Original subtitles

Hang on the mistletoe, I'm gonna get to know you better.

This Christmas, fireflies blazing bright.

Mom, we talked about this.

Lots of couples live together. There's nothing scandalous about it. It doesn't

bother me that you're moving in with Brian.

Really? It bothers me that you're only moving in with Brian.

And over Christmas.

And there it is.

That's the one time in the year that we get to see you.

You know, if you're really getting serious about this Brian.

His name's not this Brian.

Then what was?

I mean, why wouldn't you bring him home so you can spend time with your family?

Mom, you know how crazy my job is. It made sense to use my vacation time to

and move.

But that didn't also leave time for a big cross -country trip to Connecticut.

Oh, well, I wouldn't want time spent with your family to be a burden.

Can't imagine why it would ever feel that way.

Listen, Mom, of course you should meet Brian, and of course I will miss you for

the holidays, but I just, I can't be in two places at once. I'm doing the best I

can. I know, I know.

All right, I gotta go, okay? I'll call you Christmas morning. Okay, sweetie.

Bye.

Finish the Christmas tree.

Oh.

Jeez, your mom. What do you expect?

Not a guilt trip in the middle of holiday shopping.

Although that was actually somewhat restrained. She didn't once ask when

and I are getting married.

I swear, one of these days I'm going to find out she called my gynecologist

directly to inquire about my waning fertility.

Oh, no.

You know, she should be happy that you're moving in together.

At least you're one step closer to getting married. Why should that matter?

I've got a successful job, great friends, a good life.

Yeah, I'm just saying, if I'm going to lose you as a roommate, at least one of

us should get some bling out of it.

Speaking of bling, I don't know what's worse, being pressured into marriage by

meddling Jewish mother or being emotionally blackmailed into it by a

campaign.

You work for the ad agency. You tell me.

Michael, you sure you're ready to do this?

I've been together five years. You would have thought I'd done this already,

right?

But, uh, I got this great job offer out here, and Courtney wanted to stay in

Boston.

Hmm.

Not gonna lie to you, I wouldn't mind a month without a cross -country trip.

But, uh, she'd never come out here without a marriage proposal, so, well,

we are.

What do you think?

Hey, don't look at me.

I think that when you find the right ring, you'll just know.

You're right.

Hmm.

Really?

None of them?

Oh, thanks.

Sorry to waste your time.

New roomie's going to be by to pick up the keys and her copy of the lease.

Got it. Don't worry.

Though you could tell her to move in with Brian and you could stay here.

I'm going to miss you, too.

Have a great time with your family. We'll hang out when you get back.

Okay.

That's my sister. Gotta go.

Merry Christmas. Bye. Merry Christmas.

Come on in. The keys and lease are right here on the table.

Steph?

Oh, Brian, what a nice surprise.

You know, I actually have more books than I thought. I have seven boxes of

books, so we're going to need to get another bookshelf. I thought we could

it in your spare bedroom.

Our spare bedroom.

Steph. There's a Christmas sale at that furniture store.

Hey, Stephanie?

Yeah. Can we, uh... Are you okay?

You look pale. Are you sick?

I don't think we should move in together.

Huh? I think we should break up.

What are you talking about?

Look, things between us, they haven't been great for a couple of months.

Well, yeah, it's been a difficult time, but we both agreed that we should move

in together so we would have more quality time to work things out.

But shouldn't we move in together because things are going really well?

Yeah, I mean, I guess.

Why did you even ask me to move in with you?

Because I thought it was what you wanted, and I thought it could be what I

wanted, but I've thought about it a lot, and it's not.

And you waited until after Kate rented out my room to tell me?

I had to be sure.

You do realize you've rendered me homeless, like some woman is going to be

moving into my room next week?

Come on, Stephanie. You and I both know there's no way that Kate is going to

kick you out. Oh, that's right, right, because I can just crash on my own

That's a real comfort, Brian.

You're a great girl, Stephanie.

I know I am. Get out.

Hi, I'm Marilyn. Kate said I could pick up my key. Yeah, come back later.

Hey. Are you all packed?

We're working on it.

Okay, but don't bring that green and blue tie.

What's wrong with it? It's my favorite tie.

It'll clash with the dress I'm wearing for Christmas dinner.

Oh, and when you get in, we're going to go straight out with my friends, right

from the airport.

Courtney, I thought we agreed this trip was about spending time together, alone,

to reconnect.

It's Christmas.

I know.

Well, we'll just figure it out when you get here, okay?

Travel safe. Love you. Bye.

Looks like it's from Aunt May.

Uncle Joe, here you go.

Holiday travelers.

With over 2 .6 million passengers expected, LAX is bracing for one of its

biggest holidays on record.

Seems like everyone wants to go home for Christmas.

Back to you, Jason.

That's it.

Of course I can book a cross -country flight the day before Christmas Eve with

less than a day's notice.

It's called Power Positive Thinking.

My rent is less than that.

Well, here's one.

December 23rd, red eye, three layovers, center seat.

I'll take it.

Worst Christmas ever.

Thank you.

Help the homeless right here.

Ho, ho, ho.

Merry Christmas, everyone. Thank you very much, young lady.

Is there something special that you wanted for Christmas?

Uh, new boyfriend, place to live. Got either of those.

Ho, ho, ho. Well, Santa will see what he can do.

Ho, ho, ho. You know, can I actually make a Hanukkah wish, too? You know,

my chances.

Sure, why not?

Ho, ho, ho.

Merry Christmas.

Ho, ho, ho.

Merry... Merry Christmas, everyone.

Help the homeless right here.

Ho, ho, ho.

Merry Christmas, everyone.

Ho, ho, ho.

Merry Christmas.

Help the homeless right here. Excuse me, sir. Can you spare a little change to

help the homeless?

Sure, why not? Well, thank you very much, sir. Is there a wish I could grant

you? I don't know. Does Santa help wish seekers make major life decisions?

I didn't think so.

Ho,

ho, ho.

Merry Christmas, everyone!

Excuse me.

I won't excuse you.

I'm in line here, okay? We're all just patiently waiting in line.

You know what makes you think you're so special you can just cut the line like

people don't matter?

Oh, let me guess. First class.

Maybe you think... Actually, yeah, but, uh... Oh.

We're in a few parts of flying back and forth across country.

A lot.

Anyhow, good luck.

Ma 'am.

Oh, sorry, sorry.

Come on, people, keep the line moving.

Everybody has to get home for Christmas.

Boarding pass, please.

Uh, all right.

I was just here a second ago.

Can something please go right this Christmas?

Careful.

Don't want to break that.

Thank you.

Everybody needs a little help at the holidays.

And I believe you were looking for this?

How did... I swear it was not here a second... Ma 'am.

Where did he go?

Ma 'am. Oh, I'm sorry.

Oh, wait. This can't be right.

I was supposed to have, like, three layovers.

Stephanie Hunt.

Yes, that's me.

Says you're traveling to Boston and then continuing on to Hartford. I know, but

that's not... I must have been really tired last night.

Line three.

Okay, I'm sorry. Sorry.

Good morning, and welcome to flight 1225 to Boston.

At this time, we'd like to begin boarding group number one. That's first

assistance and families with young children.

Have a great flight.

Thank you.

Excuse me, would you mind helping me carry this to my seat? Of course not.

me just take a look at your boarding pass.

Okay, you're way in the back.

Way in the back, okay.

Just give me a minute, if you don't mind. I'm not quite as spry as I used to

I understand, sir, but if we could just keep the line moving.

Wait, sir, would you like to take my seat?

Oh, no, I couldn't possibly.

I insist.

Long flight, you'll get to stretch your legs.

No, no, no.

Mr. Nolan, you're giving up first class.

Well, I think I'll survive.

Well, at least let me give you something.

Absolutely not.

It's Christmas.

Enjoy your flight.

No good deed goes unpunished.

Okay.

Thank you for your patience. We will now begin boarding group number six.

Excuse me.

Hello?

Brian?

Look, I was just wondering when you're going to come by and get your stuff.

You can't possibly be this much of a jerk.

I was just waiting for you to come down here. I want to get your stuff back. How

does that make me a jerk?

Excuse me. Excuse me. Yeah, okay.

Yeah, let me... Excuse me. There you go.

Because I just boarded a flight to go home to Connecticut for the holidays,

know? After you ruined mine because you were a spectacularly selfish man -child

who I sadly just wasted a year of my life on.

Oh. I mean, what kind of person dumps his girlfriend and kicks her out of his

house? During the holidays!

It just wasn't working, Steph.

You know, if you were unhappy, don't you think that, oh, I don't know, talking

to me about it would have been a better solution?

Ma 'am, the captain's turned on the seatbelt sign.

You know what?

I've already wasted enough of my time on you. Just pack up my stuff and mail it

to me.

What about my stuff? My college sweatshirt, my colognes, and my electric

toothbrush? We are pushing away from the gate. You can forget about your

electric toothbrush, Brian.

Miss? I already used it to clean the grout in my shower.

Excuse me, miss.

All electronic devices turned off for takeoff.

Now. Okay.

We'll continue this later, Brian.

Oh.

Look who it is. The line cutter.

I told you I did not cut in line.

What happened to first class?

I traded my seat.

You're honestly telling me that you decided to sit here on purpose?

Let me ask you something.

Are all men liars or just the ones in my life?

I'm not lying.

This guy was having a rough day, so I decided to help him out.

You would have done the same thing.

Yeah. Feeling real charitable right now.

Welcome on board flight 1225 to Boston.

Our aircraft is under the command of Captain Dunn. She has informed me that

flying time will be approximately five and a half hours.

Don't care where we're headed, long as it's you and I.

Far above the clouds where the sun always shines.

Anywhere we go feels like paradise.

Oh, my God. Oh, we're going to die. We're going to die. We're not going to

How do you know?

We're going to fly a lot, at least once a month.

And? And? And does this happen every time you fly?

No, but I'm sure it's just one of the military ones.

I'm not even supposed to be on this plane. I'm supposed to be at home, back

.A., moving into a new apartment. But no, this is happening.

This is home.

It's going to be okay.

It's going to be okay.

You're not planning to win.

Michael? Hey.

Aren't you supposed to be in the air? I was about to leave to come and get you

in an hour.

Yeah, well, we hit a storm and got rerouted to Montana.

Really? So how late are you going to be?

I don't know. I don't control the weather, babe.

I'm fine, by the way. Thanks for asking.

I'm sorry. I just... I have a lot going on.

It would have been easier if you would have come to L .A. for Christmas.

Michael, we've talked about this. It just isn't Christmas if it's 70 degrees.

How would you know if you... You know what? Never mind. I don't want to fight.

I know.

And I'm glad you're okay.

No, I'm fine.

I'll call you as soon as I know something.

Okay? Okay.

I gotta go.

Okay, bye.

Bye, hon.

You know what I just realized about this whole thing?

The signs are there, we just... I don't want to see them.

What whole thing?

Doomed relationships.

I'm sorry, were you just... were you listening to my conversation?

I wasn't listening so much as standing half a foot away from you while you

talked loudly.

I'm just a human being with ears.

Yeah, well, if I want your opinion, I'll ask for it, okay?

And from what I heard earlier, you're not exactly an expert at relationships.

I'm sorry, were you listening to my conversation?

The entire plane couldn't help but listen to your conversation.

Okay, here's my point. I'm kind of an expert at doomed relationships, okay?

Yes, I was yelling at my ex on the plane. I'm actually supposed to be in L

right now, moving into his apartment. But instead, he broke up with me. Happy

holidays, right? Someone broke up with you?

Wow, imagine that.

Okay, I'll admit it. I've had three failed relationships in the past four

I don't know what it is.

Maybe I'm just not cut out for relationships.

Maybe I picked the wrong men.

I mean, I think I'm a pretty good communicator. So you're done?

Yeah. I am done with dating, love, all of it. I'm done.

No, I've just been pretty done talking.

Well, based on your conversation, I think it might be a good plan for you,

You know, relationships take compromise and patience.

Two things from what I've heard, you probably lack.

I do not. I, on the other hand, believe in commitment.

That you need to work at a relationship, even when things get hard. Especially

when things get hard.

Maybe you're right. Maybe you need to pick a guy who will just go that extra

mile for you.

I suppose you're willing to go the extra mile.

Absolutely. All 3 ,000 of them.

Every month for the last two years, from L .A. to Boston.

Making it work.

That's what I do.

Well, you're probably right.

Thank you for saying that.

How hard can it be to make it work one weekend a month?

Flight 1225?

Yes. We have booked everyone on a new flight.

That's great.

Fantastic.

Let's see, leaving tomorrow at 4 o 'clock in the afternoon.

Tomorrow is Christmas Eve.

Yeah, I'm sorry. All flights between here and the eastern seaboard have been

grounded due to storm weather across the Midwest.

This airport and all surrounding airports have been shut down until

improve. We will, of course, provide you with vouchers so that you can get local

accommodations, but I do suggest calling soon.

With this many flight cancellations, the vacancies will fill up.

Your girlfriend's going to be thrilled.

And I'm sure very understanding Thank you

Merry Christmas

Hey there. Hi.

Ever know of any hotels that might have any vacancies? You know, something off

the beaten path?

Well, my cousin's got his camper up on Airbnb.

Thanks for your help.

My pleasure.

Hello? I heard about all the planes being grounded because of the weather.

Are you okay?

Yeah.

Oh, wait.

Hang on a second. Hang on.

Sorry. Sorry, this outlet's taken.

Sorry about that.

Sorry.

Are you out of breath?

Yeah, yeah, just dealing with an outlet situation.

It's like survival of the fittest over here.

Oh, my God.

Never mind. Listen, Mom, I'm fine. I mean, this Christmas cannot get any

right?

I think I am just going to spend the night on the floor of this airport.

Oh, no.

That won't do.

I got to go. I'll call you back later.

Okay, Steffi, take it easy.

You... I remember you from the airport in Los Angeles. You helped me find my

boarding pass.

No. Stephanie Hunt.

Any luck finding a room?

Oh, you know, it's holiday season in ski country.

I think this entire airport is calling the same dozen hotels and motels.

Luck's not exactly on my side.

How about you?

Well, I've got friends nearby.

I pass through here frequently for work.

For work? Really? What do you do?

Oh, uh, mainly distribution.

My point is, I know the area.

And there's a nice little place a couple of towns over.

It's called the Inn at Charles Peak.

I know the owners.

And you tell them that you're a friend of Noel's, I'll bet they can find you a

warm bed for the night.

That would be amazing.

You've been like my good luck charm all day.

Nah, just a friend.

What do they call it? When you carry on a good deed, paying it forward.

That young man over there, he gave up his first class seat for me on the

He really did that?

Maybe you could find him a room, too.

Merry Christmas, Stephanie.

Merry Christmas.

The Inn at Charles Peak. How may I help you?

Um, yeah.

I'm a friend of Knoll's, and he told me to call and see if you might have any

rooms available.

Oh, I'm so sorry. I wish I could help. Any friend of Knoll's is a friend of

mine. But we're completely booked for tonight.

Yeah, I had a feeling you'd say that.

Our flight got diverted from Boston to Bozeman, and we can't leave until

tomorrow. Do you know of any other places in the area?

Wait.

Yes?

This might be your lucky day.

I'm pretty sure that's not true.

It seems that the reservation for one of our nicest rooms, a suite, has just

been canceled.

It's yours if you want it. I want it, I want it, I want it.

You got it. It's yours.

So what if he gave his seat to a nice old man on a plane?

Do you need a place to sleep tonight?

What? A place to sleep. Do you need one?

Are you saying that my accommodations here are somehow lacking?

If you needed a place to stay, if you had no other options, you can share my

hotel room with me.

Know the man you gave your seat to on the plane. Yeah, you said I was alive

I told you that.

Yeah, well, it was kind of hard to believe.

Wait a second.

Are you apologizing?

Let me put it this way.

You have two choices.

I can apologize, or I can offer to share with you what is likely the last

available hotel room within a 50 -mile radius.

Hmm.

Do you want to share your hotel with me?

No, not at all.

But it's Christmas, and frankly, this is making me want to cry.

And that's different than your normal, even keeled emotional state.

Okay, never mind.

No, Will, hold up. Wait.

Wait, wait, wait.

Thank you. I will take you up on your offer.

I'm Michael.

Michael Nolan.

Stephanie Hunt.

Well, nice to meet you, officially.

We both know that's not true.

Well, since we're going to be sharing a room together, I guess maybe we should

get to know each other a little.

What do you want to know?

I don't know. You're not a serial killer, are you?

Only on the weekends.

My day job is marketing.

Really? You sound surprised.

No, it's just I'm in advertising.

You move out to L .A. for a job or for one of the loser guys you said you're

swearing off now?

Listen, you don't know me.

And you don't know me. It didn't stop you from telling me to dump my

I didn't tell you to dump your girlfriend.

Welcome to Charles Peak.

Wow.

Would you look at this town? This is amazing.

Got to admit, this is a tad nicer than your little bench at the airport.

Hey, my bench had a real Spartan charm to it.

But I guess this'll do.

Seriously, though.

Thank you.

Hi. Hi!

You must be Noel's friend.

Yeah, hi.

Stephanie. Joe, come, come, come.

What?

This is Stephanie Hunt, Noel's friend. Oh!

Any friend of Noel's is a friend of ours.

Well, that's what I just think.

And you must be Mr. Hunt.

Uh, no.

No, Nolan, actually. Oh, excuse me. I'm sorry.

Michael Nolan.

Oh, a modern woman.

Didn't change her last name. I can respect that.

Uh, no.

Funny. No, we're not... Not together at all. No. We met on a plane. On a plane.

Oh, you looked like a real nice couple when you walked in.

Oh. Yeah, no.

We just met on that flight.

And then when I booked this room, I just thought maybe I should share it with

him because he was, you know, in the airport, sad, on a bench. It was

really. A little bit.

Oh, well, then let's just get you checked in. Come on, then. Follow me.

All right. Come on, Joe.

Now, we have four guest rooms on the second floor.

But this room is the hotel's pride and joy.

It's the inn's honeymoon suite.

I'm sorry. Did you just say honeymoon?

Where would you like me to put this?

I'll just let you two work it out.

Let us know if we can get you anything.

Sleep tight.

Well, we made it.

Yep.

To the honeymoon suite at the inn at Charles Peak in Montana.

We have certainly made it.

I'm going to call my girlfriend.

Did you get a new flight?

Yes, but it won't be until late tomorrow night.

Wait.

You're going to miss Christmas dinner?

Courtney, there's nothing I can do. There are no flights back east.

Not until the weather clears.

Hey, can you keep it down out there? People are trying to sleep.

Sippy!

Can't do that, Mom. You raised us not to lie.

I'm sorry, but my frequent flyer mile can't get me out of everything.

No, it's not your fault. I'm sure you've had a terrible day.

Hey, there's a back rub waiting for you when you finally get here.

That sounds nice.

I miss you.

Hey, jerk!

Can you please take that call into your own room?

Who is that?

Just get a good night's sleep, and this will all work out in the morning.

I think that's overly optimistic, given the fact that up till now, literally

nothing has worked out.

Tiffany. I'm fine, Mom.

Some guy was upset with me for being on the phone in the hallway.

Why are you on the phone in the hallway?

Is there a man in your room? I can't even begin to get into that right now.

Tiffany. Is there a woman in your room?

Um, uh, what?

I'll see you soon, Mom, weather permitting.

There. That voice. Who is that?

Yes. There is a woman in my room.

You know, actually, just to be safe, let's just say that I'll see you by New

Year's Eve, which is fine, because now that I've been dumped, I'm just wide

that evening.

Stephanie Michelle Hunt.

I'll be fine, Mom, really. I just, I need to get a good night's sleep, okay?

I'll talk to you later.

All right. Good night, sweetheart.

I'm worried about her.

We met on the plane.

You're sharing a hotel room with a woman that you met on the plane.

It's not like that.

I don't even like her.

Oh, no. Now my day's really terrible.

So who is she? Why can't she get her own hotel room? Actually, it is her hotel

room. She invited me to stay.

So a strange woman invited you to stay in her hotel room, and you said yes.

She offered me a place to stay, Courtney, so I wouldn't have to lie in

airport.

Trust me all of a sudden.

I've ever given you reason not to.

Listen, I bend over backwards for this relationship.

I just like that to be acknowledged for once.

You're right.

You've always been faithful and it's just hard

being so far apart.

I know.

I know it's hard.

Yeah.

Well, maybe we should talk about that when we finally see each other, huh?

That'd be good.

Hey, Courtney, I gotta go.

I'll call you as soon as I know something.

Okay.

Okay, good night, hon.

So I take it that you get that big, comfortable bed, and I get this small

couch, huh?

Yep.

Yeah. Sounds about right.

um

What are you doing? I have to use the bathroom. Well, I'm in the bathroom.

I can see that.

Why are you still standing there?

I actually do have to use the bathroom.

Okay, just go in there and just stay in there. so that I can get changed,

please. OK.

And yell if you want to come out. I don't want any more surprises.

You betcha.

Is it safe at this very moment to come on out now?

Yes, it's safe.

Oh, wow.

You don't have a shirt on.

I'm going to go get some breakfast.

Oh, well, I'm starving. I'll go with you if you want.

Don't you need to put on some clothes, maybe?

Yeah, good point.

All right. Wow. Okay.

Yeah, it's just going to take me a minute.

You know, I'm a guy. It doesn't take me long. Yeah.

All right. Yeah.

Get right out.

Do you hear music?

That's going to kill him.

Oh,

we didn't know you were still here. We were just practicing for tonight.

What's tonight?

The Charles P. Christmas Eve dance.

Part of the big annual Christmas fair.

Yeah, didn't you see the big banner when you drove in last night?

We must have missed it. It's a big deal in this town.

And every year, Peter and Doreen walk, win the dance contest. But this year...

We're going to give them a run for their money. Right, baby? Got that right.

You know, it's too bad that you're flying out today.

It's going to be a lot of fun.

Yeah.

We're just wondering if you could recommend a place to eat.

Oh, that's easy. Dinky's.

That's Flapjacks and all of Gallatin County.

And the name of the restaurant is Dinky's?

Center of town, left -hand side of the road. Can't miss it.

Okay, then.

Dinky's it is.

See you later. Enjoy.

Have fun practicing.

Get them this time.

All right.

We're going to get them this time. We're going to get them this time, baby.

Boom.

To the band.

Wow.

Wow.

Christmas is a big deal around here.

Come on.

Where's your holiday spirit?

Well, I've been trying not to lose it the last couple days.

Well, we should definitely check out the Christmas fair after we eat.

We've got a plane to catch.

We've got plenty of time. Besides, how many opportunities do you have to go to

the Charles Peak Christmas Fair?

Not nearly enough, apparently.

Come on.

After you.

Who said chivalry is dead?

There you go. You two enjoy them.

I feel like I haven't eaten in days.

How many pancakes are too many pancakes?

We're in Charles Peak, so they're actually called flapjacks.

And if I wasn't positive, I'd be single for the rest of my life. And if I

actually thought of you like a regular guy.

Thank you.

Then I might worry about how many flapjacks is too many.

Mmm.

Mmm. I've forgotten how good these taste.

Been a while, huh?

Well, Courtney has me on more of a plain oatmeal kind of diet.

Who are you, Oliver Twist?

She wants me to take care of myself.

Well, I'm not saying we should subsist on fat, carbs, and sugar, but they do

taste delicious, and every once in a while... Whoa, whoa. Yeah, you gotta

little.

Mm -hmm.

Excuse me. Can we get two hot chocolates, please? Of course. With

marshmallows.

You're a bad influence.

So, what time do you think we need to leave for the airport?

Well, the flight's at four, so about 2 .30.

You don't really want to go check this out, do you?

When I was growing up in Bridgeport, my Hebrew school had a holiday carnival

every year. My mom and I used to kill at the games. We had an entire closet full

of cheap stuffed animals.

Come on. What else is there to do?

Fine. More fun for me, I suppose.

So, Hebrew school, huh?

I thought you celebrated Christmas.

My mom's Jewish, my dad's Catholic, so, you know, best of both worlds.

Nine days of presents?

It's not really like that.

I mean, it's kind of like that.

Oh, that's super cute.

Well, you want me to win it for you?

Please.

I'd like to give it a try.

You know what? So will I.

Oh, is that how it's going to be?

Maybe I also want an adorable snowman.

Maybe you're going to keep wanting it. Oh, okay.

Not bad.

Check this out.

You know, the point is actually to hit something.

I'm just warming up.

A little bit of light touch there.

Just a skosh.

This is rigged.

Did you just say bare the ball?

Okay, it's impossible to knock them all over.

We have a winner!

Boom! Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas to me!

Boom!

Okay, can I have two more?

You sure you're okay with that? I'm fine.

Do you need help handling it? Okay, let's be nice, okay?

You know, I've missed this.

This what?

Real Christmas.

Lights, decorations, cold.

No, not the way you warm -blooded Californians do it.

You make a lot of assumptions about people, don't you?

I'm actually from a small town myself.

Really? You are?

Yeah.

Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, about an hour outside Boston.

What brought you out to L .A.? I worked out of the Boston office with my

marketing firm, Unique Media.

Unique.

Very impressive.

Well, they offered me a great promotion in L .A., and I took it.

That's some company. They just poached one of our best executives.

What firm are you with?

Kitcherton Peterson.

I hear they're tough.

They are tough. I work all the time.

That's why I can't seem to hold on to a relationship.

At least, I hope that's why.

But I love L .A., you know?

Can't beat the weather, the beach, amazing hiking.

What's your favorite trail?

Easy, Temescal. It's totally worth it to hike uphill the whole first part of

that hike.

Yeah, for the view right at the top where you see the whole city from

all the way to the ocean. Yeah.

Love that hike.

You know, if you're looking for an authentic East Coast experience in L

there's this great pub I go to. It's off Broadway.

Poverty?

You've heard of it?

I'm there all the time.

You know, maybe we'll run into each other when we're back in L .A. Grab a

If we ever make it back to L .A.

Oh,

we should probably get going.

Yeah. Leave ourselves plenty of time at the airport, you know.

Don't want to chance it.

Got that?

It's so heavy.

Yeah, I bet it is.

Hey, um, how about if I pop in here real quick?

I'll come with you, but sure, make it quick.

Um, is there anything in particular I can help you find?

I think we're just browsing.

Uh, we just got this piece in. It's part of an estate sale at least a hundred

years old.

Oh, it's stunning.

Would you like to try it on?

Oh, no, thank you.

Hey, can I take a look at that ring?

Yes.

Yeah.

I think that's something Courtney might want.

Seriously?

You don't like it?

Oh, no.

She's not.

I'm Stephanie.

Not Courtney. Not his girlfriend. Not my girlfriend.

We met on a plane. Our flight was grounded because of the storm.

I'm just thinking about proposing to my girlfriend, Courtney.

And, uh, well, maybe if I had the right ring. Well, of course, the right ring is

the key to a man's romantic declaration.

I can't believe you're actually considering proposing to this woman.

The one you've fought with every time you speak to her on the phone.

The one you only see once a month.

Okay, yeah.

Courtney and I have had a few misunderstandings in the 24 hours that

known me.

24 hours out of five years of dating.

But you don't just throw away a relationship because of a couple

At least most people don't.

Oh.

Thank you.

Thank you for establishing that I am a relationship failure and you're just Mr.

Reliable. You know...

I'm going to go back to the end to pack. Good luck choosing your ring.

A storm that yesterday grounded some 40 flights headed to or within the eastern

United States has struck again. The National Weather Service predicts wind

up to 30 miles per hour will make air travel all but impossible for at least

next eight hours.

Good afternoon.

Sir, would you like me to wrap this up?

Seriously, Kate, this has literally been the worst Christmas ever.

Well, it is not over yet.

You'll make it home, right?

You have no idea.

And now the news is saying that the storm won't let up until later tonight.

There isn't even another flight out until tomorrow.

Oh, on Christmas Day.

I wasn't even supposed to be traveling this Christmas. I was supposed to be

with Brian, like ordering Chinese food, maybe watching a movie.

Having some time to yourself isn't such a bad thing.

What do you mean?

I'm just saying, isn't it interesting how impossible it's been for you to pick

ring for Courtney?

So, call Brian and see if he still wants to get that Chinese food. He's probably

free. I don't think so.

Close enough.

Look, you're always saying how LA is just so homogenized.

Everybody's trying to be so perfect.

And now...

You've landed in what sounds like a really charming, just authentic place.

Yeah. All I'm saying is, if there's a silver lining, you'll find it.

You know what the saddest part is? Brian's not even the biggest jerk I've

deal with this week.

Is that what this is about?

Some guy?

Knock, knock.

It's Christmas Eve.

You two aren't going to stay in here, are you?

Well, yes.

We saw the town.

Ate a dinky.

Went to the jewelry store.

But what about the dance?

Oh, now look.

You got one night left in this town.

We are not going to let either of you waste it in here.

Now, come on.

That sounds kind of nice.

Maybe we'll think about it. Good.

Don't make us have to come back for you.

Okay.

Go out. Don't be such a mope.

Okay. I'll go.

I'll call you later.

Bye.

You're really thinking about going?

What's the alternative?

Sitting here and complaining?

I thought it was a viable plan.

Dude! Oh.

Michael, is there something you need to tell me?

Hey, sorry, man. I'll call you when I get back to Boston.

You almost ready?

Why don't you go ahead? I'll catch up later.

Oh, no, no, no, no. We're in this together.

I need a minute. I'll meet you downstairs.

Only to that.

What? Nothing.

Seriously, what?

You look, um... Is it too much?

No.

You look beautiful.

Oh.

Thank you.

Well, you heard what they said. We only have one night. We shouldn't waste it

here.

Nope.

I guess they're right. The whole town is here.

I could use a drink.

I'll follow your lead.

Eggnog.

Quite the stiff drink I was hoping for, but it'll do.

Cheers.

Cheers.

Well, you said you missed having a real Christmas.

Yes, I did.

Ho, ho, ho!

Everyone having a good time today?

I said, is everyone having a good time today?

For those of you who've been here before, it's good to see you. And for

folks out there, welcome to the 101st Annual Charles P. Christmas Eve

Dance!

Now, I hope you've all brought yourselves a partner, because we're

underway with our annual dance contest.

But first, Peter and Doreen.

have been dominating this party long enough. The question is, is anyone

finally going to take it away from them this year? Remember, the only rule

is, have a good time. Ready?

Yeah!

Oh, if it isn't the cute couple from this morning.

Oh, we're not. No. You two better get out there and dance.

I'm not much of a dancer.

I like to watch the fat lives.

If my Jimmy was still with us, heck, I'd be out there all night.

You have to take advantage of when you're young.

Enjoy each other.

Oh, okay. Here we go. Come on.

Oh,

you know, I've waited on a lot of couples in my life.

And I can always tell the ones that are going to make it.

Uh, how?

The eyes.

They never lie.

Do you mind speaking my tongue?

Not at all.

Okay.

All right. Okay.

Does that work? Yeah.

That's good.

Okay.

You wouldn't take it.

Just, you know. Is that it? No, that's it.

Try a turn. Oh, I don't know.

Oh, okay.

Oh, okay.

Oh.

Hey there.

Hi.

Hi.

Maybe, um, I think we should get some air.

This just may be the most amazing place I've ever seen.

And to think if I'd actually had moved in with Brian, I never would have gotten

to see any of this.

I'm really sorry, Stephanie.

Oh.

Don't be. I'm actually relieved.

Really? Why?

It's only been a few days away from him, and already I just feel like... like

myself again.

I hadn't realized how much energy I was putting into being Brian's girlfriend

instead of just being me.

It was exhausting.

I can't imagine you changing yourself for anyone or anything.

Yeah, well, I guess I've always been pretty sure of myself with friends and

work, but in relationships, I don't know.

How do you know when it's right?

I have no idea.

Well, you must have some idea. I mean, you're about to propose to someone.

I'm sorry.

That was out of line. I didn't mean that. I sincerely want to know.

How did you know that now is the time?

I don't know that now is the time.

Courtney and I have been together for so long.

I'm close with her family. We're an integral part of each other's lives.

And she was patient with me while I put my career before a relationship.

I think that's a bit of an oversimplification.

That's what we do, right?

People, civilization, we couple, we... We choose a life partner and we commit.

We do the right thing.

Right, but if someone was going to propose to me, not... that I can ever

that happening, but theoretically.

I would want that person to be ecstatic, over the moon, literally bursting with

excitement. Yeah, well, life isn't like that.

It isn't a fairy tale. It isn't, I don't know, what... A country barn decorated

with twinkly lights?

All I'm saying is that the excitement wears off.

It's not sustainable.

The day -to -day, it's just not what it's about.

Fine, sure. Day -to -day, when you're shopping for groceries or paying the

electric bill or one of you gets the flu, sure, I don't expect anyone to be

bursting with excitement.

But if a man is going to consider spending the rest of his life with me, I

want him to be hopeful and confident, joyful about the possibility of

our life together.

I wouldn't want obligation to have any part in that decision.

But maybe that's just me.

Like, what I think I would want. I'm sorry.

Maybe that is a fairy tale.

What do I know, right? Like, look at me. I'm the single one.

Hey.

You deserve a fairy tale.

Uh, you coming in, or... I'm sure I'll hang out for a bit.

Okay.

Okay.

Oh, no.

You didn't like the dance.

No, I...

I did. It was beautiful.

Well, if that's your happy face, I don't want to see what you look like when

you're miserable.

Michael! Hey, how was the dance?

Eight times the charm.

Congratulations.

Thanks.

Oh, boy.

Ooh, it's cold.

Well, you two look like you were having a good time out there.

Maybe too good.

Is there such a thing?

There is when you have a girlfriend who's been waiting patiently for years

you move across the country in pursuit of your career.

What is wrong with me?

I'm more upset about a guy I just met proposing to his girlfriend than...

than I am about being dumped by a jerk I've dated for a year.

You know, it seems like a lot of work, keeping something going from a long

distance like that.

Work.

Yeah, it's definitely what it feels like.

It's not good for anybody.

And after tonight, it's... She's got you wondering.

Well, it's not like it wasn't something I thought about before, but Stephanie...

She is something, huh?

She's impulsive, argumentative, loud.

She doesn't care what other people think. She does whatever she wants to

And you like it.

That's what I'm afraid of.

Usually I avoid confrontation, but with her I feel like I can, I don't know,

just say whatever I need to.

It feels good.

I always picked the wrong guys. Always.

And it turns out, this great guy was basically right around the corner for

years.

I just have this feeling he's going to marry the wrong girl.

Corny's been in my life for so long.

I just assumed that one day, when the timing was right,

she'd be part of my future.

She's definitely.

Let me tell you something that I've learned in all the many years that I've

here on this earth.

Life can surprise you.

Yeah, it can.

And there we were, coming up on the eve of our 10th anniversary.

Frankly, I didn't think there was anything left there to save.

We needed a change.

And then she came up with this crazy idea to move to...

Well, let's face it, the middle of nowhere.

And I said yes.

But not because I wanted to move to Montana.

I said yes because, well, I missed what we had.

And I wanted it back.

I needed it back.

And now I can't see me living any other way of life.

Did you know that Joe and I worked 80 -hour weeks on a corporate job that we

hated?

Really? I just assumed that we were always here?

No, not always.

We lived in Seattle for years.

And then one day, we decided that we were unhappy with our work.

We were unhappy with where we lived.

And then we decided to move out of the city.

And we took over this inn.

In Montana.

Montana! That was 20 years ago.

And I have never looked back.

Not once.

You two seem to have something really special.

Yeah, but you know, it never would have happened had we not been a little bit

brave. Had we not been willing to take a chance on each other.

Now you take a chance.

Tell Mike how you feel.

Oh, no, I couldn't do that. Oh, come on.

You might get your heart broken, but it would be better than always wondering,

right?

Remember something, Michael.

I'm an old guy who has made a lot of mistakes.

Loyalty is important.

It's honorable.

But it's not the same thing as faith.

And it is definitely not the same thing as love.

You and Michael, you have this thing.

You have this fire.

I can tell.

And you know, that's what's special, too.

Good night, Michael.

Good night.

Michael, there's something I need to say.

Stephanie, we need to talk.

I'm sorry that I made you doubt, except I'm not sorry.

I know I've been confused about what I want, but I think I'm starting to figure

it out.

I don't have to get you to think for that.

What I mean to say is I don't want to spend any more time wondering what could

happen. I've had a hard time taking that next step, and that's because I've

never really been sure.

Now I think I might be sure.

For the first time in a long time, I think I know exactly what I want.

What

am

I doing?

Stephanie?

Stephanie?

Bree, have you seen Stephanie?

Uh -huh. She just left.

Took a cab to the airport.

I was outside. I didn't hear. Well, there's a back entrance.

She just... I thought it would be best if she just slipped out quietly.

Thank you.

Want to ride to the airport?

Joe, get the truck.

Good luck to you, Michael.

With whatever you're looking for.

Thanks, Joe. For everything.

Excuse me.

Can you help me find a friend?

for flight 329 to New York's John F. Kennedy Airport.

Now boarding in Terminal 2.

New York. That's near Connecticut.

Uh, yeah, yeah, I think so.

Stephanie.

Stephanie.

Stephanie.

Michael, what are you doing here?

You left.

Without saying goodbye.

Yeah, well, it just seemed like... like the right thing to do.

I have to go back to my family.

It's time to get out of here.

You know, at this rate, I might even make Christmas morning.

You know, if nothing else goes wrong.

Now boarding groups four and five for flight 329 to New York John F. Kennedy

Airport.

I gotta go.

Michael?

Yeah.

Ryan, you gotta go.

You're gonna make a great husband.

Courtney is so lucky to have you.

I, um...

Have a great

life.

Wherever you go, I want to be there during these holidays.

Now it feels like a hole is here in my heart because I'm watching you

walk away.

Those fairies are singing and the snow is falling

down.

Cause you're so far away.

The fire is warm when family and friends gather to

celebrate the season of hope.

You're going to have to go back to work next week and wear something other than

pajamas.

I'll deal with that next week.

This might cheer you up. My friend Debra, the new girl at work, she might

looking for a new roommate.

So you don't have to sleep on the couch anymore.

That's great.

Unless it's not the couch that's bothering you.

I'm fine.

Me mean.

You're going to put on clothing meant for the outside world and come out with

tonight? I'm not up for going out, Kate.

Beth, it's New Year's Eve.

I am going to my friend Bethany's New Year's Eve party, and you are going to

my date.

I'm really flattered, but I'm just... I'm not up for a big party shouting

talk with strangers over loud music.

I just... I need a quiet night to myself.

Okay.

If you're sure, I really am.

So, can I borrow that sparkly silver top?

It's yours.

I don't even know why I bought the ring.

I didn't know if she'd like it, and to be honest, I didn't know if I wanted to

give it to her.

You did the right thing ending it.

There is someone better out there for both of you. Someone who will make you

really happy.

Yeah. I know.

Okay, that was fast.

It might have taken a travel disaster of nine years proportions for me to

realize it, but I believe you're right.

Maybe meet someone at this party April's dragging me to tonight. You should come

with us.

Yeah, be a third wheel with you and your girlfriend at some stranger's party.

Not a stranger. Some girl named...

Bethany, who was April's sorority sister in college.

Nice. Way to sell it. Come on.

What else are you going to do?

Sit alone at home on New Year's Eve? That's sad.

My track record with the ladies this holiday season has been less than

so I'm going to do everyone a favor and I'm just going to stay home.

Okay.

Here you go.

Thank you.

Okay, hold on. What is that?

What happened to Mr. Healthy?

I'm not saying that people should subsist on fat, carbs, and sugar, but

once in a while they are delicious.

Good old acquaintance before God.

Oh, excuse me.

Michael?

Stephanie.

What are you doing here? You're supposed to be in Boston.

Yeah, no, I came back a couple days ago.

I can't believe I found you.

Were you looking for me?

Not exactly. I mean, yeah, I called your office every now and then.

Thought about hiking up to Mescal Canyon to see if you'd be there.

But why?

To ask you out.

What?

Courtney and I broke up.

Oh, Michael, I'm sorry to hear that.

You know, I didn't mean to make you doubt your relationship in any way.

I said a lot of things I shouldn't have said.

No, you said things that I needed to hear.

Things that made me think. Things that made me believe in a love that I didn't

know existed.

I wanted to tell you after the dance, but you ran off.

I ran off because it was just so hard and painful.

Well, I know, but, you know, if you would have just let me explain, I'd have

stuck around a little bit.

You just had a scotia patient.

That's all you needed, a little scotia.

What's the matter?

No.

Five, four,

three, two, one.

Happy New Year. Happy New Year, Stephanie.

Happy New Year, Michael.

Exactly right.