Original subtitles

[music playing]

[SINGING] Almost a new year

And here's a new me

Maybe the reason of the season's getting through to me

I got the glitter, I got the snow day

I got reminders on my calendar to celebrate

Cause I can tell it's going to be

A Merry Christmas

Another reason for the season

I got you right here with me

So Merry Christmas

All is well and right

Yes, I got a reason to believe

Sing hallelujah

Hallelujah, hallelujah

Hallelujah

Merry Christmas, Christmas

Merry, Merry Christmas to you

I got the star

Help me put it on the tree

Got the bell, so jingle on with me

Got the smile on my face Cause I can see

It's a Merry Christmas

Another reason for the season

I got you right here with me

So Merry Christmas

All is well and right

Yes, I got a reason to believe

Sing hallelujah

Sing hallelujah

Merry Christmas

Christmas

Merry, Merry Christmas

Hallelujah

Hallelujah, hallelujah

Merry Christmas

Christmas

Merry Merry Christmas

To you

Yeah

DARLA: What are you doing in my refrigerator?

I'm required to make sure you aren't going

to go hungry over Christmas.

I got plenty.

Besides, you go sticking your nose in other people's business,

you might find something you don't like.

Why don't you hang up some more ornaments?

Just a few weeks left to enjoy them.

What's the use?

They're just going to find a way to kick me off my land.

Land that's been in my family for five generations, mind you.

Then me and every tenant of Shady Vista

will be homeless for Christmas.

Who's they?

I don't know.

The city, the federal government.

If a mobile home park is not highest and best use of land,

then look out.

Eminent domain.

Wham bam.

Thank you, Uncle Sam.

And it's not the government, then

the millionaire muckety mucks who

keep sniffing around, just looking for any opportunity

to drive me out of business.

I don't think anyone's trying to drive you out of business.

Oh, is that your expert opinion?

Because every time someone comes out for a routine inspection,

they come up with something that needs to be fixed or replaced.

And that's on top of things just keep breaking out of the blue.

I swear, I've never had so many things

go wrong as in the last few months.

Makes it harder and harder for the board

to say no when these offers to buy come along.

No, Darla, my expert opinion as your court appointed social

worker and your friend is that you can't throw rocks,

beer bottles, rotten garbage, or a dead squirrel

at the city or county vehicles that

happened to drive-through here.

Why is there a dead squirrel in your freezer?

Ammunition.

Seriously?

Of course not.

Jimmy Stewart brings him to me.

Right, of course.

But why the freezer?

That scared me half to death.

The ground's frozen.

Gotta wait till it thaws to give him a proper burial.

Jimmy Stewart wouldn't have it any other way.

Right, Jimmy Stewart?

Ms. Mercedes here just doesn't understand, does she?

No, she doesn't.

Come have a seat.

Let's have a conversation.

OK?

Talk, talk, talk.

That's all anyone ever wants to do.

If you don't talk about it, and you end up doing something

out of anger and end up back in court,

I won't be able to help you.

And then you won't be able to help your tenants.

I don't like feeling so angry.

But if they get kicked out of here,

they won't have anywhere to go.

They'll have to travel over an hour just to find

something half as affordable.

They're good people.

Good people just trying to make a living in this Gucci

addled excuse for a town.

You'll find a way to make it work.

I know it.

Look, I believe everything happens for a reason.

You're going through this challenge for a reason.

You just got to keep your chin up and don't give--

Look, honey, I was married to a pastor for 42 years.

I've heard the sermons.

Sorry.

I miss him.

I know.

I just want you to know that I'll be here for you.

OK?

You just gotta be good.

No promises.

OK, OK, I promise.

Let's get this place decorated.

A toast.

A toast to our very own Justin Carmichael.

What can I say?

We hardly knew you.

Fresh out of law school just one year ago.

And in that short year with Hartshorn, Ellis, and Lloyd,

you have far exceeded our expectations.

So it is with mixed emotions, nevertheless

great pride, that we send our idealistic and bold young hero

into the barren wastelands of Aspen, Colorado,

where he will serve as the youngest deputy district

attorney on record.

Now, Maximilian, you may say, Aspen is no wasteland.

Why, it is the the very definition of lifestyles

of the rich and famous.

And you would not be wrong.

No, our Mr. Carmichael has decided

to navigate the wasteland of the criminal justice system.

And on a state salary to boot.

Seriously, it's not that bad.

Hey, I hear you can get two 4,500 square foot mansions

here in Odessa for the same price as a one

bedroom condo in Aspen.

Three, actually.

Hey, Justin.

I just bought a new refrigerator.

Do you need the box?

I don't know, man.

What's a snow load rating?

Thanks, guys.

But I got my housing all lined up.

Seriously, though, good luck.

I hear it's beautiful up there.

We'll miss you.

Thank you, ma'am.

The rest of us would rather be rich, though.

All about the Benjamins.

-Easy there bronco.

Don't go undervaluing the firm.

As I always say at Hartshorn, Ellis and Lloyd,

it's all about the Cleveland's.

Wow. Thanks.

I didn't know these were still in circulation.

Oh, they aren't.

I have a modest collection.

Now you could spend it.

But I suggest hanging it on the wall of your new office

as a reminder of what you'll be missing

in your new line of work.

Very funny. Thank you.

I appreciate it.

Oh, it does come with a buyback guarantee,

should you ever need it.

$0.70 on the dollar, of course.

Of course.

I'm sure we'll see you again.

I might come visit you when I'm vacationing in Aspen.

To Justin.

Justin.

[upbeat music]

Well, hello.

Hi, ma'am.

I'm Justin, your new roommate.

You must be Mercedes.

I wish.

Hey, Merce!

MERCEDES: I'll be right there.

She'll be right here.

Thank you, ma'am.

Do you mind if I just--

Oh, come in, come in.

Thanks.

I'm Rayleen.

How do you do?

So, Mercedes is--

Mercedes!

MERCEDES: What?

Your new roommate is here.

You'll have to excuse Aunt Rayleen.

She tends to bellow whenever she's--

Mercedes?

I'm Justin.

Hi.

Hi, Bello?

You look different on the phone.

I looked?

Sounded.

Sounded like you looked different.

Never mind.

I see you've met my Aunt Rayleen,

I bello.

It's nice to meet you both.

You're in the bedroom on the right.

Like I mentioned, it's cozy.

Well, I don't have a lot of stuff, so--

I hate to run out, but I've got to get to work.

On a Saturday?

I have to make rent somehow.

Got two jobs, and I still need you.

Me?

A roommate.

Oh, by the way, my mother insists that I ask.

You're sure you're OK with having a guy as a roommate?

Why wouldn't I be?

Well, I mean, not afraid I could be like an ax

murderer or something?

I figured you've had a dozen background

checks in your line of work.

True enough.

Wait, what line of work.

Attorney.

Prosecutor.

Oh.

I'll check his background.

Oh, Rayleen.

Well, I mean, can't I at least Facebook stalk him a little?

I mean, we need to air out all that dirty laundry just

to be safe.

Shall we?

If we must.

Make yourself at home because it is your home.

Right.

At least until your lease expires.

MERCEDES: Let's go!

Alrighty, then.

Oh.

Here we go.

Yes, sir.

Hey, thanks for coming in on such short notice.

No problem, Mr. Sheldon.

It's great to finally meet you in person.

Likewise.

Just wanted to set the tone.

Yes, sir.

No sirs in the office.

This is Aspen, not Texas.

Understood, sir.

I mean, I got it.

Police in Aspen are pretty much a welcoming committee.

Parking tickets are the most common infraction here.

But when something more serious comes along,

the governor is up for re-election

and he wants to bolster his tough on crime image.

Wants to see a higher conviction rate.

Thinks we've been letting too many people off easy.

Yes, sir-- ree.

Siree, Bob.

Airtight cases, higher conviction rate,

lower overturn rate, right?

Of course.

Use your discretion.

But when it makes sense, let's let justice prevail.

Your current case files are in your office,

if you want to get up to speed for Monday.

Roger that.

I'm ready.

Won't let you down.

Sounds good.

[joyful music]

Ooh, smells great.

Hey, there.

Yeah, just making some chili.

You want some?

No, that's OK.

I'll whip something up.

You sure?

There's plenty.

I don't know.

Let me set you a place.

Just a roommate thing.

Great, yeah.

OK.

Don't want to make it awkward or--

Absolutely, yeah.

Nothing awkward about this.

Right.

Let me just freshen up.

Great, yeah.

No problem.

[stirring music]

Wow.

Thanks.

Yeah, there's no bowls with the China.

So paper it is.

Oh, you could have used mine, but this is great.

Thanks.

Looks delicious.

Yeah, dig in.

I hope you like it.

Let me know if I went too far with the habanero.

I'm Texan, so--

[coughs]

Too much?

Oh, no.

No, no, no.

Not water.

Here, try mixing in some sour cream.

I'm so sorry.

I'm just so used to the peppers that--

Did I mention I'm from the Midwest?

I'm so sorry.

Here, let me take you out, OK?

We can get whatever you want, just roommates.

Please?

Yeah, OK.

Dessert first?

I like your style.

Prices being what they are, at least you can get sweet

and before you're broke. - True.

Hey, look, I'm just glad you're not lactose intolerant.

That was a lot of sour cream.

How did you get to be a lawyer?

Well, my dad was a cop.

My mom was a school teacher.

So justice and doing the right thing were, shall we say,

emphasized in my formative years.

So I guess it just stuck.

Sounds good.

How about you?

Social worker by day, ski instructor by weekend.

How'd you get into that, the social work, I mean?

Similar, I guess.

My parents were a little more on the hippie side,

but they instilled a strong sense of right and wrong.

But my dad got busted for using a controlled substance,

and judge threw the book at him.

One little slip up, 0 tolerance.

Sent to prison for a long time.

So my mom, my brothers, and me were on our own for a bit.

Sorry to hear that.

It was a really compassionate social worker who helped us out.

I'm glad you had that at least.

Anyway, I thought if I could help people who are down

on their luck and back on their feet,

I'd be doing the best work I knew how to do.

That's great.

I got this one client.

She's funny.

I love her.

She reminds me of my mom a little.

She's had her run ins with the law

mostly because she's cantankerous.

Not really dangerous or anything.

But her husband died, and she's trying to keep

her mobile home park afloat.

And she just can't catch a break.

So I'm working with her to get her on an even keel.

How's that going?

Really well.

As long as she doesn't let her temper get the better of her.

[laughter]

Look, I'm sure you're great with her.

And you said you're a ski instructor?

Side hustle.

Have a little fun while helping pay the bills.

Right.

I'm going to have to get one of those.

Really?

As a lawyer?

Yeah, just until I get a rung or two up on the pay scale.

And retire my law school loans.

Got it.

You still hungry?

I'm good.

Are you sure?

We got plenty of chili back at the house.

Oh, no.

No, thanks.

Thanks for the ice cream.

My pleasure.

Hey, look, maybe we can get some real dinner

sometime, minus the habaneros.

I'd like that.

Jimmy Stewart, you'd tell me if someone was sneaking around,

wouldn't you?

Sure, you would.

You'd probably invite him in for tea and crumpets.

[eerie music]

Not again!

Shady Vista.

Darla speaking.

Yes, I just noticed it.

Yes, George.

I'm looking into it right now.

You just hang tight.

Shady Vista.

Darla speaking.

Yes, I'm working on it right now.

Yes, Juanita.

Well, just try to towel the shampoo out as best you can.

I'll have it back on right away.

Right away.

Yeah, I promise.

[phone rings]

That's it!

That ought to do it.

John.

JOHN: Officer Fremont.

What gives?

That crazy landlady.

She's chained up all the meters.

I can't do my job.

OK, I got bolt cutters in the trunk.

Don't touch those.

Someone's trying to sabotage me.

They're deliberately trying to put me out of business.

You can't padlock the meters, lady.

OK, John, I've got this.

My water bill is through the roof,

and I got tenants complaining.

You want them to up and leave?

He's right though.

You can't keep the city from accessing your meters.

Hah!

Now you're taking his side, are you?

That's the way it always is.

The police state just keeping their thumbs

on all the little people.

Don't want to have to write you a citation.

So if you could just remove the chains--

And let the saboteurs just waltz back in

and do the state's dirty work?

Nuh-uh, not on my watch.

We'll just cut them off then, right

after I write you a ticket.

A ticket?

For protecting my own property?

There's better ways of dealing with it.

Tell that to the folks that want to drive me off my land!

That's it.

You're under arrest.

No, wait.

Wait, you can't take me.

What about Jimmy Stewart?

He's old.

He can't hold it that long.

You want to add resisting?

Watch your head.

Next on the docket, the People versus Darla Sandhaven.

Two counts disorderly conduct, one count misdemeanor battery.

Do you have representation, Mrs. Sandhaven?

If it please the court, I will represent myself.

I strongly recommend that you retain counsel.

If you cannot afford an attorney, we can appoint one.

This should have been explained to you.

Well, it was, your honor.

And I believe that no one is as clear eyed about the situation

as I am.

Noted.

Well, how do you plead?

Not guilty.

All right then.

Mr. Carmichael, the state's argument.

Thank you, your honor.

Mrs. Sandhaven's latest infraction

was a deliberate, premeditated, and willful act

of battery on a public servant to which he virtually

confessed in detail, rather smugly I may add,

in her arraignment.

Her statement, along with the written testimony

from the arresting officer, is exhibit A and B.

After reviewing Mrs. Sandhaven's case files, including

her previous history of assaults, reckless endangerment,

disorderly conduct, it is my recommendation

that she be held to the strictest account for her latest

flagrant violation and be sentenced according to state

guidelines, including fines, community service,

and possible incarceration.

Mrs. Sandhaven, your argument.

Community service-- that's what I do.

That's what I've always done.

It's not like I'm out here striking it rich.

I serve the members of my community

by keeping them free from an ever

increasing number of interlopers and ne'er do wells.

These ne'er do wells she speaks

of happen to be city utility personnel on routine checks.

There's nothing routine about them.

They've been coming with increased frequency

ever since my husband died.

And every time, every damn time they come up with something,

that cost me money.

It's a conspiracy, I tell you.

A conspiracy to get me and my tenants off my land.

JUDGE: I'd caution you, Mrs. Sandhaven.

That conspiracy is he is notoriously difficult to prove.

Do you have any material evidence

to support your argument?

My own eyes, and my intellect.

I maintain that these acts of vandalism--

no, sabotage-- are a deliberate attempt

to run up the cost of my operation

and run me off my land.

That's all you have?

Well, a person's word used to count for something.

In the absence of any concrete evidence to support your case,

I find you guilty.

I sentence you to six months probation

and to pay a fine of $5,000.

$5,000?

My taxes are already delinquent.

If I don't give them what I have by the 24th, they'll auction

off my whole property.

I'll have to sell.

Would you rather go to jail?

Well, no.

Jimmy Stewart needs me.

All right then.

This court is adjourned.

This way, please.

Hey.

Is that how you operate?

Pretty much.

Makes it easy when they refuse counsel.

You realize what you've just done to that woman.

Wait, was that one of your--

Yes, it was.

I just thought you'd show a little more compassion, knowing

what she's been through.

I guess I was wrong.

Mercedes, wait.

I've got human beings to help.

Well, you heard the charges.

You heard the evidence.

She can't just break the law with impunity.

Well, maybe if you looked a little bit deeper,

you'd see that her circumstances warrant her behavior.

Are you making excuses for her?

No, I just think that people deserve to be heard

and maybe have a second chance.

According to her record, this was her fourth or fifth chance.

That's not the point.

What's the point, then?

How about addressing the root cause?

You mean her conspiracy theory?

She's not crazy.

That much I do know.

But maybe if you spent more than 30 seconds summing up

a human being's worth from their rap sheet, you'd know that, too.

Are we still on for dinner?

Not an ounce of compassion.

The board will force me to sell.

Not a shred.

No way I can come up with the tax money before Christmas.

How could he do such a thing?

Can you believe that they made the final deadline

on Christmas Eve?

How soulless do you have to be?

Soulless, that's what he is.

Are we talking about the same thing?

What?

Oh, yes.

I'm sorry.

We'll figure something out.

Like what?

Everyone thinks I'm crazy.

No.

Do you know why anyone would want to sabotage the park?

No.

Unless you count Bruce Maybury.

He'd set up his tent on the back 40.

I turned a blind eye till his trash started blowing

into the resident's yards.

Had to kick him out.

It ended up in court.

And he's hated me ever since.

I don't think Bruce would go through all that trouble

to get back at you for something that happened that long ago.

Well, he's a stubborn man.

As stubborn as you are?

Nah.

Not even close.

In fact, I've been getting more offers on my property.

But I won't let him have it.

Well, maybe you should take their offer.

Retire someplace nice.

And what would my tenants do?

They don't want to keep it as a mobile home park?

No, they want to turn it into another dad blamed resort hotel.

Just plow it under, everything Darryl and I

built for the last 50 years.

Well, I'll help where I can.

I promise.

I know you will, sweetie.

I know.

We got here tequilas, scotch, whiskies,

Woody Creek distillers, local favorite,

and Stranahan, of course.

Soda gun, ice well, redwater on draft, tours, yada yada.

This place stay pretty busy?

Well, there's the Oprey Ski, and then there's the Oprey Oprey

Ski, if you know what I mean.

Yeah, keeps me hopping, too.

That's right.

You're the new prosecutor. Crazy.

Yeah.

Isn't that like a conflict of interest,

booze 'em and bust 'em, liquor them up and lock them up

for being drunk and disorderly?

Well, I don't tell them how much to drink.

Right.

Hey, take this to Bruce over there.

He's a bit of a hard case.

And he's cranky when you cut him off.

But he's cool.

Got it.

Hey, there.

Another one.

One step ahead of you.

Anything else I can get for you?

Some food?

Just that.

Right on.

You're a Red Sox fan?

You're a fan, or are you just getting chatty?

Well, I'm from Texas.

We can be a bit chatty, but we love our sports.

Astros are my team.

And anytime they play the Red Sox, man, it was special.

Best team in the league, in the world.

Win or lose, no one's got nothing on them.

You're what I call a super fan.

Dyed in the wool.

We'll just have to compare notes when

spring training rolls around.

I'll be here.

You're a natural, bro.

I haven't seen Bruce smile in, like, 10 years.

Really?

Yeah, man.

Hard nut to crack.

Well, I had to do this to help put myself through law school.

So I've had a bit of practice.

Sweet.

Just never thought I'd have to do it alongside my job

as an attorney.

Welcome to Aspen, bro.

I'm a liftie, a bartender, a bike

mechanic, a barista on weekends, unless there's powder,

of course.

Of course.

Hey, speaking of--

Yeah, man.

There's this girl--

Ooh, here we go.

She's a ski instructor.

She says she works at Snowmask.

But I'm a newbie, so I don't know exactly where to find her.

Why didn't you just ask her?

Well, we had an argument, and she's actually my roommate.

And I just don't want to make things more

awkward than they already are.

So you thought a little stalking would do the trick?

It's not stalking.

I just-- I just thought it'd be better

to meet outside the apartment just to clear the air.

What's her name?

Mercedes.

Yeah, yeah.

Brunette, about yay tall.

Yeah.

She's a sweetie, bro.

You must have done something gnarly to get on her bad side.

Tell me about it.

I think it's just a big misunderstanding, though.

And I'd really like to get back on her good side.

I got you. I got you.

I'll see where she starts in the morning, and I'll text you.

Sweet, man. Thanks.

I guess I got another new job.

What's that?

Wingman.

Well, I'm afraid this one won't pay you very well.

No worries, bro.

This one is on the house.

Or how do you lawyers say it?

I'll do it Pro bonobo.

[upbeat music]

Yeah, let me-- let me help you with that.

Oh, thanks.

There you go.

You should have left when I said.

Now we're going to have to wait for the next one.

What?

You're in such a hurry just to complain

about your boots all day?

I need new boots.

You always say.

They pinch.

They are bad boots.

Will someone please buy this man some new boots

so he can complain about something else?

I hope you weren't expecting a nice, quiet ride

to the mountain.

Because he is not nice and she is not quiet.

Don't scare the poor boy.

He looks new.

Yeah.

You can tell?

We can smell fear.

Stop.

Oh, is that obvious, isn't it?

This mountain has devoured more than its fair share

of neophytes.

Please.

He's right.

Chews 'em up and spits them out.

Well, to be honest, it's not really the the mountain

I'm afraid of.

I smell a story coming.

Do tell.

Well, there's this girl.

See, I told you-- we always pick the best

people to ride the bus with.

We have five minutes until the next bus comes.

With our luck, it'll be more like 15 minutes.

Only thing that runs more often

than the buses is your mouth.

[inaudible]

OK.

Well, it all started when--

[upbeat music]

Yeah, you're screwed.

No, he is not.

I don't know.

Hell hath no fury.

No, no.

Here's what you gotta do.

Women like a man of confidence.

A confidence man?

Oh, great advice that.

You know what I meant.

I would give anything for a man who means what he says and says

what he means.

Unless he's talking about his ski boots,

then she wants you to get lost. Is that it?

I have never asked you to get lost.

I have asked you to stop complaining.

Complaining is the only way I can get you to pay attention.

Attention to what?

Your sore feet?

No, my lonely heart.

But I'm no con man.

I can't trick you into seeing me for who I am.

All I can do is tell the truth.

And what's that?

That I have loved you for years.

And these little ski jaunts are the only way I

can get to spend time with you.

Haven't you mean to tell me--

Yes, I mean to tell you.

It's not new boots that I need, Carol.

It's a new life, with you.

Oh, Alan.

That was sudden.

I've seen it bubbling under the surface.

When it's right, it's right.

You'll see.

Someday my princess will come, as will yours.

Maybe even today.

Maybe.

Here's your chance to find out.

Here comes the bus.

Should we--

No, no, no.

Just let nature take its course.

You're just going to meet your instructor over there.

Have fun.

Hey.

Hey.

Look, I just--

sorry.

Yeah, I know that yesterday wasn't--

sorry-- an ideal day for you.

Well, for me, for that matter. And--

Not ideal.

Interesting way to put it.

Yeah.

No, I just want to say that I'm sorry that it

turned out that way.

Justin, I'm working right now.

To keep a professional distance when I'm on the job.

Of course. Yeah, sorry.

I've got to go teach.

Do you need a ski lesson?

Well, actually, yeah.

What level are you teaching?

Beginners.

OK, great.

Yeah, I'll just follow you then.

How much is it?

Oh, it'll be my treat.

All right.

See those nice big snakes again.

Great job.

Nice job, Rohan.

That's awesome.

Justin, pull's to the side of you.

Nice job.

Great form.

All right, we're turning, Justin.

We're turning. This way, this way.

You're going to fall off the mountain.

All right.

Ski like you're from Texas.

Very good.

Let's see your unicorn horn.

Nice job, [inaudible].

Whoa!

Justin, let's have ski steps facing downhill.

Think more about a French fry.

All right, that's a pizza pie.

Parallel skis, parallel skis.

Can we see your unicorn horns?

Very good.

All right.

Now make a nice big snake down the ski slope.

Very good, very good.

All right, stay loose.

Stay loose.

Yeah, let's see your shark fins, OK?

Oh, great job.

All right, Justin.

Let's see that French fry.

That French fry.

Pulls up.

Let's have pulls up.

All right.

Close.

Let's face downhill.

Face downhill.

Ski tips downhill.

That's how you ski.

All right.

Too bad we don't have the beginner beginner class.

All right, nice job, girls.

Whoa, whoa, whoa.

Hey, hey.

You hurt?

I can help her.

No, no, I got it.

Leilani and I are buds.

Right, Leilani?

No.

Well, just getting to know each other, right?

Can I help you up?

I just can't get it.

I'll never get it.

Of course, you will.

Just look how much better you've gotten just today

Really?

Yeah.

In fact, I'm watching you to learn how to do it.

Here, let me help you out.

My grandpa used to tell me, Justin,

if the horse bucks you off, you just gotta get

right back up on the saddle.

My grandpa was a cowboy.

Well, I'm not a cowgirl.

I'm a skier.

Exactly.

You are a skier.

Now you get back up on those skis

and you show em who's in charge, little missy.

You're weird.

I'll take that as a compliment.

Ride 'em, cowgirl.

Yee-haw!

That was sweet.

Oh.

Maybe someday you'll be a ski instructor.

I doubt that, but--

I think I am ready to take things to the next level.

Oh, really?

Welcome to the next level.

Yeah, no, I don't think--

Just remember your training.

Yee-haw.

[screams]

How'd you like the next level?

You mean, how do I like attempted murder?

Oh, bless your heart.

That was a green run, I'd say manslaughter at best.

Very funny.

Well, my work here is done.

Thanks for the lesson.

My pleasure.

A few more and you might get to mediocre.

[chatter]

Oh, boy.

Oh.

Looks like you may have a stalker.

What?

Oh, you got to be kidding me.

Hey.

Isn't he your new roommate?

You're right.

He is cute.

Candace.

She's not wrong.

Yes, he's my roommate.

And also my ski student.

And my best client's worst enemy.

Hey.

And now my bartender.

You take small town living to a whole new level.

I can see you're still upset.

You think.

Look, I'm just trying to do my job.

We can be civil about this.

Civil?

This coming from a so-called civil servant.

So-called?

You ever hear of a prosecutorial discretion?

Of course, I have.

Or are you just the self-appointed

iron fist of justice?

Hey, Merce?

You a big fan of the guillotine?

Off with their heads.

Mercedes, people are staring.

I hope you don't bartend like you ski.

Ouch.

Hey, ladies.

Rayleen.

Nice to see you again.

Braden.

How about I take your orders at the table over there?

That sounds great.

Merce?

Yeah, sounds great.

What was that about, bro?

Mercedes.

She's just-- I can't--

How is she--

Bro, I'll take care of it.

Thanks.

But I gotta fight my own battles.

OK.

Just know that it's three against one.

Well, actually, with Rayleen, it's more like four or five

against one.

Well, I'll just have to stay on her good side then, won't I?

So I'm in my towel.

And I'm shouting, hold on.

But the dog was barking and the music was blaring.

So he comes in, he's like, I'm so sorry.

I thought you said, come in.

Oh, my.

What did you do?

Well, he was a perfect gentleman

and turned away and closed the door.

Oh, boring.

Oh, I thought it was sweet.

Speaking of gentlemen.

Oh, no.

Ladies, sorry to interrupt, but Braden

got pulled off in another direction.

What can I get for you this evening?

For you, miss?

I'll just have a vodka Martini,

straight up, with a twist, and a hint of gin.

A Vesper.

Perfect for a bona fide bond girl like yourself.

Shaken, not stirred.

Oh, you're good.

Coming right up.

And for you, miss?

Can I do a Hemingway daiquiri?

Absolutely.

But around here, we call it a lover's muse.

Perfect for a little evening inspiration.

Oh, hopefully it'll inspire a sequel to that story.

Oh, don't worry.

There's already a part two.

[laughter]

And you, Mercedes?

Just a sparkling lemon water.

Are you sure?

Yeah.

All right.

One lightweight coming up.

Wait, are you suggesting--

I've got suggestions.

Roy Rogers, Shirley Temple, Tap water.

If you take your drinks like you take your chili,

kind limits your options, though.

You know what?

Give me a Sazerac with a twist.

That's a very sophisticated drink.

Will you please just--

Got it.

One vesper, one lover's muse, and one little miss

can't be wrong.

That's the local name.

Coming right up.

[laughter]

What?

Seriously, what?

He has got you pegged.

What, you think I'm a lightweight?

No, little miss can't be wrong.

[laughter]

[eerie music]

Who did this?

It's hard to tell.

It might have been an improperly vented system.

Gas built up and boom, blew the lids off.

You seriously think this happened on its own?

We haven't found any evidence to the contrary.

Yet.

Oh, thank you for coming.

Jim, Brenda.

Surely you can see now that this is more than a coincidence.

We know that the residents are angry.

Occupancy is down another 5%.

And I heard that another couple of owners

are ready to pull up stakes.

Oh, we always have turnover.

That's not unusual.

What is unusual is we've had a 300%

increase in maintenance issues over the past six months.

And it doesn't seem like management

is able to keep up with them.

Management?

You mean me.

We just feel that, given the circumstances,

if the right offer comes along, everyone

is better off selling now before our value

continues its downward spiral.

We're going to have an emergency vote this afternoon.

You can come and speak your mind.

But I'm pretty sure of the way it's going to go.

[laughter]

And I thought the drunk tank at the jail smelled bad.

Oh, boy.

Thank you for your service.

Do you think it's sabotage, like Mrs. Sandhaven claims?

Or she's vandalizing her own place

to get an insurance payout.

She seems genuinely distraught by the whole thing.

She have an alibi?

She said she was watching a movie with with Jimmy Stewart.

She's dead set on there being some nefarious

force out to get her.

And there's this.

Found it near the septic tank under a pile of-- you know.

Is there any chance we could trace it to the owner?

Not without doing a DNA trace.

Probably going to find a lot of other DNA,

considering where they found it.

This has gone too far.

We need to contain this, and quick.

City council's already breathing down my neck.

Yes, sir.

I'll look into it.

Thank you for the update.

No problem.

Oh, one more thing.

I hear the mobile home board voted to sell.

She's going to lose the place after all.

Find me the perp.

How goes the feud, dude?

I think I lost.

Condolences, bro.

Mercedes is a fine specimen of humanity.

I thought so.

But everything just-- we're just too different.

Maybe.

Maybe.

Maybe it's not about winning.

I mean, from what I understand, you lawyers

think in terms of winning, losing, or settling, right?

Those are the main options.

Maybe it's more like curling.

Curling?

Yeah, it's like Canadian bowling.

[scoffs]

This one guy pulls this rock thingy down the ice.

While the other guy brushes the ice to make it

go as far as it can or in the right direction.

So as the bowler, you're putting all your energy towards pushing

that rock thingy.

And as the brusher, you're doing everything

you can to help the bowler clearing the path,

doing everything you can to support him.

So--

So sometimes you're the bowler,

and sometimes you're the brusher.

And you take turns supporting each other.

Either way, you win or lose together.

So we're different, but complementary.

Thanks, man.

I appreciate compliments.

No, I mean-- well, yes.

Thank you.

That was a great analogy.

There are so many life analogies in winter sports.

Take the Winter X Games, for example.

You could make an entire philosophy

course on how the halfpipe is an ontological analog

for existence.

I mean, Dante's Inferno has nothing

on the perils of executing two back

to front 1440s under pressure.

Oh, he's your friend.

[eerie music]

Hey, buddy.

Hey, top of the evening to you.

You're feeling chipper.

Yeah, just got paid.

That's a nice feeling, isn't it?

Tonight, I'm drinking from the top shelf.

Stranahan's mountain angel.

Coming right up.

Hey, between you and me, I'm hoping you're planning on saving

some of that for a rainy day.

Hey, mind your own business, chum.

No offense, but I thought you might

need to get yourself a new hat.

I-- yeah, I--

I lost mine the other day.

Any idea where you might have left it?

Maybe I can help you find it.

No, that's all right.

I'll just get me a new one.

[phone vibrates]

Matter of fact, I think I'm gonna

go get me a new one right now.

Most stores are closed.

Gal's pharmacy's open.

They got everything.

Anything else I can get you?

Maybe when my associate gets here.

All right, then.

Just ask, OK?

Thank you, ma'am.

Who are you walking to the gallows this time?

Please, have a seat.

You want anything to drink?

Tea, coffee--

Straight answer would be nice.

Please?

Molly makes a mean cup of cocoa--

Can we cut to the chase?

Alrighty.

I'll just come right out with it, then.

Please do.

Look, I just--

I wanted to apologize about the whole drink

thing and the Christmas tree.

I was upset.

I don't know.

I just-- sometimes I feel like I have to have the last word.

Is that really what you think of me?

What?

Little miss can't be wrong.

Well, I mean, we're both a little--

Bullheaded?

I was going to say determined, but yeah.

And I could be bullheaded, but that could be a good thing.

It'd better be.

This is not going to be a very good apology.

No, really.

I mean, and your case, it means you care a lot

about protecting your clients.

But really, I'm sorry.

I want to say anything, but I'm sorry.

And it won't happen again.

I guess I was a bit harsh.

I'm a pretty bad skier, aren't I?

No, no, you seriously have a lot of potential.

Really?

Really.

Your skills literally have nowhere to go but up.

[laughter]

Hey.

All right.

Hey, but speaking of protecting your clients,

I've got some good news.

Go on.

About who's been vandalizing Shady Vista.

Sabotage.

I've got a suspect.

Who?

I, uh, can't say.

It's a pending case.

It's another one of my clients, isn't it?

Look, I think that--

It's Bruce, isn't it?

I can neither confirm nor deny.

He's harmless.

Did you not learn anything from the last time?

Mercedes, we have smoking gun evidence.

What's more, we have motive.

Look, this person has had bad blood with Darla for years,

and that's easy to prove.

And that's just what's in the official records.

I could probably get a dozen witnesses to testify.

They've had it out for each other.

Whoever is pulling the strings is using that knowledge

to their advantage.

Can you prove that?

Work with me.

What?

Look, I know we don't always see eye to eye on things.

But until we can find enough evidence

to go after a mysterious conspirator,

we have to follow the evidence where it leads us,

to the suspect.

They're both victims.

Bruce can be ornery and show poor judgment,

but someone's been manipulating him to get to Darla.

I know it.

Do you think he would testify to that?

Getting Bruce to testify about anything

would be like pulling teeth.

Even to keep himself out of jail?

He's not a talker, for one.

Not a talker?

Have you met Bruce?

- Have you tried baseball? - What?

Boston Red Sox specifically.

He's nuts about it.

How would you know?

Because, believe it or not, I don't just sum

people up by their rap sheet.

We talk at the bar.

Unfortunately, the fact I know he loves the Red Sox

is the reason why we have him dead to rights

on the vandalism charge.

What do you mean?

I can't say anymore.

Just know that we have evidence that puts him at the scene.

So what am I supposed to do?

Anything else I can get you?

Yes.

No.

Just the check, please.

All right then.

Look, I know more want to convict

the wrong person than you.

So let's work together.

Let's agree to disagree.

Let's bury the hatchet to protect the innocent.

What do you want me to do?

Will you talk to him?

Last night at the bar, he was flashing a fat stack of cash.

Where did he get that?

Just start there and see what you can get out of it.

I'm not an interrogator.

No, but you're incredibly empathetic.

Just be you.

OK.

I'll talk to Mrs. Sandhaven.

I'm not sure that's a good idea.

She blames you for throwing another log on the fire

of her burning dreams.

Ouch.

OK.

I'll just listen.

If she lets you in the front door.

Let me know when you've had the conversation.

We can circle back to pair notes.

Deal?

You two been dating long?

What?

No, no, we just live together.

No, no, no, I mean, she's my roommate.

Thank you for the cocoa.

My pleasure.

You, get off my property!

Is that a loaded squirrel, Mrs. Sandhaven?

And I'm not afraid to use it.

So I've heard.

Look, I'm just here to talk.

Talk, talk, talk.

That's all anyone wants to do.

No, thank you.

Mercedes believes you, Darla, about the conspiracy

to get you off your property.

And I trust Mercedes.

Is that so?

I just can't prove it, yet.

Will you help me?

Well?

I've never taken a deposition at squirrel point before.

So I might be a little off my game.

But yeah, when you put it all together,

it certainly seems more than a coincidence.

Seems?

You'd have to be brain dead not to see a pattern.

And you're sure all these dates and times are correct?

To the minute.

Do you have any suspects?

Would you say that Bruce Maybury--

I knew it.

Hold on, Mrs. Sandhaven.

Would you say that Bruce Maybury has

the temperament to commit a prolonged campaign of sabotage

all on his own?

No.

He can be spiteful, sure, but he doesn't

exercise a lot of forethought.

Right.

So we need more than just a series

of possibly connected events perpetrated

by an individual suspect.

I always thought it was the government.

Do you see the government being the mastermind

behind something like this?

Good point.

They also run the Aspen Post Office.

Right.

So that leaves who?

The developers.

Those sneaky little--

Do you have a name?

It's-- the company is--

oh, wait.

Here.

Trash day was Tuesday.

That's OK.

DARLA: I'm sure there'll be another.

Do you mind if I put this in the freezer?

It's thawing.

Yeah, go ahead.

Could it be Flagstone Holdings?

DARLA: That's it!

Another piece of the puzzle.

Now we just have to see how it fits together.

If it fits together.

I'll see if I can connect the dots.

Before Christmas Eve.

The goose is getting fat.

I'll do my best.

I promise.

Good afternoon, Bruce.

I'm really glad you could come in today.

Got any cream?

I-- sure.

Here you go.

I'm a little concerned about--

Sugar.

Bruce.

Pretty please?

I hear you like the Red Sox.

I didn't do nothing wrong.

Bruce, I am not trying to get you in trouble,

but police think you did something.

And Darla says someone who matches your description was

seen recently at Shady Vista.

Oh, she would.

Bruce, you've made some great progress since we've

been working together.

You really have.

But in order to continue receiving our services,

you have to be following the rules.

Otherwise, the benefits stop.

And if you are mixed up in this, you'll

be getting a whole new range of services from the state,

just in very, very tight quarters.

You mean prison.

No way.

Uh-uh.

I've been there before.

It wasn't nearly as fun as they promised.

I can see it left an impression.

Impression?

That's another word for it.

Look, he told me it was a real job.

A real job.

You keep telling me I should get one of those.

And he said, all I had to do was go over a couple of times

and knock things around.

Wait, Bruce, are you saying someone paid you to do this?

What's his name?

I don't know his name.

Who was it?

I want my lawyer.

Bruce, come on.

No.

I know how this works.

I rat someone out, but he's got an airtight alibi.

He skates.

And I'm the one that ends up doing time.

No, I'm not saying a word.

I maintain my innocence.

I plead the fifth, or whatever it is you have to say,

to get them to leave me alone.

What if I told you that the Deputy DA, your friend, Justin,

from the bar, he isn't after you.

He wants a bigger fish.

Uh-uh.

What if I told you that there was a reward for bringing

that bigger fish to justice?

Two tickets to the next Red Sox Rockies game.

Plus around trip bus ticket to Denver.

Money for hot dogs and beer?

Bruce, tell me everything you know.

Hey.

Hey.

How'd it go with Bruce?

Getting anywhere with Darla?

Well, there's something, but it's fairly circumstantial.

What is it?

Look, check this out.

Flagstone Holdings is a developer of hotels

and high rise apartments.

They have been aggressively pursuing Shady Vista.

OK, we knew that.

Check this out.

This is an offer from nearly a year ago.

And these are offers from three months ago,

six weeks ago, and one week ago.

Look at the amounts.

This one is lower.

This one is way lower.

Bingo.

Well, in my experience with corporate law,

when someone is aggressively trying to buy you out,

the offers typically go up.

Right.

But wasn't Darla saying that the maintenance issues were causing

her property to lose value?

Yes, but that wouldn't be reflected in any public records

yet.

Look at the dates of the offers.

And now look at the dates of the vandalism, or the sabotage.

This one is dated--

wait a minute.

This is right after the electrical panel

was seriously shorted out.

And this one.

Just a day after the water issues--

this can't be a coincidence.

Fishy, right?

Someone must be feeding the developer info on the vandalism.

And they're making their offer, hoping

for an emotional knee jerk reaction to sell the property.

Which they got.

But it's all circumstantial.

We can't take down Flagstone Holdings without hard evidence.

Please tell me you got Bruce to talk.

I don't think I got anything useful.

Well, what did he say?

Well, someone paid him to mess around with the park,

but he doesn't know who it was.

And he wouldn't be able to identify him.

How did they communicate?

Someone dropped him a phone.

They'd send him an address for a drop.

He gets instructions and cash.

I looked at all the texts.

Pretty devoid of detail and drop time and location.

The last message just said, that's all for now.

Did he keep any of the instructions?

They told him to burn them after reading, which he did.

Did you get the number?

Yeah, some area code in Texas.

I'll text it to you.

Think you can trace it?

Well, Texas is a pretty big place.

My guess is that it's a burner phone.

There might be a chance we're able to track the purchase,

though.

Is there anything else?

Nothing, really.

He's really nervous about getting arrested.

I guess there's a couple other places we can look.

You said it was a matter of public record

that Darla and Bruce were at each other's throats.

Yeah, court proceedings, claims filed, et cetera.

Why?

I'm going to go check on something.

What?

Just following a hunch.

Sound like a detective already.

Just the facts, ma'am.

See you tonight?

You got it.

Not yet.

I understand.

I'll talk to the judge, get a warrant.

Yeah, we'll bring him in.

[sighs]

You're here.

Great.

Yeah.

What'd you got?

I talked to Candace at the clerk's office,

and she gave me a report of anyone

who requested public records of Shady Vista in general and Darla

specifically.

OK, and?

Three different companies made records requests

over the last year, but Flagstone Holdings

made more inquiries by far.

All right, well, we already knew they were interested, so--

But get this--

they also made inquiries about Bruce Maybury.

And they seemed particularly interested in the bad blood

between Bruce and Darla.

So you're saying Flagstone Holdings was digging up

dirt on both Darla and Bruce in order to leverage

them against one another?

Yes, you see?

These guys are dirty, Justin.

We need to take them down!

Oh!

Sorry.

Yeah, yeah.

Hold on.

Who made the inquiries?

Flagstone Holdings.

No, no, no, no.

Who specifically?

I don't know.

Someone with the email of legal@flagstoneholdings.com.

So can you bring charges?

- Hold on. - What?

This Is it.

This is the evidence we need.

It's evidence, yes, but it's not proof.

From what I've read, Flagstone Holdings is squeaky clean.

They have a stellar reputation in the communities

they invest in.

Reputations can be bought.

Temporarily, maybe.

But they've been in business for decades

with a proven track record of giving back to the community.

They can just say that they were doing their due diligence.

We need something more.

Something concrete.

How about the phone number?

That's something, right?

It's a dead end.

The number was a pay as you go phone.

Without a full forensic investigation,

there's no way to trace who purchased it or where.

So do the forensic investigation.

It's too thin.

I know Judge Reinhold.

She'll need more to establish probable cause.

But--

What she has is enough to bring in Bruce.

Justin, please.

We need more time.

We don't have more time.

The last incident was an explosion

that could have been deadly.

I don't want to see what happens next.

He won't do it again.

I know Bruce.

And I know my boss.

The DA wants to bring him in.

At least it will be some justice served.

Justin.

Justice delayed is justice denied.

And justice misapplied is no justice at all.

Mercedes, I mean--

Bruce is terrified of prison.

That much I could tell.

Well, maybe we can use that as leverage, get him to plea down.

I can't believe you just said that.

What?

Maybe it'll help him remember something.

Anything that would help us.

He doesn't know who it is.

You know what?

Fine, go after Bruce.

Take him down if that's what makes you feel better.

And when Darla has to sell and loses everything she

and her husband worked their whole life for,

I'm pretty sure you won't lose any sleep.

Mercedes, that's not--

it doesn't make me feel better.

I just--

Why is she like this?

Her heart bleeds so much, she's going to need a transfusion.

I have to spend one more second

with that stuck up, overreaching, officious

type, so help me, I will--

[grunts]

[screams]

And she tries to tell me how to do my job?

Who do you think you are?

Seriously, who does he think he is?

You know what, I'm going to ask her that very question.

Hey, Merces, it's kind of late.

Sorry, Aunt Ray.

I just need to talk.

I--

Is this about your roommate?

- How'd you know? - Oh, I don't know.

Maybe because every time you've opened

your mouth over the last couple of weeks,

you say something about him.

Really?

Oh, Merces.

He's so-- he always--

Now, honey.

Nobody always or nevers.

She's too forgiving. You want to know how I know?

Well, ladies and gentlemen of the jury, what we have here

is a case of an overly sentimental woman who believes

that compassion for the criminal is more important than justice

for the victim.

That's right.

Exhibit A. It's even in her name--

Mercedes.

It's French for mercy.

Boom!

You want the truth?

You can't handle the truth!

I mean, mercy can't rob justice, right?

Otherwise, where would we be?

Inmates running the asylum?

MERCEDES: No, you're right.

He just-- I just--

when he moved in, and I got to know him, he just seemed so--

I don't know.

Ideal.

Yeah, I guess so.

But he's so--

Idealistic.

Yeah.

Sounds like somebody else I know.

Rayleen, I'm serious.

So am I, dear.

You're just as idealistic as he is.

Maybe even more so.

Well--

I'm not finished.

From what I gather, he's guided by principles.

And are they all that different from yours?

Well--

I mean, he wants to see people treated right, right?

I guess.

He believes in fairness for all.

And he wants to see justice for the victims of crimes.

Yeah, but it feels like he wants to be

like the long arm of the law.

OK, then you just be the--

I don't know-- outstretched hand of mercy.

And meet in the middle and shake on it.

I mean, there's room for both in civic life,

and in relationships.

I should know.

I've had a lot.

No, no, you're right.

I mean, well, I actually liked that about her.

She's kind.

Well, not to me, but-- yeah.

I mean, she treats everyone like they're family.

She doesn't care if you're rich or you're poor.

She just treats people like people, which

is what the law should do.

I mean, everyone's equal under the law.

The law can't forgive.

Only people forgive.

The law should bring out the best in people, right?

And to forgive is, well, divine, as they say.

So the law should encourage forgiveness, right?

Right?

Mercedes Is forgiving, right?

Maybe she'll forgive me if I show a little mercy.

I don't know if I can.

Just kiss and make up.

Ray.

You have some mistletoe, don't you?

I've always found that's a great excuse.

Aunt Ray!

Fine, don't kiss him.

I just know I would if I were you.

Oh!

OK.

I mean, seriously, cute, smart.

He's got that little thing called integrity.

The total package.

Isn't that what you said a few weeks ago?

OK, OK.

Thanks for your help.

That's all I'm saying.

OK, bye, Rayleen.

Bye, hon.

[laughter]

Hey, I--

No, sorry.

You go first.

No, go ahead.

I found this out here.

Oh, yeah.

I don't know how that got out here.

Maybe just wandered off or something.

Yeah.

About that--

Before you say anything, I just wanted to ask--

I'll let you out of your lease.

What?

I'll let you out of your lease.

- No-- - I know it's been hard for you.

I mean, we are polar opposites.

Mercedes, no.

If that's what you really wanted,

I'm sure I could do that.

I'm sure I could find another roommate.

Is that what you want?

I mean, it hasn't been easy for either of us.

Well, that's what I wanted to talk to you about.

OK, done.

Consider the lease null and void.

You can go, if you want.

OK.

No, no, Mercedes.

That's-- that's not what I want.

What I wanted to ask you--

look, I know that I've been arrogant and unyielding,

pompous and--

well, as my grandfather used to say-- a bit of a git.

And I just wanted to tell you that I'm sorry.

And that I could use a dose of humility.

And who better to get it from than the kindest, most loving,

most compassionate person I've ever met?

And if you believe that Bruce deserves some leniency,

then I won't go after him.

I'll find out something to tell my boss.

That is--

That is very kind of you.

Thank you.

You know, Rayleen says I let my idealism get in the way

of real life sometimes.

Yeah, for me, too.

She thinks moderation is best.

Keep your ideals, but make room for other people's principles,

too.

She's a wise woman.

Of course, she also thinks we should kiss and make up.

Did I mention what a wise woman Rayleen is?

Maybe she's right.

Yeah, about a lot of things.

Maybe.

She just might be the wisest person that I knew.

Before this goes any further, I

just want to make sure that we're going to work together.

Of course.

That we can trust each other.

Absolutely.

And that we can consult on the important things.

Exactly.

Like Bruce and Darla.

There's got to be something more there.

He may not know who's been pulling the strings,

but he's definitely been the puppet.

And poor, downtrodden guy like Bruce, they knew

exactly what strings to pull.

Bruce told me today, he was only doing it

because the guy said he was going to offer him

some nice crisp Cleveland's.

I don't even think. $1,000 bills are even in circulation anymore.

What did you just say?

He's downtrodden, and he just needs a guiding hand.

After that.

Oh, just that the guy said he was going to give him

a bunch of Cleveland's for Messing

around with the trailer park.

He said Cleveland's?

You sure? - Yeah.

I mean, who says that, anyway?

Nobody, unless--

What?

I think I know who's been sabotaging Mrs. Sandhaven.

Who?

Come with me.

Oh, hey.

Max, don't keep us waiting.

You're right.

It's Christmas Eve.

Your gift then, all wrapped up with a gold ribbon.

I am pleased to share that the way is now clear for Flagstone

Holdings to acquire Shady Vista mobile home

park for pennies on the dollar.

You did it then.

Scrape it flat to make way for the five star

Queen Regent Hotel and Resort.

And the owner is happy to sell?

Oh, she is absolutely beside herself with relief.

- Well-- - Yes.

We were skeptical, I admit it.

But you promised, and you delivered.

Well, I do what I can.

Let this be the start of a long and fruitful relationship.

JUSTIN: I wouldn't count on it.

Excuse me?

Mr. Carmichael.

Sorry to interrupt, Mr. Samuels, Mrs. Ellspermann.

I have some business to conduct with your attorney.

It's good to see you.

Aspen's treating you well, I hope.

It was a near perfect conspiracy.

Leverage two people with bad blood to do your dirty work.

Meanwhile, you sit off in the shadows and pull the strings.

I have no idea what you're talking about.

But it was your greed that gave you away.

An obscure reference to $1,000 bills.

It was but a few phone calls to connect you

to the firm that's been trying a little bit too hard

to acquire Shady Vista.

You have no idea what you're talking about.

What is he talking about?

Judge Reinhold seems to understand perfectly.

And she has a Christmas present for you--

an arrest warrant.

You can't be serious.

You're under arrest for wire fraud,

vandalism, making false statements, and conspiracy.

This is outrageous, Justin.

You have nothing on me.

We have witnesses that will testify otherwise.

You and your Boy Scout idealism.

You're naive.

That's Eagle Scout to you, Max.

Officer Freemont, why don't you go ahead and read him his rights

before he says anything else incriminating?

You have the right to remain silent.

I know my rights.

I'm a lawyer.

By all means, keep talking then.

The judge would love to hear it.

You have a right to an attorney.

If you can't afford one, one will be appointed to you.

Please.

Don't scoff.

After defending these felony counts,

you're going to be more than a few Cleveland short.

Max, is this true?

I got you the property, just like you wanted.

Not like that.

- Mr. Lloyd. - What?

You're fired.

Merry Christmas.

Judge Reinhold will have me out of there

so fast, your head's going to spin.

Court staff is off for Christmas.

No bail hearings.

Looks like you'll be spending your Christmas in Aspen,

after all.

In a jail cell.

Watch your head.

Did he put up a fight?

I'd give anything to see him get tased.

He came quietly.

Better yet, a Billy club.

Cash me outside.

Darla.

Oh, I know.

But you have to admit, it'd be entertaining.

Even a man like Mr. Lloyd deserves his day in court.

Speaking of, Bruce, we could not have done

this without your cooperation.

I'm going to do everything I can to keep you out of the system

and remain in Mercedes's capable hands.

OK.

I know it's late, but I think this is

a Christmas worth celebrating.

Don't you think?

Amen to that.

Your place then?

Our place.

Well, here we go.

Grandma's famous Texan eggnog recipe.

Don't worry.

No peppers in this one.

Well, since we're all here, Bruce,

I have a little something for you.

Card first.

Are these for real?

Of course they are.

Now the bag.

JUSTIN: Yeah, go on.

Try it on.

Hey, looks great.

Hey, I didn't get nothing for you guys.

Oh, we weren't expecting anything.

Bringing Maximilian Lloyd to justice

was everything we could ask for.

There is something you could give me, Bruce.

What's that?

I know I was harsh on you when you first lived on the property.

I'm sorry for that.

Don't worry about it.

Also, I know you're looking for a job.

I can't pay much, but I got a vacant rental that I'd

be willing to put you up.

And if you'd be my handyman--

Wow, Bruce, that sounds amazing.

What do you think?

You'd do that?

I would.

You'd have to earn your keep though, with just about

every odd job you can think of.

But you're no stranger to odd jobs, are you?

Nope.

Deal?

Deal.

[phone vibrates]

How'd you get this number?

I'm going to put you on speakerphone

so my attorney can hear.

Go ahead.

DEREK [ON PHONE]: This is Derek Samuels,

and I have Ellen Ellspermann on with me.

ELLEN [ON PHONE]: Hello.

DEREK [ON PHONE]: Justin, thanks for sharing

what information you could.

We're really shaken up by what Maximilian Lloyd did to you

and yours.

ELLEN [ON PHONE]: He was new to us,

and I think he was trying to impress us.

DEREK [ON PHONE]: Really, not the way to impress us.

You don't say.

DEREK [ON PHONE]: Look, we had planned

to build another hotel on the property

there because he promised us the moon.

But if it's OK with you, we'd like to invest in Shady Vista

and really make that place shine.

ELLEN [ON PHONE]: While keeping it affordable for your tenants.

You mean you'd--

DEREK [ON PHONE]: We mean if someone's

going to fight that hard for her land and her people,

we'd rather be fighting alongside her.

OK.

Well, I guess we should meet up and discuss it.

Thank you.

ELLEN [ON PHONE]: Thank you.

DEREK [ON PHONE]: We'll reach out after the new year.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas!

Bruce, we gotta go.

What for?

Well, we gotta start a list of everything that needs fixing.

And I mean everything!

I'm on it.

What a happy ending.

Thank you.

I don't know about you, but I say we make a pretty good team.

Yin and yang?

Bonnie and Clyde.

Luke and Leia.

Um--

Never mind about that last one.

Yeah.

How about just us?

I'd say that's case closed.

[joyful music]

By the powers vested in me, I pronounce you husband and wife.

[applause]

You look really happy.

It's been a long time coming.

You know, pastor is a good friend of mine.

And?

Well, maybe if I asked, he could

stick around a minute or two.

Whatever for?

You know, just to make sure--

Justin.

--that we don't wait that long.

Are you asking me--

You're my landlord.

I've been here more than 11 months.

My lease is about to expire.

So Mercedes, it'll be the greatest mercy of my life

if you were to marry me.

Yes.

Although--

What?

What's the legalese?

Caveat emptor?

Oh, I've read the fine print, and it's just fine with me.

[cheers, applause]

[SINGING] When I breathe the air you breathe

Serendipity

When you laugh along with me

Knowing you since that bus ride

Man, it's been a long time

Only you in my mind

Let's lose track of time tonight

And meet me in the colors of sundown

Let's pace through the gardens of this town

It doesn't get better than this

Won't you be my last first kiss?

Last first kiss

Positivity

I know you'll be here for me

And possibility

We both see what we could be

We'll keep sharing stories

And learning to say sorry

We can build a good life

Let's lose track of time tonight

And meet me in the colors of sundown

Let's pace through the gardens of this town

It doesn't get better than this

Won't you be my last first kiss?

Last first kiss

Wrap me in your old high school sweatshirt

And hold me in this cold autumn weather

If there are stars that make this wish

That you would be my last first kiss

Last first kiss

Wrap me in your old high school sweatshirt

And hold me in this cold autumn weather

If there are stars that make this wish

That you would be my last first kiss

Last first kiss