Original subtitles

What's up, Macon?

The season is right here.

We're in it.

It's the joy, it's the cheer, it's the magic,

it's the brightness of the lights.

Now, if there's one thing that I love more than Christmas,

is celebrating people who makes this season even brighter.

And, today, we're doing just that, guys.

Right here in Macon, Macon's very own Patti and Ashton

are gonna be receiving their very own star

at Macon Walk of Fame,

just in time for the holidays.

So, guys, just sit back, because this song is a classic.

You know, it's one of those songs

that never fades, you know?

It just gets better with every season, you know?

So sit back, get into the spirit of things,

and just enjoy the magic of Patti and Ashton,

"Love at Christmas Time."

♪ Love at Christmas time ♪

♪ You and me, babe, sippin' red wine ♪

♪ All I need is your hand in mine ♪

♪ Love at Christmas time ♪

♪ Wrapped in your arms, I'm feeling right ♪

♪ This ♪

♪ Christmas ♪

♪ Christmas time ♪

Okay.

♪ It ♪

"Where's Patti? I bet she's still fine."

"Daughter, Winnie sings, but she's not her mom."

Hi, Mrs. Gershan,

I'm calling to confirm Reid's guitar appointment today.

No, my mom isn't in town for the holidays,

but I will let her know that she is invited.

Okay, see you at four.

Bye.

Hi, mom.

My darling daughter,

are you packed and ready to leave?

I never promised you I'd go.

You haven't been to Macon in forever.

I think you should go.

And risk seeing him?

No thanks.

It's been 25 years.

25 years doesn't change the fact

that he ran off with a dream we built.

- This isn't about him. - Exactly.

It's about our legacy.

And you only get one chance to remind these people

whose daughter you are.

I know whose daughter I am, Mom,

I can't escape it.

Granny Leah misses you,

and she wants you there for Christmas.

But Macon is still giving you your flowers

while you can smell them.

Go smell them, Mom.

Honey, my sense of smell is like my dating life,

practically nonexistent.

Speaking of, how's Trevor?

- We broke up. - Oh no!

He's a Wall Street guy, and those are hard to find.

What happened?

- So you really aren't going? - No.

And I hate to sound ungrateful,

not that I need their approval,

but, to be honest with you, people like to feel appreciated.

Mom, focus.

Parents should come with a warning label

so the babies know who to choose and who to stay away from.

Oh no, honey, we do the picking.

So how about a little gratitude

and accept my star?

Smile, wave, and for God sakes, wear something fabulous.

I'll send you a first-class ticket.

- Mom. - I gotta go, bye.

Love you.

Mom?

Wow.

Yeah, I love you too, Mom.

Fabulous enough.

No, no, Thurman, I don't care, okay?

The market doesn't slow down just because it's the holidays.

Can't we just pull money from somewhere else?

Think big, okay, brother? Big.

Okay, this development, all right,

if we get a piece of this, it's gonna be huge.

Huge.

Wait, are you telling me that the deal collapses

without proof of liquidity?

Absolutely.

We shouldn't have lied about our assets.

Well, that was your suggestion.

Yeah, then.

I don't know, can you sell something?

Maybe borrow money from your pops or...

No, he's not an option.

What's our short fall?

- That we're close. - Close? All right.

If we leverage our capital that we have now

and reallocate a little bit of the lenders

that aren't essential to us,

then maybe we could bridge the gap.

You know, maybe cover 60% of it.

No, we've leveraged everything, just ask your dad.

No, my dad, leave him out of this, okay?

We got this, me and you here, right?

Do me a favor, call our private lenders,

see if somebody can float us something

that we can use for the time being

without triggering scrutiny, please.

- Whatever you say. - Yeah.

Merry Christmas, by the way.

That's my guy.

For me?

Look, I know gifts aren't really your thing,

but it's been a hard year and you trust me.

So I just appreciate that.

Oh, um, let me catch this real quick.

Thurman, hey, buddy, thank you.

- Appreciate you, man. - Cheers.

My beautiful big sis.

- How are you? - Are you bailing on me?

What are you talking about?

Because I know the beautiful sister act.

Come on, all right, you're already there.

What's the point of me driving 2 1/2 hours

for a 30-minute ceremony?

Because Dad wants you here

and your niece and nephew miss you.

Ah, you're really gonna play

the guilt card right now, are you?

Playing the reality card.

I figured you'd wanna flash that winning smile

and prove to dad, yet again, that you're a perfect son,

even if it's not true.

- That's low. - I'm an attorney.

I close cases for a living.

I'll see you tomorrow.

Hey.

I didn't realize this was a business meeting.

Oh, yeah.

You gotta stay ready so you don't gotta get ready, right?

Come on, my sister's over here.

The hat?

The suit?

It's for the event.

- Hi, Winnie. - Hi.

Thank you for meeting us.

So sorry about the random DM.

I didn't know how else to get in touch.

Oh, no, it's fine.

Nice to meet you both.

So I figured we would talk before the mayhem began.

Yeah, um, where's Dad?

Chicago had a snowstorm, he's stuck.

So do you wanna order anything?

We have about an hour before the ceremony.

I'm sure she has to change.

She's not wearing that.

- Are you? - I am.

Oh, uh, okay, I mean, that's fine.

Could I get pancakes, um, eggs,

scrambled with cheese, and extra bacon.

And you?

Um, I'll just have, uh, avocado toast and a match a.

We don't have avocado toast

or match a.

Okay, then I will have, uh, potatoes and cranberry juice.

So, Winnie, uh, your mom isn't coming?

No, she stayed in Nashville to take care of a friend.

So it's just the kids then.

No worries. I'll keep us in check.

Just think of me as the court-appointed guardian

for this just dysfunctional reunion.

♪ Away in a manger ♪

Patti Love and Ashton Franklin

are more than just stars in their fields.

They are a testament to the excellence

and greatness grown here in Macon.

Though they couldn't be here with us today,

we are privileged to have their incredible children,

Winnie Young, Robert Franklin,

and Bailey Gates, his sister, here

to accept this honor on their behalf.

Woo.

Their presence here today reminds us

that legacy isn't just about the past.

It's about inspiration

being passed down through generations.

Today, we proudly place their names amongst the greats,

not just as a tribute to their success,

but as a reminder to every dreamer in this town,

your roots here can take you anywhere.

All right, y'all ready?

Woo!

Congratulations to the families of Patti and Ashton

for this well-deserved honor.

I'll give this to you here, sir.

- Oh, that is nice. - Thank you.

Wow.

Thank you.

Awesome, guys, let's take a picture.

Let's take a picture.

Man, we hate that your parents couldn't be here,

but we are so appreciative for you all coming out.

Oh, no, it's an honor to be accepting this upon my dad.

I hear you're doing big things in Atlanta.

I would... Yeah, business is doing well.

All right, and, Ms. Winnie, you still making music?

- Not at the moment, no. - Ah.

Well, hopefully, we'll get some of that magic again soon.

- No. - Hey.

- Hi. - Hi, I'm Randy.

- Randy on the Rise. - Yes.

Yeah, 147K strong and climbing.

- Gotta get this shot. - Oh yeah.

My followers need to see this.

- Okay, yes. - Honey, come, come on.

Jessi, you can stand right here.

Perfect.

So, um, love the family vibe, but, wow, a lot of people.

Are you sure you all wanna be in this?

I mean, sometimes a solo shot

just hits better on the algorithm.

You know, minimal distractions, focus on the moment.

No, you're so right.

This is a bigger moment, a family moment.

Who wants to do a group slow-mo walk towards the camera?

Like we're in a holiday movie trailer?

Yes, that's right!

Okay, come on, scoot back, scoot back.

- Oh my god! - This is a masterpiece.

- Great job, you all. - Winnie, Robert.

Wow, I'm looking at Ashton and Patti

all over again.

My name is Gene Taylor.

I'm the CEO of Southern Hill Records.

Wait, nice to meet you.

Your father worked with my pop?

Uh-huh, and he adored them.

I mean, he's retired, so now I'm running the company,

but they helped put us on the map.

Wow, that's amazing.

I'm so sorry, but I have to head out.

It was nice to meet you.

Hold on, I'd like to talk to the two of you together.

I mean, how would you be interested

in continuing the tradition?

What do you mean?

Oh, I'll cut to the chase,

"Love at Christmas Time,"

the remake by Winnie and Robert, huh?

I'm not interested in riding my mom's coattails.

Thank you, but no, thank you.

It was nice to meet you, and nice to meet you as well.

Well, perhaps you

and your sister might be interested, hmm?

My sister's a lawyer, all right?

And I'm in finance. We're not singers.

Well, anybody can sing these days.

Your daddy wrote the song, we own the publishing,

so it's a real easy deal.

And the studios are always requesting

to use the song in their films,

so why not give us the upgraded version?

I appreciate the sentiment, brother,

but it's not the right opportunity for me.

- The song's... - Find somebody else.

The song's making a lot of money now.

Would in advance help, huh?

I mean, I could do something from the mid-six-figures.

Oh, really?

Oh really.

Shall we go sit down and talk somewhere?

I know a nice, little spot down the street.

Yeah, let's talk.

What spot you be going to?

- Pizza? - Well.

Sis, think about the legacy, all right?

Dad will love it.

Since when do you care about the legacy

or Christmas songs?

You didn't even wanna come?

That doesn't matter if I wanted to come or not.

I'm here, ain't I?

Okay, look, I think it would be a great opportunity.

Boy, bye. You don't want me in that studio.

I will sing circles around you.

What are you laughing at?

You can't sing.

Uh-uh-uh.

Show 'em what you got.

♪ Silent night ♪

♪ Holy night ♪

See, it runs in the family.

Plus, I'm too busy.

I have two big cases.

Why don't you just ask Winnie.

She already said, "No."

Then I guess it's not gon happen.

I got you, Uncle Robert.

I guess it will just be me and you, nephew.

Great job, you all.

Hot cocoa in five minutes.

Wait, excuse me.

Let me take this call real quick.

What's going on?

I got good news.

I was able to book the studio for you and Bailey.

Oh, um, about that.

There's a lot of things that's going on on her end

and family involved, you know...

Well, I got even better news.

Now, if you can finish this in two days,

I can make a call and permit us

on regional radio Christmas Day.

Wouldn't you want to wait until next year?

That seems like the most logical marketing standpoint.

No, a good Christmas song lasts forever.

We can go national, international next year, huh?

Your session starts at 10.

Um, Bailey may not be able to make it tomorrow.

Oh, you can come in and do your part,

we'll bring her in the next day.

And don't forget to send me your information

so we can get you in our system, hmm?

Okay.

Oh, it's gonna be a hit.

I can feel it.

Bye.

Cute, but sad.

Hey, it's me.

If you're free, I would like to meet up for lunch.

Granny, you didn't have bake cookies.

Sure I did.

You love my cookies.

I remember you were downright obsessed

with having exactly 10 cookies for Santa.

Oh, no, it was serious.

One for Santa, one for each reindeer.

And I kept on telling you, "Reindeers eat carrots,"

but you won't have it.

Stubborn as a mule as Sunday shoes, just like your mama.

Mmm.

Mm.

Yeah, they're still as good as I remember.

Oh, a little butter, sugar, and prayer.

Can't get more reliable than that.

But what I can't believe is your mama's a no-show.

She was afraid Ashton might come.

What I don't understand is how a girl can go from,

"I just can't live without him," one minute,

and want to set him on fire the next.

Granny, you've been divorced twice.

Yeah, but I don't give up on love like your mama.

I just take intermissions.

The problem with your mama, she never got over Ashton,

and that's why it didn't work with your dad.

Wow.

My cookies are being shared with a little holiday trauma.

Look, I love me some Quentin.

I mean, we still talk,

and, you know, he was the perfect son-in-law.

But it's your mama that's a mess.

Hm, what does he want?

Does he have a name?

No, it's not like that.

It's Robert, Ashton's son.

He wants to meet me for coffee.

Well gon, don't let me stop you.

- No. - Look, and take him a cookie.

No, he's so arrogant.

Well, sweetie, the problem with arrogant men,

they're like a biscuit with no butter.

They look fine on the outside,

but they dry as hell where it counts.

Ooh.

Okay, then why should I go?

Because I'm nosy and I want to know what he talking about.

Hmm.

Think about the legacy, all right?

You being on the radio,

that would be great for your career, yeah?

You wanna be a singer, professional at that,

I mean, it takes a lot more than what you're doing now.

You wanna be a singer, right?

It takes a lot more than what it, no.

Think about your, think, think about your legacy, all right?

Hi.

Hey.

Take a seat.

What's up?

Let's get to know each other.

Really?

Look, I know our parents don't speak,

but that doesn't mean we shouldn't.

This is weird.

Is it?

Yeah.

Aside from insulting my favorite hoodie,

you barely said two words to me this morning.

Okay, yes, my sister did get on me on that.

I'm sorry.

I'm here to make amends, all right?

You drink coffee?

Why am I here?

We should do the song.

I knew it was something.

- No. - Come on. Okay?

I know you're a singer, all right?

And I saw online that you teach guitar lessons,

you having a hit song would be great for your enrollment.

This is not the first time

that somebody has tried to get me to redo

one of my mom's songs.

I'm not interested.

Think about the royalties, okay?

Interviews.

I'm talking JHud, Tamron, Sherri.

They all gon want us.

Do you even sing?

I can hold a note.

Look, but what I'm saying is, you and me, we do a song.

We do this song.

We convince Taylor to release you a solo project.

Yes, it might be a small label,

but, hey, you'll be the one calling the shots.

No, "Love at Christmas Time" is sacred.

Which is exactly why we should do it.

Okay, think about it,

the son and daughter of Patti and Ashton.

I mean, that's a story that the people will eat up.

- You're in finance? - Yeah.

You've seen the way this industry works.

Why are you doing this?

This would make my father happy,

which is something I barely do.

Yeah, that I sadly understand.

Look, I'm gonna send it to you straight.

It's been four years since your album has came out.

I mean, you wanna get back on the radar.

You wanna get back in?

This is your only shot.

Take it.

Okay, if I'm going to be,

if I'm going to be a part of this,

then I have to be involved in creative.

I am not just coming to sing.

Hey, look, I'm in your world.

I'm just living in it.

Okay.

We doing it?

Yeah.

All right.

Um, I'm gonna make a call real quick.

Enjoy your coffee though.

Hey, Thurman, I will have 400K in hand within two weeks.

I know we're still coming up short,

but see if they can budge.

Leverage the timeline.

Do whatever it takes.

We need this, all right?

All right.

Now, they'll be here shortly,

and I don't wanna spend no more than two days on this.

I removed the vocals.

You sure you don't wanna change the track?

It's pretty dated.

We have new voices.

We don't need new music, hm?

- All right, man. - Hm?

- Hey. - Ah, Rob, my man.

- My man, I'm glad to see you. - Yeah.

And, look, we do not wanna waste too much time now.

- Are you warmed up? - Uh, no.

Oh, good.

We should get you in the booth to get started.

Come on.

Robert.

What's up now? Aries.

What's up?

There we go.

Um, I don't have the lyrics.

Well, it's only one of the most popular

Christmas songs ever.

Your dad wrote it.

Gene...

Okay, I'ma look up the lyrics myself.

You got my information?

Yeah, I got you in the system this morning,

I emailed your dad, and I printed out the contract,

it's in the studio.

What'd he say?

I haven't heard back.

All right, okay, we're gonna play the track and you can, uh,

you can sing, warm up.

Okay.

Let's take it back from the top.

♪ Snow is falling ♪

♪ Lights are glowing ♪

♪ Fireplace is warm, but my heart was frozen ♪

♪ When you walked in ♪

♪ With that mistletoe smile ♪

Oh, wait, wait.

You're both here.

Hey, come on.

Hey, Winnie.

- Hey. - Hi.

Hi, Gene.

I appreciate you setting this all up,

but I thought we were gonna work on this together,

not just plug in an old track.

Well, no, Winnie, Winnie, this version is timeless.

No, no, no, I get that. I get that.

But if I'm gonna be part of it,

then it has to sound like me.

See, no, I wrote my own arrangement.

Just give me 10 minutes

and I can show you exactly what I got.

Look, Winnie, come on now.

Look, the cake is already baked.

We're just adding a few sprinkles, hm?

- Okay. - Yeah.

Yeah, then maybe I shouldn't be here.

Hey, Gene, let's talk for a sec.

Gene.

Please just let me talk to her, all right?

She can't perform with you arguing.

We need to stay on task.

I get that, okay?

Come back in a couple hours, we'll have something recorded.

Not just something.

I want magic.

I've got you.

Get her to sign the agreement.

Okay, so we're just gonna, I was sort of thinking like,

so one, two...

♪ Snow is falling ♪

♪ Lights are glowing ♪

So now,

tell me what's on your mind.

I have a different vision.

I wanna do a slowed down intro and a shift in the tempo.

Something that's actually ours

and not just a rehash of a version 25 years ago.

Oh, so you've already got it all

arranged in your head, huh?

I do.

I wish we had live instruments,

but Aries can hook it up and I have my guitar.

It's gon be nice.

Am I missing something?

Do you know each other?

No, actually.

We can get to know each other over dinner.

Okay, hey, how about we focus on the music?

All right?

Winnie grab the guitar, let's hear what you got.

All right.

- Oh, Winnie. - Hmm?

So Gene has the final approval.

So I was thinking we go ahead and do his version,

then we knock out yours.

No, that doesn't make any sense.

We should do the one that we actually want.

Look, let me show you this.

What if he doesn't approve it?

- I... - You don't wanna be labeled

as difficult, Winnie,

especially when the goal is to get your own solo deal.

So I was thinking we breeze through the old version,

this boring version of his,

then we could wow him with yours

once he's in a better mood tomorrow.

Aries, will you be here tomorrow?

Tonight, tomorrow, tomorrow night, whatever you need.

Fantastic.

All right, let's just, let's just figure it out. Let's go.

All right. It's hot in here.

All right.

Um, just let me know when you're ready and, you good?

Okay, let's take it from my first verse.

Okay.

♪ Now the cocoa's sweet, but not like you ♪

♪ You're the only gift I wanna unwrap too ♪

Wait, uh, sorry. Uh, can we stop?

Can we just, can we do it again?

But this time can you tweak the EQ?

Can you make it a little bit less bright and more warm,

especially because I'm at my lower register?

Okay, I got you.

I gotta take this call.

Okay.

Hey. All right, so any update?

They're considering it, but they need some reassurance.

So can you please get me that deposit by Friday?

I don't think the money will be here in two days.

Actually, I'm recording a song.

What?

And getting an advance.

Are you joking?

I'm at the studio right now.

But you don't sing.

No, I don't.

But, come on now, you know who my father is.

I come from greatness.

So what the heck are you even recording?

My dad's old Christmas song?

Your dad's old Christmas song?

You're not serious, are you?

Wow, the things we do for money.

Okay, well, hey, listen,

I will just send you everything that they said,

and you let me know how you want me to respond.

All right.

Okay, so it sounds good, but I think when he comes back,

we can put his part in, and then,

- hi. - Hey.

We are just doing the chorus.

- All right. - Can you harmonize?

That's easy, you go up, I go down.

Let's do it.

Okay. All right.

He's gonna play the first,

uh, he's gonna play the first, beginning of it,

the first note.

And if you could just, be careful with this,

but if you could just hear it,

and then try and match it, that would be good, okay?

Three, two.

♪ Love at Christmas time ♪

Aries, can you hit it again?

♪ Love - Try again.

Three, and...

♪ Love at Christmas ♪

Okay, so your, your, your breath is too shallow.

You have to take a deeper breath.

- Push from your diaphragm. - I have to take this off.

Listen, look, I know you're out of your element,

but if you just trust yourself and you let go,

and you stop trying to force it, you'll get there.

Okay?

Two, one.

♪ Love at ♪

Aries, can you mute him

the same way you mute background music?

Apparently, I'm recording a duet with his cell phone.

I'm sorry, it's work, all right?

Hey, why don't you finish your part,

then we can finish the rest.

All right.

Um, okay. Let's take it from the pre-chorus.

I'll try my part first.

Can you give me a little bit more vocal

- in my left ear and... - What? No!

- What? - Robert, I'm recording!

I'm sorry, um, my bad.

This is a bad idea.

Just because I'm busy doesn't make it a bad idea.

Okay, we just got a moment, yes?

Come on.

You sold me on legacy and how important this was to you,

but you don't care.

You're not paying attention.

You have no right to tell me what I care about.

This is my passion.

I don't appreciate when people like you think it's a joke.

Oh, if it was a passion,

then why haven't you created the song in years?

Winnie?

Winnie?

I shouldn't have said it, all right?

You know, everything in my gut said this was a bad idea.

I'm calling Gene and telling him it's not happening.

Oh, no.

Calm down, okay?

Look, look what we have.

Aries is here. There's no excuse.

This is your moment.

Remember your goals, all right?

This is what you do.

I see.

Yeah, I'm not falling for it.

You know what, since they just wanna copy

and paste everything,

you can plug my mom's vocals in with your track.

Winnie, uh.

All right, Aries,

guys, we can get this shaking.

Okay, so look, let's punch me in at the top of the verse.

Or maybe the bridge.

Start wherever it makes sense.

You know, perfect pitch, tune my voice.

You know, I want it warm, but, you know, not...

What's this?

The lyrics.

My dad wrote this.

Just do your job.

Yeah, I got you, bro.

Now, you get this pie over to the church.

Oh, and be sure to save me a seat on Sunday, you hear?

- Leah, I got you. - Okay.

I'ma take good care of this pie,

but everybody's waiting on it.

- Okay. - And I'll see you Sunday.

- Thanks for coming by. - All right.

- All right, take care. - Okay.

Love you.

- Love you too. - Bye-bye.

Oh, hey.

What happened?

It was a disaster.

Did you lose your words?

Or the mic exploded?

Robert finally realized

he couldn't carry a tune in a bucket.

It was a joke to him, Granny Leah, a business move.

It wasn't about music, it wasn't about the song.

It was just a way to get his daddy's approval.

What a hot mess on Sunday morning.

Come here, baby.

He didn't care about the music, or the legacy,

or the song, or me, just the hype.

And when I pushed back, he made it clear

that he'd rather just plug in my mom's old vocals

than actually make something real.

And you let him have it?

Yeah, he can have his little industry moment.

- I'm done. - Wait a minute.

Your mama let his daddy change up her dreams.

Now, don't you sit here and let him do the same.

Well, remaking my mom's song is not my dream.

It's just a bad idea.

But here you are caught up anyway.

Aren't you supposed to be making me feel better?

Come on, baby, let's get you something sweet.

A little warm pie and sugar

will remind you of just who the star is.

Okay.

Don't mention any of this to my mom, okay?

Oh.

Come on.

Yo, sis, you want a drink?

- Yes, please. - I got you.

The kids are settled.

Now, it's time for the adults to have some fun.

Let's do it. Let's do it.

- Ooh. - Orange peel.

Little bit of a little garnish.

- Fancy and delicious. - Yeah, thank you.

Look at you.

To siblings who don't spend nearly enough time together.

To us.

I'm happy you agreed to come with us for Christmas.

Don't get too comfortable.

I don't wanna be doing no caroling or anything.

You're such a scrooge, bro.

I just don't get the hype, that's all.

Sure.

Hey, um, you ever thought

that dad really was in love with Patti?

What makes you ask that?

I was at that old record store downtown

and I saw an old poster of them from back in the day.

Oh my god, yes.

I used to have that poster in my room.

He looked so cool.

Have you ever paid attention to the way he looked at her?

Like, he was mesmerized.

Hmm.

Uh, I don't think he loved her more than mom.

- Hmm. - But I think he loved her

the way a 22-year-old can love,

intensely, recklessly, with little foresight.

He never really talks about it though.

But you got to work with Patti 2.0.

How was that?

2.0?

Um, it was something.

She's a perfectionist,

and clearly I didn't live up to her standards.

You, not living up to a woman's standards.

Shocking.

Wait, you're actually upset about it?

- No. - Uh-uh.

Try that again, but without the lie.

I'm not upset, all right?

It's just,

I wish she did the song without all the drama.

Okay, she wants to change everything.

Make it her own version.

Of course she does, she's an artist.

I guess it doesn't matter anymore, right?

Aries is gonna take my vocals,

lay it over the old track, and that's gon be that.

Aw, that's too bad.

It would've been nice to hear you two

actually sing together.

She has a great voice.

And sometimes in the booth we trying to, you know...

Hey, what is this?

- Hi. - You two haven't started

happy hour without me, have you?

Of course not, dear.

How was your day?

The official last day.

Got everything prepped for next semester.

Yay!

Mmm.

- Mm? - Mm-hmm, mm-mm.

- Mm-hmm. - Done.

If finance doesn't work out,

you could always try bartending.

Why wouldn't finance work out?

I was joking.

I got a veggie and a cheese for game night.

That's perfect.

We're having game night tonight,

and I know how competitive you are,

so you're gonna have a blast.

- Ooh. - Stop it.

You just...

I'm gonna lay down for a bit.

Okay.

Is he okay?

With Robert, you never really know.

But I have an idea.

I know that look.

- You're up to something. - Oh, absolutely.

♪ Eight maids a milking ♪

♪ Seven swans a singing ♪

♪ Six geese a laying ♪

♪ Five golden rings ♪

♪ Four calling birds ♪

♪ Three French hens ♪

♪ Two turtle doves ♪

♪ And a partridge in a pear tree ♪

Ooh.

- Okay, all right. - All right.

Enough of the karaoke.

Now it's time for my favorite Christmas card game,

- Christmas card trivia! - Ooh.

- Have you ever played before? - No.

Okay.

Just in time.

Uh, Robert, can you get that?

Yeah.

So I'm thinking maybe girls on boys.

Yes.

Winnie.

I'm surprised to see you here.

Happy though.

Come on.

Hi.

- Hi, Bailey. - Hi.

- Hi, sorry we're late. - We?

- What's up, man? - Hey.

I parked on the street. Think it's okay?

Yeah.

- What's up, y'all? - Hi.

Thank you again for the invitation, here you go.

- This is my friend Aries. - Hey.

We were gonna get dinner tonight, so I brought him along.

I hope it's not a problem.

Of course. Have a seat.

- What's up? - What's up?

Okay, just in time for our Christmas card game.

Okay, each Christmas card has a sentimental question.

Answer honestly, and if your answer makes someone cry,

you get an extra point.

Sounds manipulating, doesn't it?

Cookies and competition, it sounds like my type of night.

- Great. You go first. - Cool.

"What's the one Christmas memory

that helped shape who you are"?

Robert?

I'll pass.

You can't pass. You have to answer.

Okay, fine.

I'll go.

Um.

Okay. Sorry.

Um.

Hmm. Uh.

I was maybe 10.

My mom was touring that Christmas,

so I was home with my granny.

And my granny, she has this, she has a strict rule,

no presents until Christmas morning, no exceptions.

And that specific year,

I was so sure I wasn't gonna get anything,

that my mom had forgotten about me.

But, at midnight, my granny woke me up

and she handed me a small gift, and she said,

"Some things can't wait until morning."

What was the gift?

A homemade songbook.

Blank pages, a note inside that said,

"Fill it with the songs you want to create, love Mom."

And I think that was the first time

I realized that this was something I was meant to do.

That music wasn't something I liked, it was mine.

That's dope.

Your mom knew you had it in you before you did.

Yeah, I guess,

and I've been writing in songbooks ever since.

Old school. I like it.

- Okay. - All right.

Ahem, all right.

"What is the worst Christmas gift you ever got,

and who gave it to you"?

- Oh, I got this one. - Oh.

Easy.

So picture this, I'm seven years old,

and I've been good all year, right?

Staying out of trouble, helping out with chores,

and I had one thing on my list, one thing thing.

A Game Boy Color.

That's it. Simple request.

Oh, this is about to be tragic.

Tragic ain't the word, Bailey.

Christmas morning comes,

I see under the tree, there's a box.

The size is right. The weight is right.

I think to myself, "This is it.

My Game Boy era is about to begin."

I rip open that wrapping paper so fast.

And inside?

A dictionary.

- Oh. - Ooh.

And not a cool dictionary either.

Not one with pictures, just words in alphabetical order.

Who gave you that?

My Aunt Loretta.

And do you know what this woman said to me

when I looked at her devastated?

She patted me on my head, and she said,

"Baby, knowledge is power."

- Oh, honey. - Well.

Everybody else is opening up Power Rangers and Barbies,

and I'm over here with "Webster's Complete Dictionary"

like I got a final exam on Christmas morning.

Okay, I think we should end on that note.

My baby looks triggered.

Come on, baby. Thank you for sharing.

Yeah.

My honey brought his guitar.

Are you ready to play something?

Yeah.

Aries, I heard you singing in the studio.

You should sing.

Sing, sing, sing, sing, sing, sing, sing!

All right, I get it.

- How about "The First Noel"? - Okay.

♪ The first Noel ♪

♪ The angels did say ♪

♪ Was to certain poor shepherds ♪

♪ In fields as they lay ♪

♪ In fields where they ♪

♪ Lay keeping their sheep ♪

♪ On a cold winter's night ♪

♪ That was so deep ♪

♪ Noel, Noel ♪

♪ Noel, Noel ♪

♪ Born is the King of Israel ♪

♪ Noel, Noel ♪

♪ Noel, Noel ♪

♪ Born is the King of Israel ♪

Aw, you guys sounded amazing.

It was good.

I enjoyed it.

Nah, nah, you can sing, man.

I ain't even gonna lie.

But, you know, I think it takes a little bit more

to create a song than just that.

You sound like you wanna sing something, Franklin.

Oh, no, no, no, please don't.

His harmonies are like Wi-Fi in a basement.

- Ooh. - Unreliable.

Completely unreliable and weak.

- Ooh. - Oh.

Yeah, I'm done here.

But you guys enjoy your charcuterie board and card games.

I was joking.

Yeah, we were just having fun.

- What's his deal? - Interesting.

Looks like my baby brother could be catching a crush.

I'll be back.

All right.

Our kids do that all the time

when we tell them, "It's bedtime in five minutes."

I see where they get it from.

Winnie, did you get a chance to go by the old high school?

They redid the theater and name it after your mom.

No, I have no idea what you're talking about.

Is that where you're principal?

Yeah, yeah, um,

I'll have Bailey take you over there tomorrow.

Yeah, yeah. I'd like that.

All right, let's play one last round

- before we call it quits. - Yeah.

Yeah. Okay.

I'm picking?

I'm picking the card this time. Okay.

You good?

Yep.

You can close a million finance deals

and say all the right things,

but if you don't tell the right person how you feel,

what's the point?

I'm just saying.

Yeah.

Oh, no, no, no, please don't.

His harmonies are like Wi-Fi in a basement.

- Ooh. - Unreliable.

Completely unreliable and weak.

I like your voice.

This school has been here for years,

but your mom's foundation

has really brought it back to life.

Patti and my dad did their first show here back in the day.

Yes.

The art programs here are the lifeline for our kids.

- They're so good, aren't they? - Yeah, they're great.

- Okay. - She's eating.

- Okay, great. - She's so great.

- Okay. - Ooh.

Yes, ladies.

Good job, great job.

What are they rehearsing for?

The Christmas Spectacular.

They've been rehearsing forever.

Is this the only program

or the only show that they're doing?

Oh, no, they have many shows.

Actually, your mom and my dad

have a couple of scholarship programs here as well.

Wow.

I'm embarrassed to say I never knew any of this.

Now you know.

Thank you.

Your mom receiving that star isn't just about the song.

It's a reflection on the lasting impact

she's had on our town.

Do you ever think about what would've happened

if they stayed together?

Mm, I used to when I was little.

Sometimes your mom's songs would come on the radio

and my dad would turn them up and sing along.

Your mom didn't care?

Nah, she was a fan. We all were.

Wow.

Do you know "Love at Christmas Time"

only came about because they were trying to win

the Senior Showcase?

Yes! Yes!

Yes, my mom did mention that they were supposed

to sing a Luther duet,

but your dad couldn't hit the notes.

- Ooh. - Why'd your dad stop singing?

I think he was making more money writing, I guess.

And then, we came about and he wanted to go home more.

He really wanted Robert to perform.

Like, he would force him to do all the talent shows.

Robert hated the attention.

Robert hating attention?

I know. Hard to believe.

You guys are so good.

- Great job, girls. - Congratulations.

Oh my gosh,

I still can't believe I didn't know any of this existed.

Thank you so much for bringing me here.

Of course, and thank you for coming.

You know, I would advise you

to go a little easy on my brother.

He's used to winning.

What is he trying to win?

Don't act.

What? What is that?

You know.

What are we looking at?

Your grandma is still upset

because I put the angel on the tree instead of the star.

I like the angel.

The star guided the three wise men to Jesus.

The Star of Bethlehem.

The beacon of hope.

Yeah, but the angels were the ones

who announced the birth.

Well, this one's going to announce your death

if you don't get out to that shed and find my star, Isaac.

I will look for the star.

It'll give me something to do.

Thank you.

Thank you, baby.

Hmm.

Wouldn't the cord?

"I don't even know if you'll read this, but I have to try."

I don't know what they told you,

but I swear on everything I never took the solo deal.

Not without you. They're lying to us, Patti.

"Don't let them break us."

The label broke them up?

What?

Granny?

Granny?

Granny?

Oh, you found my star.

No, but I found these.

Has my mom ever read these?

Child, no.

Ashton brought them things around here

after she went to California.

Have you ever read what's in these?

I ain't have to.

That boy come around here begging and spilling his guts

about everything in them letters.

Your granddaddy had to run him off this porch

more times than we had count.

Well, Mom thinks Ashton betrayed her, but maybe he didn't.

Look, here he says, "I never took the solo deal.

Not without you. They're lying to us.

Don't let them break us."

Nobody is trying to hear all that.

Where's my star?

No, I didn't. I'll go back and look.

I just keep thinking about how these letters

are handwritten.

No one does these these days, let alone write all of these.

- Yeah. - I mean, it's a lot.

"I started writing this a hundred times.

I don't even know if you'll read this."

I mean, you're telling me she's never seen these?

No.

It's obvious he loved her.

The record label wanted to give him a songwriting deal,

but they thought he wouldn't be as productive

if he was touring with Patti.

According to this letter,

they've been blatantly lying to your mom this whole time.

The worst part is my mom

still doesn't believe any of this.

- Should we call him? - No.

Dad would be embarrassed if he knew

that we were reading these.

Record labels are so manipulative.

My label promised me that if I put out that pop album,

they'd release the one that I really wanted.

Of course, they never did.

So you have made music since your first project?

Yeah.

An album and two singles, all shelved.

I'm not saying Gene is just like his father,

but, in a way, he is sowing discord

between two talented people.

We should record the song.

Yeah, Patti and my dad is,

they're gonna have to do interviews

and who knows what else could happen.

Getting my mom in the same room as Ashton

would be a miracle.

But it's, it's worth a try.

So you two are gonna go back into the studio?

- Yeah. - Yeah.

Yeah, I'll call Aries.

Do you have to?

Why do you have a problem with him?

Yes, why do you, brother?

Sister, I do not have a problem with him.

Maybe I wanted to be a producer one day.

I don't think that's realistic.

♪ Snow is falling ♪

♪ Lights are glowing ♪

♪ Fireplace is warm ♪

♪ But my heart was frozen ♪

Sounds good.

All right, rolling it back.

Let's take it from the top of Patti's verse

and right into the hook.

Okay.

Rob, my man, I'm glad we got things back on track.

Yes, Winnie's in the studio right now

and Aries said he'll have a mix up by tomorrow.

All right, your dad signed the addendum,

I rushed your advance, the wire should hit tonight.

- Great. - And I spoke to your dad.

He's excited.

He told me that this was your deal

and to send you the whole advance.

He's proud of you.

That's good to hear, I appreciate that.

So let's go inside and hear what we have.

I don't think you should go in right now.

Oh, what's going on?

Gene, we just learned that your dad

was directly responsible for breaking up Patti and Ashton.

All right, well, there must be some misunderstanding here.

No, it was deliberate.

So to keep the peace,

you shouldn't show your face right now,

especially while she's recording.

Look, just so you know, I was a kid, all right?

And I had nothing to do with my father's business.

I understand that.

But look at you now.

You're running a label, right?

Big shot.

And you put a bad taste in my sister's mouth

and she's an attorney,

wouldn't want her bringing up any old debts.

Okay.

Yeah, but you are gonna get Winnie to sign this contract, right?

If not, we're doing this record with just you.

Trust me, you want her on this.

And if I were you, I'd do a deal.

A fair deal at that, with her on our own label,

with her own song.

Hmm.

I'm okay with that.

- All right. - Yeah.

Yeah, get her to sign that contract.

Got you.

- Talk to you soon, man. - My man.

Do good work.

♪ Now the cocoa's sweet, but not like you ♪

♪ You're the only gift I wanna unwrap too ♪

♪ Underneath the tree, just you and me ♪

♪ Feels like heaven sent you here to me ♪

Give me a few hours.

I'ma have this mix shining like fresh snow

on Christmas morning.

Mm.

A few hours, you're doing all this now?

You sure you don't wanna get something to eat?

Let the man work.

I mean, we can go grab some food if you're hungry.

We got business to talk about.

Yeah, you should come with us.

Rain check?

Yeah, I'll catch you later.

Thanks. Appreciate you, man.

So I know this cute place downtown.

You're gonna love it.

- Also, the harmonies. - Yep, yep, yep.

Y'all been doing some work.

- Yep, yep. - I see you.

- I feel like it sounds good. - Yeah, really great song.

- Like two in love. - Yeah.

Okay, but first of all, where do you guys wanna eat?

Oh, I can't go.

I have to rescue Tremaine from the kids.

You two enjoy.

Also, this was amazing.

But I rolled with you.

Winnie can take you.

I feel like we just got set up.

Definitely.

You hungry?

- I can eat. - Food? Sure.

- Let's go. - All right.

Mr. Maddox, we're back.

Our partners, they have reviewed everything,

and they're ready to move forward

with the merger and property acquisition.

That sounds amazing.

We'll send the packet out,

but we will need wet signatures immediately

to put this through.

We'll get right on it.

Robert and I are looking forward to this partnership.

Okay, thanks. Bye.

Yes!

Oh my god.

Pick up, pick up, pick up.

Pick up!

You've reached Robert Franklin.

Please leave a message after the beep.

Dude, we were approved!

Listen, we may be the smallest ownership group,

but we are owners.

I need a wet signature as soon as possible, bye.

I'll just drive to him in the morning.

I got you a sandwich.

Sure, thanks.

I am done.

- Really? - Yeah.

Just sent it over to Gene to take a listen.

I think I'ma go ahead and get outta here too.

We wanted to stay and vibe out for a minute.

Do you mind?

Sure, don't touch my board.

No, no, we're just gonna chill here.

I'll play my guitar.

Yeah, I gotta pull an all-nighter over at Studio B.

Come holler at me before you leave.

Y'all have a good one.

That's nice.

You can leave it like that, it's nice.

Yeah?

Okay, awesome.

So what do you wanna do?

Um, let me sign this agreement first,

and then maybe we can try my acoustic version.

Cool.

Uh,

do you have a charger on you?

Uh, I didn't bring one, sorry.

Done.

What's this?

Oh.

It seems like this has seen a lot.

It's my songbook from my last few projects, yeah.

I think it's time for a new one.

Do you ever feel like you're carrying your dad's story

on your back?

Precisely why I didn't start singing.

Confession time.

Confession time.

I auditioned for "The Voice" once,

and I made it to the finals.

- No way. - Yeah.

What happened?

Yeah, some execs found out who I was

and wanted to make this package

around "the son of a pop star."

I didn't want that to sum up my career, so I pulled out.

You should've stayed though,

just to see how far you could make it.

Well, I would've been doing it for him.

Hmm.

Then why are you doing this?

- Um. - It's fine, okay, um.

Do you wanna try the version that I wanted to do?

- Yeah, let's go. - Okay.

So I'm still figuring it out a little bit.

- Okay. - But I'm thinking I wanna

just go like this.

- Ready? - Yeah.

Okay.

Okay, so then you would come in here.

♪ Snow is falling ♪

♪ Lights are glowing ♪

♪ Fireplace is warm ♪

♪ But my heart was frozen ♪

♪ Then you walked in ♪

♪ With that mistletoe smile ♪

♪ And I knew this love was worthwhile ♪

♪ Now the cocoa's sweet, but not like you ♪

♪ You're the only gift I wanna unwrap too ♪

♪ Underneath the tree, just you and me ♪

♪ Feels like heaven sent you here to me ♪

♪ Love at Christmas time ♪

♪ You and me, babe, sippin' red wine ♪

♪ All I need is your hand in mine ♪

♪ 'Cause nothin' feels better than love ♪

Nah, it sounds good though.

It sounds good.

Why was it so hard the first time?

Hmm.

Because harmonies are like a relationship.

If you're not really listening to each other

and you're not letting go,

it won't work if you don't trust each other.

So you trust me?

Yeah.

Rob, you want pancakes?

Tremaine!

Tremaine!

What happened?

Guess who didn't come home last night?

What?

Babe, you scared me.

I thought the tree was on fire.

Winnie and Robert are gonna look so cute together.

What if they get married and have babies?

Little singing babies.

Or what if Ashton and Patti get back together

and they become singing siblings?

Ah, why do you do this?

I'm over here planning a fairytale

and you turned it into a family reunion.

Let me have my love story, Tremaine.

I'm your love story.

But I'm going back to bed.

Guess it's pancakes for me and the kids then.

Hey, what time is it?

My phone's been dead since yesterday.

It's after eight.

We've been here for an entire day.

You know, I never realized how beautiful the lyrics

are to this song till now.

I mean, I thought it was some catchy Christmas song.

Nah, it's definitely a love song.

I don't know how you missed that.

I don't even listen to Christmas music.

The Christmas memory that shaped me, I was six.

It was Christmas and my mom wasn't feeling well.

All I wished was for her to get better.

She didn't.

Everyone was excited and happy, opening presents,

and my life was falling apart.

♪ Ah

Ever since then, Christmas hasn't been the same.

♪ Ah

Um, how about I go get breakfast?

You get up with Aries.

- By the time I get back, we can eat. - Okay.

- Record the song that we made last night. - All right.

- Yeah? - Yeah.

All right.

Here, your jacket.

♪ Ah

Hi, Bailey.

Yeah, we're still at the studio.

He just went to get something to eat.

No, no, no, no.

I'll have him call you.

All right. All right, bye.

Leah, stop worrying about her.

She's an adult.

I know she's an adult, Isaac.

But the last I checked, grown folks still come up missing.

And don't you dare call her.

♪ Love at Christmas time ♪

This is dope.

- I like the beginning. - Yeah, it's perfect.

Sounds good.

I'm Thurman. Robert's business partner.

Hi, Winnie. Robert's singing partner.

Oh, wow.

- Nice to meet you, man. - What's up, man?

Is he here by chance?

- No, he went to get food. - He'll be back in five though.

- I'll take this. - All right, yeah.

I just can't believe he's singing.

A Christmas song?

Out of everything he could've chose.

Yeah, it's kind of his birthright.

I guess. I just thought he was doing it for the money.

And that thing came right on time too.

What money?

The advance.

What advance? Did he get extra money?

I'm gonna just leave this here for him to sign,

and I'll just be on my way.

- No, you stay. I'll leave. - Winnie.

I don't think there's anything to be upset about.

Come on, are you serious?

Thurman, you're here?

- Winnie. - Winnie?

Dude, why don't you answer your phone?

We did it.

Where's Winnie going?

Are you not listening?

We are part owners of Midtown Station.

This literally changes our whole lives.

Wait, we're partners?

That's what I'm saying.

But I need a wet signature from you as soon as possible,

otherwise this won't happen...

Did you say something to Winnie?

I, I, no, I didn't, I just...

What exactly did you tell her?

I just mentioned the money and she just...

Thurman, come on, man.

You sound really good, by the way.

Oh, so we staying out all night and slamming doors?

♪ Silent night ♪

♪ Holy night

Not right now, Granny. I'm fine.

Fine, is what people say when they ain't fine.

Can you just give me a moment, please?

Okay, baby. ♪ Round yon Virgin ♪

♪ Mother and child ♪

♪ Holy infant ♪

♪ So tender and mild ♪

♪ Sleep in heavenly

- Hey, Mom. - Hey, baby.

- Did Granny call you? - No, is everything okay?

Yeah.

No.

No, it's not all the way okay.

I've been,

I've been in the studio remaking "Love at Christmas Time."

You what?

- With Ashton's son. - Winnie.

Are you serious? Why?

At first I thought that it,

I thought that it was a bad idea.

Then I thought maybe it was a good idea.

But it was definitely a bad idea.

Of course it was.

Well, it's done now. There is no song.

♪ Fall on your knees ♪

Oh, I signed a contract.

I'm on my way.

♪ Silent night ♪

♪ Holy night ♪

♪ Son of God ♪

Hi, uh, is Winnie here?

What is it with you Franklin men?

You have master's degrees in mess and PhDs in heartbreak.

At least you got emails now.

You don't have to cramp your fingers

with a bunch of letters.

Yes, um, can you please just tell her I'm here?

Winnie Renee,

little Ashton's at the door.

♪ Jesus Lord ♪

♪ At Thy birth

I got it, Granny. I'm good.

- You sure, baby? - Mm-hmm.

♪ Fall on your knees ♪

I'm sorry I didn't tell you.

No, you played me so you could get paid.

I was wrong, okay, not to tell you about the deposit,

but my father did write the song.

I will sue you, Gene, and your dad

if you try and release this, I dare you.

You can't sue me.

You signed the contract.

Look, I'm trying to give you money. Just take it.

It is not about the money.

Then why are you mad?

I specifically asked you why you were doing this

and you said nothing.

Instead, you used my music, my artistry,

and our parents' song to get what you wanted.

You played me! You used me!

So I am done.

- Goodbye. - Winnie.

♪ Fall on your knees ♪

♪ Fall on your knees ♪

♪ Sleep ♪

♪ In heavenly peace ♪

Let's not put them all in one place, okay, Jessi?

Can we keep changing them every day up until Christmas?

Oh.

Sis, have you been hearing anything

that I've been talking about?

Yes, give her half the money.

She deserves it.

Dude, you can't.

We won't have enough to invest.

I was going to make everything right

once we closed in on the deal.

It takes patience, right?

I don't care if Dad wrote the song,

it wouldn't be a hit without Patti.

Hey, Rob, I'm just sitting here listening

to this version you sent over.

Um, what'd you think?

People want liveliness at Christmas,

this is too laid back.

As soon as I get the masters,

I'll have over 50 P&Ds committed to release

the other version on Christmas Day.

Congratulations.

You are officially in the music biz.

- What'd he say? - Um.

We've got some work to do.

But we're getting there, trust me.

We're getting there.

I know you're not a little girl anymore,

but this used to be your favorite drink.

Used to make you smile.

Thank you.

Thank you, Granny.

- I love you, baby. - I love you too.

Okay.

Mom.

Now, where is this boy who has hurt my baby?

Hello?

My mother is in town.

We're on the way over.

Uh, okay.

Bye.

Sis, I'm sorry you weren't able to go ice skating

with Tremaine and the boys.

Oh, I could've gone.

I just wanted my house to still be standing tonight.

Why wouldn't it be standing?

It's not gonna get that crazy.

There she is.

Merry Christmas! Hey!

- Dad? - Dad!

What are you doing here?

I came to see my kids.

May I come in?

- Oh yeah. - Yeah.

Why didn't you call?

I wanted to surprise you.

Oh, there're gonna be a lot of surprises all right.

Where are my grandkids?

Oh, Tremaine took them ice skating.

Why don't I take you there?

That's a great idea.

Okay, well, let me put my things down

and freshen up first.

Okay, put your things in the guest room.

Okay. All right.

- Gotta get those letters. - Yeah.

He's gotta go before Patti gets here.

Yeah, I know.

Is that them?

Ms. Patti, uh, it's nice to finally meet you.

Are you guys hungry? We should go get some food.

You ain't gon butter me up with a good steak.

I came to have words.

Are you sure you don't wanna go out to eat with Robert?

No, I just need a little bit of water

to wash down all this betrayal.

Hey, you know what? I've got an idea.

How about after we go ice skating, we could go...

Make that water a vodka.

Stop right there.

I didn't know he was gonna be here.

Patti, it's good to see you.

I'd like to say the same thing about you,

but your son is stealing money from my daughter.

I tried to pay your daughter, okay?

No, it was an afterthought.

I'm doing the deal.

Take the money.

No, I'm not taking the money.

You need to admit that you were using me.

Like father, like son.

I never used you, Patti.

But then, what do you call it?

- I made a mistake, okay? - What are you talking about?

Why do you have to be so stubborn?

Stubborn, see?

- I'm stubborn? - Yes.

I know where she gets that from.

Wait, you calling me stubborn?

- You've always been stubborn. - How am I stubborn?

You've been lying about everything for the entire time.

You've been stubborn for years.

After what you put me through after 20 years?

- We all just... - What about Aries?

You're so infatuated with him.

You're so in love with him, right?

Stop trying to pin it all over me,

'cause that's not gonna work.

- Five years. - Ah!

I've been focused the whole time.

You think you've been focused this whole time?

- I've been focused... - Wait.

♪ It feels like heaven sent you here to me ♪

♪ Love at Christmas time ♪

Is that our song?

♪ You and me, babe, sippin' red wine ♪

♪ All I need is your hand in mine ♪

Winnie, is that you?

Your voice sounds like an angel.

♪ Wrapped in your arms ♪

Hey, you sound different.

I can tell you've been putting in the work.

♪ The season's magic is your love ♪

Yeah, well, it's not gonna come out,

because Robert is going to delete that contract.

No, the world needs to hear you again.

And there's another version that's better.

And she's right.

You all sound amazing.

Just like another couple I know.

Nice try.

We're not a couple.

We're not even friends.

Dad, I think you should resend these.

But, how, how did you get these?

I found them in Granny's attic.

Mom, take them.

It's Gene from the label.

Put that man on speaker.

Gene, uh, hey.

Robert, how would you and Winnie

like to kick off our holiday parade?

We'll have it all set up for you to sing the song.

This sounds amazing, Gene.

This is Patti Love.

Oh, wow.

Patti, I didn't even realize you were in town.

Well, you know, when business ain't right,

mama gotta step in and fix things.

Speaking of that, you and I need to talk.

Okay.

I'll get the details later.

Thanks, Gene.

I don't think that this is a good idea.

Oh, honey, people need to hear your beautiful voice again.

She's right.

- You don't get to talk. - I'm sorry.

Okay, I'm sorry. Is that what you want?

I'm sorry. In front of everyone.

I was selfish.

Okay, yes, but I just want another opportunity

to make things right.

Here the young man out.

You know I'm right.

Oh, Patti Love is always right.

No, but if it weren't for Patti speaking her mind,

there would be no Patti and Ashton.

Period.

So, matter of fact, could I talk to you for a sec.

Patti, please, may I have just an hour of your time?

I mean, I just wanna take you to coffee tomorrow.

I drink my coffee in 10 minutes.

Mom.

Mom.

I will do the song with Robert,

if you agree to have coffee with Ashton.

And I will have coffee with Ashton,

if you would do the song with Robert.

Deal.

All right, I have an hour,

but I have to help Winnie get her outfit for the parade.

Oh, why don't you guys go check out the star.

And, in the meantime, how about I call Aries

and see if he can mix up a version of your song?

See, it's all working out. It's perfect.

It feels like love at Christmas time.

What?

Y'all were just slamming doors

and fighting and crying over there.

Now, we're picking out outfits

and having a family reunion?

It's a Christmas miracle.

So you didn't read any of my letters?

No, I didn't wanna hear any more lies.

Lies? Patti, I never lied to you.

Mr. Taylor wanted me to sing and write

for his daughter Erica, even date her.

He wanted us to be the next Ashford & Simpson,

but that's not what I wanted.

Then why did you do a song with her?

Well, I told him I'd do a song on one condition,

that they do a tour and an album for you and I.

Then why didn't you tell me?

I had to turn on the radio and hear you and her.

Honestly, I was working up the nerve, I was.

But they released it before I could.

They told me you were going on tour with her,

and then they dropped me.

Oh, I'm sorry.

She called and told me that you two were together

and that our stint as a one-hit wonder was over.

God, Ashton, that broke me.

I never meant for that to happen.

You know what, when you moved away,

I went to your mom's house and I begged her to call you.

But, you know, she wouldn't.

The reason I stopped singing

was because I never wanted to sing with anybody but you.

Our kids sound great.

Yeah, they do, they do.

But, listen, is it just me

or does it seem like something's going on

between the two of them?

That boy's nose is glowing so hard,

he could guide the whole sleigh.

Well, I know that feeling.

Look.

We were something else.

♪ I get so in my feelings when I need you to go ♪

Hey, man.

Give me a minute.

What's going on?

Bro, I already told you,

Gene already paid for these sessions.

I cannot withhold the masters.

I hear you, all right?

I'm not saying destroy them.

Just give us the acoustic masters that we just recorded.

Tell him something happened.

Hey, tell him that you gon fix it.

Bro, I don't know, man.

I can pay you, huh?

- Give me a minute. - All right.

Hey.

Yeah. What's up?

Gene just texted me about a solo deal.

Did you say something to him?

I probably mentioned he should be in business with you.

That's all.

What's up?

I don't need you to speak up for me.

You stand up for yourself,

and that's one of the things I like about you.

Yeah, well, in this industry you have to.

Yeah.

So you figured out if you're doing Gene's deal or not?

I don't know.

I'm thinking about it.

You know, I'll make my decision

- when I get back from vacation. - Wait.

Vacation?

Where you going?

I don't know.

I'll decide when the advance hits my account.

Okay, I see what it is.

I'm coming, right?

Aries, how much longer till we can get that file?

Okay.

Isaac, didn't the doctor tell you

about eating those sweets at night?

Um, oh, no, these are not my sweets.

These are for you guys.

Come on, baby, you know you all the sugar I need at night.

Oh, you rascal.

I think I should be on that float.

Mama, you weren't invited, and neither was I.

But if it weren't for me, it would be no you.

And if it weren't for you, there'd be no her.

Now invitation or not, I'm getting on that float.

No, you're right.

You can be our backup dancer.

Whoop! That's what I'm talking about!

Isaac!

Isaac, get my dancing shoes, baby!

- Oh. - Granny going dancing.

- Oh, come on! - Mm-mm!

I hope you know what you started.

Oh, I do.

Hey, how come you never told me about the scholarship

and theater stuff at your old school?

Well, you don't live here,

and I know you don't care about my old stuff.

Oh, that is not true, Mom.

I just,

just because I wanna find my own voice

does not mean I don't care about you.

When I call and when you hear me calling, you ignore it.

Only sometimes.

You're an icon, Mom,

and I think that that's sometimes hard for me.

But I am so proud to be your daughter,

and I need you to know that.

Thank you for picking me.

The more I think about it, you're right.

It's the babies that pick the moms.

And I owe you a big one,

because my life would be empty had you not chosen me.

I love you.

I love you.

Oh.

Mm, okay, I'm gonna get some rest before my big day.

Okay.

Merry Christmas, Macon!

It's your girl, Christine Carter.

And I'm coming to you live bringing all the Christmas cheer.

I have a wonderful gift for you guys.

It's a brand new, hot off the press,

hot out the booth, new version of "Love at Christmas Time."

And if you really wanna get into the Christmas spirit,

make sure you go downtown and grab a spot,

because the parade is about to begin.

Let's go, Macon!

Okay, I'm not gonna lie,

I don't wanna get all sentimental on you, but

here.

You caught me something.

Thank you.

No more Patti 2.0, none of that.

This time it's just you.

Oh, oh, oh, okay.

What is this?

This is so sweet.

Thank you.

I didn't get you something

in case you were expecting something.

Oh, I should just leave then, huh?

Just playing, I got you something.

- Really? - Yeah.

Oh! Oh, wow, okay.

I wasn't expecting this, okay.

Okay, well, let me put it on you.

Okay.

St. Nick.

Here's to making new holiday memories.

Yeah.

- Christmas, hey! - Merry Christmas, Macon!

What a beautiful day to kick off our annual holiday parade.

And to get things started, we have something extra special.

Bringing back the magic, the music, and the melody,

we have the next generation of our darlings,

Patti and Ashton,

Winnie and Robert here to bless us

with a brand new rendition of "Love at Christmas Time."

Winnie and Robert!

Winnie and Robert!

Hi!

Thank you.

Merry Christmas, you guys.

Hope you guys enjoy the special treat

that we have in store for you all.

♪ Snow is falling ♪

♪ Lights are glowing ♪

♪ Fireplace is warm ♪

♪ But my heart was frozen ♪

♪ Then you walked in ♪

♪ With that mistletoe smile ♪

♪ And I knew this love was worthwhile ♪

♪ Now the cocoa's sweet, but not like you ♪

♪ You're the only gift I wanna unwrap too ♪

♪ Underneath the tree, just you and me ♪

♪ It feels like heaven sent you here to me ♪

♪ Love at Christmas time ♪

♪ You and me, babe, sippin' red wine ♪

♪ All I need is your hand in mine ♪

♪ 'Cause nothing feels better than love ♪

Please welcome our parents, Patty and Ashton!

Come on, everybody, hey!

♪ Snow is falling ♪

♪ Lights are glowing ♪

♪ Fireplace is warm, but my heart was frozen ♪

♪ Then you walked in ♪

♪ With that mistletoe smile ♪

♪ And I knew this love was worthwhile ♪

♪ Now the cocoa's sweet, but not like you ♪

♪ You're the only gift I wanna unwrap too ♪

♪ Underneath the tree, it's you and me ♪

♪ It feels like heaven sent you here to me ♪

♪ Love at Christmas time ♪

♪ You and me, babe, sippin' red wine ♪

♪ All I need is your hand in mine ♪

♪ Nothing feels better than love ♪

♪ Love at Christmas time ♪

♪ Wrapped in your arms, I'm feeling right ♪

♪ You're my star, my light that shines ♪

♪ The season's magic is love ♪

♪ Ooh ♪

♪ Ooh ♪

♪ Sleigh bells ring, but your voice is my song ♪

♪ Every note you sing, I just wanna sing along ♪

♪ Forget the gifts, forget the snow ♪

♪ With you I've got all I need to know ♪

♪ Turned my winter into spring ♪

♪ Boy, you make my heart sing, yeah ♪

♪ Love at Christmas time ♪

♪ You and me, babe, sippin' red wine ♪

♪ All I need is your hand in mine, yeah ♪

♪ Nothing feels better than love ♪

♪ Love at Christmas time ♪

♪ Wrapped in your arms, I'm feeling right ♪

♪ You're my star, my light that shines ♪

♪ Oh ♪

♪ Love at Christmas time ♪

♪ You and me, babe, sippin' red wine ♪

♪ All I need is your hand in mine ♪

♪ Nothing feels better than love ♪

♪ Love at Christmas time ♪

♪ Wrapped in your arms, I'm feeling so right ♪

♪ You're my star, my light that shines ♪

♪ The season's magic is love ♪

♪ Is love ♪

♪ This Christmas ♪

♪ Oh ♪

♪ Oh, love ♪

♪ Snowflakes touching my windowsill ♪

♪ Is telling me that Christmas is here ♪

♪ I hear the laughing and kids full of cheer ♪

♪ I feel the love in the air is so clear ♪

♪ But I know that the one thing I'm missing is you ♪

♪ As I sit by the phone, wish your call would come through ♪

♪ I know you feel my love, I know you do ♪

♪ So, baby, won't you please help my last wish come true ♪

♪ Oh, oh ♪

♪ In my dreams ♪

♪ You're the only present ♪

♪ Under my tree that I need ♪

♪ Oh, oh ♪

♪ But finally ♪

♪ I can hear your voice at my door ♪

♪ You're right by my side ♪

♪ Next to me ♪

♪ You can be anywhere in the world ♪

♪ But you're with me this Christmas ♪

♪ It could've been anyone else ♪

♪ Under my mistletoe ♪

♪ By I love that it's me and you ♪

♪ Me and my wish list ♪

♪ You're matching my love ♪

♪ My Christmas joy ♪

♪ My beautiful one ♪

♪ The one I adore, boy ♪

♪ I love the way you love my family ♪

♪ This feels like living my fantasy ♪

♪ So sit down, I'll make you a plate ♪

♪ Matching pajamas, hot chocolate, and spades ♪

♪ Christmas karaoke and charades ♪

♪ I could go all night, long as you're here with me ♪