Christmas at Plumhill Manor (2024)

[bunniefuu]

Besides the obvious disrepair,

you'll need to replace

all the windows,

install load-bearing piers to

correct the sinking foundation,

and remediate the asbestos.

Page three has

a detailed financial breakdown

of what it will cost to bring

this building up to code.

The building was from 1806.

Should we bulldoze

the city's heritage?

Our proposed high-rise

has a potential not only

to modernize the skyline

but reinvigorate

the entire block.

With all due respect,

the existing structure is more

of a blight to this community

than an asset.

History cannot save the day

or this neighborhood,

but this building...

this building will.

Can't believe you

pulled this off.

I can.

- Great work, Margot.

- Aw, thank you.

So, heard today was

a massive success.

Any hot tips for someone

still trying

to break into the boys' club?

I like to let my work

speak for itself.

- Mm.

- I see it like a puzzle.

Each completed project

leads me to another piece

that I can connect.

Each piece leads me

to the biggest picture.

Speaking of pieces, um,

don't look now,

but you-know-who can't

take his eyes off you.

Check your three o'clock.

Is that still going on?

No, I don't have time

for that kind of thing.

He's the kind of thing

you make time for,

even if you're busy

making partner.

So, why don't you go see what

his holiday plans are, then?

If you insist.

Hope you're all

enjoying yourselves.

This firm deserves

all the champagne in Manhattan

after this record-breaking year.

And Margot Stone...

oh, where is she?

There you are. Listen,

I have to spotlight Margot,

who just finished

our biggest project to date.

1221 Allegiant was a beast,

and she got it done

in record time.

As I always say,

forward progress always...

And in all ways.

Margot...

always puts

the Calvaux family first

just as she should.

Her last name may be Stone,

but she is a gem to us.

Merry Christmas, everyone.

10 out of 10

Christmas card this year, Mom.

I love the Nutcracker tan line.

Oh, I'm glad

you liked it, Peanut.

It was between that

and Santa surfing.

How is the Christmas party?

I left early.

I gotta get home

and get these heels off.

Oh, I bet.

Oh, I can't wait to see you.

When are you getting down here?

I leave the day

before Christmas Eve.

So, do they even have

Christmas trees in Key West,

or are we gonna be

decorating a palm?

You'll love it here.

All the boxes are unpacked...

almost.

Yeah.

What's wrong, Margot?

I-I can hear it in your voice.

I don't know. Maybe I should

get a pet or something.

You don't even have time

for a cactus.

Margot Stone?

Uh, Mom, hold on a second. Yes?

Excuse the lack of introduction.

James Wright, the solicitor for

your late great-aunt's estate.

Oh, I think you have

the wrong Margot Stone.

It's just my mom and me.

No, no, no,

I'm absolutely certain

that you are

the correct Margot Stone.

Um, I'm referring

to Lady Victoria,

your father George's aunt.

I'm sorry to hear

of her passing,

but I still don't know

what you're talking about.

My father died when I was young,

and I don't know

of any other family.

Your great-aunt's will

expressly designates you

as sole beneficiary.

Now, there are a couple

of codicils, however.

Um, the first to stipulate

is that you must,

um, either retain

or sell the property.

Uh, the second, which is

slightly... slightly trickier,

um, says that you must spend

seven nights on the premises

while you make up your mind

one way or the other.

You seem befuddled.

Oh, I am befuddled.

Let me see

if I can get this straight.

An unknown great-aunt of mine

set up this complex process

in her will where I can

inherit her estate or sell it,

but only after spending

a week there?

That's absurd.

Absurd as it may be,

uh, there is a flight

from JFK to Heathrow

tomorrow morning.

I have a job

and Christmas plans.

I can't just get on a plane

to England tomorrow.

And I am instructed

to give you this.

Nice.

The rest will be explained

to you in due course.

Margot? Hello?

Mom, please tell me

you heard all of that.

I'm freaking out.

I think you should go.

Mom!

Aunt Victoria

was your dad's favorite.

Go have an adventure.

Live a little, honey.

Smart home, make it Christmas.

Mmm.

"Much like this vintage,

priceless with age,

all homes hold secrets

if you choose to engage.

Cross the pond,

have the courage to get wet.

Use your wit, and what you seek,

you will get."

Ah.

Margot, this is Jackie.

She's to be your liaison

for the week.

Liaison... fancy.

Don't mind if I do.

Nice to meet you.

Margot, farewell. Jackie?

Wait, that's it?

I'll be in touch

in a couple of days.

Trust the process.

Bless him.

As dull as a documentary

on dust.

Must have dozed off.

This time difference

is gonna k*ll me.

Well, we've just arrived.

Welcome to Plumhill Manor.

This is all Victoria's home?

Was Victoria's home.

It's all yours now.

How many people live here?

Oh, just you right now.

The only remaining staff

Lady Victoria had

when she passed...

God rest her soul...

was me

and the groundskeeper, Thomas.

Oh, he's been on the estate

for 50 years or so.

Everyone else was, uh, let go.

As acting lady of the manor,

you may have a few duties

this week,

but I'll do my best to give you

notice well in advance.

Mind the third stair!

Mr. Darcy.

Carson.

Jeeves?

Hmm.

As they say in America,

this is where the magic happens.

If the magic is me

getting past this jet lag.

Ugh.

Won't take a second to clear!

Just a little quirk

of these old houses.

All right.

Marg... is it okay

if I call you Marg?

Actually, uh...

Marg, I hate to do this to you.

I was planning on making you

a classic English roast

for your arrival, but I've got

some errands to do in town

before I take my shift

at the Black Horse Pub.

The Black Horse?

Why don't you join me?

Great food, and you get

to see around the town.

I really was hoping

to get to some work

at some point today.

Take some time

to get some shuteye,

and we'll venture out

later in the afternoon.

Okay.

One week.

One week.

Third step.

Jackie?

Fa-la-la, la-la-la, la-la-la

Send.

Another delivery already?

Those were Nick's orders.

Oh, I'll tell him you're here.

Nick!

- What'll it be?

Oh, I shouldn't. It's still

working hours in New York.

You can sip and type.

You decide.

I'm gonna go find the boss.

Thanks.

Here he is, the man,

the myth, the legend.

The one who got out

of this place

and for some reason

came running back.

Ah, well, instead of

always announcing me,

why don't you just tell

your customers

to take it easy on me, yeah?

You are the only bloke

I've ever met

who doesn't like it when people

order more of his product.

Hey, who's the bird?

Tourist?

Your guess is as good as mine.

Hmm, very nice. No wedding ring.

Tell you what, you take

them jugs round the back.

I'll take care of this.

All right?

Mm-hmm.

What can I get ya?

A Chablis would be lovely.

Chablis?

Chablis. Coming right up.

Ah, thanks.

Let me know

when you need a refill.

What, you're not staying

for dinner?

- We've got your favorite on.

I could eat, I guess.

All right, I'll get

your order in. Jackie!

Yeah, the Black Horse

isn't exactly known

for their wine selection.

Does what you brought in

in those jugs

taste any better than this?

Do you like plum cider?

Never had it.

Two pints coming right up.

Thanks.

Wow.

That's really fantastic.

So, what is there to do

around here?

I've never been to Plumhill.

Depends what

you're interested in.

I like... buildings.

Buildings?

Well, there's an incredible

manor home not far from here.

Is that Plumhill Manor?

Oh, you've already been.

Margot, Alfie.

I was about to introduce you,

but I see you've already met.

Alfie, this is Margot,

the new owner of Plumhill Manor.

This is Alfie,

the groundskeeper's son

and the maker

of that delicious plum cider

you've been drinkin'.

He makes it on the property...

the property you now own.

Wait, you're Margot Stone?

You make this at Plumhill Manor?

Yes?

Yes.

Nice to meet you.

Wish I could say the same.

Excuse me?

Well, I know your type.

My type? We just met.

It certainly isn't how

I pictured you

after I read that article

about your latest teardown.

Oh, really?

No, I'm gonna be honest.

Why stop now?

I don't know how Lady Victoria

let the property

fall into your hands.

Who knew the next of kin was

some glass tower architect

who demolishes history?

Alfie, we've been over this.

It's none of our business.

Looks a lot more like

our business than it does hers.

Thanks for the warm welcome.

That's my cue for the pub quiz.

Guys, let's refocus this energy

into a friendly

Christmas bar game

hosted by yours truly.

No, thank you.

I wouldn't want to...

demolish the other players.

I think my business

is done here.

Must get home to Rosie, anyway.

All right. Alf!

Don't even think about it.

You've just become partners

with Ron.

Marg, you can join forces

with Horace.

This isn't a fight

you're gonna win.

Now, let's play!

h* h* h*!

Take a drink

if you get a question right.

Take a drink

if you get a question wrong,

and by all means, take a drink

if you get thirsty.

Mmm! And believe me, you are

gonna love the grand prize.

We'll be taking the prize,

so if any of you wanna

give up now, no shame.

That's a likely story.

Yeah, we'll see about that.

Typical American arrogance.

First question...

what is the most traditional

Christmas tree found in the UK?

Norway spruce.

Right.

Well done, Alfie.

Cheers, matey.

- We can't let that happen again.

- No.

Next question.

Where would you find

the most visited Christmas tree

in the world?

New York City,

Rockefeller Center.

- Oh, come on.

Did you write

that question just for her?

Yes to Margot.

No to Alfie.

- Yay!

- Yay.

Drink up. More business for me.

How many ghosts

in the classic Dickens tale,

"A Christmas Carol"?

Three.

- Four.

Point to Alfie and Ron!

-What?!

Present, Past, and Future.

Marley, but you wouldn't know

Bob Marley from your...

Jacob Marley?

Question 19.

Oi, Margot, I've had my fill.

My brain's fuzzy.

Wait, Horace,

we're about to win!

I haven't even answered

a single question.

You and Alfie have got

your own match going.

I couldn't put it better,

Horace.

I stopped being useful around

question three.

Oi, I thought we had

a good thing going here, Ron.

Well, I'm not leaving

until there's a winner.

Yeah, me either.

Hope Rosie can wait.

Last question winner

is the winner.

How many birds

in the "12 Days of Christmas"?

Partridge, two turtle doves...

three geese a laying, two...

Not to help the competition,

but the five golden rings

are also birds.

No, golden rings are,

like, shiny wedding bands.

You do a lot of birdwatching

from your skyscraper?

Shh, I'm counting.

I'm counting.

364. They're all birds.

Golden rings are

gold ring-necked pheasants.

- What?!

We have a winner!

Alfie, come on up here

to accept your prize.

Now, Alfie, since your partner

disqualified himself...

- ...you will now be sharing

first prize with second place

winner, Margot Stone.

Margot, come on up here.

You have both won

a private cooking class

with Plumhill's very own

Mrs. Miriam Hughes.

We will be making my favorite

Christmas pudding.

Some prize.

You know, I actually hate

Christmas pudding.

- You can have the prize.

Oh, no, thank you.

I don't even know

what Christmas pudding is,

and I'm a terrible cook.

Yeah, well... so is Mrs. Hughes.

Wait, I know this song.

My dad used to sing this

to me at Christmas.

You might want to take it easy

on the cider.

Ready for a snog?

As much as I hate to admit it,

it's the best cider

I've ever had.

Come on, my lovelies,

time for a snog.

Uh...

I'm... I'm...

sorry about that.

It was me.

I, uh, I just need some water.

Um...

Wait.

Water.

"The courage to get wet."

Jackie, I need to leave.

Oh. Uh...

"The courage to get wet."

"A foundation of stone,

strong like the name,

take the step,

it's your treasure to claim.

Look to the past,

find what you yearn.

Tread lightly, my dear,

and leave no stone unturned."

Hello... hello?

Margot, what am I looking at?

Sorry!

Uh, could you just

give me one second?

What's wrong with the Wi-Fi

over there?

You didn't respond to any

of the emails from last night.

Wi-Fi?

Yeah, uh... terrible Wi-Fi.

I'll catch you up.

I was on with the London office,

and I mentioned the manor thing

to them.

This manor?

There may be

an opportunity here.

If we can keep it

in the Calvaux family,

it's a double win,

wouldn't you agree?

Absolutely.

I mean, I'm surprised...

...they're even interested

in this thing.

I'd love to see some blueprints

of the old place

all Margot-fied.

I want some inspired choices

to show our acquisitions team.

Yes. I mean, yes, yes.

That works. I can do that.

Let me just, uh,

sort through these emails,

and I'll be in touch.

So, would Thursday work

for a walkthrough with the team?

Ooh! I mean, yes!

Yes, Thursday works.

Great, forward progress always

and in all ways. Ciao, Margot.

Jackie?

Jackie?

I was looking for Jackie.

Did you blow a fuse?

Most people don't understand

old houses, especially your...

If you say my "type"

one more time,

I'm gonna lose it.

And P.S.,

houses are buildings, okay?

I have

my master's in architecture.

This home was built

in the mid-16th century,

and that moat back there

is from the 1300s

when it was in fashion.

- Moat was built in 1331.

So, did you blow a fuse, or...

Oh, will you just tell me

where the fuse box is?

I can do it myself.

- Make sure you stay up there.

- I'd like to see for myself.

Don't let the door close, or...

Or we'll be stuck down here.

I think you're being dramatic.

I'm sure we can get out.

Might have to pick the lock.

Any chance you have a hairpin?

No, because when I was

doing my hair is when...

When you blew the fuse, right.

Fuse box is over there.

Check out

all these Christmas decorations.

Oh, yeah, those are

from Lady Victoria's legendary

Christmas Eve parties.

She used to invite

the whole town,

well, until she got sick

about five years ago.

So, you two were close?

You could say that.

My family have worked on

this property for generations.

I guess I broke the mold a bit

when I got into finance

in London,

but I like to think I'm carrying

on that tradition

in a slightly different way now

with the cider.

So, that's why you're mad at me.

You think this house should

have gone to your family.

Not at all. The town maybe,

or someone who has respect

for a property like this.

Well, I don't know why

she chose me, either,

but according to her will,

I have to stay here

an entire week

until I could even give it away

if I wanted to.

What do you mean she chose you?

Apparently,

she named me specifically.

Now she's got me running around

this place chasing clues.

What are you talking about?

Victoria's stationary.

Can I see?

No, I don't need your help.

You'd probably lead me

straight into that moat.

Hey, where does that door

lead to?

Does that go outside?

No, I think it's

an abandoned wine cellar.

Not really the time to decorate.

How about an ornament hanger?

It might work.

Oh, amazing.

These tumbler locks

are original to this house.

If you take care of things,

they'll last lifetimes.

It's the Plumhill way.

Ugh, if I could just get

this pin to align with...

And that's the New York way.

Alfie, where have you been?

Oh, just, uh,

locked in the cellar.

Oh, just a quirk of the manor.

And you must be

the famous Margot Stone.

Oh, I don't know about famous.

You're the spitting image

of your father.

You knew my father?

I'm Thomas, the old gardener

of Plumhill Manor,

and once a playmate

of your father

a very long time ago

back when my father

was the old gardener

of Plumhill Manor.

Sounds like

your family's created

quite the legacy

here at Plumhill.

As has yours, Lady Margot,

and despite what my Alfred

might have said to you,

we're very happy you're here.

We weren't going to have

a Christmas tree this year,

but I thought we might ask

the new lady of Plumhill

to come and choose one.

My dear, might I suggest

more suitable footwear

for our little outing?

Have you any wellies?

Uh, I don't have anything

except for...

Oh, I'm sure we can find

something that will fit.

Come along. Alfie,

bring the saw if you would.

Yes, Alfie.

Try Victoria's.

Okay.

Fits perfectly.

As I suspected.

Lovely jubbly.

Now, let's see if we can

find that son of mine.

Another quirk?

Adds character.

Right, you kids go

and get the tree.

I'm gonna bring up the baubles.

- Oh, you won't be joining us?

- Well, I want to make sure

my poinsettias

have enough water.

Now, despite this cool guy image

he's trying to pull off,

he's a real sweetheart,

and he's well up

on his binomial nomenclature.

Alfred, really quickly,

what is the genus

and species of the poinsettia?

- Dad.

Humor an old man.

Euphorbia pulcherrima.

Impressive.

Yeah, let's go

before he makes me give you

a full history

on the English rose.

Well, the lady's here all week.

There's time.

I really like those.

Snowdrops.

Those were Victoria's favorite.

They symbolize new beginnings.

Dad has them

all over this property.

Your dad is adorable.

Yeah, he's the best,

even though he drives me crazy.

Sounds like my relationship

with my mother.

She's a painter

and moves at the drop of a hat,

a real free spirit,

opposite of me.

I don't know. I caught

a glimpse of free spirit

at the pub last night.

What you caught was a glimpse

of my extremely competitive

nature

fueled by your cider.

Your very strong cider,

by the way.

Perhaps we could start again.

I didn't have all

the information last night,

and I shouldn't have reacted

that way.

I trust Victoria,

and Victoria trusts you.

Thank you.

I'd really like that.

Did you say you were in finance?

Was in finance, yeah.

Did pretty well in London

for the better part of a decade,

but it just didn't feel right.

So, one day I woke up,

drove home,

and never looked back.

Wait, you just left

your whole life in London?

Well, I prefer to think of it as

walking towards the life

I was meant to be living.

And now I don't check my phone

the second I open my eyes.

Nice to not feel like

a cog in the machine,

but I know that suits others.

Sorry, I need to take this.

No, of course.

Hey, Daniel, what's up?

Calvaux is buzzing. What's this

secret plan you're on?

I thought I was

your new secret, Stone.

It's not a secret project.

Well, whatever it is, I want in.

Daniel, is that why you called?

No, Mr. Calvaux's asked me

to get you

to send him more deets,

zonings, blueprints,

whatever you have.

Done. I gotta go.

Sorry.

Just one of the cogs.

Here's the Plumhill version

of a Christmas tree farm.

I like this one.

Ooh, she's a little rough

around the edges.

I don't mind a little rough

around the edges.

Put these on.

We're about to lug this

Christmas tree up to the house.

Hey, you okay?

Yeah. I'm good.

I can take it

the rest of the way.

No, I got this.

Extremely competitive nature.

Eh, your words, not mine.

Let's go.

Hey, we're almost there.

All right, here we go.

And...

In?

Yeah, we're in.

- Yeah?

- Great.

Whoa.

- Whew.

We always put the tree

under Mr. Wesley.

Christmas was his favorite.

Perfect. And who's Mr. Wesley?

He was Victoria's fianc.

Yeah, she got the letter

that he died only two weeks

before they were due to be

married on Christmas Day.

That's heartbreaking.

Well, Victoria was

a pretty private person.

I think he was the reason

she always opened the doors

on Christmas for a grand party.

After he died,

she never did get married.

She poured all her love

into this town and this home.

It's kind of beautiful

to have a place

you feel so connected to.

Even if it does make

crazy banging noises all night.

Every home has its own language.

Oh, I didn't realize the time.

I have to go.

Rosie?

Yeah, she hates it

if I'm away too long.

So, I'll see you soon.

The third step.

"Take the... step"?

Dad.

Marg?

Why are you not dressed yet?

Dressed for what?

The carol of the bells.

I thought I told you,

the Lady of Plumhill Manor

is always in attendance.

It's not ringing a bell.

Pun intended.

Now off you go.

The whole town will be there.

Go freshen up, go!

Victoria has a closet

full of wonderful options.

A vault this size would

never get approved these days.

Some of this building dates back

to the 11th century.

All of this built

without modern technology

or CAD software.

When I was

in architecture school,

I used to go to all

the old churches around town

and practice

my 3-point perspective,

But none of them had

the level of history this does.

Wait till you see this.

The Stones

have their own pew up front.

Jackie,

why is everybody looking at me?

It's been quite a few years

since this pew

has been occupied.

Everyone's really excited

you're here.

See you after.

Where are you going?

To direct the choir.

Of course.

I didn't know you'd be here.

Fraternizing

with those quitters?

I mean, to be fair,

I didn't know I'd be here.

Well, my dad's in the choir,

so I come every year.

Hmm.

You're in for a real treat.

Josephine McCurtle

has caught some kind of rash

from her grandchildren.

She can't make it in tonight.

We can't do it

without a C3 bell.

I'm so sorry, Jackie, but I'm

sure people will understand

if you're missing one bell.

Marg, I'm gonna need you

to step in.

Me? Why not have Alfie do it?

Yeah, I probably would be

a better choice, actually.

I didn't say you'd be better.

Well, who knows if you

have any musical timing?

And your wrists look

a little weak.

My wrists look weak?

I lugged a huge Christmas tree

with you this morning.

I see what you're trying to do.

It's not gonna work.

Alfie, thank you

for volunteering.

Fine, I'll do it.

I don't know how or what,

but I'm gonna do it.

Get ready for

the best handbell performance

of your life.

I design huge skyscrapers.

I command boardrooms.

I can ring this bell.

You've got one note,

but it's the most

important note in the song.

Thank you, Thomas.

Hello. I'm Beatrice.

Hi.

My mommy said

you're the new princess

in the Plumhill castle.

No, I'm an architect,

but I am staying at Plumhill.

Do you have a ballroom,

like in "Cinderella"?

There is a beautiful ballroom.

So, can we have a ball...

- Beatrice.

I'm not staying very long,

but I can see what I can do.

Hi. I'm Cora. I run

the sweet shop in the village.

We actually used to cater

for Lady Stone's

Christmas parties, as well.

Oh, I heard those parties

were spectacular.

From the big red bow on the door

to the life-sized nutcrackers

greeting guests,

it was pure magic.

Sounds like it was magic.

We are running

the gingerbread booth

at the Christmas Market

this year.

My dad and I used to spend hours

perfecting

our gingerbread houses,

from arranging the peppermint

tiles on the roof,

making the walls sturdy.

Seems like you always had

an interest in architecture.

I never thought about it

like that,

but, yeah, you're probably

right.

Happy Christmas. We look

forward to seeing you around.

Thank you.

Nice to meet you, Beatrice.

- Bye.

Bye.

You jingled that bell

all the way.

Yeah, it was terrible.

No, no, surprisingly, it sounded

better than it ever has.

Huh. Well, I'm glad to continue

to break tradition.

Are you sure

you don't need anything?

No, I'm good.

Mr. Wesley and I are

just gonna finish up this tree,

and then I'm off to bed.

Thank you for pushing me

to be in the choir tonight.

It's nice to see

some Christmas spirit

back in the house again.

I'll see you tomorrow.

Hey, Mom.

Hey, Peanut, how's it going?

Good. Hey, Mom, did you

always let the post office know

when we were moving?

Like, did you give them

our forwarding address?

Sometimes. It was always

such a hassle, though.

Okay. I see.

Well, I love you,

and I'll call you soon.

I love you.

Margot, my gem.

Good morning.

Oh, what time is it there?

It's 1 a.m.

Don't worry.

You know I'm a night owl

and an early bird.

Who has time to sleep, anyways?

Not you, I suppose.

Not you either, until you

get me those renderings.

Have you sent them?

Yeah, I...

I've been working on them.

I just...

I don't think this house

is a redevelopment.

I feel like the firm

should reconsider.

It's pretty lovely as it is.

Think bigger, Stone.

Don't tell me a couple of days

out of the city has you

going soft on me.

No! I'm focused, I'm...

I am zeroed in, yeah.

Great, this has the potential

to be even bigger

than Allegiant.

"Downton Abbey"

meets downtown savvy.

Yeah, um... I just sent them.

And I just got 'em.

Ciao, Margot.

Ready to claim our prize?

Ready as I'll ever be.

Mmm.

Now slowly add the flour.

Okay.

Alfie, you're doing wonderfully.

Oh. I think I need

to start over.

Oh, no, it's fine.

Now, mix until

it feels just right.

And then you want

to chop the fruit.

How much fruit?

Oh, just measure it

with your heart.

And then I always like to add

an extra pinch of salt.

- For luck.

Is this a recipe or a potion?

How's our consistency,

Mrs. Hughes?

Oh, Alfie, that's beautiful.

Okay, now pour it in.

Time for the bain-marie!

Okay.

Ooh, sticky.

Ooh, it's a bit tight

in this kitchen.

Do we need to set a timer?

No, no, you're feel it

when they're done.

Well,

add making Christmas pudding,

which is really just fruitcake,

to the list of things

I've never done before.

You could have fooled me from

how you handled that batter.

Oh, I do better

with detailed measurements,

although I am currently using

my oven... as shoe storage.

- Well, who needs an oven

when you're probably asked

to dinner seven nights a week?

Is that your ever-so-sly way

of finding out

if I'm dating someone?

That's me,

smooth as Christmas pudding.

Well, my dating life

recently has been... rubbish.

It's a pity

there's no recipe for...

falling in love.

Recipe? Hardly.

Feels like the more sense

it makes on paper,

the less I feel...

a connection.

How about you?

I was actually engaged

back in London.

Oh?

We started dating in uni,

but when our careers started,

things changed.

I guess we were missing

that... hunger for each other.

You two look ravenous.

Time to take out the pudding.

- That looks amazing.

- Well, it all seems so messy,

but it comes out perfectly

in the end.

Thank you.

Pleasure.

Want to taste

the latest batch of cider?

I'd love to.

Good afternoon, Margot.

I have some documents for you.

Alfie, would you give us

a minute?

Of course. I'll be out back.

Thank you.

Beautiful tree.

Thank you. You said

you had some things for me.

Uh, these are the accounts

for your great-aunt's estate.

I had strict instructions

not to deliver them

until you'd spent

a few days here.

- Have you enjoyed your stay?

- Very much so.

I'm really starting

to like this place.

Oh, well, good,

I'm glad to hear it.

But you have some

tough decisions ahead of you.

Victoria maintained the manor

as a private residence,

and therefore

the stream of revenue

hasn't been as it could be,

I suppose.

Okay.

Decades of residential taxes.

Mm-hmm.

Well, well, well, if it isn't

the life of the party.

Ah, Jackie, much as I enjoy

our witty banter,

I have just given Margot

the accounts.

Ah.

I'll let you have

a look through everything,

and I'll call back

in a couple of days.

Best of luck.

I don't know the full extent

of the situation,

but Victoria had mentioned

that it had become quite dire.

Yeah.

Does Alfie know?

I don't know.

You know,

when Alfie was a teenager,

Thomas fell quite ill.

And Victoria paid for his care.

And I think Alfie always felt...

protective over her after that.

Jackie, why did Victoria

never reach out to me?

She said she wanted to connect

to you in her own way.

And the debt will...

Yes... be carried over to

whomever takes on the estate.

Hey, you okay?

No.

Victoria always said,

"A true Stone woman always

rises to the challenge.

She leaves no stone unturned."

That's the Plumhill way.

Wait. What did you just say?

It's the Plumhill way.

No, you just said, "You leave

no stone unturned."

She hid a clue under something.

I know it.

- What?

- Yeah, I know it.

I-I'll catch up with you later.

"Gleaming in the lights,

he watches the port.

Love is eternal,

even when it's cut short.

A ball not in a ballroom,

a secret buried deep.

It stands solid,

holding close the key."

Well, you've captured her

perfectly.

Aw, thank you.

Margot, my dear, could you

help me out for a second?

I'd be happy to.

Grab your wellies.

Meet me round the back.

I've been growing these

for Christmas.

They're so beautiful.

Well, the seedlings

have been flourishing,

but they've all now

grown too big for their pots.

Well, how can I help?

Well, if you hold the new pot...

- Okay.

- And then when I replant it

and surround it with new,

fresh soil to keep it secure.

- There we are.

- Hmm.

Lovely jubbly.

- You know, some people think

that the red is the flower,

but really,

it's just a modified leaf.

I never thought of that.

- Hey, Thomas.

- Mm-hmm?

What would happen to you if...

I gave up Plumhill Manor?

Don't worry about me.

That's a decision

you have to make for yourself.

- Can I tell you something?

- Mm-hmm.

Victoria's

been leaving me clues.

Aha!

What, like a scavenger hunt

sort of thing?

Yeah, exactly like

a scavenger hunt.

Well, that was a game

between your father

and Victoria.

Victoria would leave clues

hidden throughout the house,

and George

had to solve the clues

before he got his presents,

one by one.

Well, why would she play

this game with me

if she wanted me to make

a decision so quickly?

Well, she's held

your interest so far, no?

You and Victoria,

you're very similar,

and I don't think

any of this is a game,

and I think you've got

the confidence

to figure that out.

There we are.

Thank you, Thomas.

Marg, I've got to go

and get ready.

Oh, right, you have to work.

Oh, yeah,

only the best job there is.

You are looking at

this year's Father Christmas.

Jackie of all trades.

Is this where you've been

all day?

Why, did you miss me?

What if I did?

Then the feeling

would be mutual.

I tried to tell you

about my booth yesterday,

but you ran off in such a hurry.

I did, didn't I?

I promise I'll tell you

about it later.

Rosie, go lay down.

Wait, this is Rosie?

Aw.

Yeah, my best girl.

I found her abandoned

at the side of the road,

but she should be

back there resting.

She was

in the nativity play earlier,

so I know she's exhausted.

Aw, good-looking

and hard working.

- I wonder where she gets it.

- May I?

- Of course.

Right.

I'll take care of the pints.

You two kids go

and have some fun.

Hey, who do you think it was

that taught him how

to pull a pint?

There you go.

Come on. Come here.

Do you paint these yourself?

I do.

It's a bit of a town tradition.

Well, a tradition started

by Victoria.

Yeah, I've seen

Victoria's collection.

There was one especially

beautiful one of an arch.

An arch?

Don't know of any arches

in town.

Could it possibly be

the clock tower bridge?

Mm.

Maybe it's from her travels.

Hmm, maybe.

I'd like to buy this one

for my mom for Christmas.

Ah, the Manor house.

The perfect choice.

Thank you.

Margot, Margot!

Come see my gingerbread house!

She has been

asking for you all night.

- Aw.

- You've got a new best friend.

Margot, come sit next to me.

Hey.

Let's decorate our

gingerbread house for a party.

Okay, well,

I think we should start

by adding some icing

at the bottom

so that the house

is strong enough

to hold all of your guests.

It's called a foundation.

Mommy said the Lady of Plumhill

used to have

the best Christmas parties.

But I've never been.

Well, I don't see why we

couldn't have a party this year.

Hey, don't get her hopes up.

Unless... you're serious?

Well, why not?

I think it's what

Victoria would want.

Maybe that's why

she brought me here,

to throw one last fabulous

Christmas party at Plumhill.

And I can dance in the ballroom?

All night long.

How's your twirl?

Everyone in town will be

so excited.

Could you help me

spread the word?

There's going to be

a Christmas party

at Plumhill Manor!

I don't think you'll need

any help getting the word out.

Party at Plumhill Manor!

It's really nice what

you did back there for Beatrice.

Oh, it wasn't just for Beatrice.

I can see what the manor

means to everyone around here.

I'd love to help.

In fact,

I'd love to do anything...

that keeps me around you longer.

Alfie, I don't think

it's a good idea

to get involved when...

It doesn't make sense on paper?

None at all.

You couldn't wait

just five more minutes

to get breakfast in bed?

Snowdrop?

New beginnings, right?

Yeah, nothing gets past you.

You know, this is the first time

I've been here this early.

How's that make you feel?

Oddly comfortable.

Me, too.

Oh! Alfie!

I didn't expect you to be here.

Oh, so nice of you to come

and make Margot breakfast.

I wouldn't have pegged you

as a morning person.

Well, no time to waste.

There's a lot to do,

considering the pair of you

promised an entire town

a party in two days' time.

- We did, didn't we?

- Yes, we did.

Enough dillydallying.

Alfie, get yourself down

to the basement

and start bringing up

the decorations.

Margot, let Thomas know

his poinsettias are

gonna be put to good use.

- I got it.

- Here we go.

You got it?

Oh, yeah, good,

light as a feather.

Oh, great work.

Can I help you?

Clark Calvaux.

Alfie Bailey.

Mr. Calvaux,

I didn't know you were coming.

For the walkthrough?

I had to check in

on the London office

and thought, why don't I see

this old money pit in person?

"Money pit"?

- What walkthrough?

- Mr. Calvaux, this is Alfie.

He's the son

of the groundskeeper

here for the property.

That's me,

son of the groundskeeper.

Well, I'll leave you to it.

Uh... Margot Stone.

John Mills,

Calvaux Acquisitions,

London office.

Acquisitions, of course.

Oh, don't mind that.

It's probably the heat.

Or my great-aunt telling me

to get you guys outta here.

- Uh, just gotta get my coat.

She does have

her quirks, as all homes do.

Are you seeing this?

Alfie,

it's none of our business.

The masonry is original.

Crazy,

what some people hold on to.

Ms. Stone, we're very interested

in acquiring the property

before it's listed publicly.

The renderings you sent

are very imaginative.

Uh, those weren't hers, actually.

I had Daniel take a stab

at the project.

Yours were...

uncharacteristically modest,

probably just too close

to the project.

We don't usually provide

the blueprints

to a potential seller,

but since you are part

of the Calvaux family and will

be on the development team...

Oh, this is big, Margot,

for you, for us.

Yeah, I, uh, have a lot

to think about.

I've seen the liens

on the property.

There doesn't seem to be much

to think about at all.

We talk to Mr. Wright.

Tomorrow your seven days are up.

We'll have the closing documents

ready to sign by noon.

Oh. I said you were a gem,

but you're a diamond, Margot,

a diamond!

For progress always

and in all ways!

Alfie, let me explain.

I knew it.

I trusted Victoria when I

found out she had chosen you,

but you don't care

anything about the history

or traditions of this place,

and now you're gonna let

those vultures turn it into

something completely soulless.

Vultures?

Well, what else would

you call the people

who wanna tear up the garden,

just to build

a 6-story modern hotel?

The tennis courts

where the orchard is,

and turn the moat

into a swimming pool?

But, uh, what do I know?

I'm just the son

of the groundskeeper.

I'd never even seen

the blueprints,

and I didn't mean

for the way that came out,

but I don't even know how

to explain what you are to me.

Then what am I to you?

What are any of us to you?

You know, I still don't

think you understand

what Plumhill means

to so many, including Victoria.

She dedicated her life

to this place.

I don't have a lot of options.

I know Victoria didn't tell you

how much debt this place has,

but I've been made captain

of a sinking ship,

and it'd be a whole lot easier

if all of you and Plumhill

didn't mean anything to me.

This isn't just about us.

This is

your family's legacy, too.

Exactly, which is why

I'm trying to fit Plumhill in.

It's just the puzzle pieces

aren't fitting.

Is it that we don't fit?

Or is it that

we're not on the blueprint

you have so perfectly drawn

for your life?

You might want to keep this

for posterity,

a before and after.

You've reached Loraine Stone.

Please leave a message.

"Gleaming in the lights,

he watches the port.

Love is eternal,

even when it's cut short.

A ball not in a ballroom,

a secret buried deep.

It stands solid,

holding close the key."

Sorry, Victoria.

"He watches the port."

"A ball not in a ballroom."

"It stands solid,

holding close the key."

Hey.

Hey.

Is this seat taken?

- I'm really sorry.

- Look, I'm sorry.

I'm an a*s.

I'm so sorry

I said to you what I did.

You have every reason

to be proud

of your career and your firm.

Eh, maybe I'm just...

stuck in the past.

However, I have been looking

at the numbers for the cider,

and if I increase production

and start offering tastings,

the revenue should be enough

to offset some of the debt.

I love the idea

of growing Plumhill's cider.

I just don't want you

to compromise

the traditional way you make it.

That's what makes it special

and potent.

- I've learned a lot this week

about tradition

and the importance of it,

and especially

when looking towards the future.

- Are these the clues?

- Yep, that's the last one.

Huh.

I have something I wanna

show you, but it's at home.

Did you just say "home"?

Oh, where is Nick with that

mistletoe when you need him?

Who needs mistletoe?

Does that mean

the party's still on?

Yes!

And you two aren't getting out

of helping, either.

Come on. Let's go.

There are plenty of rooms

for you to sign the paperwork.

Why are we doing it down here?

Great question, sir.

You know,

at first I didn't understand

why my great-aunt Victoria

chose me to inherit this home.

After all, we had never met,

but it seems she trusted me

with a history far deeper

than my family or this town.

Wow, what is this place?

Unbelievable.

Pristine condition.

This is a Norman-era arch

from a castle

among the oldest in England.

There are many more secrets

to discover here,

and Victoria knew.

So?

So, this castle

qualifies Plumhill

as a Grade I listed building

and historic asset

for the National Trust.

So, the debts are wiped clean.

And it qualifies Plumhill

for funds

for the maintenance

of a building

of outstanding scenic,

scientific,

and historic interest,

on one condition, of course...

that the new owner grants

reasonable access to the public,

which the new Lady

of Plumhill Manor

is pleased as cider punch to do.

Name your price.

Yes, our interest

has increased tenfold.

Plumhill Manor is priceless

and no longer for sale.

Margot, my gem, there has to be

something we can negotiate.

Sorry, Mr. Calvaux.

What can I say, Margot?

I can't believe

you pulled this off.

I can.

I guess we'll see ourselves out.

Best of luck.

You, too.

A Norman arch.

Turns out history

can save the day.

That's what Victoria

was leading you towards.

Now my idea of cider tasting

seems a bit silly in comparison.

No, cider tastings

under a Norman arch

will be a huge draw,

and let's have

more holiday parties,

not just once a year.

You're sure?

You're just gonna... walk away?

I'd like to think I'm walking

into the life

I'm supposed to be living...

here in Plumhill with you.

Marg, Alf?

Are you two down there?

Be right up!

There you two are.

You know, there's still

a lot of work to be done,

and these chickens aren't

basting themselves.

- Oh.

Mom!

- Oh!

- Hi!

Oh, I couldn't stand

the thought of missing out

on Christmas at Plumhill Manor

and you!

You don't mind if I spend your

last few days here, do you?

Oh, no, Mom, actually,

I think it's quite appropriate

that you're here

for my first few days

as owner of Plumhill Manor.

Oh!

Let the adventure begin!

Mom, this is Alfie.

Hi. Lovely to meet you.

- And this is Jackie.

- Get in here.

Oh!

Okay, so you ready?

- Yeah.

- Let's go.

Now, that was perfect.

See, you are a princess.

And we finally get to use

the ballroom.

What a wonderful idea, Beatrice.

Wow.

You're stunning.

You're not so bad yourself.

I think we're ready.

Not quite yet.

Voil.

A little less modern

than your usual projects.

But I think this is

your best work yet.

Oh, and, uh, I have an early

Christmas present for you.

To the official

Lady of Plumhill Manor,

you're gonna need these.

Oh.

And you'll need to sign these.

Gladly.

Lovely jubbly.

Oh, I'm really proud

of you, Margot.

Oh, I think this suits you.

- Thank you, Mom.

And, you know, I have no idea

where you're off to next,

but you always have

a place here.

Oh, Peanut, I've already

found some inspirations.

- Oh?

- The rolling hills, the gardens,

and I-I saw a sheep back there.

- That's Rosie.

- Hi.

- Hey.

- Georgie's song.

Oh.

- Go, Jackie.