A Cinderella Christmas Ball (2024)

[bunniefuu]

Was that okay?

That was amazing.

Those chan turns might

be better than mine.

Great dress rehearsal!

I'll see you all

Friday for the show.

Yeah!

How'd she do?

Incredible.

And she's really coming

out of her shell.

Is she still having a

tough time at school?

There are good and bad days.

The social worker told

us to be patient.

When you adopt a

child later in life,

it can take some time for

them to feel secure, so...

Well, she'll get there.

My mother used to say, "Each day

is a gift, wrapped in new paper."

That is lovely.

This program has been such

a blessing for our family.

I know that we're a

little behind on tuition

but I just wanna assure you,

we'll be able to catch up soon.

This is pay as you

go for a reason.

Don't worry about last month.

Thank you, Chelsea.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Your parents had some

really cool things.

Thank you. After storage

rates went up again,

can't afford to hold on

to all this anymore.

Oh, look!

It's little Chelsea.

Look at those front teeth.

Yeah.

I thought I'd lost this.

My adoption was finalized

three days before Christmas.

This was the first gift

I opened that year.

I bounced around to

different families

for a while but when I saw this,

our first Christmas,

I knew I was finally home.

Who is this?

That's my mother,

my birth mother.

Is she wearing a wedding dress?

Oh, the necklace.

I wonder what that pin means.

Yeah.

"Our place, Havenshire,

December 23, 1987."

That was nine months

before I was born.

"Havenshire is part of a

royal conglomerate of small,"

sovereign countries

near Luxembourg.

"Including Concordia, Eldoria."

Huh.

The man she's

holding hands with,

he's wearing a wedding ring.

Do you think this

could be your father?

I never knew my father. I

don't even know his name.

Well, what about your

birth certificate?

My mother left that line blank.

Why?

I'm not sure.

I'd like to think she planned

to tell me,

one day,

when I was old

enough to understand.

Maybe this is where you

could find your answers.

Woo!

You were all fantastic.

I am so proud of you.

You worked so hard, too.

And getting to see your

remarkable progress

has been the best Christmas gift

I ever could have asked for.

How about one more?

Merry Christmas.

Thank you. Oh.

A plane ticket?

Round trip to Havenshire along

with four nights' lodging.

Everyone chipped in.

This is too much.

I can't accept this.

You do so much for all of us.

I'll expect updates

when you get there.

I appreciate what you're

trying to do but...

I can't fly halfway across the

world so close to Christmas.

Aren't you curious about what

he's like... your birth father?

I've lived in the same

city my entire life.

He's never tried to contact me.

Maybe... just wasn't meant to

be or maybe he's gone, too.

But you could have siblings.

Or cousins. Or

nieces and nephews.

All waiting to meet you.

What if he doesn't

want to see me?

Anyone would be lucky

to call you family.

You always tell me that

every day is a new gift.

But Chels, in order

to see what's inside,

you've got to unwrap it.

Hello.

Hi, um, excuse me, I'm

looking for Claus?

Oh, you've found him.

- Oh.

- - Checking in?

Yes. Uh, Chelsea Jones.

Oh well, welcome to

Havenshire, Ms. Jones.

You have picked a wonderful

time of the year to visit.

Many festive things to do

here in our little hamlet.

Aw.

They've even asked me

to play Santa this year.

Well, with a name like yours,

I'm surprised they

didn't ask sooner.

Thank you.

Extra blankets

are in the closet.

Breakfast is served

from six 'til nine.

A lot of these events

involve dancing.

Dance is a large part of

the Havenshire culture.

We joke that before our

children learn to speak,

they learn to dance.

Well, dance is just

another form of expression.

Hmm. I do believe you're going to

enjoy your time here, Ms. Jones.

- Thank you.

- Take care.

Excuse me, do you

know where this is?

Thank you.

Oh.

Name?

Oh, I'm not on any list.

Castle is closed to the general

public until December 26th.

I'm not going to the castle.

I'm going to that building

right over there.

All entry past this point is

restricted

to the names on the last.

Please?

Oh, come on,

I... I travelled all the way

from America

just to get to that building.

Oh, that building?

Oh, of course! After Christmas.

Guard: Trying to

sneak in, are we?

H... hi. Hi, I was,

I was just gonna help

them with the tree?

Merry Christmas.

And he wished me merry

Christmas and he tossed me out.

Any advice on what to do?

Hmm, with all the royal

celebrations,

security is tight.

There'll be a lot of very

important people there.

It will be hard to access

that part of town.

Well, I, I never back

down from a challenge,

so I will figure out how

to get past that gate.

What publication are you with?

- Excuse me?

- I have to hand it

to the tabloids,

you are relentless.

Do the royal family really sell

that many papers that you'd risk

your freedom?

I'm not a reporter.

And I'm not interested in the

castle or the royal whoever.

Huh. See, most people

would be pretty eager

to have a bit of time

with the royal family.

Guess I'm not most people.

I'm looking for someone.

But half the village is

off limits so I'm stuck.

Ah, I see.

Well, they're playing my song.

Anyone on the dance floor,

half off your Christmas cocoa.

Well?

You want, you want to dance?

You want to pay full price?

Come on.

Let's see what you've got.

Oh.

Okay.

Ooh!

Ah.

Woo!

Who are you?

Chelsea Jones. And you are?

Grateful for the

dance, Ms. Jones.

What do I owe you?

It's been taken care of.

"Guards change at 10 a.m.

Sneak past if you're quick"?

First position.

Yes.

Hi. Before you turn,

tighten your stomach.

It's not a big movement.

Keep it small.

Yes! So much better.

We have provided you

with three instructors.

He sent them all the

way. Myself included.

There must be someone else.

I have given you my very best.

There's no one left.

What about her?

Well, she's not one of ours.

I need to go.

Well, who is she then?

I have no idea.

Ask her yourself.

- Excuse me, miss?

- Oh.

I couldn't help but notice you

and that young student there.

Oh, I'm sorry.

I didn't mean to overstep.

I just wanted to show

him some things I do

- with my own students.

- So, you are a teacher?

Yes, but um, I'm late

for an appointment, so.

My name's James.

I work for the royal family.

I've been tasked with finding

a dance instructor

for Prince Phillip.

Oh, thank you,

but I'm not looking for a job.

So nice to meet you.

It is a temporary position

in preparation

of the Christmas Eve gala.

We will, of course, pay

the standard rates.

I'm sorry, I'm only

in town for a few days

and I don't even have my

dance clothes or shoes.

And I've just missed

my appointment

so I'd like to get

back to my hotel.

We'll cover the

accommodation for the week.

Transportation to

and from the castle.

As far as clothes, well,

you can purchase what

you need with this.

The castle?

So, if I teach the prince then

I can go beyond the gate?

Naturally.

When do I start?

Hello again. Oh, that's me,

right there on the list. Yeah.

Chelsea Jones, J-O-N-E-S.

That's me.

Top of the list.

Thank you.

The dance you'll be teaching Prince Phillip

requires a particular sequence of moves.

There can be no room

for improvisation.

You must adhere to

a strict protocol.

No improv. Gotcha.

Is that an original?

Because of the lack of progress

with the other three teachers,

you will need to

practicese every day.

What happened to them anyway?

They were removed

from their posts.

Simply not up to the task.

Now, it will take immense

focus and concentration.

Oh, oh, sorry. Sorry. So cute.

Is that the prince?

Indeed. Everything you

need to know is in here.

Okay, great.

Oh, these are just variations on

the standard waltz technique.

This is gonna be adorable.

Pardon me?

Do we know who he's

dancing with yet?

Will she be here too?

This is not yet known.

It is, of course, an

enormous decision.

Not to be taken lightly.

I will let Prince Phillip

know you have arrived.

You may wait for him

in the east ballroom.

You have a ballroom?

We have three.

You will be using the east wing.

You have the week.

It's up to you to succeed

where others have failed.

Just down those stairs.

Don't worry. Just leave

the little guy to me.

Wow.

Hmm.

I see you found a way in.

It's you.

I thought you had no

interest in the castle.

And I thought you wore glasses.

Do you live here?

I suppose we were both misled.

Well, this is sort of

a recent development.

I've been hired to

teach Prince Phillip.

Is that so?

Yeah.

Apparently, he scared off

all the local instructors?

Oh, sorry, is he your son

or nephew or something?

Ah, there you

are. Your Highness,

I'd like to introduce you

to Ms. Chelsea Jones.

Ms. Jones,

Prince Phillip.

We've met.

Well, the clock is

ticking on your lesson.

I suggest you not

waste any more time.

- You're Prince Phillip?

- It would appear so.

Ah, so the photo in the hall?

That was taken many years ago.

Right. Huh.

Okay um, well uh,

I guess we can get started.

Uh, no,

I won't be

dancing with you today.

It's true, I usually

work with kids,

but I promise you,

I'm more than qualified

to teach you these steps.

Oh, I'm sure you are.

But I have no interest

in learning that dance.

But I was hired to

teach you that dance.

Indeed.

And you're here for our lesson.

Technically, yes.

You won't be dancing?

Now you're getting it.

Uh, you're welcome to

join me in a game.

Of chess?

Naturally.

Look, if, if you're

not gonna dance,

I have somewhere

else I could be.

Don't feel bad.

The finest instructors

in all of Havenshire

couldn't get me on that floor.

You stood little

chance of succeeding.

I'm not from Havenshire.

I'm from Chicago.

And I can be very patient.

On guard.

Now, did you know, Chelsea,

that when you move

into a position

to take your opponent's queen,

the gentlemanly thing to

do is to give a warning,

on guard.

Well, you'd be amazed

how many players

omit this common sense

of decency.

Is that so?

But I'm a gentleman, see.

So, I warned myself. On guard.

You know, it's funny. You're

actually one of the few people

who will take a queen someday.

Will you say, "On guard"?

Hmm.

Perhaps.

I can't tell

if that's romantic or arrogant?

Can't it be both?

Seems like our time is up.

Same time tomorrow?

Looking forward to it.

We shall bring that report to

parliament when they reconvene.

Merry Christmas to you as well.

Hi, sorry, I think

I took a wrong turn.

Or maybe five.

Oh, you're... the queen.

I am.

And you are?

Chelsea Jones.

Ah...

the new dance teacher.

How's my son progressing?

Well, it was just

the first lesson.

Hmm. My son can

be quite stubborn.

Well, fortunately, so can I.

I am glad to hear it.

They're... by the clock.

- Hmm?

- Your glasses.

Observant, too.

Well, um, it was an

honour to meet you.

I'll just see myself out.

Oh, sorry.

Sorry, which way is the exit?

Take a left at the

end of the hall.

Thank you. Thank you.

Finally. Okay, Mom,

why were you here?

"Havenshire Museum of

Art and Antiquities".

Of course I'd find it

on a Wednesday at five.

Mother, may I have a word?

Yes, of course.

I met your new instructor.

I had no idea James' search

for a suitable replacement

would take him all

the way to America.

Huh, yes. Well, Chelsea

seems very talented.

And just how did

you discern that

from behind your chessboard?

I'm not sure that I see

the need for these lessons.

I think you do.

Our guests arrive tomorrow.

Have you made your decision?

Well...

uh, that is why I

need more time.

And I've given it to you.

But there are

expectations, Phillip.

It must be this Christmas Eve.

Who will she be?

Me first!

On guard. Hmm.

Go right upstairs

and get washed up.

It's almost dinner.

Oh, to be young and

full of such energy.

Are those your grandchildren?

Well, no, my wife, Hannah,

and I foster Hans and Gregor.

They're brothers.

Have you considered

adopting them yourselves?

We would in a heartbeat.

My wife and I have

submitted the paperwork

but the process has

been difficult.

Apparently, there's some

backlog at the agency.

There are many challenges,

but they are worth it.

Now, who's winning?

Well, me.

- Oh!

- Also, I'm losing.

Oh.

May I ask what you're doing?

If you can play chess by

yourself, I can dance by myself.

Touch.

Besides, if someone walks by,

maybe they'll think we're really

doing a lesson

and then I won't lose my job.

You know, I'll happily double

whatever they're paying you.

Please, won't you sit down?

I'm sure ballroom style is different

from what you're used to but actually,

last night I read a quote

from a chess grandmaster.

"If you wish to succeed, you

must brave the risk of failure."

Of failure?

But you're not gonna fail.

You're gonna do great.

Look, it's not a

matter of difficulty,

it's a matter of desire.

I have no wish to learn.

Why? I mean, you

love to dance.

In the pub, you asked me.

Uh-uh, nobody knows

I was in the pub that day.

Is, is it not allowed?

No.

I'm required to travel

with a security detail

beyond the castle walls.

But a man can only spend so long

under the watchful

eye of others.

So, you put on a

hat and some glasses

and people really

don't know it's you?

No. Many indulge me.

It is exhausting to always

be in the spotlight.

I require a reprieve.

A reprieve where people

pretend not to recognize you?

But I don't expect

you to understand.

You're a dancer.

You flourish under

the bright lights.

I'm not some big-time

stage performer.

My mother was a real dancer.

I'm... I'm just a teacher.

Everyone in my life

expects something from me.

I need something that's

you know, mine alone.

Well, why can't

we have that here?

No expectations. Just

two people dancing.

Disguise optional.

Why are you here really?

Why did you have to get past the gates

if you had no interest in royalty?

And what brings a dance

teacher from America

to Havenshire in

the first place?

I'm looking for information

about my biological family.

My mother died when I

was very young but...

I found a photo of her from a

Christmas she spent here in Havenshire.

And she was with someone,

I think my father.

They were standing in

front of a building

that seemed really

important to them somehow.

Anyway, that's the museum

beyond the gate. So.

And if I don't dance,

you lose this job and any chance

to discover more about it.

Mm-hmm.

Best reason I've

had to dance yet.

Okay, in ballroom dance, the

most important thing is posture.

For the man, that's

straight up and down.

Like a Christmas tree.

Yeah, very good.

Then the arms stretch

out like the branches.

- Mm-hmm.

- Nice and tall. Yep.

I'm already quite tall.

Well, that's okay.

How tall is the woman

you're dancing with?

That is as yet unknown.

Well, you can bend your

knees a little if you want,

but your top half

should be upright.

Regal, actually.

Phew, well I've got that down.

And since we're doing a

strict waltz, we'll remain

in this basic position

the entire time.

Mm-hmm.

Yeah, that's good.

You've done this before.

Just enough to be dangerous.

Ah. Um, well, we can jump

into the choreography.

- Okay.

- Okay.

It starts with you

offering me your hand.

I step forward.

And in position, and then

we sway, one, two, three.

And now on the three step,

forward on your left,

and then one, two, three.

Very good. Now we

start a spin turn.

- Mm-hmm.

- Okay.

And...

Oh. Uh... oh, um,

it's called a spin turn but

you don't actually spin me.

We actually spin together

in that same position.

- Like this.

- Right.

One, two, yeah. There you go.

Let's try again from the top.

Ah, okay.

And don't spin me.

No, okay.

Okay, here we go.

And one, two, three.

Two, three. Oh.

Wonderful.

Oh, hello, Mother.

Your Majesty.

Well, it seems my

worries were unfounded.

You're progressing quite well.

But there's no spin.

Yes, Mother.

Of course, Your Highness.

I'm sorry to interrupt,

but our guests have arrived

ahead of schedule.

Your presence is requested

at the receiving line.

Of course.

I'm afraid we'll have to

leave it there for today.

Okay, um, great job.

Hmm.

Oh, sorry. I'm sorry.

Come with me.

Staff members are required

to form a greeting

line for the arriving

guests of the royal family,

as is protocol.

Who's that?

Tobias Celsbury.

The former Duke of Eldoria.

Havenshire's largest

trade partner.

Former?

Tobias, my dear friend,

I'm so happy you could join us.

As always, Your Majesty, the

pleasure is entirely mine.

And that?

Gwendolyn Harrington,

the Duchess of Concordia.

The Prince's dearest friend.

All this fuss.

Do you ever get used to it?

Merry Christmas, Gwen.

Merry Christmas.

Your Majesty.

Elizabeth Kent.

Daughter of a prominent

parliamentary member.

Hmm. Are they all staying

here at the castle?

Yes.

Are there enough bedrooms?

It is a castle.

So, we just stand here in the

greeting line and just like...

Yes.

Silently.

Thanks.

Ms. Jones! Ms. Jones.

You left this behind.

Uh, for you, in case you wanted to

look at the choreography for tomorrow.

Okay. Yeah.

Uh, let me walk you home.

I thought you weren't

supposed to go into town

without your security detail?

Ah.

Incognito.

Okay.

You know, your

mother, the queen,

thinks I'm teaching

you the dance wrong.

Why did you keep spinning me?

Well, I suppose that my desire for

freedom invades even my dance lessons.

Or maybe it's just that

spinning you is so much fun.

I don't get so much

of that in my life.

Fun? Or freedom?

Either.

Don't get me wrong,

I love my country.

I love serving my people.

The castle seems really fun.

Huh.

I mean, that's what you dream

about as a kid.

Living in a castle.

They're magical.

When I'm in the castle, I'm usually working

on diplomacy or other matters of state.

Slowly, but surely alleviating

my mother's workload.

Soon enough, I'll

take over completely.

My mother's expressed

a desire to step down.

So, you'll become a king?

Yes.

But in Havenshire, king is

expected to be married.

Uh, did you know that there is

an old Havenshire superstition

that if you put your Christmas

stocking underneath your pillow,

that night you will dream of

the one that you'll marry.

Really?

- No.

- C'mon!

Hey, did you just push

the Prince of Havenshire?

Only because he deserved it.

Hang on. No, stop!

I must defend a lady's honour!

Some of that? Oh! Ooh,

good arm, young man.

I've got you.

Kids: Ow. Retreat! Retreat!

Yeah, you'd better run.

That was fun.

Tomorrow it's the castle

Christmas breakfast,

10 a.m. Come.

Isn't that for the guests?

Yes. You'll be my guest.

Please.

We can't dance on

an empty stomach.

Okay, I'll be there.

Great.

Don't forget this.

Merry Christmas.

Ms. Jones. What are you doing?

I thought that's how

you greet the guests?

That was a chambermaid.

And this event is

invitation only.

Uh, yes. Yes, she has one.

It's most unorthodox,

Your Highness.

Oh well, let me worry

about that, James.

You look fantastic. Come in.

Thanks.

Chelsea, I'd like you

to meet Elizabeth Kent.

Elizabeth leads our commission

on monetary policy

and economic growth.

Wow. Uh, nice to

meet you. Or uh...

Are you with the

American Consulate?

Chelsea is my dance teacher.

Phillip?

Ah, I'm sorry, I have to leave.

But please do stay.

Enjoy the food.

We certainly have enough of it.

Oh!

That's decoration.

Oh, thank you.

You're welcome.

Would have been embarrassing.

Oh, that's also decoration.

Maybe I should

stick to the waffles.

This is a waffle, right?

Yes. May I recommend

the Christmas entremets,

or my favourite, the clafoutis.

Oh. I'll try it. Just

don't expect me to say it.

Thank you for your help.

I feel so out of place.

Well, we belong where

we decide we belong.

- I'm Gwen.

- Chelsea.

Such a pleasure to meet you.

- You too.

- How do you know Phillip?

I'm his dance teacher.

Oh. Oh, I do not envy you.

Phillip and I grew up together

and I am very familiar

with his stubborn streak.

Yes.

Are you staying at the castle?

No. No, no.

I'm actually between

accommodations right now.

I was staying at this

inn down the road

but my reservation is almost up.

Oh, well I'm sure we

can find you a room here.

Oh.

I will talk to the queen.

No, no, no, please

don't do that.

- No, it's no trouble at all.

- Uh, no, no. Uh...

That was quite presumptuous.

What?

Seems she's making

herself right at home.

She expects Phillip to propose

to her on Christmas Eve.

Oh.

This section

ends with an over sway.

Come around this way.

Yes, the more

stretch, the better.

- Mm-hmm.

- Remember, stay tall.

Like a Christmas tree.

Yeah. Beautiful.

That's what I was going to say.

Water break?

- Yes.

- Yes, great.

- Oh, thank you.

- You're welcome.

You know, it is taking every

ounce of my self-restraint not

to run and slide across

this floor.

Oh well, surely you've

slid across this floor

- in socks at some point?

- No.

What, not even as a kid?

Oh, come on!

Ballroom floors are

the best for sliding,

and this one has just

the right smoothness.

Believe it or not, there is

a protocol for how one walks

through public areas

of the castle.

No running, and

definitely no sliding.

No fun or freedom?

Exactly.

How was the breakfast?

I'm so sorry that I couldn't

spend more time with you.

I met Gwen.

She is, she's amazing.

She's beautiful

and she's so nice.

Congratulations.

How long have you been together?

Oh no. No, we're not.

Oh um, sorry, I

thought I heard...

That I was going to propose?

Yeah. That is a possibility.

I'm lost.

It's complicated.

Ah, sorry, you don't

have to tell me.

No, no, no, it's not that.

Would you like to go for a walk?

Sure.

The reason that I'm

reluctant to learn the dance

is that it's part of a

centuries' old tradition

that I've been putting

off for many years.

After dancing with various

guests throughout the evening,

I'm expected to perform that particular waltz

with the person that I choose to marry.

At the Christmas ball, I will

signal for the song to play.

And the bells will ring and everyone

will know my choice as the waltz begins.

That sounds like the

ball in Cinderella.

The prince dancing with

ladies then choosing a bride?

Indeed. It has gained the nickname

the Cinderella Christmas Ball.

Uh, but in modern times,

surely you would know ahead of

time who you're proposing to?

The dance is just a formality.

Right?

For generations now, yes.

But you haven't chosen yet.

No.

And you will before Christmas?

It is my duty to do so.

I have more to consider

than my happiness.

My mother, she's

earned her rest.

And here, I thought you were just

trying to get out of some dance lessons.

I'm sorry.

No, don't be.

You have been a

breath of fresh air.

Oh, Tobias,

I am so glad you could join us

for this momentous occasion.

Has Phillip shared his decision?

I am unsure if

one has been made.

He has faltered every

step of the way.

Hmm.

Well, it's not a choice

one should make lightly.

I wed Frederick when

we were teenagers.

It was the greatest

success of my life.

Not everyone has a love

story like you and Frederick.

Yet so, It turns out

it wasn't foie gras all along.

My mother's face was priceless.

Are you all right, Chelsea?

Who, who are they?

Uh yes, this is the

Holly Berry Ballet Company.

They perform at the

castle every Christmas.

Oh, would you excuse me?

Of course. I'll get your bag.

Thank you.

Um, excuse me.

I'm Chelsea. You don't know me.

I think my late mother might have been

a part of your ballet company years ago.

She, she was a dancer.

Um... this is her.

It looks like she might have been

wearing a Holly Berry Ballet pin?

It's possible your mother danced with

us as a guest soloist at some point.

Um, the picture

was taken in '87.

Were you a part of

the troupe back then?

No. I didn't take

over until much later.

But we do keep records

of past rosters.

I'd be happy to look

into it for you.

Oh my goodness,

thank you so much.

If your mother danced

with the troupe,

she most certainly performed

here, at the castle.

Oh wow. Oh wow.

Morning. There you go, Claus.

Good morning.

I am sorry we couldn't

extend your stay.

Were you able to find

suitable arrangements?

Yes, I was.

Happy to hear it.

Thank you for everything.

And I'll see you at the

Family Foster Santa event.

- Of course.

- Okay.

Oh, where will you be staying.

The castle, actually.

Um, I know. Uh, I'm teaching

the prince to dance.

It's a long story.

Wonderful.

I thought you two

got on well the other day.

You never know what

tomorrow might bring.

Each day is a gift from

God, wrapped in new paper.

My mother used to say that.

Sounds like your

mother was a smart lady.

Um, see ya.

Take care.

Moving in, are we?

Oh, does this fold

out into a bed?

This is the sitting room.

My room has a room?

If you have any questions,

please ask a footman.

I will be available after 2 p.m.

and I shall call upon you then.

Thanks.

I think my mother toured

with an international ballet company,

and danced here, at the castle!

- Really?

- Yeah!

I knew she was a dancer

but nobody could really tell me

much more than that.

Uh, so do you think somebody

at the castle might

remember her?

I hope so.

Okay, can we go back to the part

where you're moving in

with royalty?

And is that normal for a dance

instructor to move into the castle?

Nothing about this

trip has been normal.

Phillip is a dreamboat.

You should go for it.

Hey, back to the real world.

I'm gonna go ask around

the castle and see.

You could totally be Cinderella.

No, no, Snow White.

Goodbye, Rebecca.

Excuse me, does this

woman look familiar?

The Holly Berry Ballet Company.

She would have been here

the Christmas of '87?

Oh.

Here you go.

I attend to countless guests.

The odds of me recalling

a single dancer is slim.

Can you just look at the photo?

You know, if you loosened your tie you

might be a little more comfortable.

Oh, why stop there? I could

simply trade my uniform

for a t-shirt and a

pair of flip flops.

That's a tough look but I

think you could pull it off.

We have a dress code,

Ms. Jones. It is...

Protocol, right.

Oh, they never get these right.

Trade?

Do you recognize her?

She does... look

familiar but...

I couldn't say why.

You probably saw

her here, performing.

Her husband, my father,

might have been with her.

Do you have any memory at all?

Uh, I don't. Sorry, I, I

can't help more.

Okay, I got this.

Thank you.

So, tell me, how's the search

for information on your mother going?

Oh um, well I've been showing the photo to

some older staff members around the castle.

Nothing yet.

Well, can I see the photo?

Sure.

Ah. What's your mother's name?

Jane.

She's very beautiful.

You have her eyes.

Thank you.

She passed away when I was five so all

I have left of her are a few photos.

And this necklace.

Oh, it's lovely.

You know, this is

Havenshire Museum.

I'm hoping to find some answers

when it opens Monday morning, so.

May I keep this photo,

just for tonight?

I'd like to show my mother. See

if she can shed any light on it.

Thank you.

And she danced here?

Hmm, we believe so.

Do you recognize her?

Hmm. I'm not entirely sure.

But we have had many talented

dancers come through the castle.

Including her daughter,

your teacher.

Indeed.

Ah, she's waited a

lifetime for answers.

I hope to help her find them.

She's important to you.

As she's helping me,

I think it's only right

that I return the favour.

Of course.

Come in.

Hi.

Heading to the pub?

No. Somewhere very special.

Would you like to join me?

Sure.

This is incredible.

It's almost time.

What are we waiting for?

Havenshire does love its bells.

Bells to signal my choice of

a bride on Christmas Eve.

For generations, these bells have

rung every night of Christmas week.

These bells, they, well,

they bring me peace.

Especially when things

feel uncertain.

They're beautiful.

I envy you.

Me?

Mm-hmm.

You look at the world

with such...

possibility.

While I steal moments

behind a pair of glasses.

I wish you had known my father.

He was kind and brilliant.

Ruled with such self-assurance.

Strong and serious. Huh.

And now, my mother, she

leads with wisdom and grace.

The truth is...

the moment that I

make my choice,

the moment I step out on to

the floor for that dance,

I accept that incredible

responsibility.

I will be king.

How can I hope to live

up to their legacy?

I'm nothing like them.

Why do you have to be like them?

Well, there are expectations

that come with being king.

Can't go to the local pub.

You can't mix in crowds,

with or without a disguise.

Is it so bad to mix with crowds

in public from time to time?

It's not proper kingly

behaviour, I'm afraid.

Just, I don't know how I'd

understand people's needs from afar.

You know, to hear

bits of conversation,

hear their real concerns.

It sounds invaluable

as a leader.

Oh, you'd never, never

see my parents at the pub.

I just...

I can't shake the feeling

that I don't belong

on the throne.

Maybe you're meant to

forge your own path as king.

Apologies.

I don't mean to burden

you with my problems.

I don't feel burdened.

That's because you're

a wonderful person.

Thank you.

My mother, she said the woman in

the photograph did look familiar.

But she couldn't shed any

more light on it than that,

I'm afraid.

I really appreciate

you even asking.

We will find what

you are looking for.

I promise.

We?

You're not alone.

You know, I've never

brought anyone here before.

Well, thank you for

sharing it with me.

And... for whatever it's worth,

I think you'll make

an incredible king,

just the way you are.

I'm afraid we're going to have

to postpone our lesson tomorrow.

It's the

Christmas Tree Christmas Tea.

What is that?

Besides a mouthful.

Well, it is just a

little celebration

where guests bring ornaments

with sentimental meaning,

then we decorate the

royal Christmas tree.

While drinking tea?

Yes, yes, indeed.

Will I see you there?

Okay.

Excellent. Excellent that's...

Well, uh, good night, Chelsea.

Good night.

Phillip? Phillip?

Ah, welcome!

So glad you could make it.

Phillip? Over here.

Don't envy his position.

I'm Tobias Celsbury.

Oh, Chelsea Jones.

No need for such

formalities, Ms. Jones.

I just don't want

to offend anyone

so I've been doing it

to everyone I meet.

The footmen outside

were pretty confused

but in my defence, their uniforms

are very official looking.

I hear you've

made quite an impression

during your brief stay.

Is that good or bad?

Always good.

Sometimes the boat

needs to be rocked.

I'm, I'm not here

to rock any boats.

Hmm. You do remind me of the

heroine of an Eldorian fairytale

my grandmother used to

read me as a child.

Classic, yet unafraid

to buck the system.

It is so lovely to

see you, my dear.

How is Edwina? It has

been far too long.

She's well, thank you.

She sends her best.

Your Majesty, congratulations

on a superb event.

Why, thank you, Elizabeth.

The Christmas festivities

always have such profound

economic benefits

to the community.

That is a benefit, to be sure.

But Christmas reminds us to be

the best part of ourselves, hmm?

A little kinder, a

little more generous.

Think we can all drink to that.

That's an ornament.

How are you enjoying the spread?

Oh, it's great. It's great.

I just think there

should be more labels.

Phillip?

Tough being the most

popular guy in the room.

Huh, quite.

Since this is an occasion

all about ornaments,

I thought you might

like to have this.

You remembered.

From our walk.

Well, I uh,

I'd better do the rounds.

Yeah.

Elizabeth.

Lovely party, isn't it?

Oh, yes. Yes, very.

Did you know Tobias used to

be a duke back in his country?

Yeah, what... what happened?

He fell in love

with the wrong woman.

There are expectations for people

like Mr. Celsbury, and Phillip.

When they select a partner, they must

consider what is best for a nation.

Mr. Celsbury made a selfish

choice and it cost him dearly.

Phillip will not make

the same mistake.

I've been taking a few

waltz lessons of my own.

Oh?

I'll be ready for that dance

you're teaching him.

Enjoy the grapes.

I am happy that you are

progressing with your lessons,

but I worry you are becoming

distracted from your objective.

It's a relic, Mother.

All of this pomp and

pageantry, for what?

A diplomatic alliance?

I thought you were

fond of Gwendolyn?

I am. But...

Ah. Elizabeth

is a fine choice.

She is not royalty.

You know that Eldoria recently

opened its protocols,

allowing for established

political families

to intermarry with royalty.

We have no problem with it.

Gwen and Elizabeth both

have much to offer.

It is an opportunity

for happiness,

if only you would embrace it.

I will.

You are ready.

- To marry?

- To become king.

Your diplomatic

instincts are spot on.

Your reform proposals have

made a real improvement

with our domestic policies.

Why do you doubt yourself?

Why didn't you and father

ever go out in public?

You know, just go to a

restaurant? Talk to people?

Is that what's bothering you?

Sometimes I feel the need to...

To put on a hat and glasses

and pretend not to be royal?

You know about that?

Mm-hmm.

Ah.

Your father was a

very private king.

He didn't keep himself from the public

because, it was the kingly thing to do,

it's just that he was more

comfortable away from the crowds.

He...

and I have taken care of

our people from afar.

You might take care of

them from closer up.

Forge my own path.

Take courage, Phillip.

You're going to be just fine.

Phillip?

What are you doing here?

Today's the day!

You didn't think I'd miss it?

Shall we?

Another room.

This place is huge.

What exactly are we looking for?

I'm not sure.

Ah, so we'll know

it when we see it.

Hope so.

You know? With every

year that passes,

I feel like my mother

gets further away.

My memories of her get hazier.

I just thought this might be a

chance to connect with her somehow.

Well, I mean, this

is just one gallery.

There's so much of the

museum left to explore.

Oh my gosh.

What is it?

Do you recognize her?

Not her. This.

Your pendant.

It can't be a

coincidence, can it?

No, it can't be.

This is it.

Wow.

Oh, sorry.

No. No, I... gosh,

I'm so happy for you. This is...

There's no information

on the woman's identity.

And no artist.

Hold on. Ah, yes.

It says here that it was

donated by a private collector.

Artist and subject unknown.

Is there a theory on

who she might have been?

Uh,

it is unlikely to have

originated in Havenshire

due to the style

of the headpiece.

Not much more.

But I can certainly ask the board

of royal historians to look into it.

Thank you.

That is incredible.

Wow.

Do you think it could

be my mother's mother,

or my mother's mother's mother?

And here I thought

she was from Detroit.

Well, perhaps she was. Maybe

the necklace was a gift.

Oh.

And listen, before I forget,

I have made arrangements

for the royal dressmaker

to stop by your room

tomorrow before our lesson.

- For what?

- The ball.

I didn't realize

staff was invited.

Well, they're not.

But you're special.

You are the... the prince's

dance instructor.

You should see the

fruits of your labour.

I still think it's too much.

But you deserve every bit of it.

Uh, you know what? I should probably

change for the Family Foster Event.

You know about this event?

Know about it? I'm in it.

Would you like to join?

Yeah, well it's not... royal

family doesn't usually attend.

It's more for the

people to enjoy.

Not an event full of pomp and

circumstance, shall we say.

So, put your glasses on.

Gwen?

Are you all right?

Yes. Yes, I'm fine.

This week has just

been very stressful.

Do you wanna talk about it?

Yes.

Phillip and I were

born one month apart.

Did you know that?

Well, I came first and, well,

it's perhaps the only month

where I wasn't tied to him,

in the eyes of our parents.

I've known the engagement waltz

choreography

for the Cinderella Christmas

Ball for years now.

There's just always been this

expectation that we would wed.

Wait, you don't want to?

You must think I'm mad.

I mean, who wouldn't

want to be queen?

All of these other women would trade

positions with me in a heartbeat.

I know Elizabeth would.

I do love Phillip,

just as a dear friend.

What are you gonna do?

Well, if Phillip asks me to

marry him, I, of course, will.

Bells will ring and

we will waltz, and...

and it will be done.

It is my duty.

Thank you.

Thank you so much for listening.

How very kind.

Anytime.

h*! h*! h*! Merry Christmas!

Thank you again

for helping today.

Oh, giving gifts has always been

my favourite part of Christmas.

Oh, a chip off the old block.

Yeah.

Merry Christmas.

Hello. Um, I'm Phillip.

And Santa is a really

good friend of mine.

He's very, very nice.

Oh, thank you.

So, will you come up

and meet him with me?

Great.

Oh! Hello.

How charming.

- Thank you.

- Are they yours?

Soon, God willing.

Claus, maybe after the event

you could tell Phillip more

about your foster journey?

I'd love to.

Fantastic. Excellent.

Sure.

There you go. Merry Christmas.

Ah.

I had to see for myself.

Oh, it was a lovely event.

I'm so glad that I came.

And I learned quite

a bit from...

from Santa, of all people.

Have you two been

good this year?

I have just a few

candy canes left.

Thank you, my dear.

I have decided

to increase funding

and resources

to the foster program.

I think that should help a lot

of these children

get adopted more expeditiously.

That... that would

be wonderful.

You know, today, these,

these kids they felt like...

like they belonged.

Like they were a

part of a community.

I'm told they look forward

to this event all year.

Could you hold monthly events?

I'm sure the foster families would

be happy to help organize them.

I don't see why not.

Tobias: Well, I'd be honoured

to fund the May event.

In honour of my grandmother,

who was born in May.

Always loved the

blooms of that season.

I presume other guests might also be eager

to contribute to such a worthy endeavour.

Thank you so much. Thank you.

Oh, duty calls.

Okay.

Woo! Oh!

Warming up for our lesson?

I had to. At least once.

It's pretty fun.

Oh, but I guess that wouldn't be

very becoming of a prince.

Ah, no. No, it would not.

Yeah, too bad.

Woo!

- Right?

- Here we come.

Oh!

Woo!

So...

Oh, uh from the uh, yeah.

Yes, absolutely.

Okay, uh-huh. And...

Oh, keep your feet

on the floor a little.

It's no good. It's not good. I

just, I can't get the pivots.

They're beyond me.

You know what?

Let's just waltz.

What do you mean?

Well, you know the choreography.

I want you to fall in love

with the feeling of the waltz.

You know, it's free,

unrestricted, like,

like sliding across

the floor in socks.

Uh, well, now that was fun.

Let me try something.

Okay. Free.

Just whatever you wanna do.

Yeah.

You're pivoting.

You got it. Yeah!

Phillip, my father

is waiting for us.

We were supposed to

meet him for dinner.

Yes. Yes, I am sorry.

I completely lost track of time.

Better hurry.

Until tomorrow.

Yeah.

I'm so sorry.

This is all... too much.

Just have fun with it.

How would I ever choose?

Try them all.

It's uh... nice.

I mean, you know, it's nice.

You don't look comfortable.

This is hopeless.

I'm not gonna put on a fancy

dress and suddenly fit in.

Well, the goal is not to fit in.

It's to stand out.

Ooh. Sorry to interrupt.

- Why, you look splendid.

- Thank you.

Why, I, I've brought you

the book we talked about.

Thought you might

like to read it.

I've bookmarked my

favourite for you.

The story features a necklace.

The one your grandmother

read to you as a child?

Indeed.

Thank you.

Well, I'll leave you to it.

Oh thanks. Yeah,

just a few more.

I've got my lesson with Phillip.

Oh boy.

Let's do it.

Just the person

I was looking for.

I have something for you.

What is it?

I didn't mention it earlier

because I didn't want

to get your hopes up.

But many of our performances

are recorded for posterity.

I had the director search the

archives for your mother's.

She found it.

Thank you.

Hi.

Oh.

Is that your...

My mother.

Wow.

Um, I, I need a minute.

Of course.

- Sorry.

- No, of course.

Take as long as you need.

Now, there you are.

Are you okay?

Seeing her like

that brought back

so many memories I

thought I'd lost.

She was a beautiful dancer.

Thank you.

For as long as I can remember,

that's been my connection to her.

Even though she was gone,

I could always find her there,

in dance.

You are the most extraordinary

woman I've ever met.

Oh, come on.

No. It's... no matter

what you think,

you are a real dancer, Chelsea,

and your mother

would be very proud.

Dance with me?

Um, it's...

it's late. I should probably go.

See you tomorrow?

Of course.

Good night.

Good night.

Claus.

Claus.

Claus? That's Claus?

Oh, my goodness.

Uh, uh...

Oh, hi, uh, thank

you. Thank you.

Ah, Ms. Jones.

I've been looking for you.

What is this?

Your compensation.

You said standard rate.

Yes. For a royal instructor.

Is this not sufficient?

This will fund my

dance program for years!

You did a wonderful

job, Ms. Jones.

You have our deepest gratitude.

Thank you.

Oh, the ball begins

in a few hours.

Where are you going?

To see someone I've

waited my whole life for.

This is about the

photograph you showed me?

You do know something.

I knew it. I knew it!

It was many years ago.

And I'm not one to repeat

unsubstantiated rumours.

Not protocol?

Good luck, dear.

Mwah!

Hmm.

- Claus?

- Chelsea!

Uh, are you busy?

For you, I always have time.

Um, I uh...

- I had a question.

- Hmm?

Does this woman look familiar?

Jane.

Yeah, Jane.

Well, it's been

many years but, yes.

I'd know that smile anywhere.

She was my mother.

Well... your mother and the

entire Holly Berry Ballet

would stay here at

the inn at Christmas.

She took the picture with my

father who, who I never knew.

Is that... you?

Oh dear, no. We were

friendly. Nothing more.

Oh. What made you

think it was me?

Um, I saw you, um, in an old

video after one of her shows.

You embraced.

The Nutcracker dance.

Oh, it was her

final performance.

She told me she'd made a

very difficult decision

and would be leaving

Havenshire that day.

I was to drive her

to the airport.

Decision?

Did she say what it was about?

Just that it was the

right thing to do.

Do you know, I mean, did she say

who my father is?

I'm sorry.

I didn't even know

that she had married.

I am, I'm so sorry.

This is so silly of me.

I'm, I'm sorry

for bothering you.

It would be an honour to

have a daughter like you.

Thank you.

It's almost time to

get ready for the ball.

Ms. Jones?

Mm-hmm.

Thank you.

If we were to redirect just

a small percentage of the annual budget.

From where?

Something would have

to be sacrificed.

That's just it.

We reinvest the new profits,

directing the surplus back

to the budget.

So, it is technically a

loan, not a sacrifice.

Wow. This is remarkable.

You are remarkable.

And I am going to

leave this with you.

Oh.

Really. Wow.

Chelsea! Chelsea, there you are.

You're a difficult

one to track down.

I was hoping that we could

talk about last night.

Last night was a mistake.

Was it?

Uh, this... this

isn't my world.

I don't belong here.

It wasn't a mistake for me.

You have a duty that's

greater than both of us.

Thank you for all

of your kindness.

I will never forget it.

Now why does that

sound like a goodbye?

You're gonna make a

wonderful king, Phillip.

And you belong on that throne.

I've never been more sure of

anything in my entire life.

And you're gonna do

great tonight. Just,

um, don't rush those pivots.

You live with such joy.

Thank you for bringing a

little bit of it into my life.

Keep finding those

moments, okay?

- Have you seen the news?

- No.

Photographs of you signing

autographs in the marketplace.

Apologies, Mother.

No! On the contrary.

They are saying you will

be the people's king.

Well done, my son.

Thank you.

And your idea for sponsoring

additional foster family events

sparked some real interest.

Thank was Chelsea's idea.

Was it? Hmm.

Very happy for you, my son.

This is a big night.

You're ready.

Yes.

You're very well

positioned tonight.

Thank you. I've waited

several years for this.

I have so many worthwhile enterprises

that this partnership will facilitate.

And...

Phillip is looking very

handsome tonight, isn't he?

Um, yes. Of course.

Hmm.

You all right?

Yes. Fine.

He has yet to signal the bells.

He will make his choice.

Hmm.

Go ahead, make the move.

It's a little risky, sure,

but if you wish to succeed,

you must brave the

risk of failure.

Why aren't you at the ball?

I could ask you the same.

Uh... I don't belong there.

Oh, um, thank you

for lending me this.

I love stories with

happy endings.

Hmm. Do you love him?

What?

That's not even...

Doesn't matter how I feel.

And even if Phillip...

he should be with someone

who's good for this country.

Someone like Elizabeth.

Elizabeth is smart but

kings have advisors.

She seems much better

suited for that role.

I didn't come here

to cause trouble.

Why did you?

To find family.

I... I never knew my father.

I think he took this

picture here in Havenshire.

But it's been over a week and

I'm no closer to finding him

than I was when I got here.

It's silly to think that

after all this time.

It's probably for

the best, right?

I mean, he would have reached

out by now if he wanted to.

Maybe he didn't know about you.

Your necklace.

So familiar.

Just like my grandmother's,

which I gave to the love of

my life, all those years ago.

I couldn't believe they

were one and the same.

She never told me.

She never said.

It's you?

I met your mother when she was

here in Havenshire performing.

She was the most beautiful

woman I'd ever seen.

She smiled at me from the stage

and I knew I was a goner.

We were married on the steps of

that museum, three days later.

Three days?

Yes.

We were young. And in love.

The painting in the museum,

that's of your grandmother?

My... great-grandmother?

You saw that, did you?

I... I brought it to

Havenshire. Donated it.

I suppose it was my secret

way of keeping that necklace

at our special place forever.

Why did things end?

When I presented her to my

parents, they did not approve.

So, I decided to

follow my heart.

Renounce my title for her.

When I told her, she was upset.

She believed we were

making a selfish choice.

Said that she'd be

returning to the States

and that my place was here.

Your mother did not want

to cause problems for me.

She did not feel

like she belonged.

Do not make the same mistake.

Oh!

You'd better get

dressed, my dear.

We belong where we

decide we belong?

We belong...

where God puts us.

"Dear Mr. and Mrs. Donner.

We have expedited your application for

adoption and are pleased to inform..."

Hannah! Oh.

Boys?

We've got our Christmas wish.

We're a family.

I want to make a

difference for my country.

There are many ways

to achieve that.

But what of love?

I'm sorry, uh, Elizabeth.

I can't.

Your Majesty,

I'd like to introduce

my daughter.

Well, fancy that.

I was afraid you weren't coming.

Have the bells rung?

Not yet.

You look beautiful.

Thank you.

On guard.

It's all yours.

Oh, it... it... is this

when... are we gonna...

Yes. If you

remember the steps.

Yes.

I think my son has

made his choice.

A very good choice. Indeed.

Yes.

Huh?

My queen.

My king.