Original subtitles

Thank you.

arms up. Don't forget to smile.

Nathan, you're still recovering.

Don't do the triple axel. Yeah, I won't. I promise.

Have an ice pack ready. He's going to try the triple axel. Perfect spiral.

You were amazing.

You know, I got a little emotional out there thinking about the fact that this

is our second last show ever.

You're not second guessing leaving the tour, are you?

No, no, I'm not. I'm so excited.

We're finally going to do it. Buy an ice rank, start our own training center,

and after four years on tour, finally be home.

Be in the same place for more than two days. Have a real Christmas.

What's a real Christmas?

I forget.

Something that's not in a hotel or on a tarmac.

Right. I'm going to get a tree from the Miller's farm and take all my Christmas

decorations out of storage.

I'll decorate the house exactly like my mom used to.

I can't wait to finally be home.

Me too.

We should finish packing. We have to be at the airport at five.

Where are we going again?

At the... San Sanova?

San Sanova. Right.

Tiny country, big tourist destination.

I hope it's nice.

It'll be great.

Thank you, Dawson.

Sir.

Your Majesty.

Nicola,

you spent the last 30 years as my best friend calling me Alex.

That's when you didn't use more colourful names.

Would you prefer one of the more colourful names?

Thank you, Paul.

Didn't we discuss keeping the tours to the east wing?

I'll enquire about it again, sir.

Where did that come from?

Princess Christina requested that it be placed in here.

Why do I somehow think that that relates to this?

How is my father the Christmas king and I'm the cringe king?

Well, your father founded the Christmas market and the caroling concert and the

holiday benefit for the community center. While you, when asked by the

about your feelings towards Christmas, remarked that it's good for the economy.

It is good for the economy.

Alex.

It's your third Christmas as king of a country founded around the holiday, and

you're yet to show any Christmas cheer.

I know that Christmas can be a hard time for you, but... It's not hard.

Look, I'm just busy.

Look who's here. I can see that I've walked in on something.

Hello, Aunt Patricia.

The princess is wondering if you'll be having dinner together tonight.

You've got your meet and greet with the dignitaries this evening.

Can it be moved?

It's already been rescheduled twice.

I know I'll do my best.

This place is like a storybook come to life. Yes, one where my fairy godmother

gives me a cute boy and some mistletoe.

They really love Christmas here.

According to this, this country was founded on Christmas Eve. There are non

-stop holiday events, traditions.

There's even a tour of a decorated palace.

Unfortunately, it's during our show time.

There is a Christmas market we can visit. Ooh, perfect. I knew I left my

Christmas shopping to the last minute for a reason.

Daddy.

I'm so sorry about dinner.

Tomorrow night, I promise.

How was your skating lesson?

I'm learning a spiral.

A spiral?

Marvelous.

Perhaps I can come down tomorrow and watch you practice.

It's getting late. It's time for sleep.

But I haven't finished my movie.

A Christmas movie?

Well, let me guess how it ends.

As there is only one fitting ending for a Christmas story.

The tree is lit.

The mistletoe is kissed under.

And a Merry Christmas is had by all.

And to all, a good night.

I love you, Tina. I love you, too.

Daddy, it doesn't matter what anyone says.

You're not a Grinch.

Good night, Christina.

There's nothing to worry about.

You'll make your speech opening the Christmas market, shake some hands, wish

some Merry Christmases.

It'll be good.

Yeah, it'll be great.

A chance to connect with the people and move past this whole cringe king

business.

Who knows, after today I might be known as the second Christmas king.

Oh.

You'll do great.

Just, um, you know, be yourself and, uh, you know, speak from the heart.

I'm just not sure I can do both. Well, then, um, just stick to the speech.

All right, I've got to go speak to the press.

So magical.

Look at these decorations.

This is so cute.

We should get it as a souvenir. It can be a good last charm for our skating

arena. Oh, by the way, I spoke to a real estate agency this morning. They're

going to start looking for rings for it.

That's great.

Yeah. You should go get warmed up for the show. I'll buy this. I'll meet you

there. Sounds good. I'll see you soon.

Oh, sorry.

Sorry, sorry.

With all my heart.

I must apologize. No, I'm sorry. I didn't see anyone hiding there.

I wasn't hiding.

Right, of course.

I mean, it kind of looked like you were hiding.

Really? And from whom would I be hiding?

I don't know.

The Christmas crowd?

Hiding from Christmas.

If only that was an option.

I take it you're not a fan of the holiday.

No, no, no. I am a fan.

Big fan.

The bigot.

I honor Christmas with all my heart and... And...

And try to keep for all the year?

Yes, that.

That was very believable.

Well, it was believable because it was the truth.

Blessed is the season where... Which engages the whole world in a conspiracy

love.

I knew it was something to do with conspiracy.

What are you, some sort of Christmas quote book?

I just like Christmas.

So I see.

Well, whatever you're doing, good luck.

Hope you find your Christmas cheer.

Thank you.

And I don't need to find it because, well, I'm brimming with it.

Behold, Christmas waves a magic wand across the world, makes everything more

beautiful.

Good luck. I don't need luck.

Okay, it's time.

I told the press you do a quick photo op before the speech.

You good?

Yes.

Great. Can I see you all night?

Hi. Excuse me.

Excuse me. Ladies and gentlemen, King Alexander of Shantanova.

Merry Christmas.

Good luck.

It's going to be great. It's going to be great.

It's our last show.

It's a good thing. We're finally going out.

I know. You're right.

We'll have stability.

Yes. We'll plant roots.

Yes. And we can finally see some friends.

Yes. And maybe even start dating again.

I think the curtain's going up.

Yeah, of course you do. Good luck. Thank you.

You

excited

about the show?

Well,

I've got a little surprise for you.

How about...

After the show, we go around and meet the skaters.

Really?

Excuse me.

Hello. Are you by any chance... Katie Hendricks!

I am.

You must be Princess Patricia.

How do you do? Thank you so much for inviting us backstage.

Of course.

And you must be Princess Christina.

Just Christina.

This is the talented Jessica Lewis.

Lovely to meet you. Wonderful to meet you. Wonderful show. Thank you so much.

It's so nice to meet you.

Shouldn't we curtsy?

I can't believe I'm meeting you. You're a three -time world champion.

Didn't you... almost go to the olympics almost but you weren't in this show

did you stop skating i did i just choreographed now oh and by that she

choreograph train and constantly put out by her jessica i'm a huge fan i love

your routine oh thank you i hear you're being coached learning any new tricks a

spiral wow well pro tip a good spiral is all about a great banana position

Could you show me? I have a rink at the palace.

You have a rink at the palace?

Well, we could skate.

I could give you a tour.

Well, we were sad that we missed the public tour.

Well, then you must come visit us this afternoon.

Yes, that would be great.

Lovely. Thank you.

This is Sansonova's first royal family.

That painting is almost 500 years old.

I actually think I have that dress.

And this is exactly like our apartment.

Really? Where do you live?

New Jersey.

New Jersey.

Excuse me, where's your ladies room? Oh, it's up the stairs to the right, third

door on the left.

You. You.

Um, what are you doing here?

Oh, you're on a tour.

Yeah, I got a little lost.

What are you doing here?

Um, well, I, well, I work here.

You work in the palace?

Like for the king?

Something like that.

The king? Cool.

What's he like?

Um, magnanimous and beloved. That sort of thing.

Well, I'm sure it's amazing to work in this palace.

It's gorgeous.

Although, between you and me, I think it could do with a few extra Christmas

decorations.

Of course you would.

But I think it's just perfect as it is.

Of course you do.

So, can I help with where you're headed?

Thanks, but I'm good. Of course you are.

Sorry, I got lost. Oh, no need to apologize.

I've lived here my entire life, and I still get lost.

Now, Christina and Jessica are at the ring, so I'll take it.

I know.

What?

Christina, this is amazing.

Do you ever put on shows here?

No. Well, actually, my grandpa did want to host a show here.

An ice -skating pageant for Pound's Day.

Jesse.

I'm sorry I missed dinner.

That's fine.

But I have a question.

Yes? Do you remember how Grandpa used to talk about hosting an ice -skating

pageant for Founders' Day? Yes, the retelling of How Sansoneva Was Founded.

Well, what if we hosted it?

That's a marvellous idea.

Start planning after Christmas.

No, not for next Founders' Day.

For this Founders' Day.

Christina, Founders' Day is on Christmas Eve, and that's two weeks away.

A pageant would be a massive production. But the figure skating stars are here.

Katie and Jessica came to the rink today. They could do it.

And I'll inquire with them for next Founder's Day.

But, Daddy, then you'll be the Grinch King for a whole year.

And that's not who you are.

And everyone should know that.

Think about it.

I'll talk to Katie and Jessica.

All right?

Good.

Good night, Zina Bear.

I love you.

I love you too, Daddy.

Bye.

Bye.

Miss Hendricks?

Miss... Lewis.

The king has requested a word with you at the palace. We have to catch our

flight. Don't worry.

We'll make sure it doesn't leave without you.

Do you think we're somehow in trouble?

This is a dungeon. Lock me up.

I can't believe we're going to meet the king.

Let's just be on our best behavior.

What? Me?

Let's just not offend anyone or break anything.

Sorry to keep you waiting.

You. You. What are you doing here?

I'm eating the...

You're the king.

You should be courtesy.

So you're the Katie and Jessica that Christina has spoken so highly of.

I'm Katie, and this is Jessica.

Sorry.

Well, nice to see you again.

Shall we get to the business land?

So my daughter has gotten an idea to host an ice -skated retelling of our

country's founding.

It will be performed on Founders Day, which is Christmas Eve and it's 13 days

from now.

Wow, that's ambitious.

I think so too.

She would love you both to star in it, choreograph and coach.

I know it's a tall order, but I promised my daughter I'd ask.

However, I understand how highly illogical and quite impossible it all

We'll do it. No.

I'm sorry.

We can't.

Well, what's your final answer?

No.

Skating in a pageant in a palace.

I mean, that's a once in a lifetime opportunity. To put on a pageant in 13

Plus, we said we'd be home for Christmas this year. Yeah, but Samsonova's like

walking into a snow globe. I mean, what could be better than that? Being home.

Ladies, if you've decided to leave and the car is waiting to take you to the

airport, however, if you're still considering, the Crown's offered for

services.

If you need some more time, I can simply reschedule your flight to leave

tomorrow.

We've already checked out of our hotel.

Since you're in Samsonova, you should be a guest of the Crown.

Wait.

You mean we'd be staying here?

I wouldn't get too excited.

It gets quite drafty.

He is so cute.

Oh, come on, don't you want to stay in a palace? No, I want to stay in my own

bed. And there's nothing that's going to make me want to change my mind.

What about this?

That's a very generous offer.

Katie, this is the money that we need for the ice rink.

What exactly does the pageant entail?

I'll go find out.

So did our guests reach a decision?

They're still considering, sir.

What is it to consider? I mean, it's a ludicrous concept.

Produce a pageant in two weeks.

Thirteen days.

To say no now would disappoint Christina.

The show going awry would be a much bigger disappointment.

I just know how much this means to her.

I know you want to protect her, but what if the show didn't go awry?

Oh, sorry.

I was just looking for Christina and Patricia.

Oh, I can show you. Follow me.

Okay, thanks.

So, have you guys decided whether you're going to stay or not?

Not yet, no.

But I'm hoping for you.

Yeah, me too.

It'd be nice to have you as a house guest.

Yeah, follow me.

Have

you

decided to stay?

Not quite yet.

We were hoping to find out a little bit more about your vision for the pageant.

what the story is that we'd be telling, something like that.

Originally, Santa Nova wasn't a kingdom, but it was a large estate of a wealthy

family, William, Catherine, and their daughter, Sonia.

And why don't we sit down?

Sure.

But about 500 years ago, there was a terrible avalanche in the kingdom across

the lake.

It destroyed a village, and all the villagers had to flee their homes.

So when William found out about this, he set off with a team on horseback to

rescue them.

Well... When they hadn't returned after several days, Catherine and Sonia, who

was about Christina's age, decided to set off and find them.

And Sonia and Catherine skated across the frozen lake to find William and the

villagers snowed in, and then they brought them to the safety of

Where they all celebrated Christmas together.

And they stayed through the winter, and in spring they didn't want to leave. So

they declared our family the royal family, and that is how...

The kingdom of Santanova was born.

Such a beautiful story, isn't it? It is.

That's the story we tell in the pageant. And then maybe the pageant would be a

new Christmas edition my dad gives the country.

And then everyone would start calling him the Grinch King.

Because he's not a Grinch at all.

He's not who people think he is.

He's funny and nice and the best dad.

And everyone should know that.

And... Maybe the pageant can remind him how much he loves Christmas, and then

he'll do Christmas stuff.

You don't do Christmas stuff?

In the past few years, the palace's Christmas festivities have been, well,

for formality's sake, photo ops, and a very stuffy, traditional Christmas Eve

dinner. You don't decorate a Christmas tree or bake Christmas cookies?

We used to do that with my grandfather.

Come on.

See?

Christina just wants a real Christmas.

Like somebody else I know.

I'm putting all over his face.

Girls, we're having a formal dinner tonight. This is indignatory.

So we've put some dresses in your rooms.

Wow, thank you.

Your room, madam.

Good day, madam.

Can we stay here forever?

No.

But we can stay until the...

Pageant.

We should put that in spark homes.

Quint. Quint.

You look different.

Thank you.

So I heard you were staying for the pageants.

You don't want me asking what made you change your mind?

Christina can be very persuasive.

And she can.

And your generous offer didn't hurt either.

Christina loves figure skating more than anything.

And I love the joy and magic it brings to an audience.

We all deserve a real Christmas.

I'm not sure what you mean.

Something tells me I'm going to find out.

Shall we?

Okay, I've choreographed some simple numbers. We'll weave through Sansanova's

founding story.

Perfect. I will start on costumes, crew, props, set.

And you're on casting and scheduling rehearsals?

Yeah. I have tryouts for the villagers starting in one hour.

And you're going to play the queen?

Well, of course. I was born for the role. And it'll be fun to skate with

Christina. I assume she's playing the princess.

Patricia actually said that Christina wanted to hold tryouts for Sonia.

Oh. I guess Christina just wants to be fair.

That's sweet.

Mm -hmm.

Okay. So I am heading into town to work on the set decor and costumes.

Okay. I'm heading to the rink.

See? We're doing this.

In 12 days, no problem. We'll get this thing done.

It is the season of miracles.

Also, I talked to the real estate broker who's finding us the ring. She's

starting to put out feelers. Exciting.

Katie, Jessica, I wanted to offer my assistance in organizing the pageant,

however I can help. Thank you.

I've always had a promise to offer musical theater, and this seems pretty

the same, only colder on ice.

The King's asked me to organize an ice skating pageant for Founders Day.

I was wondering if it would be possible to rent set decorations from you?

No need to rent. We'd be happy to donate.

Really? Of course.

Great.

Oh.

Your Majesty.

What brings you here?

Pageant prep.

You? I'm just running errands.

Kings run errands.

Well, not typically.

but I came to pick up the Christmas presents for the palace staff.

That's really sweet of you.

You don't have to look so surprised.

What are you getting everyone?

A special made card and a monetary gift.

You're getting the staff money?

It's traditional and practical.

It sounds like a generous gift, but maybe you should consider adding a

touch. Well, I appreciate your unflinching advice.

I should run.

Thank you.

Good day.

Do you think that my gift could be perceived as... impersonal?

Have you seen Christina? She finished her homework and ran off to the rink.

Thank you.

That was great.

Why weren't you at tryouts?

Because I don't want to play Princess Sonia.

Why not?

I guess everyone will be watching, and what if I mess up?

Everyone messes up sometimes.

Back when I was skating?

I used to be so worried about messing up my jumps. But my mom, who was also my

coach, would always remind me that in competition you get points for trying.

It doesn't matter if you fall.

And she would also tell me, and I really wish I had listened to her while I was

skating, it doesn't matter if you mess up.

All that matters is that you love being out on the ice.

And I hate to typecast you, but you're an incredible skating princess, and the

pageant needs an incredible skating princess.

And you'll be coaching all the skaters?

Yeah. We'll have lots of time to work together.

So?

Okay. Yes!

High five.

I'm not sure princesses are supposed to high five. Okay.

Slow five?

Should we start with your spiral?

How's the planning?

Well, despite being highly illogical and quite impossible, it's going well.

Good.

I overheard you at the ice rink earlier with Christina.

I hope I didn't overstep.

No, not at all.

Thanks.

Actually, I wanted to thank you.

She can be tough on herself and take herself too seriously.

It's been hard for her.

She lost her mother six years ago and her grandfather three years ago.

And she knows that despite being a child, everyone sees her as the person

will be queen.

I just know that skating is truly the place where she can just be herself.

I understand that feeling.

Well, thank you. You know, she's putting this pageant on for you.

I had my suspicions of the whole Grinch King fiasco.

Yeah. She thinks you're pretty great.

Wants everyone else to know, too.

But I think she also hopes this pageant will remind you how much you love

Christmas and then get you into the holiday spirit.

Well, I'll give it some thought.

And as ever, I appreciate your unsolicited advice.

Good night, Katie.

Good night, Your Majesty.

Just Alex.

Good night, Alex.

The guest list for the Christmas Eve dinner.

Ah, Christmas Eve royal dinner.

Raining contender for the worst night of the year.

I wouldn't say contender, sir. I'd say the heavyweight champion.

You know, it was tolerable when my father hosted it.

That's unbearably stuffy.

By the way, I need you to reschedule my afternoon meeting with the Chancellor.

I have a surprise planned for Christina.

The seamstress is working on costumes. The set decorations should be delivered

today. The set designers start tomorrow.

Great. And I'd love to set up a meeting with the lighting crew. I'll arrange

that. And let me know anything else I can help with. Thank you so much.

No, thank you.

It's not often we get to have this much fun around here.

Don't worry. Everyone falls down. Give me all the time.

I promise. You're going to get it.

Just take a little bit of practice.

She's having trouble with her spiral.

She's hard on herself.

Yeah, well, she reminds me of somebody else I know.

I have to head to rehearsal for the villagers.

Christina, you're doing great.

No, I'm not. Yes, you are.

But there are only ten days until the pageant.

And I still haven't got the spiral perfect.

And everyone's going to be watching.

Tina Bear.

Daddy.

What are you doing here?

Last night, I was thinking of something your grandfather had said.

In a palace filled with Christmas trees, we must have decorated one ourselves.

You mean we're going to decorate a Christmas tree?

You need to pick one out first.

Yes. Can Katie come?

Oh. Well,

I'm sure Katie's quite busy, but if she can spare an hour.

You could certainly use your Christmas expertise.

Christmas is my middle name.

Then you must join us because my middle name is William.

This one! This one! This one! Can we get that one?

No. No, this one. I really like this one. Please, please, please, please,

please. Please.

This is turning into a photo op for you.

My life is one long photo opportunity.

The joys of being king.

Don't have to tell me. I was proud and clean.

I think I found it. I think I found the perfect tree.

This is the one.

It is perfect.

I'll ask Nicholas to organize delivery.

What?

Well, my family tradition is no Christmas tree shopping is complete

struggling to get the Christmas tree home.

Really? Mm -hmm.

Okay, oh yeah, oh, it's beautiful

Why did I get this job?

I think I assumed since you rule a country, you could probably untangle

Christmas lights.

Well, I once more proved you wrong.

First the struggle with the Christmas tree home, and now the lights.

Christmas should come with a warning.

Yes, warning.

Fun I had.

Do you want some help?

Yes, please.

Some of these ornaments are hundreds of years old. Oh.

I probably shouldn't touch them.

I'm not used to Christmas trees having so much history.

Well, I'm used to being surrounded by history.

My family's always worked for the crown.

And my father assisted Alex's father, my grandfather his grandfather.

You've got to keep untangling it.

I think it would look really good around here.

We grew up together like brothers.

So was working at the palace something you always knew you wanted to do?

There was never any question of doing anything else.

I mean, it's a wonderful job.

Sometimes I get to sit on the throne when no one's looking.

What about you? Did you always know you wanted to skate?

I did, actually.

Yeah, and so did Katie.

We met when we were three.

We grew up on the ice together.

All we ever dreamed about was skating and competing and performing.

And now we have a new dream.

We want to buy an ice rink.

Start a training center where we can coach skaters.

I love to skate. I could always use some coaching. Do you need the practice?

Or we could do something else.

I could take you on a tour of Santanova.

I'd love that.

Miss Hendricks, you're needed at the rink.

What's wrong?

Jessica's hurt.

I've already called the palace doctor.

Yeah, it's fine in there.

The outside's yeah.

What happened?

I slipped and fell wrong.

She'll be fine. It's just a bad sprain.

Walking will be fine in a couple of days, but, um...

No skating for at least three weeks. Three weeks? Three weeks.

But the pageant's in nine days.

Katie, you know the choreography, and you will skate it better than I ever

could. I can't. I have my old injury.

And I haven't been on the ice in years.

We'll figure it out. The country is full of ice skaters. We'll...

Find someone to replace you. I'll hold tryouts.

Oh, right, because you've got nothing better to do.

I have a few things I need to do.

Well, not to add to your list, but I heard from the real estate broker this

morning we have some forms we have to fill out, and she told me that there

be an ice rink in Trenton going up for sale. It's like a half an hour from us.

Don't know why we've never seen it. I haven't seen pictures yet, but it sounds

perfect.

That's great.

I hope I'm not interrupting.

I brought you some flowers.

Thank you. Well, you know, beautiful flowers for a beautiful lady.

How is your ankle?

It's feeling a lot better, thank you. Brilliant. Thank you. Great. Oops.

I'll leave you two alone, and I'll catch you later.

Okay.

What's going on with you two?

Nothing. But he is handsome and odd, but in the best way.

And he's really smart.

And?

And I'm leaving soon.

Well, you never know how things will work out.

Remember what my mom used to say?

Christmas is a time where we open our hearts.

Oh, well, you know, maybe you should open yours to skating in the pageant.

Could you help schedule tryouts for the queen role tomorrow?

Christina needs to get skating with someone as soon as possible. I'd be to

Thank you.

Excuse me.

I'm Patricia.

I'm so sorry to hear about Jessica.

Thank you.

I'll just... The pageant

being illogical and impossible is growing increasingly real.

Well, I have faith in you.

And actually, I have a little matter I could use your advice on.

I reconsidered your take on the palace staff Christmas gift.

You did, did you?

I did. And I could see how my gift could be perceived as... Bad.

I was going to say unsensimental, but... That's the word I was looking for.

I know you've got a lot on your plate, and heaven knows nobody needs this

pageant to succeed more than...

The Grinch King.

I was hoping you could help with some pointers on my gift -giving.

I would love to.

For the palace staff, kitchen crew, Regina, Margaret, Dawson.

Perhaps a coffee cup for Dawson.

Does he drink a lot of coffee?

No, he doesn't.

Help, I'm failing Christmas.

Okay, well, everyone who knows me knows how much I love Christmas ornaments. I

have a collection, although I'm never home to hang them on the tree. But as

gifts, I receive a lot of ornaments with personal significance, and I love them.

So I get the staff ornaments.

I think the key is to give something that tells everyone the place they have

your heart.

Okay, let's see what we can find.

I'll take one of these.

Here, hold that.

I'm sorry, but this gift is socks.

Aren't socks considered universally the worst Christmas gift?

Not socks, Christmas stocking.

They'll hand make them for the staff and we'll hang them above the fireplace.

You can fill them with the cards and the personal gifts to show them how much

you care.

I'm still struggling with the handmade parts.

I'll help you.

Okay, I'll sew you decorate.

It definitely won't be the other way around.

How do you know how to do all this?

I used to do it with my mom.

She loved Christmas, went all out. Everything handmade, DIY.

My mother passed away when I was very young.

I never really knew her.

But my father, he loved Christmas.

Sounds like a great guy already.

What was he like?

Magnanimous, beloved.

I feel like I've heard that somewhere before.

Often it was actually true with him.

I'm not quite the king that he was.

You miss him?

Yeah, I do.

All the time.

Especially at Christmas.

I get that.

The first couple Christmases after my mom passed away, every garland and carol

reminded me of her.

It was hard.

But now Christmas has become a way of...

Celebrating her memory.

Shall we?

Okay.

Okay.

Sorry they're late, but some good press.

Katie is rather something.

Yes, I suppose.

Alex, it is okay to get close to someone again.

I know losing Victoria was hard. Nicholas.

The menu, the kitchen sent over for the Christmas Eve dinner?

Yes. Can you pass it along to Patricia and ask if she'll handle it?

Yes, Your Majesty.

Hi. Hey.

How's it going?

Well, given there's a week until Christmas, better than expected.

Do you want to sit?

Yeah, sure.

How's the ankle?

It's healing well.

Walking's fine. It's just bad timing with the pageant and having to find a

replacement. And what about you?

I'm ready for something new.

The training center?

Mm -hmm. What about you?

Do you think you'll stay at the palace forever?

I'm not quite sure what else I'd do.

Well, what else would you want to do?

Well, I've lived in Santa Nova my whole life, so maybe go somewhere different,

try something new, throw caution to the wind, you know, have an adventure.

Sounds exciting.

Speaking of adventure, didn't you promise me a tour of Santa Nova?

Well, I'm not quite sure it's an adventure, but yes, I did.

Tomorrow?

It's a date.

Great.

Christina? We're supposed to be rehearsing.

Jessica's replacement's coming to practice with you.

Um, well... What's going on?

I don't want to play Princess Sonia anymore.

When I was skating with Jessica, she's a star.

I knew everyone would be looking at her, but...

Now everyone will be looking at me, and they'll expect me to be perfect.

Why would they expect that?

Because princesses are supposed to be perfect.

Like Cinderella.

No one's perfect.

And Cinderella definitely wasn't perfect.

She was always running late and losing things. Like the glass slipper.

It's one thing I'll never understand.

If that glass slipper fit perfectly, then why did it fall off?

And Cinderella was a terrible figure skater.

She was?

Mm -hmm.

Why would she not be? Her coach was a pumpkin.

Sometimes it's just a little hard being out there on the ice.

It is.

But I think that's part of it.

We can't let our fears hold us back from doing what we love most.

What if I were to escape the queen role?

You'd escape with me?

Yeah. But, aren't you hurt?

Well, let's just hope I'm all healed up.

Santanova is so beautiful.

She'll come back in summer when everything can bloom.

I'll take you to the mountains.

I'd like that.

Are you okay?

Fine.

Apologies.

No, it's okay.

He's so sweet and so hilarious. And he just... He just makes me feel all

fluttery.

I'm so happy for you.

Thanks. Oh, and not to change the subject, because I do want to hear

but I did sign the forms that we need to send back to the real estate broker.

Oh, perfect.

Okay. Excuse me, ladies.

I would like to invite you to the Royal Christmas Tea tomorrow afternoon.

It's an age -old tradition.

We'll have tea, finger sandwiches, and traditional Christmas desserts.

My father and I used to bake cookies for it.

Maybe that's something Christina would love to do.

Well, I'm not much of a baker.

Well, Katie's a great baker.

Yeah, she used to make these delicious frosted gingerbread cookies with her

And I'm sure she'd love to help.

I know you're very busy, Katie.

But if you could spare the time, I'm sure Christina would love it.

Anything for Christina.

Very well.

Good afternoon.

That? That was awkward.

No, he's not interested.

I have seen him looking at you, and yes, he is. No, Jessica, he's not.

He dates.

I don't know who he dates, but not people like me.

Why is it that you always think you're not good enough?

I don't. I think I'm great. Good. But he's a king who's here, and I'm also

right now. And as you pointed out earlier, leaving.

What was that thing that your mom used to say about Christmas?

But it's a time when you should open your heart.

And I opened my heart to skating in the pageant.

Speaking of, I should go rehearse with Christina.

It's my first time on the ice in years.

Wish me luck.

Nice. Good job, Lainey.

What was that, Samantha?

Hi. Pick up your feet.

Sam, pick up your feet a bit.

You know, actually,

your dad wanted us to make Christmas cookies, so why don't I get everything

ready in the kitchen and you can rehearse with the other kids?

But I don't want to go.

Then show them who you really are, because everyone loves that person.

I know it can be scary to put yourself out there, but it's worth it.

David with the hat said yay, and then the other kids invited me to carol with

them at the Christmas market on Friday.

Can I go?

Yeah, of course you can, honey.

Oh, we'll perform on Friday at three.

Katie, can you come?

Yeah, definitely.

Dad, can you?

I'll try my best.

I'm stirring. Your dad is still rolling out the dough, although why it's taking

him so long is a great mystery.

Well, I'm trying to get it perfect.

It's a sugar cookie, not an amendment to the Constitution.

My mom used to say that no matter how good the cookie looks, you should always

taste it just to make sure.

Well, a job that important definitely needs all of us.

Thank you very much.

Thank you.

Cheers.

Cheers.

Thank you for the baking lesson.

It was marvelous.

For me, too.

It's been a long time since I've baked Christmas cookies.

So, are you enjoying yourself, or does the question need not be asked?

It's very well organized.

Mm, it is.

You know, it could do with a little bit more holiday cheer.

You should come to the Christmas Eve black -tie dinner in comparison.

This is a carnival.

I'm confused.

If your father loved Christmas so much, then why is it so not festive?

My father was the one who made these events festive.

Enjoyed the gatherings.

You don't?

Not so much.

Maybe you should start your own traditions.

New traditions.

Speaking of new traditions, I have something I want to show you.

Does it mean we get to leave?

Yes.

Here we are.

Wow. For Regina, my driver, cashmere scarf and some driving gloves.

That's perfect.

And then for Margaret, the head chef, a set of antique serving spoons she's

always admired.

That's a great idea.

Thank you so much.

Wow. They look cozy.

They sure do.

Hello.

What has you awake at this hour?

I couldn't sleep. Thought I'd make some hot chocolate.

Curing insomnia with sugar and caffeine.

I can ask the staff to help.

No, I'm perfectly capable of boiling milk and chocolate.

So you sure you don't need any help at all?

Maybe a little.

So do you often have chocolate in the middle of the night?

Well, I figure chocolate comes from cocoa, which comes from a tree, which

it a plant, which means I'm kind of having a salad.

I like your logic.

You can keep a secret.

I keep a stash of candy in my office.

Ooh, state secret.

So the pageant's in five days, and then you go home?

I do.

Although... What?

I guess I've... I've been in such a big rush to get home, but lately I've

realized why I've been the past four years on the road.

To me, home is where my mom was.

Especially at Christmas.

I guess I'm not so sure if going home is actually going to feel like home.

I mean...

Back in New Jersey, I have a lot of people I love, friends, family.

A beau?

No.

No beau.

Oh, no.

I find that hard to believe.

Why not?

I was dating someone, but touring and distance took a toll, and I don't think

really wanted to get close to anyone else.

How come?

After my mom passed away, I...

I didn't want to lose anyone else.

What if you didn't have to lose anyone?

What about you? Do you date?

Not since Christina's mother passed.

I've devoted all my free time to Christina.

Plus, dating in the national spotlight is a little bit daunting.

Although I think I'm ready to find someone.

I know how much Christina wants a family.

You know, I feel with you.

I should get back to this.

What is it? Some more state secrets?

It's the Christmas Eve dinner.

So it's who's invited, who sits where.

The diplomats with the diplomats and the cabinet separated so they don't fight.

Where would a commoner like me sit?

Well, there's nothing common about you at all.

So many of you were to come to the Christmas Eve dinner.

I would see you right next to me.

I just got off the phone with the real estate broker.

The rink I was telling you about in Trenton, it just came on the market.

That's great.

Except there's already some potential buyers interested, so I was thinking

I should go home and take a look at it.

Okay, well, I... Besides, you're going to be home in five days, and until then,

I will fill you in on everything.

Okay.

I'm so sorry I have to leave so early.

Will you come back soon?

I hope so.

And I'll come visit you in New Jersey. New.

And then we'll go visit old Jersey together.

Bye, guys.

Bye. I love you.

Call me when you land.

I will.

You

sure

Edward's traveling the state?

I'll be okay.

You don't need any assistance.

Is that an option?

I'll come visit.

I'd love that.

You sound so beautiful, Tina Bear.

I'm just practising for caroling tomorrow.

And everyone asked me to go sledging after. Can I go?

Do you have time?

Well, I already know my part. I'm just waiting for Katie.

Why, what's wrong?

I'm waiting for her to want to practise together.

I don't think she wants to skate.

What are you doing?

Going over the pageant choreography in my head.

Why in your head?

Why not just skate it?

I tell myself that even though in my dreams I'm on the ice, and every time I

hear music I envision myself doing a routine, I still tell myself I'm okay

skating.

But agreeing to be in the pageant and working with Christina made me realize

that I miss skating.

So much.

I'm scared to get back out there.

You know, I'm terrified to be king.

But I can't not do it just because I'm afraid.

Do you remember this is where we first met?

When you were hiding?

I wasn't hiding

Santa Nova is famous for its night skies.

Is that why you have a star on your flag?

Partially.

The legend has it that the star on the flag is actually the Christmas star.

You're familiar with the story of Princess Sonia? Very well by now. Well,

legend says that as the night fell, Sonia and Catherine followed the

star and guided the villagers back to safety.

I didn't think the Christmas star was real.

You know, my father used to explain it as a personal guiding light.

Something inside of us.

He used to say that if I was ever lost, didn't know which way to go, I could

come out and find the Santanova star, Christmas star, and it'd guide me home.

That's what you're doing out here, looking for guidance.

I guess I am.

You know, I don't always know how to be king.

So I come out here and I find that star and try and remember who I am, what I

want, and what I love.

What star do you imagine it to be?

It's easy.

It's that one.

Oh, it's that one?

No, no, no.

That one there.

I'm at the rink, and it's perfect.

But there are other buyers, and one is already putting in an offer. What should

I do?

I don't know.

Do we have to make an offer now? The pageant's in three days. I'll be home in

four.

Okay.

Okay, yeah.

I'll try to buy it sometime.

Okay, yeah. Just keep me posted. I will. Bye.

Bye.

It's getting cold.

We should probably go in.

have a grievance with that parcel, sir.

Would you like to try?

What is it?

A little something for Katie.

She's leaving soon, so it's the least I could do.

After all, she produced the pageant, helped with the staff Christmas gifts.

Christina really loves her. And you have feelings.

Which you think I have feelings?

The article in the paper, sir?

Ha -ha.

Alex, relax.

You're allowed to have feelings.

No one's going to judge you for it. In fact, people like you all the more.

Katie's leaving.

Oh?

I've heard there's this miraculous invention called the aeroplane.

You could go there. She could come here.

It's not that simple.

She can't imagine how difficult this whole situation is. No, you're right.

can't imagine it.

So you're going to have to tell her.

Okay, first run through in five. Katie, Alex is asking to see you. Now?

We're about to do our first run through.

Well, I can take over for you for a bit.

I get to pretend I'm in charge.

Mustn't keep the king waiting. Thank you.

Hello. Hi.

I didn't know if you'd seen this.

Oh, I didn't.

What do you think? I think...

The photographer got my good side.

I like that about you.

My photogenic angles.

Your ability to see the good in everything.

Because you don't see the good in this.

It's just not so simple as a flirtation when the country's watching and

Christina's growing attached and you're leaving.

I understand it's not so simple a flirtation.

That's not what I meant.

It's okay.

Because it's true. That's all it is.

You're a king, and I'm... So

what else is there to say?

I could get back to her.

Hey, I'm at the ice rink.

Someone's already put in an offer, and the real estate broker's asking us what

we want to do.

Well, what do you think we should do? I want to put in an offer, but that seems

crazy to me when you haven't even seen it. I mean, what if you don't like it?

I trust you.

Katie, this is a huge decision.

I can't make it for both of us.

Very good. It's almost time for a rehearsal.

Perfect. Watch your hand.

I'm so sorry, Christina.

But Jessica needs me. I have to go home.

What?

I found a replacement for the queen role. She's a great skater.

You're leaving?

I'm so sorry.

This is for you.

Mom?

Is that Katie's costume?

So she's finally going to practice with Christina?

I'm sorry.

I thought you knew.

Knew what?

Katie went home.

What

are

you watching?

A Christmas movie.

Well, we both know how that's going to end.

Excuse me, have you seen it? Excuse me, is there a man with a... Any chance

you've changed your mind about performing at the pageant?

No.

I don't want to play Princess Sonia.

Besides, Katie's replacement doesn't know the part.

Well, Tina Bear.

You do know your dear old dad is quite the skater.

What if I replace Katie?

You. The part's for a queen.

But it can be for a king.

It's our Christmas tradition.

We may not have a queen, but we have a princess and we have a king.

There's nothing more important for me than spending time at Christmas with

Aunt Patricia, I was wondering if you could help me with something.

Well, of course.

I've decided I want to cancel the Christmas Eve dinner.

Really?

I think we can start a new tradition.

Quiet family Christmas.

Just us.

Sounds lovely, Alex.

Come on, let's go.

You heard his majesty.

Look what I picked up this morning.

We're still in escrow, but everything looks good. And the old owner said to

this rink our own. So, okay.

Where are you going?

What?

Kind of like a real Christmas.

Thank you.

You were so close.

Why did you stop?

I guess I didn't want to get hurt.

I didn't want to get close and lose someone again.

It doesn't make sense anyway.

Alex and I come from completely different worlds. We want different

I was asking about skating.

Oh.

But you and Alex want the same things.

Each other.

And family.

And I think the home that you were hoping you would find here you found in

Nova.

I know how scared you are of putting your heart into something and really

wanting it and not getting it.

But you didn't get what you wanted with skating, not because you weren't good

enough, but because you gave up on it.

You shut down to it.

You are my best friend, Katie.

You're like a sister to me.

I don't want to watch you waste any more time wishing that you'd gone after the

thing you really love.

What was that thing your mom always said about Christmas?

It's a time where we open our hearts.

Or reopen them.

Even when we're scared, even when we've been hurt, especially then.

Go back to Sansanova.

I can't.

I can't leave you. You're family.

Yeah, but wherever we go, we'll always have each other. But we just bought an

ice rink. Yes, we did.

But I was thinking if you wanted to do something else, then maybe you could be

a silent partner here.

How are you going to start and run a business alone?

Well, actually, I might have some help.

And some help has arrived.

Hi. Hi.

It's good to see you.

Good to see you too.

Jessica leaves quite the lasting impression.

That she does.

We felt as crazy as it is.

We had to give it a shot.

Have an adventure.

And I feel running a training center could be in my wheelhouse. After all,

spent the last decade overseeing the politics of a nation.

I believe I'm well -versed in performance and spectacle.

From the king.

Thank you.

Dear Katie, I remember you said that people who care for you give you

at Christmas.

Although I'm sure you will argue this isn't an ornament.

It's my Christmas star.

And I hope it guides you home.

Love, Alex.

You look beautiful, Tina Bear.

Alex! Alex!

I thought before you went on, there's something you want to see.

Zanzanova's new Founders Day tradition, hosted by the new Christmas King.

The new Christmas King!

Now, Kern's almost up, so you'll give your speech, and then...

We'll begin

See

you out there in a second

Merry Christmas Eve and welcome to Santanova's Founders Day pageants, which

hope will be the first of many to come.

It was always my father's dream to celebrate our founding with a Christmas

spectacle. Christina. Katie.

You came back.

I'm so sorry I left.

Can you forgive me?

Santanova came to be.

Dad.

This has been a very special Christmas.

Perhaps the most special because I was shown the true meaning of the holiday.

That Christmas is a time that no matter where we are or how we are, we're

brought back to one another.

That Christmas is a day that reminds us of our greatest gift.

Our family.

Our friends.

Our community.

And our country.

The people we love.

The Christmas is a day that guides us home.

So from my family to yours, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas.

Yeah, I see yours.

I'm very glad I didn't have to do that.

I'm so happy you came back.

Me too.

I realized that I don't want to train anymore.

I want to skate.

And I was thinking...

Dan Sanova has the tourist.

You've got a ring.

You've got the perfect makings for a permanent show.

With a role for me, I hope.

You'd have to audition.

Katie, it doesn't matter to me if I'm a king and you're the prom queen.

I'm just a man who loves a woman who he hopes loves him back.

What a sweet ending.

Thanks for watching.

For more holiday fun, go to HallmarkChannel .com to play the

Game for a chance to win big and vote on all your favorite Christmas movies.

Join me tomorrow night when a big city girl meets a small town guy.

Holiday sparks are going to fly.

You don't want to miss Lacey Chabert and Brendan Penny. Pride, Prejudice, and

Mistletoe premieres tomorrow night at 8. From all of us at Hallmark Channel,

happy Thanksgiving. Good night.