

- What?

- What's the matter?

- One second.

Are you all right?

Charlotte... is Lady Braxton,

and she is here in the hotel right now.

I know. I know.

- You know?

- I know, yes.

Why didn't you say anything?

Because I'm too old to chase magic.

What?! No! You told me

that life is about recognizing opportunity

when it presents itself,

and this, Grayson,

this is more than that.

This is fate,

and you don't mess with fate.

Is she still here?

She's still here.

Okay.

Come on!

Lady Braxton?

Grayson.

You still recognize me.

I would know you in any lifetime.

Charlotte.

Charlotte...

Lady Violet?

Do you know where Ian is?

He and Spencer are just ahead

of us, heading to the car.

Thank you.

- Oh...

- It's so good to see you.

Christmas holiday.

Leo!

Have you seen Ian?

I'm sorry, their car

just left for the airport.

Wait!

Hey...

Grayson "Art draws us in",

"begs us to look closer.

"Love can do the same, if we're

brave enough to really look.

"Both found me when

I wasn't searching...

Grayson and Sabrina

"in the quiet corridors

"of a grand hotel long ago.

"I realize now that love isn't

waiting for the right moment...

Sabrina "...it's seizing it."

"You can't waste your life

settling for anything less"

"than extraordinary love."

I suppose it's

your turn to run out on me.

Thought you were on

your way back to London.

As soon as the Braxtons

were all set at the airport,

I came right back.

Why?

Because I've fallen for you, Sabrina,

harder than I ever thought possible.

And because...

I couldn't leave

without giving you

your Christmas present.

- Oh, you shouldn't have.

- Oh, well, you know,

if it's too much, I

could likely take it back.

Don't you dare.

It's perfect.

I'm sorry I wasn't honest with you.

I know you didn't mean to hurt me, Ian.

I could have talked to you sooner.

Deep down, I think I was afraid

that I wasn't good enough

for Lord Braxton.

You're enough for any Lord,

any prince, any king,

anywhere on this earth,

and you're more than enough for me.

How's this gonna work?

You being an ocean away

and me being...

Well, I spoke to Lady Violet.

We're bringing the charity here.

Now, that's a plot twist

I didn't see coming.

Sabrina Parker

would you like to spend

Christmas here with me

in New York this year?

Just this year?

This time last year,

I embarked on a journey

that I thought would be about art deals,

but the real story was you,

and it's always been you.

Since that Christmas that you

taught me to open my heart,

I've...

I've spent years searching for success.

But the truth is what I was

searching for was a feeling,

a feeling that

I only had when I was with you,

and I was scared

I would never find again.

Charlotte, you are the

greatest love I've ever known.

Merry Christmas.

I love the painting.

Their story's so romantic.

Mm-hmm.

I can see why it's a bestseller.

I've already started

working on the sequel.