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(♪ Joy to the World ♪ plays)

- Merry Christmas!
- Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

(bells tinkling)

Oh my gosh,
how gorgeous is this display!

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas!
- Merry Christmas!

- Isn't it all so beautiful?

Um, oh sorry!

I am all packed up
and ready to go skiing

so I'm a bit disorganized but...

hmm...

(muffled):
Merry "Chrishmash."

- Excuse me?
- Oh.

Merry Christmas.

- Oh, merry Christmas
to you, too.

(phone rings)

- Hey, Harper.
- Hi!

So, I spoke to our rental owner

and she's already put up
her own Christmas tree

but said she's fine with us
using our own decorations.

Oh! And my students made
these ornaments

that I can't wait
for you to see.

- Great.

- Mom gave me
her sugar cookie recipe,

so I think we should
make those tonight.

- Uh-huh.
- Okay!

And that's all. I'm on my way,

so I'll see you soon.

- Oh... is it time already?

- I actually gave you
an extra 15 minutes.

You're not done yet, are you?

- You know, I'm just finishing
up these notes for this author

in case she wants to work over
the holidays.

- Liz, you're the only person
I know

who likes working over
Christmas Week.

- Just give me 20 minutes.

(sighs)
- Okay, fine, 20 minutes.

But I wanna get
on the road soon.

Traffic to Breckenridge
will be crazy.

- I know, I know.

- And you promised me

that we could get an early jump
on the lifts tomorrow.

- I know.
Just give me a few more minutes.

- Okay. Bye.

- Bye, bye.

(phone rings)

- Hello?

- Liz, hi.
It's Caleb.

I'm glad I caught you before
you left for Christmas break.

- Hey, Caleb,
I'm glad you caught me.

I'm just wrapping things up.

Wait... why?
What's wrong?

- Carrie Wynn just quit.

(sighs)

- Caleb...

- Look,
I know that you're gonna say.

- This was
your third illustrator.

- Liz, Liz, I know.

But it just wasn't working out.

- Merry Christmas.

- I'm even more muddled
on the story than I was

before Carrie and I
started working together.

- Caleb, I can't publish
a children's book

without illustrations.

I told you that when
we booked you with Carrie,

it was the last time
the art director

was gonna match you
with an illustrator.

He's ready to throw in
the towel on this manuscript.

- I know, Liz,
but I need somebody...

- Caleb, can you just hold on?

Hold on one second.

(phone rings)

- Hi, Harper,
can I call you back?

- I'm on my way.

No ifs, ands, or buts.
- But...

(exhales sharply)

- Sorry about that, Caleb.

- Liz, there's gotta be
something we can do.

- I don't think that there is.

- Can we at least talk
about it face to face?

Listen, I'm right downstairs,
I'm in from Steele Ridge,

and I'm gonna be right up
to talk to you, all right?

(call beeps off)

(beep!)

- You know, pushing it like that

isn't gonna
make it come any faster.

And if it did,
it'd be more like a game show

than an office elevator.

Which would be amazing.

(giggles)

(tense music)

(elevator dings)

(doors rumble)

(♪ 12 Days of Christmas ♪ plays)

(chuckles)

You know, this is hands down
my favourite Christmas song.

I always wondered
if the lyricist was a birder.

Like, between the partridges
in the pear tree,

and the turtle doves,
and French hens.

It just feels like an...

avian celebration set to music.

Every year I mean to look it up,
but then...

Christmas comes and goes
and I just forget about it.

- This elevator moves like
the 12 years of Christmas.

(laughs)

(elevator dings)

- Oh!

Merry Christmas.

- Thanks.
- You're welcome!

Have a happy holiday!

(soft music)

(sighs)

- Another company
we can maybe talk to

that would have
someone available?

- I don't know anybody.
Do you?

I've asked all the favours
that I have.

- Guess I'm waiting.

- There's nothing more
that we can do.

(sighs)

(soft music)

(Caleb): There's gotta be
another illustrator.

I know I've developed
this reputation for being

"difficult"...
(laughs)

but there's gotta be someone.

- Not one that will work
with you while you write.

And now there isn't even time
to do the illustrations

after it's written.
I'm sorry, Caleb.

We knew that Christmas Eve
deadline was a long shot.

- Well, does it absolutely have
to be Christmas Eve?

I mean, I've gotten
other deadlines. Maybe...

- No, it has to be
Christmas Eve.

The copy editor's doing me
a favour by waiting this long.

- There's gotta be something
we can do.

Got the thing extended before.

Gotta be someone.

What about Nathan Bryant?

- He's in California
for the holidays.

I'm sorry, Caleb.

I just don't see
how we can get it done.

- This can't be the end of it.

- With no possibility of another
extension and no illustrator,

I just don't see how...
- Look, I promise you,

you get me one more illustrator
and I will make it work.

I've given Red Ribbon
multiple bestsellers.

I just need another chance.

Come on, you know me, Liz.

- I'm sorry, Caleb.

I just,
I don't know who we could put...

- Um...
- Harper!

Hi, I just need
a few more minutes.

- Right. Okay. Um...
Can I talk to you briefly?

- I'll be with you
in a little bit.

Um, sorry, this is my sister.

- Harper. Hi.

Yeah, we sorta met.
(giggles)

- I remember.

- It's really important
that I speak with you.

It'll only take a few minutes.
- Oh, well...

- I promise I'll have her back
in a second.

We'll even get you
a hot cocoa, okay?

- Oh.

- Oh, sorry Caleb.
I'll be right back.

Okay, okay, I'm coming!

What's going on, Harper?

What is it?

- I'll do it.
- What?

- Hi, three cocoas
with whipped cream, please.

- What? Do what?

- I'll be his illustrator.

- Harper.
- I can do it.

You know that
I'm always drawing, and I...

- But this is not
a regular illustration job.

Caleb likes to work with
his illustrators

while he writes,
which is very unusual.

And as much as I respect him,
he's become...

challenging.
(scoffs)

- Well, I teach kindergarten.
I can handle challenging.

- You are an exceptionally
talented artist,

but you've never illustrated
a book before.

- I have my graphic novel.

- Which you've never finished.

Which you've never even
let me look at.

- Yeah, but I will finish it.

Oh, I will!

- We'd have to cancel our trip.

You'd have to go down
to Steele Ridge

and write with Caleb
through the whole break

in order to make the deadline.

- Oh.

Okay, but...

I can bring Christmas anywhere.

And with Mom and Dad in Paris,

it's already kind of
a different Christmas.

And you'll be there too, right?

- I don't...

Harper, you're a teacher.

- Yes, and I love it,

but art and writing, I mean,
that's always been my dream.

- If you did this...
- Mm-hmm.

- it would be
a serious commitment.

I mean it. You can't say yes now

and then decide later
it's not a fun side business

like your greeting card
company that I helped fund.

Or your mural design company.

- Okay, yeah, yeah, yeah,
I get it. I get it.

All right, I am committed.

- Ugh, okay.

- Okay?

- Okay.

(giggling)

- Oh, thank you, thank you,
thank you, thank you!

- Oh, I got this.
I got this.

Thank you.
- Thank you.

- Caleb, I found you
an illustrator.

- Great. Who?

- My sister, Harper.

- Turtle doves woman?

- What?

- I happen to be
a graphic novelist.

- So you're published?

- No.
Well, not yet.

- She's a phenomenal artist,
Caleb.

- So, you sell your art?

- No, I give it away.
For free.

- Well, what do you do for work,
for money?

- Oh,
I'm a kindergarten teacher.

- Liz, I need someone
who can draw

in more
than just colouring books.

- I can hear you, you know.

- Look, I apologize.
It's just...

I don't see how this
could possibly work.

An amateur novelist/kindergarten
teacher's

not exactly what I had in mind.

- Caleb, you've had
two extensions

and have fired three artists.

- A couple of them quit.

- Listen, you wanted my help,

this is what it looks like.

If you want Red Ribbon
to publish your book,

this is the only way
I can see it happening.

And you know how fickle
the industry is.

Your last book,
your first one without Pete,

bombed.

- Will you be there, too?

- Yes, of course.

Harper and I were gonna spend
the week together anyway.

- How badly do you
wanna be published?

- Very... badly.

It's always been my dream.

- Well, good.

In the absence of experience,

at least you'll be motivated.

I'll meet you at my place in
Steele Ridge tomorrow morning.

Early.

Liz, thank you.

(inspiring music)

(indistinct chatter)

- How cute is this downtown?

Ah!

Oh, are you sure
we can't just do like,

a little bit of shopping?

I still have
to get Mom something

for when we get back
and we see them.

- Harper, no.
We're on a tight deadline, okay?

And Caleb's expecting us
this morning.

Now, he said that his cabin
was walkable from downtown

but I think his definition
of walkable

is different than mine.
(sighs)

- Well, maybe we can
take a break later

and get some hot cider?

- We haven't even
started working yet

and you're already
talking about taking a break?

- It's Christmas.

Plus, I hadn't really thought
about the fact

that he's already tried
and failed working

with three other
professional illustrators.

- Hey, you volunteered for this,
remember?

Anyway, I'm sure it'll be fine.

Hopefully.
- Is he always so prickly?

- No, he didn't use to be.

He and Pete...
- Okay, who is Pete?

- His former partner.

Caleb would write the books.
Pete would do the illustrations.

They were a bestselling team.

They had a falling out
about a year ago

and Pete's gone on
to write bestsellers

while Caleb's last book was a...

total failure.

(sucks air)

- That's awful.
- Yeah.

So, he's got a lot
riding on this.

- I get it.

Plus, I don't want my first
break in the industry

to be a dud so, don't worry,
I got this.

But I can't spend Christmas Week

without Christmas.

- Well, I would prepare yourself
for Caleb

being more interested
in his book

than he is in
the Christmas holiday.

(sighs)

- I'll be right back.

- Where are you going?

(♪ Deck the Halls ♪ plays)

Okay.

Listen, it's fine that
I'm bringing a Christmas tree.

Okay, what am I supposed to do
a week before the holiday?

- What is that?
- A Christmas tree!

I can't possibly work
in a place for a week

that doesn't have
a Christmas tree.

- Okay, just set it down
over there.

- Okay.

It's not inside but...
- No, just...

- Okay. All right.
You got it?

- Mm-hmm.
- Gentle, gentle.

- Oh! Okay, okay.

There we go.
- Perfect.

(giggles)

Oh!

- Yes, I have a Christmas tree.

Of course I have
a Christmas tree.

It is Christmas after all.

- Right, well, I just figured
you weren't celebrating,

you know, because
of all the deadlines

and the firing of illustrators.

- I celebrate.

I just might be a little more
quiet about it than you are.

But it happens to be
my favourite holiday.

(gasps)
- Really?

- Yes.
- Huh!

Well, maybe working together
over the holiday week

won't be so bad after all.

(curious music plays)

- Excuse me?

- Well, you know what I mean.

- Do I? Liz?

- Harper, can I speak with you
for a moment?

- Yeah.

We have only been here a minute.

I can't possibly have already
done something wrong.

- Just remember
that you are here

to collaborate successfully
with Caleb.

- Yes, I know.

- So maybe don't insult him
right off the bat.

- That wasn't an insult.

Well, at least,
I didn't mean it as an insult.

- Okay. Okay, great.

So, let's just go back inside
and start fresh.

- Wait.

- What?

- You should go.

- Excuse me?

- If I'm ever going
to bond with him

and get him to trust me
as his collaborator,

you can't be here.

I mean, otherwise, we are
going to spend the entire day

having talks like this
on the porch.

- You're telling me to leave?

- I am.

Oh! You can figure out something
to do with the Christmas tree.

- And you're giving me
an assignment?

- I... guess I am.

- You sure
you don't need me here?

- Positive.
We will be fine.

We just need to work together,
just the two of us, okay?

You can check back in
on us later.

Besides, you work so much,
you deserve the time off.

- But besides the tree,
what am I gonna do?

- Check us into the hotel.
Go check out the town.

Do all of the things that
I wish I could be doing.

- I guess I have been pretty
burnt out lately.

- Good. And we'll be fine.

Caleb?

- Is everything okay?

- Hi. Yes, it is.

And I'm sorry for earlier
about the tree.

Actually, while we work,

Liz is going to find a way
to donate it or plant it.

- Well, I know just the person
to help with that.

Owen.

- Caleb.

Thought I'd bring you your mail.

- Oh, thank you.

- Back from Boulder, I see.
- I am.

I'm on a tight deadline.

No better place to get work done
than my cabin.

Owen, this is my editor, Liz.
Liz, Owen.

- Hi.
- Hi.

- And this is Liz's sister,
Harper.

- Hi! What he doesn't want
to admit

is that I am also
his illustrator.

(giggles)

- Oh!
- Yeah.

(laughs)

- Well, nice to meet you both.

- Listen, I was wondering if you
could help us with something.

We have an extra Christmas tree

and Liz is looking to donate it.

- Honestly, you could
just tell me where

and I can take care of it.

I don't wanna take up
too much of your time.

- No, I don't mind at all.

I'm not sure how someone
ends up with an extra tree,

but I'm happy to help you find
a family to take it in.

- That's wonderful.
Thank you.

It's just... it's right here.

(soft music)

- Hmm.
- So...

Liz is coming back later,
right, to check on things?

- Yeah, sure.
She'll be back later.

(sighs)

So, should I read the manuscript
before I start drawing?

- Uh, yeah.
Um... I'll go get it.

- Mm-hmm.

(♪ We Wish You
a Merry Christmas ♪ plays)

(mugs clanging)

Thank you.

Hmm, yum!

Mm.

- So?

- So...

do you want me
to start drawing or...

- No,
I wanna know what you think.

- You do?
- Yeah, of course.

- Oh.

- Why wouldn't I wanna
know what you think?

I mean, you will be doing
the illustrations after all.

- Yeah, I guess
I'm just not really used

to people wanting my opinion.

Usually they wanna hear
from Liz, not me.

- I wanna hear from you.

What do you think?

- Well, I...

- It is a work
in progress, remember.

It's just not completed.

- Right, yes, of course.

- And I need some ideas
for the middle sections.

They're just a little scrambled.

- Yeah, no, um...

but the beginning and
the ending are really...

- Yeah, those are good.

Those feel like
they're really polished.

It's just, like I said,
the middle sections.

- Yes, that's what
I was trying to say.

- Well, I haven't had a chance
to really write them down yet

but I can show you.

I'm not letting you talk, am I?

- Not really, no.

- I apologize.

(exhales)

- Well, I think it's really cute

and I love that the cloud

is having a hard time expressing
his feelings.

Um, and yeah,

it's clear that the middle part
needs a little work but...

- But...

- I'm picturing
this really cute cloud

but it's just not feeling
very playful.

- Well, that's what
the illustrations are for.

- Yes! That's true,
that's true. Um...

But does he have anyone
to talk to?

- The cloud?
- Yeah!

I mean, he should have someone
to talk to.

A friend, a buddy.

- He doesn't wanna talk
to anyone.

He doesn't wanna share
his feelings.

That's the whole point.

- Yes, I understand that.
Um...

It's just that...
Okay.

When I'm doing story time
with my students,

they are the most engaged
when it comes to

different characters interacting
with each other.

I mean, I also do different
voices for every character,

which is a really big hit.

And it just feels
like your story...

it needs someone else
that's there for him.

Otherwise it's...

it feels a little lonely.

- So, you're saying as is,

you wouldn't read
this story to your students.

- As is... no.

It just feels serious
for a children's book.

What?

- That's what your sister said.

- Oh.

- I mean,
I could make the cloud...

No, no, that's not gonna work.

I mean,
I could give him a buddy.

But that means I'd have
to rewrite the section on...

well, which is the whole point
of the book,

so... I...

(dishes rattling)

What are you doing?

- We are going to make
Christmas cookies.

- What?

- We can either make sugar
cookies or shortbread cookies.

Oh! Do you have molasses
or cloves for gingerbread?

- Whoa, whoa! Why would we make
Christmas cookies right now?

- Because you need
to get out of your head.

Look, clearly you have given
a lot of thought to this book.

Maybe too much.

- That's kinda my job, isn't it?

- Yes, it is,

and it's great but...

you need a mental break.

And a sugar fix.

Or maybe that's just me.

- Okay, first
the Christmas tree,

now Christmas cookies?
No, no.

- Oh, oh! we could make the
Young family Christmas cookies.

It's a family tradition.

We make them every year
and my students love them.

- I'm sure they do,

but I'm not
one of your students.

- Yeah, well, that's obvious,
okay?

Because my students would
never say no to making
Christmas cookies.

(annoyed exhale)

- Look, I appreciate
the sentiment,

but I don't think we have...
- Look, just try it.

Okay? Connecting with something
else while you're stuck,

it just...
it helps you, okay?

It always helps my students.

So, just please, try it,

because clearly, pacing around

and staring at
your computer screen

doesn't seem to be helping.

(sighs)

- We will get some actual
work done eventually, right?

- I promise.

Now come on! Are you gonna
stand there all day

and be a Christmas curmudgeon,
or are you gonna help?

(annoyed exhale)

Let's go.

(upbeat music plays)

♪ It's that time of year ♪

♪ When Santa comes
to bring that cheer ♪

♪ He ain't comin' by
boat or plane ♪

♪ He's loaded down
with candy canes ♪

♪ I only hope he keeps
one open seat ♪

♪ Oh yeah ♪

♪ Come on Santa
Bring those toys ♪

♪ Bring all the presents
for the girls and boys ♪

♪ The only thing I need ♪

♪ Is my baby on Christmas Eve ♪♪

(timer dings)

The last batch is ready.

(tender music plays)

You want one?

- Yeah, after I'm done working.

Besides, you have
to let them cool first.

- Says who?

Besides, I have
an annual tradition

of burning my tongue
on Christmas cookies, so...

Oh, mm-hmm. Yep.
That'll do it. It...

It is officially Christmas.

(laughs)

Hmm!

- I have never met anyone with
more Christmas spirit than you.

(laughs)

Your students must
really appreciate it.

- It's me who appreciates their
enthusiasm for the holiday.

I mean, there is nothing
like witnessing Christmas

through the eyes of a child.

It's why I think you should
take part in the festivities.

I think it'll help
your writing process.

It'll help inspire
that childlike joy

that only comes
this time of year.

Sorry, am I annoying you?

- No.

No, you're not.

- Hmm.

- How's the sketching coming?

- Oh, good.
Um, yeah.

I have a few things
I wanna show you.

And I had a thought
about the story.

- Okay.

- I know that the lesson
in the end

is that by him expressing
his feelings,

he can create rain
and that helps

flowers, and plants,
and trees grow,

but...

- But? That's the whole point.

- But it's Christmas.

- But it's not a Christmas book.

- Are you gonna let me talk?

- I'm sorry.
(chuckles)

- I just feel like
we should take inspiration

from what's around us right now.

I feel like maybe...

Cloudy could be afraid
of his emotions

creating snow instead of rain.

- Hmm.

And maybe Cloudy's emotions
could be so strong

that the water freezes...
- Yeah, yeah, yeah.

And he creates a snowstorm.

And then, he's worried,
and upset and...

- Then he could see children
sledding

as a result of the snow
that he produced.

- And then, he knows that
expressing his feelings

is a good thing.

- Wow. This is...

gonna really change
a lot in the story.

You know that, right?

- But if it changes it
for the better,

it's worth it, right?

- That's a good idea.

Different.

Thank you.

- You're welcome.

- Well, the town looks great.

- I'm glad, I'm glad.
- Thank you.

- Turned out to be
a pretty good day.

- Yeah!

- Hey, you two!

Have you guys been together
this whole time?

- Well, actually, Owen and I
found a very sweet family

that still needed a tree

and then, he offered
to show me around town.

It's very decked out
for Christmas.

- Wait, you got to see the
Christmas decorations in town?

- Yeah!

Sorry.

- No, that's good.
Good for you.

- I better go.
I have to get back to the bistro

and check on things.

One of my servers is gone
for the holidays

so I'll be short-staffed.

Maybe I'll see you later?

- Sure!

Probably.

(soft music)

- Probably?

- He owns a bistro.

- Mm, mm-hmm.
- We gotta eat.

- Mm-hmm!

- How about you two?
How'd you do?

- Oh, great!

- Caleb?

- Yeah, your sister actually
contributed some good ideas.

Come on inside.
We'll show you.

- Hmm!

- Don't sound so surprised.
- Well, I'm just...

So, changing the cloud from rain
to snow was really your idea?

- Yep. I know it creates
more work for us

but I just really feel like
it sets it apart, you know?

I mean,
you always see rain clouds.

Plus, the illustrations
are gonna be really fun.

- I'm glad you're doing this.

You know,
you might wanna also think

about finishing
your graphic novel.

Once this comes out,

you can capitalize
on your name being out there.

- That's true.
But I don't know.

The story just...
It isn't quite ready yet.

- So, why don't you let me
read it?

- No. Not yet.

It's not ready for your eyes.

- Ah.
(laughs)

(♪ O Christmas Tree ♪ plays)

(indistinct chatter)

Hey, Owen!
- Hey!

- You came!

No Caleb?

- Oh, well...

I changed his story a bit

so he insisted on working
through dinner.

- Hmm.
Sounds like him.

Well, I'm glad
you ladies came through.

(gasps)

- You have Christmas carol
karaoke?

And ornament making?
Gingerbread baking?

- We like to do Christmas right
around here.

- Oh, you sure do!

Can you talk to your friend
and neighbour about that,
please?

- To be fair, he is on deadline.

- He can be serious
when he's working

but the folks around here
who know him really like him.

- I just wish
that he would take part

in the festivities around here.

I think it would be really good
for his imagination

and just really good for him.

- Hmm.
- And you.

- Exactly.

(laughs)

- Follow me.

- Thank you.

- Oh, Liz, I know you were
talking about checking out

some of the trails here

and I was able to move
some stuff around

and I would be happy
to take you tomorrow

if you're up for a hike,
that is?

- Sure, that'd be great.

- Great.

Well, I will leave you
with the menus

and I'll be back in a minute.

- What?

- It's weird.

You get to go on a hike tomorrow
while I have to work?

Feels a little bit like

Freaky Friday Christmas edition,
no?

(laughs)

(wind howling)

(computer keys clacking)

(tender music)

(exhales deeply)

I think I wanna go for a walk.

- Okay.
Don't stay out too late.

- Okay.
(chuckles)

(sentimental music plays)

- Hi!

Wow...

(birds chirping)

I have huge news!

- Good morning to you, too.

What have you go there?

- Oh, these are
two peppermint mochas

with Rudolph the red-nosed
cherries on top.

- Oh.

Hmm.

- It's not poison.
You can drink it.

(chuckles)
- Thank you.

So, what was the huge news?
Or was it the drinks?

- Oh! No. So, last night
I was Christmas watching...

- Christmas watching?
- Yeah!

You know, where you sit outside

and you take in the lights
and the celebrations,

festivities, and decorations.

Have you been to the downtown?
Because it is amazing.

- Oh, I hear.

- Right. So, anyway,
I was sitting outside

and I was thinking
about our story

and I was thinking about
all the different ways

that I could visualize
his different emotions,

and then it hit me like
an ornament to the head!

We could use mixed media
illustrations!

- Oh.

What do you mean?

- We could take it from pencils,

to cartoon, to watercolours.

I think it would just really
add this incredible element

to the story.

- But it's a story
about a cloud.

I think cartoon makes
the most sense.

It's what we've done so far

and it's what all the other
illustrators wanted to do, too.

- Right. Yes, but this would
really add another level to it.

Besides, I thought
we were collaborators.

- It's just, all my other books
have been cartoon.

It's what's expected of my work.

And all but one
have been bestsellers.

Why would I change now?

- Maybe because what was
working for you before

isn't really
working for you anymore?

Do you think that maybe you
not wanting to take this risk

has something more to do
with you not working with Pete

this time around than it does
with the idea itself?

- You know, I appreciate
your ideas,

but I think we should get
back to work.

We're wasting time here debating

and we've come too far
to change now.

- Okay.

- Would you like some coffee?

- Uh, yes, please.

(mugs clink)

(tender music)

(exhales)

(giggles)

(upbeat music)

(laughing)

- Harper?

What are you doing?

Oh!
(laughs)

This isn't playtime.

- I happen to be working.

I was feeling all stuck
and confined in there,

so I needed inspiration.

I wanted to immerse myself
in the soft, fluffy feeling,

so I came out here.

- Oh.

- Have you ever tried
to experience anything

before you've written about it?

(chuckles)

Come on!

- Oh!
(laughs)

- Soft, right?
- Cold.

- Okay, yes,

but think beyond
the cold and soft,

pillowy.

- Couldn't we have
just used a pillow?

(laughs)

That's the second time
you've laughed

at something I've said.

- You're counting?

- No, it's just...

nobody laughs at what I say
much anymore.

- Well, maybe they're not
listening closely enough.

Mm-hmm.

All right, come on!
Let's do it!

(screams then laughs)

That was unexpected!

- I'm getting inspired.

- Hmm!

And that is the stand where
I get my nightly cup of cocoa.

And that is my bench where I sit

and I do all my sketching
and my Christmas watching.

- Have you heard of
this Christmas watching?

- Oh, it's a family tradition.

- Well, I'm here
for dinner only,

so stuffed jingle bell peppers
is as far as I go.

(laughs)

(indistinct chatter)

(sighs)

- You know, there are some
things over there

that might help us think
about our story

in some new and exciting ways.

(chuckles)
- You...

- Caleb, well,
I'm glad you're here

because I just ordered
everything

for the Christmas Eve dinner
for the shelter.

I know you're on a really
tight deadline,

but will you still be able to
help with the cooking that day?

- Definitely.
- Thank you.

- Wow, Owen,
that's so nice that you do that!

- Oh, it wasn't my idea.
It's all Caleb.

He's been doing it
for the past three years.

- Really?

- Yeah.

Everyone should have
a good Christmas dinner.

- Hmm. I agree.

Which is why Liz and I will
definitely be there to help.

- Uh, well, I don't know
that our skills in the kitchen

will offer much help,
but I'm in.

- You could make
your Christmas cookies.

(gasps)

- Deal.

(chuckles)

(upbeat jazzy music)

- Come on, there's no better
place to find inspiration

than a bookstore.

(bell on door jingles)

I'll be right back.

- I used to do readings here.

- And you will again.

- Yeah. Sometimes,
I'm not so sure about that.

- Well, I am.

My family reads this book
every Christmas Eve.

- Somehow I get the sense
your family really knows

how to celebrate Christmas.

- We do!

We're doing separate things
obviously this year,

but we're usually all together

and we do have
a lot of traditions.

- Can only imagine how much

you must be missing
those traditions.

With my parents gone

and my sister overseas
with her family,

I think I forget about

how many family traditions
there are out there.

- Well, we probably have
more than most.

(chuckles)

- Thank you for being here, Liz.

Really.
I really appreciate it.

I know this isn't
how you imagined

spending your holiday.

- Well, that's very sweet
of you.

But you should probably
thank Harper.

It was her idea, after all.

She's always been
the real spirit

behind our family's
Christmas traditions.

Her enthusiasm is infectious.

(chuckles)
- Yeah.

I've experienced that
for myself.

(chuckles)

Speaking of...

Where is she?

- "Here comes a big wave.
We need to go!"

(together): Heave, ho!
Heave, ho!

- "Arrr, ye mateys,
there's no time to slow!"

(together): Heave, ho!
Heave, ho!

- Did we get over the wave?
- Did we find the treasure?

- Hmm...

Well, we could keep reading
or...

we could ask the author
of the story himself.

(gasps)

So, tell us; did we
get over the big wave

and find the treasure?

- Arrr, with the help
of ye first mates,

the gold was found!

(together): Yes!

- Come on, kids.

- We've got to go.
Thanks for the story.

- I think you need to work
on your pirate accent

just a little bit more.

- Oh!
(laughs)

- What?

- This book is so sweet.

Caleb?

(melancholic music)

- That's Pete's book.

- Are you okay?

Caleb?
- Yeah, of course.

It's just um...

we're wasting time here
when we could be working.

- But... we were having fun.

You were having fun!

- Yeah, there'll be plenty
of time to have fun

when I'm finished with the book.

Look, I don't wanna waste
any more time here debating.

I just...

I could be at home
fixing my manuscript.

(sighs)

(bell on door jingles)

- Caleb.

Caleb!

Okay, look, it is okay

if you are feeling hurt about
the book signing, all right?

You can talk about it.

I am not gonna judge you
or your feelings.

- I'm simply feeling anxious
about meeting the deadline.

(exhales)

- You know, it's ironic
that you're writing a book

about a character
who is learning

that expressing himself
is a good thing,

when you won't admit
to having any feelings at all.

- I'm sorry you feel that way.

(scoffs)

- Oh, Harper!

Not everyone's
as open as you are.

You've got to give
some people time.

- You have to tell me what
happened between Pete and Caleb.

- I don't have all the details.

All I know is that
Pete and Caleb

came onto the literary
world as partners,

and making it as a team
like that is very unusual,

but they were very successful.

They were celebrated
children's authors.

- Well, that's hard to imagine.

- Caleb was different back then.

I mean, he's always been
the quieter of the two,

but to be honest,
he was more genuine.

Pete knew how to work a room

but you never really knew

if he meant
what he was telling you.

- Well,
what happened between them?

- I don't know the whole story.

But I do know that
it wasn't amicable

and Caleb doesn't seem
to have recovered.

- And he's never said anything?
I mean, no specifics at all?

- I asked him, but he didn't
wanna talk about it.

Instead he grows more anxious

with every bestseller
that Pete writes on his own.

(sighs)

- Because Caleb's
one solo book bombed.

- Exactly.
And Harper,

Caleb is very loyal,

so whatever happened
between the two of them

must have been pretty bad.

So, don't push him too much,
okay?

I think I'm gonna take a walk
and clear my head.

Maybe I'll see you
back at the hotel?

- Okay.

- Oh, um, unless...

you wanna go to the bistro
and see if Owen is still there?

- Is it that obvious?
(laughs)

- Um, no, I mean, just to like
everyone who's breathing.

- Oh, so embarrassing!

- It's wonderful.

- He's nice, isn't he?

- He is.

(bright music)

- You're very good.

- Oh, um, thank you.

- Are you a writer
or an illustrator?

- Trying to be both, I guess.

- Well, looks like
you're well on your way.

You should definitely
keep it up.

- Actually, I have a job
as an illustrator right now.

- Well, I hope that author knows
how lucky he or she is.

- Hmm.
Not sure he does.

But thank you for saying that.

Ha, I'm gonna call it a night.

Merry Christmas.

- Merry Christmas.

- Mr. Stillman?

- Yes, I'm Pete Stillman.

- Wonderful to meet you.

I'm Oliver from the bookstore.
- Ah!

- We are so excited
you'll be doing a book signing

as part of our Christmas events.

- Thank you.

- This way, if you will, please.

- Great.

- Caleb?
- Harper, hi.

(laughs)
- What are you doing here?

- I was wondering if I could
treat you to a cup of hot cocoa.

- I would love that.

(soft music)

- Hmm?
- Thank you.

I feel like I should apologize
for earlier.

I went too far.

I mean, sometimes my mouth

just moves faster than my brain
and I...

- No, no.

I'm the one that should
be apologizing.

You were right about me.

I have a hard time talking
about my feelings.

And I admire how open you are.

I've never been that way.

Especially not since
the falling out with Pete.

- Mm-hmm.

- I think right now I'm just
trying to prove that...

I don't need Pete
to be successful.

He certainly hasn't needed me.

- Well, I know you will be.

- Well, if I am,
I have you to thank for it.

Yeah.

You were the first person

to really help me get
the story clear in my mind.

(chuckles)

- I'm so glad.

- And I hope
you're not giving up on me.

- Giving up on you? No.

No, look, I made a promise

to take this commitment
seriously

and I am.
I do.

- Well, good.

Because I was hoping
we could be true partners.

Real collaborators.

- Really?
- Yeah.

- Okay. Um...

(sighs)

Well, if that's the case,

then maybe you could consider
my ideas a little bit more?

Like, taking part in
the town's Christmas activities.

I promise it'll help get
our creative juices flowing.

And besides,

you're missing
the best part of the year.

There's so much
to be inspired by

and I promise that
it'll make all the difference.

- You really think so?
- I really do.

And I promise there will be
plenty of time for work.

Hmm!

- You have yourself a deal.

- Really?
- Yeah.

- Yes!
(giggles)

- Well, it's late.

I should be heading home.

- Oh, and Caleb?
- Yeah?

- I hope you know that if you
do ever wanna talk about Pete,

I'm here to listen.

- Thank you.

- I'll see you tomorrow.

(upbeat jingly music)

- You look very intense.

- I'm just trying to get
the glitter just so.

- Oh yeah, just so, huh?

- Uh-huh.

Don't.
- No.

You can never have
too much glitter.

- Harper.

- My fingers, they're slipping!

They're slipping.
(gasps)

I can't believe
you just did that!

- I had to protect
my ornament at all costs.

- Oh, it is on!
- Is it on?

(intertwined bickering)

- Do I need to separate
the two of you?

(chuckles)

- I have a reputation
to uphold in this town

and you almost got us
in trouble.

- Me?
- Yeah.

- Okay, let's let the children
have their play time.

- Oh, you guys
don't wanna join us?

- Oh, well, Owen and I are...

- I asked Liz
if she wanted to...

- Owen doesn't have a wreath
for his door yet, so...

- Right,
so I asked if Liz wanted to...

- You guys are gonna go pick out
a Christmas wreath together?

(laughs)

- Yes.
- Yes.

- Well, that sounds fun.

- Ready to go?

- I am.

I'll check in on you two later.

- Oh.

(laughs)

(kettle boiling)

- How exciting!
- What?

- A Christmas romance.

- You think so?
- Oh!

- I mean, I know Owen's smitten,
but I wasn't so sure about Liz.

(laughs)
- I am.

I haven't seen my sister
act like that since...

Tommy James asked her
to sit outside on the bricks

in the 4th grade.
- Oh!

Is that a good thing?

- Oh, it's a Christmas miracle.

I mean, she's never not working.

This is the first time
in a really long time

that I've seen her loosen up
and have some fun.

- Well, I'm glad.
They're both really nice.

They seem like
they'd be good together.

Thanks.
- Of course.

Oh! I forgot something!
Hold on.

- What's going on?

- I have something to show you.

So, I stayed up late last night

putting this together for you
to look at and consider.

- Really?
- Mm-hmm.

I know you said
you didn't wanna try

the mixed media illustrations,
but I had to try it.

So, I was thinking that we could
do different illustrations

for all of his different moods.

For instance,
this is watercolour,

so it's like for when
he's feeling shy

and doesn't want
to express himself.

And then, we've got pencil,

which is for when
he's feeling like,

stormy, and dark, and moody.

And then, we have cartoon

for when he's feeling
happy and joyful.

So, what do you think?

- You must've spent a lot
of time on this last night.

- Yeah. Well,
when I get a good idea,

it's hard for me to sleep.

- Yeah, I have the same problem.

(giggles)

- So... what do you think?

- I think you did a great job.

These are playful
and expressive.

- Do I hear a but?

- It's just so different
than all my other work.

- But why should that matter?

- Well, an artist's body of work
is like his signature

and I'm just not sure
how this style fits in.

I'm already on thin ice
with the publishing world.

- Mm-hmm. Okay.
But...

your previous work
was your signature

when you were collaborating
with Pete, right?

And this is totally different
because now it's with me.

- That is true.
- Plus,

your signature really shouldn't
hamper your creativity.

- I really like what you've
done here, and you're right.

It's a great idea.

Let's go for it.

- Really?
- Yeah.

- Oh, I'm so glad!
Okay, oh!

This calls for extra
marshmallows!

(birds chirping)

- How did she convince you that
this relates to your manuscript?

- Well, she said the fresh air
would help us clear our minds.

- And? Is it helping?

- It is helping.

- Okay, got the stuff.

- Hey, that's my good scarf.

- Yes, and it'll look just
lovely on Stan the Snowman.

Hey, hey!

Think less about the scarf

and more about the joy
that it'll bring to the children

who see our snowman
on Christmas.

- Okay.
(laughs)

Well, let's get to work.

(♪ Jingle Bells ♪ plays)

♪ Jingle bells Jingle bells ♪

♪ Jingle all the way ♪

♪ Dashing through the snow ♪

♪ In a one horse open sleigh ♪

♪ O'er the fields we go ♪

♪ Laughing all the way ♪

♪ Bells on bob tail ring ♪

♪ Making spirits bright ♪

♪ What fun it is
to laugh and sing ♪

♪ A sleighing song tonight ♪

♪ Oh ♪

♪ Jingle bells Jingle bells ♪♪

There.

Think Stan's looking
quite debonaire.

(laughs)
- He sure is.

- And now,
it's time for cookies.

- Ah!
- Cookies!

- Chocolate chip.

- Gingerbread.

Sugar cookies.

(exhales)

- I think Stan needs
a new scarf.

- Hey, you leave Stan alone.

(laughs)

(goofy music)

(laughs)

Do I look like Santa?
Hmm?

- You kind of look like
our cloud.

- How about now?

(laughs)

Speaking of.
- Mm-hmm.

- We should probably
get to work.

I think we're ready to start

putting the images
and text together.

(gasps)

That's a big step.

- It's a very big step.

(giggles)

(needle scratches)

I really like your watercolours.

(continues indistinctly)

(♪ 12 Days of Christmas ♪ plays)

- Wow, you guys!
This is incredible!

What a difference!

- I'm glad you like it.

- You know,
I love the use of mixed media.

What a great idea!

- Well, I wish I could take
the credit for that.

- We...

thought that it complemented
the story.

- Well, I would have to agree.

- Hey, is anyone else starving?

I was hoping
that we could finish

this conversation
about our progress

at the bistro.
- Yeah.

- Well, Owen and I actually
already made dinner plans.

There's a bistro
in the next village over

that's supposed to be wonderful.

- Oh, it is.

- But if you want it
to be a working dinner,

I'm sure I could change the
reservation to four people...

- No, don't be silly.
You two should go.

Have so much fun.

- Okay, great.
(giggles)

Well, I'm gonna go back
to the hotel and get ready,

but really phenomenal,
phenomenal work, you guys.

I'm so excited about this.

- Good, I'm glad.
- Me too.

- I'll see you later?

- You bet.

Well, I guess
I finally get to have

that slice of yule log cake
for dinner.

- Or, um...

I was thinking
if you wanted, maybe...

I could...

Would you like to come
over here for dinner?

- Are you cooking?

- Well, it wouldn't be
anything fancy,

but I promise it'll be good.

And might not be as sweet
as the yule log.

(laughs)
- Um... yeah.

I'd love that.

- Okay, well I'll show you out.

- Okay.

(soft music)

- So, I'll see you soon.

- Yeah.

(chuckles lightly)

(♪ Joy to the World ♪ plays)

- Yeah.

(music continues)

Be right there.

- Take your time.

It's not like I'm freezing
out here or anything.

(chuckles)

- Nice.

- Hi.
- Hi.

Um...

- Oh, wow, Caleb,
this is gorgeous!

(gasps)

- I guess some of
your Christmas spirit's

starting to rub off on me.

(chuckles)

- Well, it's about time!

- Uh, may I take your coat?

- Oh, uh, yeah.
Thanks.

Oh!

What?

- Sorry, it's just...

That dress...

You are gorgeous.

- Oh.

Thank you.

You look great, too.

- Thank you.
(chuckles)

Uh, wow!

(tender music plays)

- Beautiful, isn't it?

- It really is.

I love the way the moonlight
makes the snow look blue.

So peaceful.

Quiet.

- That's why I spend Christmas
out here every year.

You and Liz talk
about traditions.

Well, this one's mine.

There's no book tours, no press.

Usually no writing.

Just...

peace.

- Oh, thank you.

- So, what about you?

With all your holiday
traditions,

which one's your favourite?

- It sounds silly, but...

Christmas morning before
we exchange gifts,

my dad comes out
to the living room

and brings everyone
a couple of coffee or cocoa.

My mom puts out this tray
of hot cinnamon buns.

And...

we're all just there,
cozy in our pajamas.

We all do
a merry Christmas toast.

I love it.

Hmm.

- That's not silly at all.

- Shall we eat?

- Most definitely.

(chuckles)

I would love to read it.

- No. No, no, no, no, no,
it's not ready.

- Well, from what Liz says,
it sounds pretty great.

- Oh, well,
Liz hasn't even read it!

I mean, she's never even seen
a single page.

- What? Why not?

You haven't shown your graphic
novel to your own sister?

- Nope.

- Your editor sister.

- Look, I know, okay?
But I...

I have this thing, okay?

I don't like showing anyone
my work

until I know that it's ready.

- Well,
that's an unnecessary thing.

Why not?

- I have this tendency
to quit things.

- What do you mean?

- Like, I get these grand ideas

for, you know, greeting cards
or gourmet cookies,

and...

- What about teaching?

- Oh, well, I love teaching,
but I've...

I've always wanted
to do something

that really tapped into
my creativity, you know?

- Okay.

- And so, before
any of those things

can actually become anything,
I stop.

And Liz has been so supportive
of all my failed ventures.

And I mean, even financially.

And I just...

I can't do that to her again.

- So, is this just a new thing
that you're gonna quit,

the graphic novel?
- No!

No, no, no, no, not at all!

Through all of those things,

art and writing have
always been there.

It's my passion.

- So, why spend any time
on these other things?

- I don't know.

I mean, I guess because...

this is my dream.

And, I mean, don't get me wrong,

I love teaching and
I'm really good at it,

but art and writing
have always been

what I've wanted to do
professionally.

And, um...

I guess failing at
any of those other things

that I wasn't
that passionate about,

it wouldn't hurt as much, but...

if I failed at this,

I don't know if
I could handle that.

Am I making any sense?

- Yeah, I think I understand.

- Really?
- Yeah.

I've been terrified about doing
this thing without Pete.

I relied on our partnership
maybe too much.

And I haven't quite
figured out a way

to make this work on my own.

But if I can't figure out how to
do this without Pete, then...

maybe I can't do it at all.

- But you are doing it
on your own.

- Well, I couldn't be doing it
without your help.

Really.

You are a brilliant artist
and storyteller.

- Oh, I almost forgot.

- Oh!

I didn't know we were supposed
to bring gifts.

- Uh, it's just...
a little something.

- Where did you get this?

- I saw it the other day
when we were making ornaments,

so I went back in
and I grabbed it

and I drew the little face
on it.

Just kind of reminded me
of our little guy.

- It really does.
Look at that!

Wow. I love it!

- And I put my initials
right there

so you always remember
that it's from me.

- I'm pretty sure I'll remember.

(chuckles lightly)

- Um, well, it is getting late,

so I should go.

- Yeah.

Yeah, um, right.

We have a pretty big day
tomorrow.

- Yeah.

- Shall we?
- Yes.

(sighs)

Well, thank you for
the delicious meal.

- Oh, it's my pleasure.
- Thanks.

- It was really nice
to be cooking

for more than just one
for a change.

- Well, if you cook like
that all the time,

then just tell me when and where
and I'll be there.

- I'll keep that in mind.

Oh, um...
(laughs)

- Thank you.
Um...

- You're welcome.

- Yeah.

Good night.

- Night.

(tender music)

(birds chirping)

♪ Good tidings we bring to you
and your kin ♪

♪ Good tidings for Christmas ♪

♪ And a happy new year ♪

♪ We wish you a merry Christmas
We wish you a merry Christmas ♪

♪ We wish you
a merry Christmas ♪

♪ And a happy new year ♪♪

(crowd cheers and claps)

- Thank you, thank you.

(laughs)

- Wow, well done!

- Thank you.

Yes, now it is your turn.

- Uh, no.
- Yes.

- No one wants to hear me sing,
believe me.

- Hmm,
I don't think that's true.

- I've heard him sing.
I assure you that's true.

It's been a long time, Caleb.

(melancholy music plays)

- Hi, Pete.

- Liz.
- Hello.

- You're Pete?

- I am.
It's nice to see you again.

- You've met?
- Indeed.

You must be illustrating
Caleb's next book.

She's very talented.
It's gonna be great.

One failed book
doesn't end a career,

now does it, Liz?

- It certainly does not.

- Uh, I should probably
head home.

A lot of work to get done.

Pete.

- It was nice to see you
again, Caleb.

- Yeah, it was a real...

surprise seeing you too.

- Hey!

Are you okay?

- When did you meet Pete?

- I didn't.

Well, okay, not really.
Um...

I like to sketch on this bench

and he came up and
we talked briefly,

but I had no idea
that it was him.

- I'm sorry.

I wasn't prepared to see him.

I guess I should
have expected it

with him doing
a book reading and all.

- Caleb, what happened
with Pete?

Like,
what caused the falling out?

I mean, Liz said you guys
were a hugely successful team.

- Yeah, we were.

And best friends before that.

- Oh.

- Years ago, we had an idea
for a children's book.

And although it wasn't typical
for an illustrator and a writer

to work together
as a team first,

we did.

And it was a hit.

We got our first
publishing deal,

and it was the first
of many bestsellers.

- And then?

- Well, things were going
really well.

I had an idea I pitched to him,

just like we always
used to work,

and he loved it.

He really loved it.

And then, I called Liz,

who always wanted to be updated
on what we were working on,

and I told her we had
a new story idea

that we were fleshing out.

And that's when she tells me
Pete just called.

I just assumed that he was
excited about the idea

and wanted to tell her
about it and...

Instead, he told her that
he's leaving our partnership.

- It... Just like that?

- Yeah, he never even told me,

he never even talked to me
about it.

And the next thing I know,

he's got a publishing deal
with a new publisher.

And he's putting out
his first book...

which was the story
I pitched him

right before he left.

- So, he just stole your idea?

And you didn't want
to expose him for what he did?

- I didn't care about the idea,
really.

I mean, there will always be
another idea.

What really hurt
was the betrayal.

In fact, he went behind my back

and he didn't even show me
the respect

of explaining himself to me.

I mean, I thought our friendship
meant enough

to have at least
a face-to-face conversation.

That was a year ago.

And ever since...

- You've had a hard time
opening up and trusting people.

- Yes.

I never trusted anyone
more than I trusted Pete.

(soft music)

(sighs)

- Well, this is me.

- I'm sorry to have ruined
the evening.

- You didn't ruin anything.

- You know, I've never told
anyone that whole story before.

- Well, thank you
for trusting it with me.

- I should be thanking you.

Not just for listening to me
tonight,

but for your optimism,
creativity.

It's really opened up
my whole process.

- Really?
- Yeah.

- Wow. Um...
I'm so glad.

I've also felt
really inspired, too.

- Yeah?
- Yeah.

- You have a real gift.

(noisemakers toot)

(indistinct chatter
and laughter)

- Sounds great.
- Merry Christmas!

(laughs)
- Wow.

- Yeah.
- Yeah.

- So, um, good night, Harper.

- Good night.

(tender music)

(exhales happily)

(bright music)

- Good morning!
- Hi!

- I was wondering
where you were.

I'm headed out to get
some breakfast.

You wanna join?
- Oh, I can't.

Actually, I have to get
to Caleb's straight away.

There's something that
I've been working on

that I really wanna show him.
- Your graphic novel.

- No! Something else.

- But I thought
you were committed

to finishing your graphic novel?

- Well, I was...
I am.

It's just that I've decided to
put a pause in that because...

- But I told you that when
Caleb's book comes out,

it'll be the perfect opportunity
for you to pitch it.

Come on, this is your chance.

Don't flake out on it
like you do other things.

(scoffs)

- I'm not flaking out, I just...

I've been inspired
by something else and it's...

- Which sounds like Harper
speak for flaking out.

- That would be a lot
easier for you, wouldn't it?

- What?
- Well,

because then you wouldn't have
to be embarrassed by me

like all those other times.

- That's not at all
what I'm saying.

- No, I'm really proud of
what I've been working on.

I think it's really good.

And I have been so committed
to Caleb and to the book.

I have given you
no reason to doubt me, Liz.

Not this time.

- Harper.

- I have to go.

- Harper!

(melancholy music plays)

- These are really good.

Sorry!

I couldn't help
but notice your...

manuscript, it looks like?

- Oh, I actually don't know
what it is yet.

- Well, I don't mean to pry,
but I have to say,

you are exceptionally talented.

- Oh, I don't know about that.

- I do.

I've been doing this for a while

and I like to think I know
great talent when I see it.

And I think I know

who your curmudgeon character
is based on.

(chuckles)

I'd be happy to send these
to my editor for her thoughts.

- You would send my work
to your editor?

Why would you do that?

- Because sometimes, new talent
just needs a little help.

Now the choice would be
up to my editor, not me,

but I'm happy to put you
in touch with her.

Unless Caleb
has already offered.

- No, he hasn't seen these.

He's got a lot on his mind.

- I've heard he's struggling.

(annoyed chuckle)

- He's not.

- Okay, well look,
here's my card.

Think about it and let me know.

I'm sure my editor
will flip for it.

She may even wanna hire you
to illustrate my next book.

- Don't you illustrate
your own books?

- Not for this next one.

I've got too many coming out
to keep up.

- Um...

Pete?

Thanks, but no thanks.

(exhales)

- You're making a mistake.

- I have made a lot of mistakes.

I like to think I know one
when I see one.

(sighs)

(indistinct chatter)

- Owen.

You haven't seen Harper,
have you?

- Not this morning, no.

Everything all right?

- Yeah, I think so.

- You still up for tomorrow?

- Yeah, I wouldn't miss it.
I'll see you then.

(upbeat sentimental music)

- Caleb.

I'm just running into you
everywhere, aren't I?

I wanted to wish you the best
of luck on your next book.

I think Harper is a great match,

and I'm looking forward
to reading it.

Truly.
- Well, thank you.

And...

yes, Harper is very talented.

- I know.

That's why I couldn't resist
offering to pass along

The Curmudgeon's Christmas
to my editor.

- What?

- You know,
Harper's children's book.

The one she's been working on
all week

or at least every time
I've run into her.

- And it's called
The Curmudgeon's Christmas?

That's the title?
- It's cute, right?

I would love to have her
illustrate my next book.

Well, I should get
into my signing.

Good to see you, Caleb.

- Hey Pete?

Did our friendship
mean anything to you?

- Of course it did.

- So, what happened then?

- Look, I'm sorry for the way
I handled things.

Everything happened really fast
and I made a lot of mistakes.

I didn't know how to talk to you
about things.

I wanted to see if I could be
a success all on my own.

You were always
the brilliant one

and I was just the guy
drawing the pictures

of the world you created.

- I never thought of you
that way.

We were a team.

- I'm truly sorry
for the way it went down.

- Hey, Pete.

Good luck with the new book.

(bell on door jingles)

(birds chirping)

- Hey.

My sister said
you were looking for me.

I hope I didn't worry you guys.

- Ah, it's fine.

- Okay, uh, well,
now that you're here there,

actually, there is something

that I need
to talk to you about.

- Don't worry about it.

I know everything.

- Wait, you do?

- Yeah, I ran into Pete
and he told me.

- Pete?

Wait, you don't understand.

- Oh, believe me,
I understand very well.

It's the smart move.

Go where you're guaranteed
to have a successful career.

You deserve it.

Really.
- Caleb...

- Honestly, I just wish
you had mentioned to me

that I was the star of the book

that you were secretly
working on.

- Caleb, that's...
- But Pete says it's great

and he's always had an eye
for talent.

- So, what about our book?

(sighs)

- I think I need
to take a break.

It's been quite a year.

- So, you're just quitting?
Are you serious?

- The deadline's
tomorrow morning.

And I'm in no state
to finish it.

Go on your ski adventure.
You deserve it.

Merry Christmas, Harper.

(door closes)

(melancholy music plays)

- He left me a message

that he's left for the night
to clear his head.

There's no service
where he's going.

(sighs)

(plate shatters in background)

(crowd shouts)

I'll be right back.

- Well, I guess that's that.

- It can't be.

- Harper, I'm so sorry
about before,

assuming that you were
just flaking out.

You really did right by Caleb.

You've grown so much.

- You too.

- Me?

- Yeah.

You never would've given
someone a chance

who wasn't perfect on paper.

It's been really fun
watching you have fun this week.

- Yeah.

I think I'm gonna do
more of that.

(laughs)

- Good.

(steadying breath)

Now, how can we fix this?

- Harper, I love
your eternal optimism,

but there's no way
we can make the deadline.

- But Caleb needs a win.

And the book is so good.

I mean,
the kids are gonna love it.

I should know, I am a teacher.

- But with the illustrations
still not finished

and the notes that I just
gave him about the manuscript,

there's no way.
Okay?

The office is closed for
two weeks over the holidays

and this is already
his second extension.

It's over.

(soft music)

(sighs)

(scoffs)

(uplifting music)

(buttons beeping)

(call dials)

- Liz?

I'm sorry to wake you.

Um, can you come here and...

can you bring all your notes?

Okay, great.

(giggles)

(exhales deeply)

- What's wrong?
Is everything okay?

- I have something
I wanna show you.

- It started as just a sketch,

but it turned into a great story

so I wanted you to be
the first to see it,

as a way of saying thank you
for always believing in me.

- Of course.
Always.

(chuckles happily)

But now,
we have another book to finish.

(spirited Christmassy music)

(inaudible)

(birds chirping)

- We need to talk.

(door closes)

- I don't wanna talk about it,
Liz.

I thought you'd be on
your ski trip with Harper.

- Sit, Caleb.
Please.

- I appreciate you
coming over here, Liz,

but there's nothing
left to discuss.

I've missed the deadline.

What's this?

(uplifting music)

I don't understand.

How?
- Harper.

She couldn't stand
seeing you give up.

I guess she knows a little
something about that.

So, she took my notes
on the manuscript

and worked all night
to address them

and finish the illustrations.

It's ready to be handed in.

Just needs your consent.

- But I told her to leave.
I was so...

Why would she do this?

- Don't you know?

- You should also know,
she turned Pete's offer down.

- Why would she do that?
Pete's a bestselling author.

He was gonna introduce her
to his editor.

It would catapult her career.

I made her feel guilty.

It's my fault.
I'll go talk to her.

- No, no, no, no,
you don't understand.

She turned Pete's offer down
immediately.

Before you even knew about it.

Besides, nobody can make Harper

do something
she doesn't wanna do.

Here.

- What's this?

(tender music)

- She's hoping for
your blessing on this, too.

- Harper's manuscript?

- I suggest you start
with the dedication.

- Dedication?
But it's not published yet.

- Caleb, does my sister ever do
anything by the book?

(chuckles)

- Liz, where's Harper now?

- Well, she's gone into town
for some last-minute shopping

and then she was taking
the train out.

- Aren't you going with her?

- Well, I'm gonna help
you and Owen

with the Christmas Eve dinner

and then he and I have plans.

- I'm happy for you.

- Thank you.

And Caleb...

Harper's one of a kind.

Don't let yesterday's mistake
mess up your future.

(door opens and shuts)

(Harper): To Caleb,

a rightly revered author
who helped give me the courage

to bring my work to the world,

while staying true to who I am.

I always be grateful
for your encouragement,

dedication to craft,

and your sensational
cooking skills.

Curmudgeon or not,

you'll always be
one of my favourite people.

Thank you for everything.

Merry Christmas.

Harper.

(♪ The First Noel ♪ plays)

(sighs)

- Caleb?

- Harper.

- What are you doing here?

- I just came to see
if you'd checked out.

- Oh, well, I did.

But then I went
to the train station

and I realized that I forgot
my mom's gift in my hotel room,

so...
Um...

Why did you wanna
see if I had checked out?

- I needed to see you.

- You did?

- Look, I've been a fool
with a battered ego.

Liz told me what you did,

staying up all night
to complete the manuscript.

- Well, it's a good story.

- All while I didn't even
give you the chance

to explain what happened.

- Look, I wasn't gonna let
everything that happened

get in the way of something
as magical as your book.

It deserves to be published.

And the world should know

that Caleb Mitchell doesn't need
Pete Stillman to succeed.

- You really think so?

- And I want you to know that
I was always gonna tell you

about The Curmudgeon's
Christmas.

It surprised me, too.

- I realize that now.

But listen, I think you should
take Pete up on his offer.

He's got so much more clout
than me

and it'll make all
the difference to your career.

- No. No, I...

I can't work with someone
I can't trust.

And I mean, without trust,
there's no creativity.

- But...
- But nothing.

I know the book is good and
that it's gonna get published.

With your okay, of course.

- Harper,
you are the most amazing person.

(chuckles)

Spending time with you
has just been...

incredible.

- Well, that's good,

because I think I missed
the last train out.

(laughs)

- Yeah?
- Yeah.

- Whatever will you do?

- Well, I hear that there's
a Christmas Eve dinner

at a local shelter that
I could maybe help out with

and make sure
things get done with a...

(together):
little creativity.

- Mm-hmm.

(upbeat music)

(chuckles)

- Merry Christmas, Harper.

- Merry Christmas, Caleb.

Subtitling: difuze