A Wedding for Belle (2025)

[bunniefuu]

(majestic music)

(projector clicking, whirring)

(uplifting music)

Annabelle!

Annabelle!

They're coming!

The bell!

They're coming!

The bell!

Ring the bell!

Ring the bell!

(bell chiming)

(cheering)

(applause)

Hey!

(guitar music)

You forgot to charge

the walkies.

Oh.

Sorry.

I didn't mean to.

(cheering)

Do you...

think that'll be you someday?

Only if I find my soul mate.

Is that it?

Lucas...

Your dad's looking for you

back at the Grand Holland.

Yes, sir.

Well, I thought

we'd have more time

before I needed

to have the boy talk.

Ew, Dad, no, stop.

It's just...

Do you think I'll ever find

my soul mate?

Soul mate? Lord Almighty.

Can we just at least start

with the boy talk?

Helping out with the weddings

at the Grand Holland,

I'm usually stuck

in the bell tower.

Well, that sounds

like the beginning

of a fairy tale to me,

and you know how fairy tales

always end.

Happily ever after.

Pfft.

You know, the funny thing

about happily ever after,

it's...

Well, it's built

one moment at a time.

(gentle music)

How'd you know

Mom was your soul mate?

She'll have to tell you

that story.

Uh, for now, just know

you're gonna make

the most incredible bride

and so much more.

Tell you what.

Look at this, it's just

a regular coin, right?

Ah, but...

Press it tightly.

I can press in

my most powerful dreams and...

make a wish.

Here, you try.

So, concentrate

and close your eyes.

(splashing)

What did you wish for, Dad?

(uplifting music)

For you, darling...

so many things.

- Hey, Belle.

- I'm busy.

- Like, busy-busy or just...

- The purchaser's here next week,

and we don't have anything

to proof.

Oh, is that why you're working

on your own wedding vision board

instead of the Timeless Bride

summer centerfold?

- I'm manifesting.

- Manifesting...

Good vibes, the future,

I don't know.

It's more of an art

than science.

Sometimes, you have to focus

on other things

so that you can get inspiration.

It's a thing.

It's more

like a very flowery way

to describe not doing your job.

I liked you better as an intern.

Well, then, you shouldn't

have promoted me.

Riley, it is not my fault

that 15 percent of the time

you are a diligent

and seriously intelligent

young woman.

Fifteen whole percent?

This is a good day for me.

Will you shush?

I work in bridal excellence,

and I am self-actualizing

bridal elegance.

What could be more important?

Cage never turned in

his article.

What?

- Then, what went out today?

- So far?

Nothing.

Okay, uh...

Oof.

(beeping)

(jazz music)

- Cage?

- Yes?

Where's my article, Cage?

I'm under water

on design layouts

and prepping

for the engagement ring

photo sh**t tomorrow.

Okay, well, what about

your invitation QR code piece?

This sh**t will wrap

a four-page spread.

I've got no time.

Okay, it's... it's fine.

It's... it's fine, I'll take it.

Um, do you have an outline

or anything on QR codes?

They're little squares

inside of even smaller squares

inside of those squares.

Inspiring stuff.

It's cute, okay, thank you.

I'm a photographer,

not a writer, ladies.

I know we're all feeling

the short staff

while we wait

for the new editor in chief,

but I've got deadlines, too.

It's fine, it's fine,

I'll take it, um...

Just bring me back

some magic, will ya?

Abracadabra.

Okay, the invitations

are a tool,

and the most important thing

about a tool is how you use it.

They're... they're elegant,

they're seamless,

they're streamlined.

A little peace of mind

on the most important

day of your life

with the scan of your phone.

Was I supposed to be

taking notes?

You know what?

Just get back out there.

I need something light and fun

on socials ASAP, okay?

Oh, you mean like

the top five goodest girl

flower girl puppies?

(soft music)

That might be the best idea

you've ever had.

Yes, that, and tag

a local animal shelter.

Let's do some good

while we're at it.

On it!

Okay.

(cellphone ringing)

Hi, honey.

Hey, Annabelle.

We still on for tonight?

Got two tickets

at the Chef's Counter Kitetsu

for 7:30.

A little omakase

with my fiance?

Mother did us a huge favor

getting us in last minute.

That sounds so perfect, but, um,

I... I can't tonight.

Deadlines are

right on top of us.

What?

No, put Riley on the phone,

I'm getting you out of it.

No, no, no, no,

it's nobody's fault.

I'm just... I... I'm too busy.

Oof.

I knew things were bad,

but not that bad.

Yeah.

We'll do date night

next week, okay?

I promise.

(soft guitar music)

So, I'm destined for

a sushi less night without you?

Yeah, I'm sorry.

Look, I gotta go, okay?

I'll talk to you later.

Bye, honey.

Okay.

(cellphone ringing)

(soft music)

- Hi, Mom!

- Belle,

I didn't hear from you

yesterday.

Is everything going okay?

I... I know, I know,

um, I'm sorry.

It's just it's been

so busy at work.

Everything's crazy, and I just

haven't had time to...

Honey, those are

usually the best times

to make time for yourself.

Yeah, I know, I know.

Um, look, I... I really gotta go,

um, but I'll... I'll call you

soon, okay?

Okay, but if I don't hear

from you by the weekend,

I'm gonna call you back

and you're...

Okay, I love you, Mom,

I'll talk to you soon.

Okay, bye. Bye, bye, bye.

(sighing)

Okay.

Okay.

QR codes.

(mellow music)

Surprise!

(computer thwacking)

Oh. Oh, um, uh,

I totally thought

that you would love this.

Um, we canceled date night,

so I thought I'd bring

date night to you.

I don't know

whether to kiss you or k*ll you.

I have a pretty strong opinion

on the matter.

Mm.

(soft music)

What is all this?

Well, I couldn't decide

what to eat, so I figured...

Is that pizza from Nesto's?

That's the one you like, right?

- Uh-huh.

- I mean, well, pizza

is not even the best part.

Oh?

I got you something.

(glass clinking)

Pink and sweet and a twist-off.

- Your favorite.

- Thank you,

I really needed this.

Well, unfortunately...

the food is cold.

But just imagine hours ago

when this was

a wildly romantic gesture

from your incredibly handsome

and loving fianc.

It is incredible.

Really, it's, um, it's...

You... you ate without me.

Yeah, it's almost 10:00.

This isn't Nesto's.

This is Tony's, and you put

pineapple on the pizza.

I mean, pineapple really is

the most sophisticated

pizza topping.

No, no, thank you.

This is, um, this is great.

I'm exhausted,

and I'm starving, so...

It's wonderful.

Look, I know things are tense

over at Timeless...

I've had a really long day,

I don't want to talk...

The whole emergency

board meeting.

What?

What board meeting?

(suspenseful music)

(heels clicking)

Have you heard anything yet?

No, nothing.

And I have been snooping

all morning.

You're the best snoop

in the office.

How do you have nothing?

All I can confirm is

that there was a board meeting,

but Cage couldn't say anything.

I know things

haven't been great lately,

but that's an industry thing,

that's not an us thing.

Unless it's more about...

No, no, no, no,

no, don't do that.

The board would have to meet

to confirm a candidate

for editor in chief,

and the position's

been empty for months.

(distant telephone ringing)

Are those donuts or bagels?

Cheese Danishes.

Sometimes, I think you know me

better than I know myself.

But we cannot be speculating

about promotions

or anything that may

or may not be happening.

Boss lady wants to see you.

Not you.

(soft music)

Annabelle.

What are you doing here?

Uh, hi.

I was just in the neighborhood

to see Mother.

Wait, you talked to Patricia

before I did?

Why would you do that?

Honey, it's news,

it's good news.

Come on, wipe that adorable,

confused look off your face.

It's all good.

And remember, stand up straight.

You know how my mother is

about posture.

Right, yeah, um...

Honey, she's my boss.

You can't just

come in here and...

And your future mother-in-law.

It's what's called

having a vested interest.

Right, yeah.

Hey, you're gonna be great.

- Yeah?

- Yeah, okay.

- Okay, bye.

- Bye.

(door opening)

Oh, Annabelle, come in.

You look marvelous, as always.

Positively glowing.

You're too kind.

On the other hand, Matthew

has gotten a little paunchy

since the two of you

started going together.

You really do need to learn

to run him occasionally,

and I say that

with all due respect

and love in my heart,

but he won't do it for himself.

- I will keep that in mind.

- Mm, yes.

Oh, please, have a seat.

Can I get you something?

- A sparkling...

- No, no, I'm good, thank you.

I'm just curious.

Of course,

it's a small building.

- People talk.

- Yeah.

Um, what was Matthew doing here?

Things are not going well

at Timeless Bride.

Another casualty

of your generation.

Diamonds, weddings, romance.

Print media.

Not you, my dear, of course,

but the broader they.

Do you know why the job

of editor in chief

has remained vacant

for three months?

Um, because you haven't found

the right candidate?

It's because the magazine

is a sinking ship.

(soft, tense music)

Is that why the board was here?

They felt it necessary

to underline the severity

of the situation.

Circulation is down.

Advertisers are pulling out.

We, the publisher, will survive,

but the brand and magazine

will be scrapped for parts

and sold to the highest bidder

unless...

Unless?

Unless we make a statement.

Something capable of creating

a massive, viral groundswell.

We need to return to our roots

and explore the beating heart

of the brand.

The wedding as a tangible

expression of mutual adoration,

as unique and undefinable

as the woman

who wears the dress.

Right, yeah, um...

It's just the thing is,

we're up against the wall

with print deadlines already.

I mean, we have less

than a month to get...

We're eyeing

an internal candidate

for editor in chief.

Um...

What are you saying?

Someone who can be

the face of the brand

and lead us on

a truly unforgettable journey.

Um...

Sorry, but why was Matthew here?

Well, you were planning

on getting married next spring.

He suggested that we might

move up the date.

Document everything,

share everything.

You always said

you had to get married

in that one-horse town of yours,

the Great Dutchman, whatever,

and that's perfect.

Intimate, elegant,

authentic, honest.

(chuckling)

No, uh, Patricia,

my wedding is not a PR stunt.

It's for love,

to your son and...

you can't put a wedding

together in a month.

- You have three weeks.

- No.

N... no, I'm sorry,

I can't do that.

It's your two biggest dreams

coming true at once.

That is

a major oversimplification.

That's... that's just happening

way too fast.

It's crazy.

The ship is going down

whether you want it to or not.

(moody music)

Um...

Where do we start?

Yes, yes, give me

kitty-cat hands.

(hissing)

More with the eyes.

Now, drop the hands,

keep the eyes.

Take us there. Go!

(camera shutter clicking)

Maybe give us something.

You look hungry, or bored,

or confused, or...

Ahem.

Please.

Sorry, lady, gentle...

Um, can I have a word?

Belle, oh, Belle,

anything for you.

Great.

(funky music)

Just a moment.

Right.

Keep that kitty-cat magic.

I thought this was

a wedding ring sh**t.

Why are they in full wardrobe?

I already got the ring shots.

We have them all day.

Might as well make

some memories.

Besides,

now that they're in full gear,

they're giving me everything.

Aren't you, love?

Yeah! That's right.

I believe you.

Great work, keep it up.

Okay, um, you know how I said

that I wanted you

to sh**t my wedding?

I am honored to be part

of the Annabelle experience.

Well, we're moving the date up

quite a bit.

(soft music)

What do you mean "quite a bit"?

Can I level with you?

I insist.

There might not be

a Timeless Bride

after this summer issue

if we can't pull off

something huge.

Whoo.

Gonna want to submit

those invoices

before they slap

the "for sale" sign

- on the building.

- I'm being serious.

I'm serious.

We're going full tilt

on the media angle,

try and see if we can pull

the magazine out of a nose dive,

so, we need an event.

Big statement, so...

While pulling off

your dream wedding

simultaneously.

Not too much for a bride

to ask for, is it?

Uh, we have three weeks.

We leave tomorrow.

So, um, saddle up.

Hey, I used to sh**t

indie documentaries.

My horse is out back

raring to go.

That's great, Cage...

Uh, Riley is gonna be

your right-hand man.

That human ring light?

We need a direct feed

in the editorial

and she's a Swiss Army knife

at aesthetics.

Just be gentle.

I am working on her.

Okay.

Who's driving?

Are you kidding?

I'm the bride.

You're driving.

Where are my kittens?

(funky music)

(knocking)

- Hey.

- Hey.

(gentle music)

Hi.

(door closing)

I wanted to be here

for your big send-off.

That's sweet.

Um, I wish you talked to me

about all of this

before setting it in motion.

I wanted to tee up your dream.

Our dream.

Yeah, I just wish

you talked to me, that's all.

Hey, hey, hey, hey.

Please, please, please

don't leave like this.

This is gonna be incredible.

And I know you're stressed.

It's gonna be amazing.

I promise.

I love you.

I love you, too.

(horn blaring)

Get in, loser.

Your carriage awaits.

(cellphone beeping)

All right.

We are really doing this.

(text message whooshing)

I'll be down in a few days

to help out with everything.

Okay.

- It'll be great.

- Yeah.

You'll see.

- I'll see you soon.

- Bye.

All right, minions, let's go.

(funky music)

Oh, Cage,

this music is terrible.

You don't drive like it.

Straight.

(insects chirring)

Yeah.

Cold and miserable.

Why couldn't we just fly in?

Because it's actually faster

to drive.

You know,

the nearest airport is...

Okay, well, you should

really work on having

more conveniently located

dreams.

And miss the brilliant insight

into your boss's personal life?

Work-life balance, people.

Okay, can we just pretend

to be a happy family

for five minutes,

and then you guys

can go back to the hotel

and unload the gear, okay?

Mom!

A phone call

wouldn't have k*lled you.

What?

First, you rush me

off the phone,

and then you leave me

a cryptic text,

and now you are here?

Um...

Well, I'm sorry,

I just... I didn't

really have time to explain.

No time on a five-hour drive?

Well, um...

Where are my manners?

Hello to you two

wonderful strangers.

You must be exhausted,

come on in.

Do you need some coffee,

water, juice?

How 'bout a little wine?

Wouldn't say no to coffee.

Bridal prerogative has had me

in the driver's seat all day.

Excellent, I'll put a pot on.

And how about for you, hon?

Wine. All your wine.

Juice for the little one.

(soft music)

Mom, I'm sorry, I've just been

so busy with deadlines.

Oh, say no more, Belle.

A mother always knows.

Yeah, well, uh, this time,

I really doubt it.

I knew that it was

just a matter of time

before you came to your senses.

Excuse me?

Honey, I've been saying it

since the very beginning.

There's something wrong

with that man.

I mean, don't get me wrong,

he is quite the looker,

but upstairs,

where it really counts,

he's as helpless as your...

Mom, what are you talking about?

That's why you're here,

isn't it?

You've left what's his face?

Matthew.

What?

Wait, that isn't

what's happening?

Then, why are you

suddenly in town?

We're not calling anything off.

Matthew and I are in love.

The wedding is happening, Mom.

We moved up the date.

That is why I am here.

Well, I think

I'm gonna have to join you

for this glass of juice.

Mom!

(sighing)

What's your Wi-Fi password?

Here's your Wi-Fi password.

Can't believe you just assumed

we broke up.

Easy, it's a harmless mistake.

Harmless. Really?

You caught me off guard is all.

That's why

you should have called.

I thought that you had news

that you could only deliver

in person.

I thought that it was

either a breakup or a baby,

and you're looking

a little thin.

Wow.

Now, then, don't keep me

in suspense.

Who are you friends?

Mom, this is Riley and Cage

from the magazine.

They're here to film

the wedding process

from start to finish.

Jeez, how much did you two

move up the date

that you already have

a video crew?

- Three weeks.

- Oh, three weeks.

That's not so bad.

There's still plenty of time...

No, no, the wedding happens

in three weeks.

Oh, my, that's...

A lot, I know, Mom.

Look, Timeless Bride

is in trouble, okay?

And we're taking a big risk

opening up our lives

to the magazine,

but we believe in it.

I... I believe in it.

Mr. Cage, how do you take

your coffee?

Black is fine.

Well, you might be in

for a bit of luck.

Word around town is

that the Grand Holland

just sold last month.

They haven't opened up

for bookings, but...

That's amazing.

I can't believe they'd sell.

Who bought it?

Who knows?

I'll give 'em a call.

And the perks

of living in a small town?

If they don't answer,

I know someone

who knows someone

who can get us in.

We'll see for ourselves

tomorrow.

That would be great.

Honestly, getting the Holland

has been my biggest concern.

(majestic music)

Will your entourage

be joining us?

Wouldn't miss it for the world.

And I am contractually obligated

to go wherever he goes.

Hurry up, I want

to shower off this car ride.

- Yeah, yeah.

- All this coworker stuff

is, honestly, just...

One sec.

There. Done.

(soft music)

You're helping me

unload the gear

when we get to the hotel.

"You're helping load the gear

when we get to the hotel."

(uplifting music)

(mocking Riley)

Hey, hey, wait, wait.

You don't want to get

any coverage?

These are Corinthian columns,

Cage.

Corinthian.

You sure you don't want

to book the place first?

I'm manifesting. Come on,

this place is my dream.

You know we've covered

actual royal weddings, right?

Okay, well, I used to help out

my dad here during the summer,

so this place is a part of me,

and there is no other venue,

so...

Maybe don't lead in with that.

It's not

the strongest leverage...

No, we are not leaving until

we get the paperwork signed.

Get the coverage.

(mellow music)

Just don't cause a scene

in there without me.

Corinthian beams.

Well, the new owner

has impeccable taste.

Is that June?

- Hi, Olive.

- Hi!

- So good to see you.

- Good to see you, too.

- How are you?

- Good.

I'm just glad I checked

my messages last night

so I could give y'all a tour

of the Grand Holland

this morning.

Well, we appreciate it.

This is my daughter, Annabelle.

- Hi, it's great to meet you.

- Nice to meet you.

Is this your first visit

at the Grand Holland?

Oh, no. No, no, no.

But, um, it's been a long time

since I've been

through those doors,

so, it's good to be back.

Oh, yeah.

Please don't mind the mess.

We're just going through

a quick transfer of ownership.

Gotta sweep out the cobwebs,

count up all them tables

and chairs,

find where the bodies

are buried.

(chuckling)

And here is our new owner now.

(bluesy music)

(walkie beeps)

Hey, boss, I finished out back.

I'm just gonna take off

for the day.

Make sure you put the radios

on charge tonight.

(walkie beeps)

Copy that.

Lucas.

Oh, you're already familiar?

Belle?

(piano music)

And here is

our blushing bride-to-be,

returned at last to the venue

that sparked her love affair

with all things wedding.

Cage.

Our very own maestro

of bridal innovation...

Cage, Cage.

Annabelle Ansel.

Cage, would you

just stop filming?

You said all-access, and I said,

"Don't cause a scene

without me."

Ahem.

Is, uh, this your groom?

No. No!

No, no, no, videographer.

Uh, documentarian.

Quite the, uh, production

you brought with you

for a tour of a place

that you know so well.

Yeah, well...

So, where is your groom

- Uh, he... he's...

- Flying in real soon.

Right, yeah.

But you know my Annabelle,

always two steps ahead.

(chuckling)

Yeah, that certainly

has been true, now hasn't it?

So, what can I do you for?

What's going on?

(mouthing words)

I need to book the Grand Holland

for a wedding...

My wedding to my fianc,

Matthew Fernez.

And we will be documenting

the whole thing

for the front-page feature

of this summer's issue

of Timeless Bride.

Is that it?

This summer's issue, Lucas.

I know it's fast,

but it is as good for you

as it is for me.

Whoo, yeah, well,

summer is all booked up.

Holland's been closed

for months,

so we can't do it.

There's a huge backlog.

Well, we don't need it

in summer.

We need it for the summer issue,

so, we need the Grand Holland

in three weeks.

Three weeks, okay.

Three weeks, girl,

are you out of your mind?

The birthday room

over at the bowling alley

needs more than three weeks

to host

a pack of third graders,

but I guess you expect me...

You're not talking

to a third grader.

You're talking

to a professional.

Then you should know better.

Is the calendar open or not?

Of course it isn't.

Next summer, maybe we can

make something work,

but right now,

we are booked solid.

Who do I need to talk to?

Bookings online are anonymous,

and I'm not about to let you

harass my...

Who do I need to talk to?

You want to push

someone else's dream out

so that you can

have your day, Belle?

Is that who you are now?

We need two days, Lucas.

And the Grand Holland

will be on the front page

of the biggest bridal magazine

in the country.

(bluesy music)

(whistles)

Yeah.

Bowling alley has

a pretty exclusive list

- this time of year.

- I am not getting married

in a bowling alley!

I am trying to help you,

and you're just...

(grunting)

Timeless Bride,

it's in your foyer,

you know, the magazine there?

I don't know if you can read,

but my name,

it's on the inside cover.

(soft music)

Well, thank you for your time.

Bye-bye.

You know our first wedding

on the books

isn't for another six weeks.

Yep.

Lucas, why are you being

such a jerk?

Me? A jerk?

Not on your life.

Oh, and, Olive,

get rid of that magazine.

(bluesy music)

- You knew?!

- I wouldn't say that.

I knew that it didn't matter

who was running the place.

You are getting married

at the Grand Holland

one way or another.

- But, Mom, that was...

- A lot?

Considering how things ended,

"a lot" barely covers it.

Yeah, no, that was terrible.

Terrible? That was incredible.

Who is this Lucas?

(sighing)

We used to date.

Don't be silly.

Those two were inseparable

until Belle...

- Mom!

- We have a childhood sweetheart

in the mix?

Wonderful!

This is the backwoods,

small-town drama I need.

Well, we're sunk

because if we don't have

- the Holland, then...

- Belle, just take a breath.

There is still

plenty more to do.

We have the cake tasting

tomorrow

and the bridal appointment

the day after that.

Yeah, with no venue to put it.

Okay, so I don't, like,

like-like my job,

but I also don't really want

to find a new one.

Your mom is right.

Plus, Timeless needs content.

Let them eat cake.

Fine, okay, you're right.

He just gets me so...

You just need to talk to him.

Honey, there's history there.

And there's a lot on the line

for you, so just be honest,

and do not go in there yelling.

He started that.

Did he, hon?

(soft guitar music)

I'll talk to him tomorrow, okay?

Just give everyone time

to cool off.

You might go look for him

at the carriage barn.

His dad's place?

It's his carriage barn now.

You've missed a lot.

(mellow music)

(soft music)

(metal clanging)

(thudding, clanging)

(bristles scraping)

So...

All this and the Holland, too.

All this and the Holland, too.

And, now, you're here.

For what?

I think I was about as clear

as I could make myself

yesterday.

I'm sorry, okay?

I didn't expect to...

to see you.

It's not exactly

every little girl's dream

to have to book

their wedding venue

from their ex-boyfriend.

You know,

not exactly

every ex-boyfriend's dream

to host their

old girlfriend's wedding.

I know.

And if I had have known,

then I would have given you

a heads-up, but...

Oh, such a mess!

What is? Your weddin'?

What?

No, I was talking about us.

(horse whinnies)

Yeah? Well, you left

and I stayed.

That seems about the sum of it.

That is not fair.

You make it sound so easy

when you say it like that,

"You left and I stayed."

Wasn't it?

Sometimes, yeah,

leaving was easy.

Other times, Lucas,

it was the hardest thing

in the world.

And now you're back.

Now I'm back.

For some old building.

It is more than that,

and you know it.

(tender music)

You wouldn't have bought

the place

if you didn't love it, too.

Yep.

Inherited the carriage barn,

only made sense

to add the Holland

after I heard old man

Worthington was retiring.

Well, that's awful industrious

for the Lucas I know.

I thought you hated

the carriage barn.

Old machines, big animals.

Lots of happy, smiling people.

A lot worse you can do

than to be of service.

Make other people's dreams

come true,

if only for a day.

This beauty

brought back memories.

Yeah, she's been

out of commission for years.

Hitch is worn through, and...

it needs a new wheel, but...

Dang thing's so old,

we gotta get new parts forged.

Don't suppose you've got

a good blacksmith

you could recommend?

(Belle laughs)

Can't say that I do.

- No?

- No.

Here I thought you were

some big time,

fancy magazine editor.

And here I was thinking

you're some

South Carolina hayseed.

I mean, if anyone

should know a blacksmith...

Well, I got horseshoes

and things taken care of,

but just nothing so specialized

there, sweetheart.

So, why are you here now, huh?

You wanna catch up

on old times, or...

(shutter snaps)

You gonna hold my feet

to the fire

about getting your date?

(shutter snapping)

(soft, tense music)

Lucas, I really wish I didn't

have to ask this of you,

but I'm in love

and I'm in trouble.

The magazine isn't doing well,

okay?

This isn't just about me.

Can't we just

leave the past behind us, okay?

'Cause I need help

from my friend.

(tender music)

Girl, I'm only your friend

when you need something.

(she exclaims)

You left. Remember?

(clattering crash)

And you brought your portable

paparazzi with you, I see.

- No, No, Luc...

- Hey, hey, look.

I got too much work to do,

and you are wasting my time.

There's no room in the schedule

for this stunt

you're trying to pull.

Lucas, please!

Will you just think about it?

Really?

You couldn't wait five minutes?

- I was this close.

- Hey.

It's not my fault

that the most interesting thing

about this wedding

is playing out between you

- and your old boyfriend.

- Nope. Nope, nope, nope.

Come on. We're gonna be late

- for the cake-tasting.

- Wild!

Let's go. You're driving.

(traffic whooshing)

Here's the rest of your party.

(playful music)

There she is!

Hey! What are you doing here?

You thought I was gonna

let you have all the fun?

Look, I know

you're the professional,

but I happen to think

I've absorbed

some of your brilliance

secondhand.

(she exclaims)

You could have texted

and let me know

you were coming down.

And miss the look

on your face right now?

Yeah, no, um, I just...

I can't believe you're here,

that's all.

I have a, uh, a surprise.

- Oh?

- Yeah. Uh, Riley,

why don't you give us a turn?

(soft music)

Mother is here to help oversee

some of the finer details

of the wedding, well,

since you are...

With all due respect

and love in my heart,

if your girl isn't

a classically trained

Parisian patissier,

then I don't...

Annabelle!

How wonderful to see you.

Join us.

Oh, you look tired.

Hi, Patricia.

It's so good

you could make the trip down.

Be a peach and try the frosting

on the lemon cake for me.

Is it more of a buttermilk

or a butter cream?

I'm sure that it is delicious.

And have we found out

if they can do

a three-tiered cake

with an elegant fondant pop?

Cupcake towers are old news,

and I'll be dead

before these bumpkins

slap a sheet cake on the table

and call it haute.

I am sure they can do

whatever we want them to do.

And what about the red velvet?

Is it rich, dense, decadent?

- Color looks sickly over this...

- Okay!

Look at that, teamwork

makes the dream work, huh?

And get the girl back in here.

I need to know

if these ingredients

are locally sourced.

I don't want us pouring

a cement mixture

of processed sugars

down our guests' throats.

- Matthew. A word?

- Yep.

Yep.

Now, try the double chocolate.

And turn me around while you do.

I need to judge your reaction

to see if the cake is...

What is that?

I said I wanted to help,

and... well...

Bringing cyber Patricia

wasn't exactly

what I had in mind.

I know. But like you said,

she's your boss.

And if you want let her

sweat the small stuff

and I can't help you,

then what else

am I supposed to do?

It's our wedding,

there is no small stuff.

Yeah, well, you know this is

a professional obligation

as much as it is a celebration.

Okay, but I still want it

to feel like our wedding.

And it will feel

like our wedding.

It will always be our wedding.

adds a little bit

of class and pizzazz...

We just wanna help you carry

some of the weight.

je ne sais quoi...

You know what? Here.

Come back, take a breath,

relax with me.

I got the king suite

at the hotel

- on First and Main...

- Now, you know

it's bad luck

for the bride and groom

to cohabitate

before the wedding day.

Mom, that's the night

before the wedding.

Same difference.

Now, Matthew,

if you'll excuse us,

Belle and I have

other business to attend to.

Many hands make light work.

Of course.

It's so nice to have finally

met you in person, June.

And to you as well, Handsome.

Belle, I believe

there's another obligation

calling our name

from across town.

If you show me

one more Italian cake...

(sighs)

I'm going to go

out of my mind.

All right, where were we?

(pleasant music)

Here's the red velvet.

Sorry about the color.

I promise it tastes good.

(playful music)

And, just so you know,

I don't make sheet cakes.

Mm!

Look, Belle, I know

you have your reasons,

but I don't think it's right

how that woman was

barking orders at you

from a tiny screen.

(Belle exclaims)

Look, the wedding is

three weeks away, okay?

I'm lucky to have the help.

And these are the people

you work with?

I thought you were a big shot,

making the tough calls

and barking your own orders!

There's a lot more on the line

than just my ego, okay?

It just didn't feel right.

Seeing you on your back foot

like that,

it doesn't feel

like the Belle I know.

Well...

Please. Take a seat.

- Mom...

- Really.

Okay.

The Belle I know is tenacious

and self-assured

and wouldn't be taking

some backward jabs

from a talking rectangle

without giving it back

as good as she gets.

(tender music)

And you know why?

Why?

'Cause, Belle,

you're usually right.

And you are talented,

and you have the experience.

And you've been

thinking about this day

ever since the first time

your dad took you

to the Grand Holland.

Yeah, and I am

still that person,

it's just that things are

more complicated now.

Everything's complicated

about a wedding.

Yeah.

But love?

That's as simple as it comes.

Okay, Mom, I get it,

you don't like Patricia.

But family drama is

as much a part of weddings

as cake is.

I'm talking about Matthew.

You looked frazzled

when you saw him.

Frazzled? No. No.

I... I was surprised, that's all.

I mean, after the last few days

I've had,

anyone in their right mind

would be.

And you're happy

with all of this?

I... what? Of course!

Of course, this is what I want.

Because if you're not,

you just say the word

and I will tell them all

where to stick it.

Mom...

Because if I looked

like you did back there,

you'd be having

the same talk with me.

I know.

Thank you.

I just need a rest.

Things'll be better tomorrow.

(Belle sighs)

I love you.

I love you, too.

I'll let you know

when I'm starting dinner.

Unless your posse

decides to show up

and turn things upside down

instead.

Yeah.

(pensive music)

I hope this is all

part of your wish, Dad.

(sighs)

And three, two, one,

give us a twirl!

Can we at least try something

like the crinoline and a train?

We're trying to make

a statement here,

and I don't think that...

That the bride should feel

comfortable in her own dress?

Excuse me?

Uh, if we're trying to lean

into small-town authentic,

we could go bohemian.

- No!

- No.

Okay. Dress up

like a sexy Elvis,

for all I care.

(sighs)

I'm thinking

classic is the move.

Something elegant.

You thinking what I'm thinking?

A-line.

(upbeat countrified music)

Oh!

You look so beautiful!

Belle, oh Belle, oh Belle.

Now, that does almost rate

Timeless Bride.

Top me off.

I just think our readers

would be more inclined

to see themselves

in something like...

You worry about your readers,

and I'll worry

about my daughter.

Don't take that tone with me.

I'm trying to set the stage here

for something that no one

has ever seen before,

and I will not be kneecapped

by bad taste.

Excuse me for advocating

for what my daughter

actually wants

on one of the biggest days

of her life.

Last time I checked,

she's the one

walking down the aisle.

(tender music)

Of course, we'll need to make

some significant alterations

to get it ready for prime time.

Maybe a tighter corset...

or a more vigorous gym routine.

What is wrong with you?

We were all thinking it.

No, no, no, no.

No one else here

was thinking that.

Some of us can give

people a compliment

without sneaking a dagger

into it.

I don't know

what you think you know

about bridal fashion,

but I can only assume

that you got married

in a sundress

at the country courthouse.

Now, if you think some

off-the-rack bric-a-brac

is ready for the cover

of my magazine...

You should all be

ashamed of yourselves.

My Annabelle is a person,

not a prop,

and she's put it all on the line

for you!

(grunt, door slams shut)

And we've lost the bride.

Uh, think she'd do that exit

again for me?

(melancholic music)

(birdsong, insects chirring)

Don't jump.

I, um, heard you had it out

with your future mother-in-law.

Yeah, well, if you met her,

you'd have it out too.

That's, what,

two storm-outs in three days?

Yeah, I figured you'd be here,

or maybe over at the bell tower.

What made you pick here?

Fewer stairs.

(snickering)

Yeah, well,

I think better out here.

Used to, anyway.

Sounded like

you could use a friend.

Someone on your side.

Oh, so you're on my side now?

I think you're misremembering

the conversation we last had.

Yeah, I figured I owed you

an apology for that, too,

if you'll take it.

That's lot of words

about an apology

without an actual apology

in there.

(ducks quacking)

I am sorry.

I realize I've been

a little combative.

(he sighs)

I know it must be a lot for you

to be back here.

I haven't seen you back in town

since you left

after your dad passed,

and I wasn't thinking straight

about what all this

means to you.

(she exclaims softly)

(soft music)

You know, losing Dad

made leaving easy.

Just everything here

reminds me of him.

And I... I knew I would have

to come back and face it

for the wedding,

but I just thought

I would have more time,

you know?

And, uh, didn't expect it

to still hurt so much.

You know, Dad and I,

we used to come down here

and use the stream

as a wishing well.

Wait.

You telling me

there's money in there?

Oh, there's way more than money

in there.

Phew!

You know, it's, uh, it's love,

if you're really that hurt.

Takes as long as it takes,

but love is what really remains.

Well, the pain is

taking its sweet time.

Running away from it

doesn't exactly

- speed up the process.

- I wasn't running away;

I just, I...

just needed to be

somewhere else,

I needed to focus my energy

into something else,

something productive for me.

You know,

the people that stayed,

they had their own work to do.

I know your mother would love

to see more of you.

Mm.

- I'd like to see m...

- I know, I know,

and I owed you

a better answer than grief

for breaking things off

after all those years together.

I'm sorry.

Well.

Water under the bridge.

(she sighs)

Always thought

you'd come after me.

I almost did.

Lot of times, I wanted to.

But... someone had to stay here

and keep an eye on all this.

And I thought

that if I could build

on all those old foundations,

that...

I don't know, maybe one day,

you'd come back home, and...

we could all heal.

Yeah, well,

I couldn't handle it.

Guess I messed things up

pretty good, huh?

Nah, don't beat yourself up.

No one can handle that,

not without help.

Yeah.

Well... thanks for coming

to talk me down, Lucas.

You know, you never used to know

what to say,

but you're doing a pretty good

job of it right now.

(chuckling)

Tell you what.

I'll do you one better.

I, um... I spoke with Olive,

and we were able

to move some things around,

and, well...

The Holland's all yours.

(she exclaims)

Thank you!

That's the first bit

of good news I've had

since I got here.

It really means the world...

Hey, it wouldn't be right

to do any less.

Okay, so what's next?

Hm.

Come on by in the morning,

we'll get the paperwork

squared away,

and then you have got

a weddin' to plan

and no time to do it.

Oh! Is that it?

Great.

Come on. This way.

- Thank you.

- You're welcome.

(exuberant music)

Good mornin'.

You're early.

We're behind as it is.

Where do you want us?

This way.

(soft, tender music)

Think you're gonna like this.

All right.

Hope you don't mind us

setting you up out here.

Whoa.

Okay. I could get used to this.

Yeah?

Keeps you close enough

to everything

but out of the way enough

so that we're not

stepping over each other.

This will work for me.

Couldn't ask

for a better background,

and look at that natural light.

I'll go get you

our vendors list.

I'm into weddings,

but I know

what this town does best.

You only got, what,

about two weeks now?

You're gonna need

all the help you can get,

and it is gonna go by quick.

Thank you for the reminder.

Hey, do want me

to dial in Patricia?

(Belle laughs)

Will all due love and respect

in my heart,

absolutely not.

(door creaks)

Hello?

Hello?

Can I help you?

Oh. Hi. Uh, Matthew.

- Lucas.

- Pleasure to meet you.

I'm, uh, I'm looking

for my fiance.

Ah. The groom, at last.

Belle's on down the hallway.

Just swing it left,

you won't miss her.

"Belle"?

Annabelle.

Her and her paparazzi

are getting set up now.

I'm sorry, and you are...

The local proprietor.

Oh! Excellent, excellent.

Thank you so much, um...

Lucas.

Lucas. Lucas, Lucas.

Mother and I are just

so appreciative

of everything you've done

for Annabelle.

- Happy to.

- Thanks.

Wait, okay. What if

we subbed out this color?

Uh-huh.

Um, I just feel

like we need something

a little bit softer.

- Like that, maybe?

- Am I interrupting something?

Hey!

Welcome to the Holland.

Ooh!

(Belle chuckles)

Thought you should know,

my fitting was fantastic.

I'll be looking

as dapper as Gatsby for you.

Oh! Well, thank you

for taking care of that.

Every little bit helps.

And I heard your fitting was...

Fine. You know, it was...

It was great.

You know how Mother can be.

Yeah. I do. Mm-hm.

But this place!

I mean, it's so beautiful.

I can't believe

you can find something like this

- so far south.

- Yeah.

Oh, and, uh, I met the owner

on the way in.

- Oh! Uh, you did?

- Yeah. Uh...

Logan.

He seems like a swell guy.

Yeah, well, without him,

we would be getting married

at the birthday room

in the bowling alley, so.

Be a lot easier, though,

wouldn't it?

I don't know,

I've heard they have

a pretty exclusive list

this time of year.

(chuckling)

Okay. But really.

What can I take off your plate?

Honestly, right now,

I think I just need space

to spread out and get started.

Space. Okay.

I will leave you to it.

I should probably

get home anyway,

make sure the place

hasn't burned down.

But I'll be back,

- okay?

- Good.

- Bye.

- Bye.

- Yeah.

- find the person.

No, nothing.

So, we doing this?

(Belle sighs)

Let's do this.

All right, I'm thinking...

So, the bottom,

but I'm thinking

maybe the bottom.

Right here.

Me too. On, like

the first step.

Right, right, right,

exactly, exactly.

And then...

Yeah!

(upbeat music)

Riley, what's the update

from HQ?

We have features in the works

on the town and the venue.

Can we, um, send them

all of our photo

and video assets

so they can get going

on the teasers?

Yeah, sure.

Huh.

Can you just feel us

really pulling it all together?

Was that a compliment?

Aww. I didn't think

she had it in her.

Next, I'm gonna need you

to distract cyber Patricia

at the bakery.

On it.

Let her win that one,

and apologize

to that poor patissier for me.

Then, I need you

on a seating chart.

Just don't spend

too much time on it,

because Patricia is gonna

rewrite the whole thing anyway.

Who's hungry?

Me!

Perfect timing, Mom.

I need you on flowers.

Oh, no problem.

I know the woman who runs

Wild Thistle Florals.

- I'll be right on it.

- Thank you.

Hey. Before I forget...

Definitely this one.

- Good choice.

- Yeah.

I'll be working with Lucas

on the ceremony and logistics,

from the procession

to bouquet toss.

We will be going through him

for all of the vendors,

catering, rentals, et cetera.

- Wi-Fi for the live stream?

- Mm-hm.

If anyone can help, it's Lucas.

He'll let us know

the best places

for running power

to our live stream setups.

I hope we can

go through that again.

All right.

But you two

will carry on through

for photos with Cage

before we do

your formal grand entrance

into the reception.

And what do you think about

moving the tables around

at the front

to make some room

for the dance floor?

Yeah.

You're good at this.

Meh. It's my job.

No, helping run a magazine

is your job.

This wedding planning is

a whole different animal.

You're really

in the trenches now.

Well, a bride knows

what a bride wants.

Uh, and, uh, what about

catering and photography?

How are we going

to move them through the space

once everyone is settled?

This way.

That hallway there

to the kitchen

actually acts as

a secret highway for personnel.

Perfect.

We're not going to have a job

if handsome Mr. Carriage Man

walks off with the bride.

Don't be mean.

When was the last time

you even saw Matthew?

Hm?

Where is he?

I think the blue could be nice.

We're aiming

for the height of fashion.

Not some

pimple-covered pubescent

at his junior prom.

(playful music)

Okay. So, not the blue.

- Mm.

- (he sighs)

Oh, come on.

I'm not an influencer,

I'm an editor.

And while that might be true,

you did sign up for this,

and we need a profile

on our editor-in-chief bride.

Okay, but I do better

behind the scenes,

making, you know...

And we are rolling.

Riley!

Go.

What do you want me to say?

Seriously? Most of the time,

I can't get you to shut up.

So, just do the Annabelle thing.

The Annabelle thing.

(soft music)

Every little girl

dreams of her wedding.

Growing up,

I got to live those dreams,

summer after summer,

helping out at the Grand Holland

with my dad.

It's just...

one little piece of the riddle

that is love and matrimony.

I think so, too.

My dad always used to say

that happily ever after

is built one moment at a time,

and that dreams are

always stronger

when we dream them together.

Do you think that I'm... I'm...

Yeah. See? I knew it.

Now, this day,

it's just one day.

But in it are

all the seeds of a lifetime

and the promise of a future

yet to come.

(indistinct remarks)

It's a commitment to each other

and a dream of what

your life could be... will be,

if you build it together.

Okay. That, that, that.

How was that?

That's the one.

(exuberant music)

Annabelle, come look at this.

Wow. Okay.

It's doing good.

It's not just doing good,

it's doing great.

Wow. Look at that number.

And that spike?

That's all you.

Ahh, you helped.

(insects chirring)

This vase wins for me.

Yes.

Cage, we need a picture

to commemorate the moment.

We finally have world peace.

(slow clap)

Okay, no need to be smug.

Just because I can't see you

doesn't mean

that I can't hear you.

Now, Annabelle,

how's the dress coming?

I need to see an update

on what our blushing bride

is going to be...

Patricia, I will have

the first and last word

about the dress I will be

wearing at my wedding.

(soft music)

We ready?

Oh yeah. We're ready.

(wondrous music)

Woo!

- Honey, you look...

- Hot!

You look hot!

Could I have a moment

with my daughter, please?

Say no more.

(June exclaims)

Would you say something?

You're a dream come true.

- Your father would be so...

- I know, I know.

I know.

I'm gonna need

a dozen handkerchiefs.

Well, we will strap

a fanny pack full of them

to Riley.

(tender music)

Mom, um...

Yes, honey?

With, um...

with Dad gone,

would you walk me

down the aisle?

Of course.

I'd be honored.

I couldn't get a date in time,

anyway.

- (chuckling)

- (door creaks open)

Hey, Belle, I gotta...

What do you think?

(stammering)

It's perfect.

Uh, well, when you're done,

there's something

I need to show you, so, uh,

go and get dressed

and I'll pull my truck around.

Okay.

We're gonna get close.

Okay.

You ready for this?

- I'm so ready.

- I don't think you are.

Can I take it off now?

Not yet, Belle, it's a surprise!

- How do I get out?

- Hold on, hold on.

- You remember this one.

- It's stuck.

You remember it,

it's kinda tough.

One second, one second,

give it a little kick.

Here we go.

One hand, two hands.

One foot, two foot.

- Okay, what is it?

- It's a surprise!

I can't tell you.

That would negate the surprise.

Yeah.

Ready?

Almost there.

Don't walk me into anything.

Oh, I'mma walk you

into something here.

You're not even prepared.

Okay, we're almost there.

One, two, and stop.

Right, turn and stay.

Right there.

And three, two, one.

No way!

- You fixed it!

- Yeah!

(he laughs)

How did you do this?

Well, you know, I knew a guy

who knew another guy

who knew a woman, who...

who did it for you?

Yeah, well, they did

the blacksmithing part.

Everything else was me.

Really?

These very hands!

So, you like it?

I love it.

I know it sounds silly,

but I've had

this exact carriage in my mind

for as long as I can remember.

I know.

So this is where

my beautiful bride-to-be

has been hiding out

all this time.

Hey! Matthew,

don't you love this?

Yeah.

Two full horsepower,

what's not to love?

But I assume this will ferry us

to some hidden limousine

around the corner?

Sneak Rosie over there

a couple of carrots,

and she'll get you

anywhere you need to go.

Okay.

Jump on in, check it out.

It's so beautiful.

Uh... no, that's all right,

I, uh...

I wouldn't want

to ruin my experience

so close to the day.

(soft music)

Honey, everything looks great.

I am just so happy to be back

and see everything you've done,

just because

flying back and forth is...

eww, you know?

Yeah.

I'm just happy you're here.

I'm so ready to say "I do,"

my love.

Say, have you, um...

have you decided

on what you're gonna do

for your bachelor party?

There is a local spot

I can take you to,

if you're up

for a little flavor.

Oh, I don't think

that, um, he'd wanna...

No, really,

I don't want to impose.

I just came down to see

if my fiance needed anything.

No, it's nothing, really.

Consider it a, uh,

an impromptu stag.

(Belle stammers)

You really don't have

to do that, that's, um...

What do you think?

I, um, yeah, yeah, of course,

fine by me, mm-hm.

- All right.

- Great.

- I'll pick you up.

- Sounds awesome. Sir.

- So?

- Yeah. Yeah.

- Good?

- Great. Yeah.

- Let's do it.

- It'll be fun. Okay.

All right, cheers.

Slinte.

Mm.

(mellow country music)

Here, you might want to ease

into that one.

(chuckles)

Problem is I'm starting

to like the taste.

Oh, I see.

So, wedding's in a few days.

You must be gettin' nervous.

Oh, no, not at all.

Whole thing's a publicity stunt

for the magazine.

It's gonna be great

for Annabelle's career,

of course, but...

Yeah, I hear there's a lot

ridin' on it.

Yeah.

(laughs)

Yeah.

If you ask Mother, uh,

it's the end of the world

if this thing

doesn't go off perfectly,

so, I'm just playing my part.

Really more of an accessory

at this point.

You know, I've worked a lot

of weddings in my day,

and, uh, that's the first time

someone's ever put it

so bluntly.

How'd you get into weddings?

Well, my father started

a business with his father

long before I was born.

Oh, so you get it.

What?

All these critical life choices

that are just inherited.

We like to pretend

we have a choice,

but, no.

Our parents control our lives

as much as their parents

controlled theirs.

Yeah, well, I happen to love it.

I know not everyone is, uh,

lucky enough

to find their soulmate.

Soulmate?

Yeah.

Come on, man,

what are we, children?

What?

You wanna know about luck?

Go ahead.

I'm the luckiest guy

in the world.

Flying back and forth for weeks,

barely getting to see

my fiance,

it's enough to go mad,

you know, all this luck.

So, why are you doin' it?

'Cause it's what's expected

of me.

That it?

That is it.

I'll pick Mother up

at the airport tomorrow,

and then, this is happening.

But Annabelle is great.

I mean, truly, she is.

And if this goes off,

she is gonna be

wildly successful

and we will inherit

a publishing empire

or a dumpster fire.

(chuckles)

There's that luck again

just firing on all cylinders.

But do you love her?

It just makes sense, you know?

Yeah, you sound real convinced.

To be honest, Lucas,

I'm not sure I know

what love is, really.

Obligation, expectation?

Yeah, sure.

But love?

I don't know,

love is a kind word we use

when something's

too practical to pass up.

(soft music)

(window clatters)

(insects chirring)

(moans softly)

(window clatters)

(sighs)

(window clatters)

(window clatters)

Dangit.

Come on, Belle, where are you?

(window clatters)

(insects chirring)

Throw my arm out pretty soon.

Oh!

What are you doing?

Where is Matthew?

You shouldn't marry him,

he doesn't love you.

He doesn't love you, Belle.

Wait, you're wrong.

Oh, not even a little bit.

I got him so worked up,

he started talking about

his mother after one beer.

This whole thing

is a show to him,

an obligation to his mother.

You need to leave.

No, no, no, don't do that.

Don't do what?

You show up here

in the middle of the night

after goading my fianc

out to drink.

- To what? Sabotage...

- You can't marry him.

I am going to marry him

in two days,

and there is nothing

you can do...

You can't marry him

because I love you.

And I know after these

past couple weeks together,

I know you love me too.

(insects chirring)

You need to leave.

And I need to forget

you ever said that.

Belle.

(somber music)

(soft music)

Mom, how did you know

Dad was your soulmate?

I didn't.

I don't know if I even believed

in a soulmate back then.

What?

Your father

was extremely proper.

We'd been dating off and on

for a while,

but he was so busy with school.

We were in an off swing,

and so I was looking

for a new adventure.

I mistook change for progress.

I was young.

This isn't the story I know.

Yeah, it's the story you get

when you're old enough for it.

So, what did Dad do?

He waited until the last minute,

that's what he did.

If that man had had ten minutes

of car trouble,

I would have been on my way

to Charleston.

But, instead...

he showed up

with the deed to this house.

And this ring.

And he got down on his knee

and told me the dream

of what our life could be.

And you believed him?

Well, every word of it

came true, didn't it?

Even after we lost him.

You're proof of that.

I didn't know.

Parents are people too.

You live long enough,

you'll find that out.

Promise me this.

Whatever you decide,

decide it for yourself.

(insects chirring,

birds chirping)

So, this is where we dumped

our annual marketing budget.

It looked bigger

in the pictures.

Size is no indicator

of quality, Mother.

It is when you're selling

a lifestyle.

Maybe you should wait

to see the inside.

Did remarkable work.

Mm, I'm sure Annabelle knows

this place inside and out.

(soft music)

Ah.

I guess

she does have a decent eye.

Mother...

So, where is everyone?

(soft, quirky music)

I don't know,

I'll... I'll try her cell.

(cell phone ringing)

Your call has been forwarded...

Well?

Straight to voicemail.

Oh!

Riley!

Patricia, how are you?

Where is Annabelle?

Um...

We thought she was with you.

(laughs)

Well, clearly she's not here.

What is it?

Oh, nothing at all,

except it seems

the bride has gone missing

the day before the wedding,

a notoriously good sign.

Missing?

What kind of operation

have you people been running

on my dime for the past month?

There are only so many places

she could be.

We'll find her.

(soft music)

(sighs)

(snaps fingers)

(soft, tense music)

(humming)

(shrieks)

(gasps)

Uh...

(mellow music)

(birds chirping)

You know everyone's out there

lookin' for you right now?

It's not like I went far.

You weren't answering

your phone.

Left it at The Holland.

Look, I'm, um...

I'm sorry about last night.

Are you?

Not for what I said,

but maybe how I said it.

It wasn't my finest moment.

Maybe.

Well, what do you want me to do,

Belle, huh?

Working together

these past three weeks

have been the happiest

I've been in a long time,

and now I just gotta watch you

go on and get married?

How did you expect this to end?

These three weeks

we were planning my wedding.

And I could take that

when I thought he loved you.

I'm your friend, Belle,

I can't just let you

go off and...

You do not get to "let me"

do anything.

It's not like

I just married the first man

I met after you, Lucas.

It's been years.

Where was my friend then?

No, hey, come here, come here,

come here, come here, stop.

He thought he lost you forever,

okay?

He didn't know if he could go

through that again.

Don't, I'm getting married

tomorrow,

and I'm getting back to my life.

So, what?

You're just gonna go off

and get hitched,

run on back to the city,

and act like none of this

even mattered?

I love you more

than you could know,

but it doesn't change

anything, Lucas,

and it is horrible,

and it's beautiful,

and it's messy,

but it... it just is, Lucas.

We can imagine all these

different versions of our life,

but we only get the one

that we get, okay?

So, I am getting married

tomorrow,

and I cannot just throw it all

away for you.

(sentimental music)

(camera shutter clicks)

And that's the picture.

That was a mistake.

That didn't feel like a mistake.

You cannot say that to me

the day before my wedding.

Hey, look,

I have other people

relying on me,

Riley and Cage

and the whole office.

I'm doing this for everybody.

Love you do for yourself.

You have to choose for yourself.

What do you really want?

(panting)

I can't see you again.

Lucas, if you love me

half as much as you say you do,

then you won't come tomorrow.

(insects chirring,

birds chirping)

- I don't know...

- What is there?

Just 'cause you date

someone who's "y and r"

doesn't mean

you're also "y and r".

(indistinct chatter)

Okay, you can call off the hunt.

Hey, what happened?

We were worried about you.

I just stepped outside

for some air

and I left my phone behind.

It's not a big deal.

Okay, but we would all

be more comfortable

- knowing where you are.

- Okay.

People tend to wonder

when a bride goes missing

the day before a wedding.

Hi, Patricia.

So glad you could make it

after all the work

had been done.

What excellent work it is.

Would you mind

giving us a moment?

(grim musical flourish)

Belle, everything okay?

It's nothing.

- Really?

- Really.

(mysterious music)

(insects chirring)

Okay, I know

tensions are running high,

but you can't just disappear

as soon as Mother shows up.

You make it sound like

it's her wedding.

Hey, this is bigger than us now.

(soft, pensive music)

Tonight,

at the rehearsal dinner,

it is very important

that we make

a good first impression.

Everyone is gonna be there,

Mother, Riley, Cage.

My, my.

You'll look lovely

when she's finished with you.

Would you excuse us

for a moment?

Thank you.

(dark music)

You know, you really have

outdone yourself.

Not without a little bit

of help, of course,

but the venue looks incredible.

Thank you, Patricia.

But that's not all

you've been up to, is it?

What do you mean?

All these cameras around,

and you don't think I have eyes

and ears everywhere

with the amount of money

that we've poured into this?

I don't understand.

I know about the ex-boyfriend.

Is that why

you ran off yesterday?

Patricia,

what are you trying to say?

I'm here to underline

the seriousness

of the situation.

Timeless Bride,

the people who work there,

they're all counting on you.

Keep them in mind

the next time you think

about getting cold feet

for some country boy.

(somber music)

(camera shutter clicks)

(camera beeps)

(bright music)

Olive!

Have you seen Lucas?

Uh, no, he's not, um...

He's out.

Well, where is he?

Thank you.

Oh, thank God.

What are you doin' here?

Don't you have a job

to do somewhere else?

Look, I get it,

you don't like me.

I was spying on you

that one time,

and I've been too committed

to getting the shot.

Just leave me alone.

(mellow music)

You've been working in weddings

almost your whole life, right?

One way or another.

Ever seen a bride

on her wedding day?

More times than I can count.

Do they normally look like this?

She made her choice.

Listen to yourself.

You own a wedding venue

and a carriage barn.

Don't you have a romantic bone

in your body?

This woman does not want

to marry that man.

But she's been cornered into it.

A picture is worth

a thousand words,

and every single word here

says, "No."

She told me not to come today.

The ceremony is in 45 minutes.

If you don't do something today,

you are going to regret this

for the rest of your life.

(door bell jingles)

God.

Well, ain't exactly

a wishing well.

(coin plops)

(door bell jingles)

("Bridal Chorus" plays)

Please be seated.

Are you sure

you want to do this?

I'm not sure

about anything anymore.

Welcome, loved ones.

We are here

on this spectacular day

to celebrate the love

of Matthew Fernez

and Annabelle Ansel,

and join them in holy matrimony.

And I can't think

of a better venue

to celebrate that partnership

than right here

in The Grand Holland...

(guests gasping)

where a lifetime commitment

to the sacred art of love

was begun

by our very own Annabelle Ansel.

What are you doing?

I, Matthew Fernez...

(soft music)

I, Matthew Fernez...

Promise to cherish you always.

No.

I didn't drag you off a barstool

so you could do nothing.

To honor and sustain you

in sickness and in health,

in poverty and in wealth.

It ain't my choice.

To cherish...

She's the one

who's gotta make it.

and sustain you

in sickness and in health,

and in poverty and in wealth.

And to be true to you always

until death do us part.

And to be true to you

in all things

until death do us part.

And I, Annabelle Ansel...

I...

I can't do this.

(guests gasping)

What do you mean

you can't do this?

I'm so sorry, Matthew.

I can't marry you.

You are going to disgrace

yourself,

and me,

and the entire magazine.

For what?

You can't force people

to get married.

That is not how this works.

This isn't right

for either of us.

If you walk out that door,

you're finished

in this industry.

(guests gasping)

(camera shutter clicking)

With all due love and respect

in my heart, Patricia,

I am finished with you.

(bright music)

(guests gasping)

Are you just gonna stand there

and take this?

She's humiliating you.

No, Mom, she's humiliating you.

(camera shutter clicking)

You would have washed

out of everything

you have ever done

if it weren't for me.

Oh, hm.

(uplifting music)

(panting)

Lucas?

Lucas?

Belle?

Belle?

(panting)

Lucas.

What are you doing here?

I thought you'd be married

by now.

I didn't get married.

Why not?

Because I needed my soulmate

for it to be perfect.

- Belle, I...

- It's you, Lucas.

It has always been you.

(camera shutter clicks)

Now that's the picture.

(panting)

(bell chiming)

(spirited music)

(soft music)