Friends & Family Christmas (2023)

[bunniefuu]

[♪♪♪]

[shutter clicking]

♪ Snow is fallin' down
It's Christmas time ♪

♪ Giving presents
Mistletoe and wine ♪

♪ Oh, chestnuts roastin'
on an open fire ♪

[Daniella] I always
had this dream...

to one day be a photographer
in New York City.

[♪♪♪]

[shutter clicking]

It took me a little longer
than expected to get here.

[shutter clicking]

It's been two years.

And I'm not leaving
until I make my mark.

[shutter clicking]

Mama, uh, I'm not coming
home for Christmas.

You're what?

Uh, I'm-I'm not coming
home for Christmas.

But... we're the
Three Musketeers!

Dad, we still are.
Please don't be upset.

I just... I got handed
a huge opportunity.

So, you're working right
through the holidays?

Yeah.

I'm sorry that I didn't
tell you sooner, okay?

But, okay, so this year,

I'm in charge of the Lab's
Christmas fundraising program.

And how does that

stop you from coming
back home for Christmas?

Well, Liza, my supervisor,
wants me to focus on my work.

And, well, as you know,

I only have a few months
left of the program,

so I need to have an
impressive portfolio.

Well, that's fantastic,
honey. I-I'm proud of you.

[Mom whimpers]

We'll miss you.

A lot!

I'm gonna miss you guys, too,

and all of our
Christmassy traditions.

Hey, um, Tanner and I are late
for our first meeting, so...

Hi, guys!

Dani's doing great. She's
a Christmas miracle.

Okay, Papi, I love
you. I gotta go.

[stammers] Honey, honey...
uh, before you go...

uh, a good friend of mine

from university,
uh, John Kasmerec,

uh, he's asked me
to ask you a favor.

Okay?

His daughter

just got an apartment and, uh...

very close to you...

Dad, is this a set-up?

Because, if I don't have time
to come home for Christmas,

I definitely don't have
time to go on a date.

No! No.

[Dad] Y-Yeah, yeah, it's just,
honey, it's just a coffee.

Just a platonic coffee.

Uh, she just recently
went through a breakup,

and-and her dad thinks

she might be, uh,
a little lonely.

Okay. Sure.

Just send her my info,
but I have to go.

Ciao, ciao, ciao!

Ciao.

[meekly] Bye.

[click]

Well... ahem.

[shutter clicks]

[knocking]

How did it go?

I finally reached an agreement
with the Stevens company.

- Terrific.
- Yeah.

And here's your next case.

That's the Pellsons.

These are a big fish.

Now, they know I'm
retiring next year,

but it's gonna be your job

to convince them to
stay with the firm.

Um...

Of-Of course you know that, uh,

the partners and I are
absolutely thrilled

with your work so far...

[exhaling slowly] Uh, I
wanted to talk to you...

as your dad.

- Okay?
- Okay.

You've had your head down ever
since broke up with Margo.

You know, when I took
over from your granddad,

I-I had your mom,
I had my friends,

I had a support group.

Sweetheart, you gotta
stop hiding away.

Expand your circle of
friends, socialize maybe.

Mm-hmm.

I... I... hear what
you are saying.

And I agree. I agree.

Okay, honey. Good.
Very good. Very good.

Okay.

On another note,

I understand you have not RSVP'd

to the firm's Christmas
party, so there you go.

Attendance is mandatory,
and that's non-negotiable.

Dad. At...

This is what I'm
talking about, Amelia.

I am sure most of
our biggest clients

and possibly even
some of our partners

haven't even met you yet.

You know what? Becoming
partner's a big change.

You can use this party
to introduce yourself

as the newest member
of the Kasmerec family

to join the firm. Yes?

Let them see you
for who you are.

[forced chuckle]

I only need one.

Oh, I think you can find a date.

Thank you.

And it's, uh, semi-formal.

[sighs with dread]

So?

How did Mom and Dad take it?

[sighs] Oh, they
were disappointed,

but no crying,

and surprisingly little guilt,

except on my end.

[sighs]

It's just, I'm not
sure they understand

that, while I love
them immensely,

I need to stay
here for Christmas,

and that way I need to,
you know, focus on my work.

Oh, do you wish you said
all that on your call?

Yeah.

It's okay.

Boundaries are
super-hard to make,

especially in the beginning.

It's only gonna get
easier from here.

Well, they're
trying to set me up

with the daughter of
one of my dad's buddies,

though they're
pretending they're not.

- Classic!
- Ha.

[shutter clicks]

[Liza] Okay. So.

Everyone understands

that all donations received
during your fundraisers

will be matched by the
Jannings Foundation,

and it's very important
for our survival,

so everyone has to
contribute something.

Get your work to me on
time for the auction.

I'm keeping my eyeball out on
every single on of you, okay?

And remember,

the work that you present

defines the artist
that you are, okay?

So, our anxious sponsors,

they want to know
what you're creating

with the support
that they're giving,

so... no pressure!

- [chuckling]
- Yes.

I'm gonna hand over this meeting
to the lovely organizers...

- Daniella...
- [phone buzzes]

- And Javier.

All right. Thank you.

[warm applause]

Ahem. Dani?

Yep.

[chuckles]

Okay, so, we have...

a lot of festivities
leading to the 24th,

including the
Christmas poetry slam,

the Christmas karaoke...

[Javier] Christmas
lantern installation.

My off-Broadway play,
"Carol's Christmas Call"...

- [laughter]
- Yes.

And, last but not least, the
silent auction on the 24th,

which will be held here.

Yes, Kylie?

The silent auction...
I'd love to help you out.

Well, not love, more
like... like, "strong like,"

or... I'm just really
happy to volunteer.

- [chuckling]
- Great.

Okay, well, Daniella,
what do you think

about having Kylie as
silent auction co-leader?

"Team work makes
the dream work."

Sure.

[Javier] All right.
There you go.

Okay, well, thank you, everyone.

I know I am new at this,

but I am super-excited

to lead everyone through
this holiday season,

and if you have any
issues or concerns,

don't be afraid to reach out.

Okay, you're free to go.

[Javier] Thanks, everyone.

- Amelia?
- Okay, rude.

You love me.

Mm. Debatable.

It's the woman my
dad wants me to meet.

Ooh. She's an eager one.

Tanner?

I need your help. I have,
like, a million ideas.

Great.

What are you gonna
do for the auction?

Oh, I don't know yet.

Okay.

Are you sure you're gonna be
able to handle all of this?

Yeah. Yeah, I got
nothing but time.

[forced chuckle]

[shutter clicks]

We could take this opportunity
to go someplace warm for once.

Mm. We're fooling ourselves.

She's never missed
Christmas before...

not in 30 years.

Or, you know, someplace cold.

How about England for Christmas?

What's the point
of even decorating

if she's not here?

Well, I'm still here.

We can do this together.

[♪♪♪]

[click]

So... who is she exactly?

The daughter of Dad's
college roommate.

I guess she's kind of
lonely in the big city?

I get that.

Ah, maybe she's cute.

You deserve cute.

I don't want cute.

"Cute" leads to crushes

and crushes lead to crushed.

I have zero time,
but I promised Dad.

Oh, so, you're, uh,
you're gonna meet her?

Yeah, of course,
I'm gonna meet her.

We're going to some
hip place in Bushwick.

Ooh! She's already taking
you out of your comfort zone.

That's great!

Have a little fun. For once.

I am fun!

Okay? I run.

I... [words catch]

[sighs]

I'm not ready to date again.

You know, sometimes,

the universe lends
a helping hand.

I truly doubt

"the universe" has
anything to do with this.

We'll see.

You know, I have an idea.

I didn't think I could
go to the symposium

in New York

because I assumed
Daniella would be here

with us for Christmas, right?

- Yeah?
- But now...

No. No, no. I don't
think that's a good idea.

I could make a quick call...

No, she said she was busy.

And see if they have
any available spots!

Oh, no...

- no, no.
- [giggles schemingly]

Ah... oh. [sighing]

Oh, boy.

[sighs]

Okay, just a little
higher on the left.

Ooh! Too far.
Down, down, down.

There! There. Perfect.

Wow. What do you think?

Oh, it's...

playful and enigmatic, it's...

quite captivating.

It just draws you in.

Oh, I agree.

That's from Sean
Tribeca's collection.

You know, it's his seventh show

at the Elenor and
Jennings Gallery.

He actually was here.

He's a Brooklyn
Artist Lab alumni.

Oh, I didn't know that.

Yeah, I mean, I didn't really
think he was gonna make it,

until he applied himself

while he was here,
and he was awarded

a travel grant,

and he studied in Japan.

Wow.

There are a lot of
available travel grants

for innovative thinkers.

You could apply for one...

[pointedly] ...when you get
your portfolio together.

[stammers]

What are you donating
to the auction,

now that I'm thinking of it?

You've been awfully busy with
this whole charity-week thing.

I don't want you to
lose focus, creatively.

Well, uh, I'm just
not ready yet.

Daniella...

yes, you are.

I know your work.

You have... You
have a good eye.

You have great technique.

You gotta try something
completely different.

I know.

[stammers] I mean, the bulk of
my commercial work is posed.

Maybe something with emotion

or while in motion?

Whoa, that... okay, I
just got goosebumps.

"Emotion while in motion."

That's beautiful.

Do that!

- Okay.
- All right.

[Amelia] Thanks, Suzie.

No, that's great. Mm-hmm.

Oh, it's in the Stevens' file.

Yeah, you can just
forward it to me.

Mm. Thank you.

- Hi.
- Oh, uh...

Suzie, I have to let you go.

My "4:00" is here.

Merry Christmas.

Bye.

Hi. Amelia, right?

I'm Daniella.

Thank you so much
for meeting me here.

[wheezing] I just got
out of a tech rehearsal

and I have exactly...

one hour before I
have to get back.

Oh. Uh...

I'll just have whatever
she's having, thank you.

Oh! [exhales deeply]

You don't know what I'm having.

Oh, that's the adventure
of it. I don't.

[chuckles] What...
What are you having?

Coffee.

Black.

Okay, so, not so adventurous.

I would say "classic".

Hmm.

Thank you.

[exhales heavily]

Uh, so... Amelia?

Uh...

[blurts] I have friends.

I'm sorry?

I know that my father
told your father

that I don't have any friends,

but that's not true...
I have friends.

Not including my dad.

Cool.

Yeah, for the record,
I-I also have friends.

Uh, though I don't know what
your dad said about me, so.

Born and raised in
Hartford, no siblings.

Your parents are
recently retired...

your mother, a renowned author,

your father, a mathematician.

You're currently attending
the Brooklyn Artist Lab,

with a photography focus,

and you're a Libra.

Uh, yes to all.

Libra sun, Cancer
rising, Pisces moon.

Okay.

That's a lot of peppermint
creamer, by the way.

Oh, it's the best.

[Daniella chuckles]

Yummy.

So what did your dad
tell you about me?

Well... your name's Amelia.

Uh, our dads were
college roommates...

Yeah.

And, uh, you-you recently
broke up with someone.

He didn't tell me your
sign, though, but...

since you can't
get over your ex,

um, I'm gonna guess Scorpio...

loyal, devoted, highly
sensitive to injustice.

I'm right, right?

Right. Scorpio.

Knew it. Yep.

[awkward chuckle]

Can't believe my dad

is telling everyone
about the breakup.

- Oh...
- The decision

was very mutual, by the way.

We broke up almost a year
ago and I am over it.

I am so over it.

I'm just not ready to
start dating again,

which I think is
completely natural, right?

Right! Yeah.

Of course.

Right.

Hey, so what do you do for work?

No, actually, wait.

Wait. Let me guess.

Investment banker?

No.

Ooh.

Or...

super-secret
undercover spy boss?

[snickers]

Attorney.

Corporate litigation.

Hey, I was really close.

[laughing]

Um, well, I...

I used to be a
wedding photographer,

uh, but now I'm more
of a visual artist,

and, well, maybe I'll
travel with my photography.

I hope.

Mm.

So... weddings, huh?

Awful. Yeah.

It was awful. It was
short-lived, of course.

[laughing]

[door bell jingles]

Oh.

So...

Libras and Scorpios...
compatible?

Not really.

Well, I guess the
stars have spoken.

Well, good luck with
your silent auction.

Oh, thank you.

Yeah. It was nice to meet you.

You too. Well, bye, Daniella.

Bye, Amelia.

Bye.

[phone ringing]

Hello, Mama. How are you?

[Raquel] Doing
wonderful. How are you?

Well, actually.

I think this Christmas season
is gonna be good for my work.

Oh. So, your father
and I decided,

uh, wouldn't it be fun to
go to a writer symposium?

Yeah, that's cool.
Where's this symposium?

[shouts] Dani!

Te amamos!

[♪♪♪]

We found the cutest
little Airbnb

just a few blocks away.

[Luke] Yeah, I used my points,
and we got it for a steal.

We are not here to cramp
your style in any way.

We just thought, why not?

Well... you thought "why not".

Dani!

You haven't put any
Christmas decorations up yet?

Yeah, where's your
Christmas tree, kiddo?

I just took
everything to the Lab,

'cause I'm gonna be spending
most of my time there, anyway.

Oh...

don't worry, we can
help you with that.

Many hands make light work.

Mm-hmm.

[chuckles]

Uh... you know what, Raquel?

Let's, um, leave and give
Dani some space, hmm?

Yes, of course.

Guys, wait, um...

[sighs]

You know, I-I think I
actually have everything here

to make our famous McCallan
family ponche crema.

[parents giggling]

I get everything ready!

Where's the cinnamon?

- In the cupboard.
- And the milk? In the fridge?

Yeah, so smart, yes.

[♪♪♪]

[confused chuckle]

[phone rings]

How was your date?

The breakup, Dad?

Who else did you tell?

Oh, sweetheart.

I just want you to be happy.

So... was she nice?

She was... very nice.

And?

And...

it was great.

The... date was great.

We... We...

really hit it off.

Oh, well, now, you see,

you're making your
old man very happy.

You gonna see her again?

Mm-hmm. Yeah.

A... A-As soon as
I-I can, in fact.

I...

think we are...

going to meet up tomorrow.

[chuckles]

All right, I just sent you

some notes on the
Hernandez case,

so we can get into that
tomorrow morning, all right?

Okay. Sounds great, Dad. Night.

- Bye-bye.
- [call ends]

[♪♪♪]

Salud, salud.

Salud.

Sorry.

-Salud.

Okay, um, so, I have,
like, five minutes,

and then I have
to go to the Lab.

Now? But i-i-it's dinnertime,

and we want to know all
about what happened today.

Did you meet anyone interesting?

I know, I know, I'm sorry,

but, I promise, I'll
be back really quick.

All right, well, let's head out.

Mm-hmm. How far is the walk?

Oh! No, no, no. You...
You stay. Stay, relax.

It's easier if I
go alone anyway,

and that way, I can come
back as soon as I can.

Yeah.

Well, I guess it's us
and the ponche, huh?

Mm.

[smooch]

[Kylie] I also have
a really cute idea

for the silent
auction... custom drinks.

My friend makes this really good

homemade kombucha
and matcha tea.

Okay, well, maybe we can
think of something simpler,

but I will add it to the list.

Oh, I also took initiative
to reach out to old members

willing to donate some
really, really cool stuff.

Sweet! Yeah. Have them
send me everything.

Cool.

Uh, okay, do you want to
help me lock down a budget?

Oh...

I'm not really
great with budgets,

or so my dad says.

[laughing]

Okay, well, I can show you

what I have planned
for the auction,

and if you want, I can help
you with your budgets as well.

Yeah! It's so great
working together.

Maybe we can
collaborate sometime...

my poetry, your photography?

- Really? Yeah, I'd love that.
- Mm.

I didn't think you'd
be interested in...

Wait.

You're a Raquel McCallan fan?

Yeah, the biggest.

Though my Dad and I
fight over that title.

She's my mom.

Shut up and back it up!

Your mother is the
renowned author

and literature professor?

Well, she doesn't teach
anymore, but yeah.

Wow.

You're her daughter?

All my life.

And you didn't want
to be a-a writer?

No, no. My mom has
the lit part covered,

and my dad's a math genius,

so, naturally, I
chose visual arts.

Forge my own path. Hopefully.

Brave.

Yeah.

Um, you know...

she is actually
in town right now,

and if you have
anything finished...

- Daniella, I...
- And you want her

- to take a look...
- Oh, my gosh!

- If you're interested.
- Yes! Yes, yes!

Thank you! Thank
you! Oh, my gosh!

I'm so glad we're friends now.

Okay.

And I'm so sorry for
that embarrassing gush.

Don't tell her I did that.

Oh, and I forgot to mention...

I took a job choreographing
a music video

for the next few days,

so my time will be limited.

Oh. O... Okay.

I-I'll just add
a few more things

to my to-do list.

[shutter clicks]

[Dani] Oh, I'm home!

You just missed them.

[chuckles]

Ohh...

you know that my
meeting with Kylie

didn't end till ten.

Mm.

I'm so sorry

I didn't text you
about my parents.

Surprise!

Are you kidding?

We ordered pizza,

we went out and
bought some lights,

and your Dad made his famous
peanut butter Christmas cookies.

- Oh, h*, h*!
- I couldn't be happier.

Or fuller.

[phone buzzes]

Oh! [laughs]

[chimes]

[♪♪♪]

[chimes]

Who's that?

[chimes]

[chuckles]

Who's that?

[chimes]

- Tell me.
- [laughs]

[chimes]

[laughs]

Thank you.

One plain black coffee.

- [smack]
- [darkly] The hostages.

Oh! How I've missed you.

- [Amelia laughs]
- Perfect timing.

Really, I'm going
Christmas tree shopping

with my mom and dad, so...

Wait. Your parents are... here?

Yeah, yeah. They
surprised me yesterday.

That is surprising.

My mom's here for
some writing thing

and, I don't know, they
just look so happy,

and I have a lot on my plate,
so I don't know what to do.

They, um...

your parents didn't mention

if they talked to
my dad, did they?

- [chuckles awkwardly]
- [Luke] Hey, Dani!

-I'm sure it's probably...

nothing, but, um...

Hola, mi hija!

[hushed] We need to talk!

- Hola...
- Hola.

Mama... uh, guys, I told you
to meet me here in 30 minutes.

You're 29 minutes early.

We wanted to check
the neighborhood,

and we didn't want
to miss the meeting.

Amelia. Hello!

Oh, hello.

Hi, Mr. McCallan.

"Luke". Please.

Luke.

I'm Raquel.

- Hi.
- Lovely to meet you.

Your dad said you two were
really hitting it off,

and it looks like he was right.

Mm-hmm! I assume
you're coming with us

to the Christmas tree lot, hmm?

Yes. Please say yes.

[awkward chuckle]

I do love Christmas trees.

[Luke] Fantastic. Sounds
like a "yes" to me.

Dani, could I...

borrow you for a quick second?

Uh... okay. Y-Yeah. Um...

[speaks Spanish]

We'll be here.

What's happening?

I think our dads talked
or texted, or something.

About what?

Well...

[♪♪♪]

So, here's the situation.

My dad...

we were chatting
yesterday and I...

perhaps...

let him think that
maybe you and I...

got along

far better than we did.

What? Why? Why would
you tell him that?

I don't know.

I regretted it as
soon as I said it.

- Wha...
- It just... slipped out.

My had has been so disappointed

ever since my last relationship
ended with my ex, Margo.

I didn't want him
to worry, so...

I told him that the
coffee was a date

and the date was great.

Wait, wait, wait.

So you... you fake-dated
us to your father?

Technically, yes.

- [astonished laugh]
- I had no idea

the parental gossip
pipeline was so connected!

[♪♪♪]

[sighs heavily]

Which means your parents...

My parents think
we're dating, too.

- Yep.
- Oh...

My apologies.

I am normally more
rational than this.

I'll go explain it was
a miscommunication.

[quickly] Or...

- wait.
- What?

I mean...

would it be so wrong
if we didn't clarify?

Right away?

Maybe we could ride
this "miscommunication"

till Christmas Eve?

I'm listening.

Well, what if...

someonehad her parents
show up out of nowhere

and she would really

appreciate a-a charming
plus-one this week

for a series of
Christmas events,

because I'm... she... is
already very, very busy?

Huh. Interesting.

Mm-hmm?

Okay.

Well, what if...

someone else...

was in dire need of
a "charming plus-one"

to a very important law
firm Christmas party?

Also interesting.

Mm-hmm!

Would... someone perhaps have
something semi-formal to wear?

Y-Yeah. I'm-I'm pretty sure

someone could
figure that one out.

Mm.

I mean, and ultimately,

nothing is more
important to children

than seeing their parents happy.

Yeah. Absolutely. I
mean, I'm-I'm pretty sure

it's actually an
established fact...

like, gravity,

or Taylor Swift being

the greatest modern
singer-songwriter.

Oh?

[sighs] Yeah. This is perfect.

It means that your dad
relaxes about your love life,

and I get a little
bit of breathing room.

[exhales dramatically]

Yeah.

I'm in.

What do you think
they're talking about?

Maybe us?

It is awfully early for
introductions to parents.

Mm.

Even for lesbians?

Oh...

yes.

Hmm.

[exhales] Okay, so...

we're doing this?

We are.

[Luke] Listen.

The best Christmas
sweaters are made with...?

What?

[Luke] "Fleece Navidad."

[Luke chuckles]

We're going to grab
something to drink.

Would you like something?

Yeah, your usual?

Uh, hot chocolate,
double peppermint?

Yeah. That's Amelia's
favorite, too.

- Ooh!
- Look at that!

[forced] Mm-hmm.

"Yummy".

[aghast] Double peppermint?

Aw, you'll learn to love it.

- [snapping]
- [sighing]

So, do you always have
your camera with you?

Ah, sort of.

It's like an extension of me.

My other heart.

And how do I see some
of these photographs?

[snapping]

Uh, well...

they live undeveloped in
the top drawer of my desk.

What? Why?

[chuckles] How much
time do you have?

This good?

- Mm.
- Okay.

Tell me.

Oh. Well...

after high school, I-I
flew through my MFA.

I was proud of what I
was creating, but...

I don't know, after college,

I... I worked odd jobs

in advertising and
campaigns and...

I made a pretty good
living in Hartford.

I made money, but...

I was creatively unfulfilled.

Yes, the curse of
the golden handcuffs.

[snapping]

- Exactly.
- Mm-hmm.

So...

I, um, decided to submit
my college portfolio

to Liza, my Lab advisor,

and I couldn't believe
I got in, honestly,

but now that I'm here,

I just feel like I
don't measure up.

That instinctive side
of me is just gone.

Well...

perhaps not gone, but
maybe different...

because you're different.

You're very
intuitive for a suit.

All lawyers can read minds.

- Oh, yeah?
- Mm-hmm.

Can you read mine?

Yes.

This is your favorite tree.

[laughing]

Yes, actually!

[chuckling]

[snap]

[sighs] Okay. This
is the one. Let's go.

What's that?

Oh, yeah, we're... we
have to pick it up.

Just grab the back.

- Okay.
- Yeah.

Got it?

Yep.

Not bad.

So, I was thinking...

we should talk
about social media.

Okay.

I mean, we should
follow each other.

Our dads will be looking
at everything we post.

Ooh. Yeah. Actually...

- Tree down, tree down.
- Okay.

- Pfft.
- Ah.

We should take

a selfie

and make it official. Right?

Oh!

- Mm-hmm.
- Uh...

I-I haven't really posted much
since Margo and I broke up.

- Oh.
- Um...

you know what? No.

Never mind. Let's...
Let's do it.

Are you sure?

I mean, hey, if you
want to talk about it,

I'm not just a fake girlfriend,
I'm a pretty good listener.

Thank you.

It's a story for another day.

Okay. Well...

Okay.

'Kay. Ready?

Yeah.

[snap]

Okay, no, let's
take another one.

Just smile... like, happy.

- [laughs]
- Yeah.

[snapping]

[♪♪♪]

[snap]

Convincing.

It's good. It's a good one.

[music plays quietly]

[voices in hallway]

Daniella Alexis McCallan!

[indistinct exchange]

Daniella!

- [singing]
- [sternly] Daniella! Hey!

- Hi! We have a tree.
- I've been calling you.

And texting. We
have a situation.

- What?
- Come on.

[indistinct exchange]

Nylah called, donations have
been arriving at the Lab.

I've been trying to find you.

That's amazing!

Here we go, all right...

- Okay, okay, okay.
- Whoa, watch the branches.

Okay, straight up.

[Dani] I'm sorry.

We gotta hurry, though.

We don't want the donations
to sit outside too long.

How much do you think we got?

So many. 50?

Okay. Oh, um, you
guys, I'm sorry,

but I have to go to the Lab.

I'm really sorry, but, um,

we're gonna have to
decorate the tree later,

so let's go.

Oh, you mean...

you mean us?

We are going with you?

Um, hold on.

Why don't you two go to the Lab
and I'll stay with your parents?

- Really?
- Yeah.

- Don't worry about it. Yeah.
- Okay. Thank you.

Um, okay, so I'll
see you guys later.

Let's go. Ciao!

[Tanner] You go ahead.

I have to pick up a
couple of speakers.

- [Dani] It's okay. I can manage.
- Let's decorate!

Whoo-hoo! [laughs]

Okay...

[♪♪♪]

[Kylie] Daniella! You're here.

I have something for you.

[chimes]

What's that?

It's old-fashioned, but I
remember your mom saying

she only reads material
that's printed off

and not on the screen,

so, this... is my book.

Well, the first part.

- There's more?
- [text dings]

I thought you were a poet?

I'm so nervous right now.

Narrative fiction
is so new to me.

But I'm also really excited,
but also really nervous.

It's like the night
before Christmas.

[grunts]

[tapping keys distractedly]

[typing quickly]

[line rings]

[ringing]

[Amelia] Hello, Ms. McCallan.

Why, hello there,
Ms. Kasmerec.

How are you?

I need a plus-one favor.

I told my dad we were
hanging out tomorrow night

because I'm trying to get
out of a client meeting.

Oh! Playing hooky again?

You're a bad influence.

[Dani laughs]

Well, I do have to attend

this Christmas event at the Lab.

My parents know I'll be there.

Do you want to come?

There's gonna be
pretty good music

and Tanner is going all out, so.

[exhales deeply]

Sounds great.

Great.

I'll... I'll see you there.

See you then.

[♪♪♪]

[chuckles]

[sighs]

Pretty tired, huh?

I saw what time you got
home last night, lady.

I'm so glad you took my advice
and had a restful evening,

decorating the tree,
working on your photography.

I like being of service, Tanner.

Hey, I know you do.

- But I'm worried about you.
- Don't be.

I have enough people
worried about me.

Mm.

So...

Amelia?

Yes?

- Any chance you two could...
- No.

Oh.

- [text dings]
- Mm, speaking of which...

Oh, it's just Kylie.

Hmph! Aw!
Disappointed, are we?

Of course not.
No, this is good.

She just sent me the address

to pick up a donation
for the silent auction,

so I should focus on that.

Okay. Focus on that.

I am.

[♪♪♪]

I'm sorry. What?

I don't talk to
you for 24 hours,

and now you're fake-dating
a girl you just met?

Her name is Daniella,

and all I have to do

is hang out with her and
her parents a few times.

Just a short Christmas contract.

Mm, that's so romantic.

[phone rings]

Ahem.

Hi there, Daniella.

Hey! Do you have a car?

I need to pick up a
donation in Long Island.

Long Island?

Quinn, may I borrow your
minivan for a quick errand?

Mm-hmm.

I named him Bedford...
for the neighborhood.

I worked on him all year.

I started right after
last year's auction.

He is stuffed with
recycled plastic bags

[Dani laughs]

He's incredible!

And enormous.

Thank you so much, Ms. Visser.

This is very generous.

I know what it's
like to be an artist.

I was a dancer myself,
back in the day.

I performed for Radio
City Music Hall.

- Wow!
- Incredible.

Okay. You grab the head,
I'll grab the legs.

- Okay.
- Ready?

Okay.

Three, two, one...

- [grunting]
- Good?

- Mm-hmm.
- Okay. Stepping.

Oh... it's heavy.

Anything for the arts!

[Dani, laughing] Thank you!

[♪♪♪]

Ah! Okay.

[wheezing]

If this is how my story ends,

promise me you'll come
up with a better ending!

I like this ending,

but you're graceful...
I can see it.

Step.

Well, lawyers do love to dance.

Okay, when is that
again, your work party?

- [wheezing]
- Step.

Saturday.

This Saturday?

Step.

Yeah.

Do you want to just meet there?

Uh-huh... step! Uh,
yeah, yeah, that works.

One more.

[both grunting]

Okay, my legs are
giving out. One second.

Okay, okay. Ready?

[both grunting with relief]

[cracking up]

[sighing]

Why did you ask me again?

Well, I do have to get you
"back out into the world,"

you know?

Plus, you're the only
other person I knew

that could possibly
have access to a van.

Oh, how thoughtful.

Yeah. [laughing]

I should really get
back to the office.

You got it from here?

Oh, I sure do, sweetie.

- Oh!
- Thank you...

for coming to my rescue today.

Well, you make it so easy to do.

[laughing]

What a beautiful bear!

Thank you so much.

Sorry for texting
you so last-minute.

Oh, no, it's okay.

Oh, Kylie.

This is Amelia.

She saved me

from having to take this
guy on the subway today.

Amelia, hi.

I'm Kylie,

soon-to-be fabulous
writer, influencer,

visual artiste, and more.

I'm sure you've
seen my viral video.

Oh, I-I don't think have,
but it-it's nice to meet you.

Same.

Okay. Gotta go.

Bye.

She will love this, huh?

- Yeah.
- Mm.

Ah, Daniella! You're on time.

Mm-hmm.

We're cooking your favorite...

brisket with carrots,
potatoes, and Brussels sprouts.

Wow.

Thanks, you guys.

Smells good, yeah?

Well, I'm-I'm
actually already late

for my karaoke date with Amelia.

I just have to change
and get going. Sorry.

Huh. Ah.

I guess it's just us, amor.

Hmm.

What should we do?

Hmm?

[♪♪♪]

[Raquel giggling]

[laughing]

Oh, Mr. McCallan...

you old romantic!

[chuckling]

[♪♪♪]

Hi. Welcome.

Thanks for coming. Enjoy.

[indistinct chatter]

Psst.

- Hi!
- Hi.

Oh. Thank you.

Hey, have you picked a song yet?

"I Want A Hippopotamus
For Christmas"?

Oh... you won't see
me on that stage.

Oh, come on!

Okay, everybody.

We will be up and running
in just a few minutes.

Thank you all for coming...
all proceeds go to the Lab!

[cheering]

Amelia.

- You made it.
- Oh...

I'm sure Dani told you

about our "Light the Lab"
installation tomorrow?

Then you can come and
help us make lanterns.

Um, Amelia has a client
dinner tomorrow night,

but, hey, I'm sure
you could pop by

for a bit after, right, hun?

Oh, absolutely, babe.

I'm taking a client
to The Star and Goat.

It's my favorite
restaurant in the city.

No way. It's so hard to
get a reservation there.

One time, this cutie
I was dating took me.

Oh, she had the
most adorable laugh.

Her name was Margo.

Met her through a
friend of a friend. Mm.

I really thought we connected,
but then she ghosted me.

Um...

Margo... Mallory?

Yes!

Well, technically, not
ghosted. She moved away.

Yeah, West Hollywood was
calling Margo's name,

and who was I to try
and stop her, right?

Okay, blah,
blah-blah, blah-blah.

Kylie, you're oversharing again.

Well, I'm sure

the Christmas lantern
party will be great.

[Tanner] Attention, artists!

We are now up and running.

Whoo!

I'm so excited for
you all tonight.

And I want to
welcome to the stage,

our very first double act...

Dani and Amelia!

[cheering]

[applause continues]

No.

Just go to the next one.

All right, then.
Let's move on.

- Kylie Cooke!
- Amelia, are you okay?

Uh... ahem.

Yeah, just...

it was a lot,

hearing Margo's name
so out of context,

and that she's
moving... she's moved...

half-way across the country.

Oh, you didn't know?

We don't talk.

Thanks for checking on me.

Of course.

And if it's okay with you,

I've had a long day.

I don't feel much
like heading back in.

Oh, come on. It could be fun.

But you should.

These are your people.

I don't... really fit in here.

What? That's not
true. I mean...

Yeah.

[Dani] I'll see you tomorrow.

Daniella...

I thought I'd check in on you.

I haven't seen

what you're donating
for the silent auction.

Yeah, Liza, I...

I'm still struggling.

I-I have done a few things,

but nothing's sparked.

Honestly, I don't really
know what my purpose is.

That's the whole point
of being at the Lab...

figuring it out,
letting it unfold.

I really liked your idea...
"emotion with motion".

If you want a shot
at the travel grant,

go and do it!

[snapping]

[Amelia] Come here often?

[laughing]

From time to time.

You?

Every other day.

My apartment's around the block.

Oh.

You capture anything
interesting?

Hmm.

[snap]

[laughs] Smooth.

Ooh, I don't think anyone has
ever called me "smooth" before.

Well, maybe I inspire you.

[chuckling]

Is everything okay?

Yeah, I just, uh, I
have to get to work.

I keep procrastinating.

I have to sit at
my desk long enough

to open the drawer

in which I have many,
many rolls of film,

develop them, see what I got,

and then I would actually
have to look at them, and...

[takes a tense breath, sighs]

I mean, my parents are both so
accomplished in their fields,

and I... I just
feel like a failure.

I mean, what if there's no
place for me in New York?

What if I'm not the
artist I thought I was?

There is a place for you here

because you're here.

You are creating art.

You're an artist.

Will there be roadblocks and
rejections along the way?

Absolutely.

But you will persist.

I remember when I was articling
and pulling 80-hour workweeks...

it was a lot.

Yeah.

But I'm so grateful I persisted,

because I love the law.

And you...

clearly, love your craft.

Right?

Right. Yeah.

I do.

So maybe the
discomfort is worth it.

Well, you are very
wise, Amelia Kasmerec.

Thank you for noticing.

Are we still on for tonight?

Hey, Mom, how was the
writer's symposium today?

Oh, it was fabuloso!

- [laughing]
- I ran into

a few friends from school,

and your father
was bored to tears.

Ah, I'm much happier
here with you.

Yeah, well, hey, thanks
for coming tonight.

It's gonna be fun, and
it's for a good cause, so.

Oh, side note... my friend Kylie,
the writer, is gonna be there.

- So...
- Oh, gotcha.

Your father just did some
biceps this morning with it.

[dryly] It's very
heavy material.

[laughing]

Yes, it is! No,
really, uh, you know,

it's a very unique
piece of work.

It's brave of her to
share that with me.

Okay.

- Let's cross here.
- Yes.

You know, we'd
love to take a peek

at some of your work.

Mm-hmm! Would
that be possible?

Uh, s-sure, y-yeah... oh!

Amelia!

Oh. Hi.

Hi.

Oh, you brought cookies?

Well, I thought it's
a Christmas party.

- It is!
- Yeah.

And you bake, too?

[abruptly] Okay, let's go in.

- Mm-hmm!
- Come on.

[♪♪♪]

Raquel McCallan!

It is an honor to meet you.

Thank you so, so much for
agreeing to read my book.

You have no idea how
much it means to me.

Well, thank you,
thank you, Kylie.

Nice to hear it.

I promise not to
pester you for feedback

- while you're here.
- [Raquel chuckles]

Ah, you know what?

I'm glad that there's gonna
be wine at this event.

[laughing]

Ditto.

Did you find
anything to wear yet?

Well, what does
"semi-formal" mean, exactly?

[laughing]

I'll figure it out.

Hey, everyone! Are you
having a good time?

- [crowd cheers and applauds]
- Whoo-hoo-hoo!

Thank you so much for
helping us tonight

as we Light Up the Lab for
our week of festivities.

We would not be here if it
were not for you patrons,

so feel the spirit
of the season,

as Tanner gives us
his beautiful version

of "Angels, We Have
Heard On High."

Yeah, Tanner!

Whoo-hoo-hoo!

[Tanner] This one's
for all of you!

[beat drops]

[plays electronic music]

- Hey! Drop that beat!
- Yes!

[♪♪♪]

Oh. We're dancing?

Yeah. Put those down!

[♪♪♪]

Okay, you have moves.

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

[indistinct exchanges]

One second.

Hey.

Why are you working right now?

I've got a tech
rehearsal tomorrow.

We're not ready,

and I haven't even
gotten to the poster yet,

which is due at the
printer's tomorrow morning,

so I need to get
this done right now.

- Okay. Um, I...
- There's no other time.

I can... I can help you.

- You can?
- Yeah.

Like, now?

Yeah, yeah, um, it'll
just take a minute, right?

[Javier] Yeah,
yeah. Totally. Yeah.

[Dani] Okay. Okay.

[Raquel] She's very busy!

I just wish we could
see more of our girl.

She warned us.

Yeah, she loves being busy.

Yeah.

And she also finds
it hard to say no.

Ah, right.

Please, don't mind
my grumpiness...

I'm just finding retirement

just a little harder
than I thought.

You just need to...

find something...
something to do, right?

- [Luke chuckles]
- He's driving me crazy!

[laughing]

[♪♪♪]

All right, everybody.

Are you ready to
make some magic?

- [crowd cheering]
- Yeah!

Because now is the time...

the lanterns are lit.

Dim the lights.

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

[snap]

So... Amelia?

Tell me. How is it,
working for your father?

'Cause he was a huge
workaholic in college,

and I think

he constructed a
tent in the library

during finals...
remember John?

[laughter]

Um, it can be a bit intense.

[chuckling]

Okay.

Have you always
wanted to be a lawyer?

When I was little,

I used to see Dad
talking to clients

around the kitchen table,

helping people.

That's what I
always wanted to do.

Well...

the first thing I
tell new writers

is to learn how to
read a contract.

Yes!

Yes, yes.

Because, if not, they
will be exploited.

I agree.

You know, I've often wondered

what it would be like
to represent artists.

I think I'd love it.

Oh, don't spread that around,

or you might find yourself
with a whole new client list.

[Raquel chuckles]

That's not a bad thing.

Hey, um, I just have a
few more things to do,

but I won't be long.

[Luke] Okay, sweetie.

[♪♪♪]

- [sighing]
- All right.

[deep breath, sighs]

[♪♪♪]

Did you guys see Amelia leave?

I guess I missed her.

No. She had an appointment
with a new client.

I'm sure she told
you about that.

I-I don't remember.

Well, maybe she
didn't get a chance,

and she didn't want
to bother you...

you seemed very busy
with Javier and, uh...

Dad. I get it.

It's a wonderful quality,

but Amelia

came down here to see you...

and if you want someone special,

you need to treat them like
they're special, right?

I guess I don't
know how to say no.

I just... look.
You guys, go ahead.

I'm gonna stay behind
and help clean up.

- Help...
- Come on.

I think that you
are doing too much.

- You're trying too hard!
- Goodnight.

You know, your friends
are very important, but...

so is Amelia,

and so is your own work!

- Okay, Mama.
- And I think

you need to put
attention on that.

- [Raquel continues, muffled]
- Goodnight.

[continues babbling, indistinct]

[♪♪♪]

[sighs]

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

Yes!

[♪♪♪]

Merry Christmas!

[♪♪♪]

Good morning!

[♪♪♪]

Ah...

having a good time?

Mm-hmm! You know...

at first, I was worried
about this, but...

there may be something here.

Yeah?

Enough you keep you
busy for the next while?

Oh, yes, I think so.

Okay, 'cause I-I
think I might, um...

step out and see that friend
that just got back from Oxford.

I can leave this here
and come with you.

No, no, no, no. You enjoy.

- Okay.
- Mm. [smooch]

I can see you are...
"in the zone".

Mm-hmm. Yes, yes. She
has style, this one!

Very unique, but
not disciplined.

Mm. Well, maybe that
is her strength.

Just saying.

Hmph!

[♪♪♪]

[snap]

[buzzing chatter and din]

[♪♪♪]

Excuse me.

You were right.

About what?

You found something to wear.

[chuckling]

You look stunning.

Right, well, it's
all Kylie and Tanner.

Sometimes, it pays off

to know artists with
such amazing talents.

[chuckles anxiously]

Besides, I-I need
to keep up with you.

You... you're gorgeous.

- [missteps on stair]
- [both] Oh!

I definitely should've
worn my Docs.

[Amelia laughs]

- Hi, Dad.
- Hi.

This is...

Daniella!

So nice to meet you.

You too. My family
speaks so highly of you.

And this is a fabulous party.

Well, thank you.
Thank you so much.

And thank you for
coming with Amelia.

Oh, I'm-I'm just glad we met.

She's wonderful...

just the most unexpected
Christmas miracle.

[background chatter, indistinct]

[words catch]

That food looks amazing.
Will you excuse me a second?

[guests chatter indistinctly]

Well, you look happy.

I am.

I'm sorry I came on so strong
about you being here tonight.

Just... I want you
to have what I had.

Thanks, Dad.

[boisterous laughter carrying]

[laughing]

Did you know that this
firm has a running club?

They want to meet you,

and you need to
tell them the story

of when you ran the New
York City Marathon...

[laughs] and you
took the wrong turn.

They'll love it!

- Come on.
- So cute.

[indistinct background chatter]

That is one impressive bear.

[chuckling]

I am making bid for him
at Daniella's auction.

I-I feel like we've bonded.

Mm-hmm.

So, when does your
"deal" expire?

- Uh... tomorrow.
- Tomorrow.

Hmm.

Shame.

Both parties seem happy.

You know, you could renegotiate.

- [phone buzzes]
- Oh. That's my phone.

Excuse me.

Sweetheart, come.

I want you to say hello.

Okay. One second.

Gentlemen, this is
my daughter, Amelia.

[text alert chimes]

I look forward
to that. Thanks.

Hi. Yeah.

I'll take these
two. Thank you.

-Hi.

- Got us drinks.
- Thank you.

Everything okay?

Yeah, yeah.

Um, it was Javier's
play tonight.

What? Y-You missed it?

To be here?

Yeah, this is important to you,

so it's... important to me.

[chuckling]

Hey, you did not tell
me that you were...

up for partner.

That is the plan, yeah.

You're not excited?

Hmm...

Okay.

Things... Things change.

Ahem. Okay.

So, last year,

I was... happy.

I had it all.

You know?

Great job? Check.

Relationship? Check.

And...

then everything unraveled.

Margo had

wanted us to travel...

to see things,

experience life outside of work.

But I'd been too
busy to notice...

so one day, she came home
and told me she was done.

She didn't want to feel alone
in our relationship anymore.

Which is understandable.

She left right before Christmas

That's brutal.

Yeah, it was.

We also worked at
the same firm, so...

Wow.

The real story of
my fake girlfriend.

[chuckling]

It could be a Kelly
Clarkson song,

I'm not gonna lie.

It could be.

Thanks for sharing.

Well, thanks for listening.

You know, I'd planned

to let Christmas just
slide by this year.

[Dani chuckles]

But... this has been
good for me, actually.

Hanging out with you
and doing all your...

millions of crazy
Christmas events

with your wonderful
artist friends.

It's... It's been great.

It's been a whole new world.

Oh, well... pfft, same for me.

[chuckling]

But I'm honestly having a blast.

-Cheers.

[clink]

[♪♪♪]

Yup. Yup.

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

[both laughing]

Oh, so cute!

I don't know how you
do this all night.

I can't believe I
wore heels for you.

It really hurts!

Well, you get used to it.

[Dani laughs]

Ah.

Well, Daniella McCallan,

you were an excellent plus-one.

Ohh! Well, my pleasure,
Amelia Kasmerec.

[laughs]

Seriously, I-I...

I want to thank you

for making a night
I was nervous about

one that I'll remember.

Well, that's kinda my forte...
making long-lasting memories.

[laughing]

Well...

[♪♪♪]

Oh... um...

Thank you.

Well, you can't get
rid of me that easy.

I, um...

Yeah.

I...

I...

wanna

tell you that I'm-I'm...

looking forward to tomorrow,

to seeing your show.

Yeah. Me too.

I'm excited for you to see it.

Tomorrow.

Yeah. Tomorrow.

Right.

Goodnight.

Goodnight!

I gotta take these heels off.

- Yeah, soak your feet!
- [laughs]

[♪♪♪]

[exhales deeply]

[water running]

[♪♪♪]

[astonished chuckle]

It's you.

[door creaks open]

I know I said I would
submit photographs,

but I want to do something more.

I-I gotta show you this.

Now?

Yes!

Yeah, come on.

Okay. "Now."

[notebook thumps table]

So...

are we not gonna talk
about last night?

What about it?

Amelia...

wait, what's your middle name?

Kathryne.

Amelia KathryneKasmerec...

be honest with yourself.

You're dating Daniella.

Fakedating.

It looked very real
for both of you.

Don't even know if she likes me.

Oh, she likes you.

You both looked like I
stole all the presents

under the Christmas tree

when I brought up
the end of the deal.

Sorry about that, by the way.

Come on, just talk to her,
tell her how you feel.

I don't think I can.

This better not be about Margo.

It's not. Just...

real feelings were
never on the table.

Well, now they are.

Tell her!

Okay.

I will... tell
Daniella how I feel.

Yes. Thank you!

Yeah, I am not about to see
my favorite "fake" couple

break up before they
even start real-dating.

[♪♪♪]

Uh, let's get that...
on this table.

Let's get that by
the front door.

Yes! Food and beverages
straight to the back,

in the kitchen.

That on this table.

Can we get these clipboards
to their matching pieces?

[♪♪♪]

Is this it?

Look out, Annie Leibovitz.

[♪♪♪]

[Luke] "Daniella McCallan".

Our girl has worked so hard.

[♪♪♪]

That's nice.

- One sec.
- Okay.

Hi.

Hi!

So you're gonna bid on him?

Mm-hmm.

I told you... we
have a connection.

Right.

I, um...

I really need to talk to you.

It's important.

Dani?

You know what?

No. It-It can wait.

- Okay.
- Go. Good luck!

Hi, and welcome

to the last evening of
our Charity Week Showcase

here at the Brooklyn Artist Lab!

[guests cheering]

Bravo! Bravo!

Whoo!

I want to thank

each and every one of
you for coming tonight.

The silent auction is
open until 11 p.m., sharp,

so, please, be sure
to get your bids in!

- Got it.
- Yes.

Now, because this is
our last artist event,

Daniella McCallan...

our resident photographer,

has a question for you.

[applauding and cheering]

So... what makes
a good photograph?

Is it the light?

Is it the subject?

Or is it simply the ordinary
turned extraordinary

because of your
memory of the moment?

Well, I wish I knew.

[laughter]

I have been asking
myself that question

for the last four months,

and the four months before that.

Actually, ever since

my parents gifted me with
my very first camera.

I knew more at 14 than I do now,

because I didn't
know any better.

I used to see beauty
through the lens.

And then, I thought I
had to see smart things,

and see artthings...

and then I started to forget
what makes anything beautiful.

So...

I found subjects

that gave me...

unexpected joy.

[gasps and chuckles] Wow.

Because that

is what makes a
good photograph...

[chuckling]

And I have never felt...

a more joyous holiday season.

Music!

- [dance music rises]
- Lights!

Magic!

Whoo!

[snapping]

[guests cheering]

[♪♪♪]

[snapping]

[indistinct exchange]

Daniella?

Everyone thinks that...

was remarkable.

Your work was clear and true

and focused.

I'm really proud of you.

I talked to the sponsors

about the travel grant.

They were here...

they very impressed.

If you're interested...

the travel grant's yours.

[gasping] Thank you, Liza.

Yes! Yes!

[Liza laughs]

This is your success...

you thank you.

Send me a postcard.

Thank me later.

[laughing]

[gasps and squeals]
Congratulations!

I'm gonna tell everyone.

[♪♪♪]

Ahem! ♪ Amelia! ♪

Dani's got some news.

Oh?

Was it about how amazing
her performance was tonight?

She is so lucky.

She had someone
here to sponsor her

to travel the world.

I think she said
something about Japan.

I am so jealous.

Um...

uh, Japan?

Yeah. She'll tell
you all the details.

It's a once-in-a-lifetime
opportunity.

[Kylie giggles]

I can't wait to tell Tanner!

[♪♪♪]

[exhales nervously]

So? Uh, what did you
want to talk about?

Um...

Yeah.

Um, here's good.

"Unexpected joy."

I wasn't expecting this.

Me neither.

And it's December 24th.

[voice cracks] And it's over.

You were a great
fake girlfriend.

No, we were great
fake girlfriends.

I hate goodbyes.

Well, this isn't a
"goodbye" goodbye, is it?

[sobs softly]

Goodbye, Dani.

[♪♪♪]

There you are!

I'm sorry.

What happened?

[♪♪♪]

Dani?

[Raquel] Hey! Did you
and Amelia have a fight?

Your girlfriend
seems very upset.

She's not my girlfriend.

- No?
- What?

She's... She's
not my girlfriend.

I... don't...

She was never my girlfriend.

Well, not... not
my real girlfriend.

She was... She was
a fake girlfriend,

and, well, now, she's
not even that, so, um...

[deep breath, sigh]

I'm sorry that I wasn't honest.

I just... I just wanted you
and Dad to have a good time,

and I wanted you to know
that I... I was fine,

and that it was
smooth sailing for me,

and that I could
captain my ship,

and make great art,
and have great friends

and now everything
is just messed up.

Your ship is sailing fine!

Liza just told me
you got a grant.

- Mom, I...
- Dani, please.

Just... Just listen.

- We're not mad.
- No! No, honey.

And thank you for trying
to look after us, honey.

Yes. We had a great time.

I really enjoyed editing
your friend's book.

Your father just decided
to take that job in Oxford.

You knew about that?

Of course, I knew.

[Raquel chuckles]

We love you.

We want you to be happy.

[in Spanish] Que
eres feliz, hija.

[Raquel] Yes.

[deep breath, sighs]

Let's go home. Hmm?

Mm.

"Three Musketeers."

[♪♪♪]

Come on.

Is it too late

for some double
peppermint hot chocolate?

[Dani] It's never
too late for that.

[♪♪♪]

Morning, Dad.

[dishes clatter on counter]

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas.

Got you a coffee.

Thanks.

Thanks for being here.

Well, we are a family.
Where else would I be?

Okay.

While I do...

want to eventually follow
in your footsteps...

I'd...

like to take a step back

from the corporate
lawyer partner track.

You don't wanna be a partner?

Well, not right now.

Because I have a different idea.

I met so many interesting
people over the last week,

and they need representation.

So I'm proposing

to start a new division

with a new type of client...

artists.

- Artists?
- Yeah.

Huh.

Well, that's...
that's interesting.

Yeah. So are they.

I like it.

[chuckles] Thanks.

[Luke] So why did Santa's helper

need to see a therapist?

[Tanner] I don't know.

[Luke] Because he
had low-elf-esteem.

[groaning and laughter]

- Hey!
- [trio] Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas!

What's all this?

It's called Christmas, Dani.

Get into it.

How did you sleep?

Yeah, me neither.

Um... I owe you an apology.

Yeah. You were
trying to communicate

your "boundaries"...

Boundaries are a
real thing, Mom.

Yeah. I know. I know, dear.

Tanner and I were
talking about them

for a long, long
time this morning.

I should have told you
that we were coming.

We just...

couldn't bear the thought

of not seeing you at Christmas.

I know, Mom.

Going forward,

I promise...

to listen to my daughter

carefully

and deeply

when she's trying to
tell me something...

even if I don't like it.

Thank you.

Te amo.

[♪♪♪]

Here, Dad.

Oh. All right.

[slurps]

Ugh!

[smacks lips]

That is so sweet!

I can honestly
say I've never had

a double-peppermint
hot cocoa before.

They're Daniella's favorites.

And now mine.

Hmm.

I wonder if they
have them in Japan.

Sweetheart...

she's not even on a plane yet.

Amelia won Bedford the Bear!

Kylie just let me know.

Oh. That's nice.

Yeah, I had a
photo for her, too.

I was gonna give it
to her last night.

So? Give it to her.

We said goodbye.

I don't think she
wants to see me again.

Dani.

She ran off crying.

I don't think she would do that

if she really wanted a goodbye.

Who else did she talk to?

Just you and Kylie, I think.

Kylie was telling everyone
about your good news.

You know how excited she gets.

And why not? This
grant is amazing.

You can study anywhere.

Amelia thinks I'm just
leaving everything behind?

Mm-hmm.

It sounds like there has
been a misunderstanding,

and Amelia is missing
a Christmas present.

Do you want make a plan?

Yeah. Yeah. Let's do it. Yeah?

Okay.

[phone rings]

Oh.

Yeah?

Hey, John. It's Luke.
Don't say it's me.

Act natural.

Is Amelia with you?

Where are you?

And a Merry Christmas
to you, Mr. Wibbles.

[♪♪♪]

He's trying to improvise.

Uh, actually, I'm at my
daughter's place right now,

and she's going for a run

in Brooklyn Park.

She's taking a run at
Brooklyn Park, honey.

Stall her! Uh?



[Luke] 15 minutes. Okay?

Uh... that...
shouldn't be a problem.

[Tanner] You get the
tripods, you get the stands.

Okay, everyone know
what they're doing?

[grunts intensely]

[Kylie cracking up]

Well, I'm... oh,
oh, sweetheart!

Uh... hey!

Uh...

[whispers] Just wait a
minute, wait a minute.

Uh, do you want a snack?

Maybe a snack to go?

I could fix you something.

[laughs] I don't need a snack.

You sure?

We... We just ate.

- Okay.
- Yeah.

Okay.

[chuckles]

Yeah! So...

Thanks, John.

I have no idea exactly
where this plan is going,

but it's... it's all good.

Where are we going,
sweetheart? Dani?

Turn right at the bottom.

- Okay, fantastic.
- Oh.

- Yeah.
- Dad?

[whispers] I'm gonna go.

Uh... my daughter's
leaving now.

Can you just hold on?
Hold on for a second?

So, sweetheart, um...

just, you know...

you wanna make plans?

For dinner? Get
together, maybe?

It's Christmas.

[laughs]

We... We do have plans.

Oh! Right. Right,
yes, Of course.

We talked about that.

- Yeah. Okay.
- Okay.

Oh! Hi.

Yeah. She's leaving now.

Yeah. Right now.

Uh-huh.

Uh... hun?

O-kay, yeah, she's gone.

It's all done?

Yeah. And she's on her way?

Yeah, mere moments away.

Yeah. We'll be waiting
in the apartment!

No matter what happens.

As none of us would say,
"It will all work out!"

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

[Amelia gasps]

Bedford?

No way.

Aw!

What is this?

[♪♪♪]

[♪♪♪]

[footsteps approaching]

I took that photo
a long time ago.

Look, I'm... I'm indecisive,

and I talk a lot,

and when it comes
to people I love...

I-I don't tell them when
they need to hear it.

Me too.

[chuckles]

I had it all planned out.

Last night, I was
going to talk to you

and tell you how I feel.

When I heard you were leaving,

I ran.

So... are you leaving?

I am...

But...

It's you.

If, and when, I go to Japan...

I want to come home to you.

Congratulations, by the way.

I don't want to hold you back.

No. No, you never have.

I mean, if anything,

I hope that you'll
join sometime.

[laughs]

I would love to.

You know, you and I were
always meant to meet.

Look.

This photo?

I saw you two years ago.

I took it on my first
day as a New Yorker.

[chuckles]

Yeah, on that bench.

I was here...

I was snapping photos

and you just came
around the corner and...

I mean, I didn't know.

I just recently
developed these rolls

and imagine my surprise when
I saw your beautiful face,

right there, on my frame.

It's amazing.

We could be anywhere
in the world,

and the universe
would find some way

to keep us together.

Okay, so I'm gonna do

the straight-to-the-point
lawyer thing

that you taught me.

Amelia Kasmerec, can I kiss you?

[♪♪♪]

Yes.

- [laughing]
- Good!

Come here.

♪ We'll always be together ♪

♪ Wherever we are ♪

♪ Wherever we go ♪

Yes.

♪ We'll always be
angels in the snow ♪

♪ Got fire in our hearts ♪

♪ No matter how cold ♪

♪ We'll always be
angels in the snow... ♪

Whoo!

Can I get the recipe from you?

♪ ...Wings of gold ♪

♪ When you're with me... ♪

Like, it happens in Brooklyn
a lot, though, I hear.

[clinking on glass]

That worked.

I just... I wanted
to propose a toast...

to friends who are
now chosen family.

Together, we have created

one of the most unexpectedly
joyous Christmas ever.

So...

to friends and family.

- Yes!
- To friends and family.

[overlapping] To
friends and family!

♪ We'll always be together ♪

♪ Wherever we are... ♪

Yes! Whoo-hoo!

♪ ...Wherever we go ♪

♪ We'll always be
angels in the snow ♪

♪ Got fire in our hearts ♪

♪ No matter how cold ♪

♪ We'll always be
angels in the snow ♪

♪ Angels in the snow ♪

[♪♪♪]

♪ Angels in the snow ♪

♪ We're flying free
on wings of gold... ♪

That'd be cool.

♪ Angels in the snow ♪

Thank you.

♪ When you're with me
It feels like home ♪

♪ Angels in the snow ♪

[snap]

[♪♪♪]