Original subtitles

You have to hold.

I'm on hold, Beth.

Not now.

Mr. Ackerman?

I'm on the phone.

I know. Your mother has called 11 times this morning.

11? 11. She said it's an emergency and she needs to speak with you.

About?

I don't know.

Fine. Pick up line one for me. We'll schedule that call whenever they finally

pick up.

Yes, sir.

Mom, what's wrong?

Is that any way to greet your mother?

Mom, are you okay?

What's the emergency?

The emergency is I haven't heard from my only son in nearly a week.

Sorry, Ma. It's just a busy time of year.

Never too busy for family, Christian.

I know. You're right.

Nice to hear your voice, Mom.

That's more like it. How are you, honey?

Busy. Very busy.

Going from Black Friday right into our holiday campaign.

That's not what I asked. How are you?

I'm okay.

I really miss Grandpa.

I've just been throwing myself into my work.

Keep picking up the phone to call him.

Yeah, me too, babe.

Which is why I'm calling.

Really?

What's up? Well, the reading of Grandpa's will was today.

Oh, yeah. He's splitting everything between you, Aunt Jean, and Uncle Jack,

right? Almost.

He left some surprises for the grandkids.

Really?

Emma got his pocket watch and some of Grandma's jewelry.

Jack Jr. got his car.

Clint got the boat.

And he opened some small trust funds for the littler ones.

And you... It's okay, Mom. I don't need anything.

You were his favorite, Chris.

Yeah, I know I was.

He left you the lake house.

In Maine?

Yes.

Really?

Really.

His lawyers are going to get in touch with you.

I can't believe this.

I love that house.

Well, there is a stipulation.

Stipulation? Yes.

In order for you to get the house, you have to host Christmas like Grandpa used

to do.

Chris, are you there?

Yeah, I'm here.

Just surprises all.

Yeah, I know you're really busy, honey.

Yeah, I'll find a way.

Okay, you sure?

Absolutely. Grandpa wanted it this way.

I will figure it out.

Christmas is a month away.

I know.

I'm on it.

Okay. Let me know if you need any help.

I will.

I love you.

Love you too, Mom.

Bye.

Goodbye.

Hey, Beth.

Yes, Mr. Ackerman. Is Larry around?

Yes, Mr. Link just returned from lunch.

Great. Let him know I'm on my way up, please.

Yes, sir.

Chris,

come in.

Thanks. Have a seat.

Did you have a nice Thanksgiving?

I did, thank you.

I watched the parade, had some dinner.

You? Oh, it was great.

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday.

Being around the family, it's good for us.

Yeah, it was just me this year.

We had my grandfather's funeral a few weeks ago, and I had a lot to catch up

Well, you should have joined me and Loretta. There is nothing like a Link

Thanksgiving. And you were the missing Link.

Thank you. I really appreciate that. But, you know, I just had too much to do

for Black Friday.

And you did a great job, too, Chris.

I'm going through the numbers right now, and our sales are up 17 % from last

year. That's all?

That's all.

We got ourselves a goal of a 5 % increase. You knocked that one out of

Yeah.

But I sold them to 20.

20?

You're a machine.

You need to take some time off.

It's funny you should say that.

You're not going to leave me for the holidays, are you? Not exactly.

My grandfather, he left me his house in Maine, and I have to host Christmas up

there.

Do you mind if I work remotely until the new year?

I will start the new year fresh in my office.

You don't have to come back exactly on New Year's Day, Chris.

Well, we'll see.

Do whatever you need to do, Chris.

Just keep up the good work.

Thank you.

Thanks, Larry. I really appreciate it. Merry Christmas. You too.

Oh, Mr. Ackerman, I have a few messages for you. Mr. Carter called. Don't worry

about it, Beth.

Do me a favor.

You schedule my phone calls for today and tomorrow.

It's a Wednesday.

Yes, sir.

Oh, and give me a list of the five best event planners and decorators in

Christmas Cove, Maine.

Christmas Cove? Well, South Bristol, actually. My house is in Christmas Cove.

I'm sorry, Mr. Ackerman, you're confusing me.

You have a house in Maine?

Apparently. It's a long story.

Just give me that info, we schedule my appointments, you can have the rest of

the day off.

Really? Yeah, then come in around 11 tomorrow.

I'll be telecommuting until the new year.

I don't know what to say.

Well, neither do I, Beth. It's all a bit fun for me.

Just give me that info, will you please? Yes, sir.

Reschedule my call?

Absolutely. Thank you.

Yo, are you sure you're only going for a month?

Seems like you're moving with all the stuff you got.

I have to move my entire life up to Maine for the next month, Jordan.

I don't want a chance leaving anything behind.

Why don't you just fly up there?

Because I need my car.

Not like New York, can't just walk everywhere.

Cabs? Oh, man, I am in the middle of nowhere.

Is the town really called Christmas Cove?

Kind of. It's on Rutherford Island, South Bristol.

Story?

John Smith harbored his boat there during Christmas in the 1600s and gave

that name.

John Smith.

The Pocahontas guy?

The town is still South Bristol, but Christmas Cove is a real place.

There's only a handful of homes there.

Oh, your grandfather owns one of those homes. Exactly.

My grandma and grandpa lived there their entire lives.

My grandpa bought it from his father and now passed it down to me. No mortgage.

Sweet.

Yeah, yeah, but it's beyond that, Jordan.

All my family's Christmas memories are up there.

My mom grew up in that house.

Everybody goes to the lake house for Christmas.

And we really didn't know what we were going to do this year since Grandpa

passed. Looks like he decided for you.

Why don't you come and join us, you folks?

For Christmas?

Yeah, why not?

I don't know. I mean, my sister's going to be in Utah spending it with her new

in -laws.

I mean, it'll just be the three of us anyway.

Maybe it'll be a nice distraction for them.

Not such a bad drive from Boston.

Maybe. I'll talk to him about it.

Who else is going to be there?

My entire family. Mom and dad, twins and uncles, at least three cousins. It

sounds like a full house.

Are you sure you want three more?

Absolutely. It's Christmas.

It's a big house.

How big?

Come for Christmas.

Find out.

I'll talk to my folks.

I promise.

Good.

How are you going to pull this all together?

I have my ways. I know you do.

Well, I'm better at the road. Traffic's going to start getting heavy in a bit.

How long is the drive? About seven hours.

Oh, that's not bad.

You should make the drive.

I get the hint, Chris.

Drive safe, all right? All right. Bring it in.

Let me know when you make it, all right? I will. I will.

And now for new business.

The South Bristol Chamber of Commerce has a new member.

I'd like us to all give a warm welcome to Meredith Block, proud owner of Merry

Events.

Meredith, why don't you come up here and tell us a little bit about your

business? Of course.

Small business owners are their best advocates.

Oh, now don't be shy. There might be one or two people in this group that could

be clients.

I guess.

You shouldn't guess. You're a business owner. You need to exude confidence.

Let's give her a little encouragement.

Thank you, Felicia. You're welcome.

Hi, I'm Mary Block.

That's short for Meredith.

Mary is not Block. Block is my last name.

Go on.

I just opened my company.

Merry events. I decorate and plan the events and cook for small parties.

Are you licensed?

What? Are you licensed to work food service in Maine?

Oh, yes, of course.

Licensed, bonded, and insured, and trained.

Classically trained in the culinary arts. I spent some time abroad, in

actually, so I really know how to cook.

So, why events?

I've always enjoyed planning parties.

I'm the hostess with the mostest, I guess.

Can I ask you why you start your business now? I mean, typically in the

is a very difficult time to open a business.

Well, I've always planned parties. My parents never really got into birthdays

the holidays or anything, so I was always left up to my own devices for

That's so sad.

Oh, no, no, not at all.

My mom is a neurosurgeon and my dad is a scientist.

They were just really busy and didn't find the holidays important.

I love planning them so that we could spend time together, even if it was just

couple times out of the year.

So you don't spend holidays with them?

No, not really. I hosted Friendsgiving at my house this year and I hope to get

Christmas client.

A Christmas client?

What's a Christmas client?

A Christmas client is someone who doesn't have time to decorate for

And lets me plan the event, decorate, and cook for the small party.

So, where do you spend it?

That's not really about my business.

You're right. I'm sorry.

I didn't mean to get personal.

It's fine.

It's fine. Really.

I have plenty of friends in South Bristol.

And no shortage of invitations for Christmas.

So, in conclusion.

Right. In conclusion.

I am able to help turn any celebration into a merry event.

Thank you.

Okay,

so on to the next order of business. This is the South Bristol New Year's Eve

party.

Sponsored by Don LaRue at King Ider's Pub.

Don.

Good job tonight.

Hardly. You did great. I really put you on the spot, and you handled it really

well. You think?

Yeah. You work on your confidence, but that will come with time.

I hate speaking in front of a crowd. Well, so do I.

Really? You're such a natural at it.

Oh, not really. I really have to hype myself up for these kind of things.

But you have people eating out of the palm of your hand.

Hardly.

I like you.

Thanks. You're not so bad yourself.

I'm going to give you a lead.

A lead?

Yes. What's that?

Well, this woman phones this morning, and I guess her boss inherited this

at Christmas Cove, and they want to host this big Christmas party.

Really? Mm -hmm. They need an event planner to plan, to decorate, to cook.

That's right up my alley. I know it is, and I knew you'd be here tonight, so I

wanted to see how you handle things.

You texted me?

Well, you know, I'm not in the habit of suggesting people that I don't know.

You won't regret it, Felisa. I promise.

I know I won't.

Call her before 11, and Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas?

We've got a few weeks until Christmas.

Yes, I know, but there's going to be this whole dump of snow, and I am not

in the cold.

But you live in Maine.

I know I do, but that was my husband's idea. So we have this deal. We go to the

Bahamas for a month during the holidays.

Oh, that is really nice. Yes, it is.

Thank you, Felicia.

Really?

Good luck.

You are going to do great.

Where are you, Dad?

I'm sorry I'm late.

Daddy is.

I know. I'm sorry.

Here you go.

Come here.

Yeah, bud.

This is she. Can I ask who's calling?

My name is Meredith Block.

I own Mary Events in South Bristol.

Felicia Johnson referred me.

Great. I'm so happy to be speaking with you.

You are?

You're an event planner, right?

I sure am. How can I help you?

It's actually for my boss, Chris Ackerman.

I don't recognize the name.

I didn't think you would.

He just inherited a house in Christmas Cove.

Oh, I'm so sorry to hear that. Right around the holidays, too.

It was really sad. He and his grandfather were very close.

I can imagine inheriting his house.

But how can I help you? There is a stipulation to the inheritance.

Oh? Yes, he must host Christmas for his family, and that includes food,

decoration, everything.

I'll be honest, I love my boss, but he doesn't know the first thing about

entertaining.

Well, you're...

Oh,

that's plenty of time.

They will need the entire Christmas dinner prepared by a private chef on

Christmas Day.

I take care of all the food myself.

What about Christmas Eve?

There are no plans for Christmas Eve, so you could even have the day off. But

Christmas is non -negotiable.

Okay. Anything else?

Anyone else that I have talked to has all been hung up on me when they found

they had to work Christmas.

Do you celebrate the holiday? I mean, you are familiar with Christmas.

Of course I'm familiar with Christmas.

I'm familiar with all holidays, and I actually do celebrate Christmas, but my

parents live in Baltimore, so I spend the holidays with friends.

I'm sure they'll understand.

That is wonderful to hear.

Great. So I have the job?

I wish I could hire you on this spot, but Mr. Ackerman actually wants you to

meet all of the candidates in person tomorrow at the lake house.

Oh, I thought you said I was the only one left.

You are.

Does 10 work?

Absolutely.

What's the address?

I'll text it to you. Does this number work? Sure does.

Great.

Thank you. Have a good night. You too.

My train pulled out the station, rode along the Hudson

Coast.

It brought back the memories of the ones I love

the most.

It's highly on the mantle, it's peaceful.

you like presents all the magic through the air

and now I pray for

all the joy and hope that I've been given

on the day brings back to love the

Yesterday, I was free with no rules,

no stars next to the moon.

But once again, it feels like Christmas here with

you.

Now it feels just as warm inside a big cookie.

We say.

It brings all the love and strength

that I've lost in yesterday.

I was a tree with no roots and no stars

next to the moon. But once again, it feels like

Christmas here.

Hi, Mom. What time is it?

It's 9 .30. Are you sleeping?

9 .30? I gotta go, Mom. I have a meeting at 10.

Wait, a meeting? Are you in Maine?

Yes. It's for... It's fine. Don't worry about it.

Is it the attorney?

Because I know they needed to meet with you. Text me his number and I'll give

him a call. But I really gotta go, Mom.

Love you.

I love you. Chris?

If I could make a list of wishes that only could come true on

Christmas, the only one I'd make to find you on this

holiday, I could light my Christmas candle and decorate

the fire mantle until you're in my arms.

Only love can decorate...

decorate the fire mantle until you're in my arms.

Only love can decorate my heart.

Good morning, Mary. The usual?

Yes, please.

And a medium black coffee, cream and sugar on the side.

And...

You have a coffee date?

Oh, no, not at all. An interview, actually.

Hmm. I never heard of bringing coffee to an interview before.

Well, from what his assistant told me, he got in late last night, and he's

staying at a place that people haven't been in in a while.

So I'm sure he'll appreciate the coffee and donuts.

Good idea. He'll make a good impression.

That's the plan.

Total is $9 .50.

There you go.

Your change?

Thanks. And thank you. I'll put the sugars and creams in a bag for you.

Are you Chris Ackerman?

Depends who's asking.

I'm Meredith Black with Mary Events. I spoke to Beth last night and she told me

to be here at 10.

Sorry, I actually slept in this morning. There's no coffee in the house, so I am

a bit slow today.

Oh, well, here you go.

What's this?

Coffee, black, cream of sugars in the bag.

Really? Well, when I spoke to Beth, she said you got in late last night and I

figured there wasn't any coffee in the house.

There's also little donuts in there as well.

You're hired.

Excuse me? You're hired. Anyone this considerate is exactly the kind of

I'm looking for to handle Christmas for my family.

Really?

Come on in and we can work out the details.

Have a seat.

Don't you want to interview me before you hire me?

No. Beth spoke with you.

She told me you're the only decorator available.

Event planner.

Excuse me?

I'm an event planner. I plan the event, decorate, and cater.

All by yourself?

Well, if it's a big event, I'll hire people to work with me.

What constitutes a big event?

Fifty people or more. Like a wedding.

Well, definitely not fifty people.

Or a wedding.

Beth told me 10 adults and a few kids. That's easy.

Great. Does 12 work for you?

12 instead of 10? Sure.

No. $12 ,000.

$12 ,000?

For what?

Well, I budgeted $12 ,000 for the decorate... Excuse me. Event planner.

Plus decorations, food, and whatever else might be needed.

That's a big budget.

Is it?

Yes. It's very generous.

Okay, then.

When can you start?

Today, if that works for you.

Sure. I'll have Beth reach out and give you the contract.

Oh, here.

What's this?

It's my credit card.

You can put all your supplies on it.

Okay. Great. Thanks.

How about a tour of the house?

Sure. That's a great place to start.

Obviously, this is the kitchen and dining room.

Obviously. I'd like an extra table or two in here. That's what my grandfather

used to do.

Sounds good.

This is the living room. I would like the big tree in there.

There's more than one tree?

Yes. I'll show you the other rooms.

Okay. Certainly sounds like you know what you want.

I just remember how my grandfather used to do it.

I can tell you really loved him.

That I do.

Did.

Still do.

I'm really sorry for your loss.

Yeah.

You too.

Look, Mr. Ackerman. Please, call me Chris.

Okay, Chris.

If you show me pictures of how your grandpa used to decorate, I'll do my

match it.

Really? Yes.

You can even tell me what he used to cook, and I'll do my best to honor him.

That would be really, really special, Ms. Block.

Thank you.

Mary.

Yes, it would be Mary, too.

No, my name. It's Mary.

My friends call me Mary.

Okay, then. Mary it is.

Come on.

I'll show you the rest of the house.

This is the foyer, the main entrance to the house. Everybody comes and goes

through here, except if it's snowing. What happens when it's snowing? Enter to

the game room downstairs.

Oh, you have a game room?

Yes, and it's my favorite room. I'll show you last.

Sounds good.

Follow me.

Linen closet.

With linen?

Yep.

Great.

Full bathroom.

Let's go this way.

This is one of the guest rooms.

I take it you slept in here last night?

Yeah, my cousin Jack and I used to stay in here.

Where are they at the bedroom?

Basement and second floor.

Well. Old habits are hard to break, I guess.

Yeah, you could say that.

No, I just got in really late last night. This was the first bedroom I

of sleeping in.

Hey, you don't have to explain yourself to me.

Let's go downstairs.

Nope.

Watch your head.

This is the big tree room.

I take it the big tree goes here?

Exactly. When I was a kid, this is where the adults would hang out while we were

in the game room.

And now?

Well, last year, my cousins and I were still in the game room while the older

adults were in here.

Sounds about right.

So you want this room more elegant, then?

Yeah, maybe.

Something different than the rest of the house.

We've seen Christmas gifts in here, and it's the first room you see when you

walk in.

It's a really special room.

I can tell.

And we take our family photos in here, too.

I'll make it extra special.

And you don't have to worry about the bedroom.

Maybe something a little like a wreath or candles.

That's what my grandfather used to do.

Got it.

Any questions about the rooms you've seen so far?

No. I might have some in the future.

Well, I'll be working from home, so I'll be here.

Great. Now, on to the game room. Follow me.

Welcome to the game room.

Cozy. I like it.

Some of my best family memories were made here.

Michael Jack taught me to play harps on this table.

Very any good?

Good enough to win a family championship three years in a row.

Impressive. This room has an endless supply of snacks during the holidays.

People get lost down here for hours.

There's a bathroom over there.

We usually serve this when it's time to eat.

So you want it decorated but not too fancy.

Yeah, basically.

Great. Pictures from past holidays will definitely help.

I'll get you the photos by Friday.

Great. That's the door we use when it snows.

It's easier than climbing the stairs to the front door.

And we leave shoes there. That way, we're not tracking anything through the

house. Right.

What about a slipper station?

Slipper station?

Yeah. A bunch of slippers and fuzzy socks for people to change into when

come in from the snow.

I like that idea.

I'll write out a proposal for each room.

No need. I trust you.

They don't even know me.

Yeah, but I can tell you understand me.

And how important Christmas is to my family.

Are you sure you don't mind spending Christmas working for me?

No, not at all.

Well, I can let you go early so you can get over to your family's house.

They live in Maryland.

Friend, maybe?

Maybe. We'll see how it goes.

Okay. Well, I need to get some work done. I will be setting up my office

here, so I would appreciate it if you didn't come into this room between the

hours of 8 a .m. and 7 p .m. during the week.

Got it.

What about outside?

Grampy did something different every year, but each year had a theme.

One year was nutcrackers, one year was snowmen, reindeer, candy canes.

He even made a gingerbread house one year.

Do you have a theme in mind?

No. You have carte blanche.

I like that.

Thanks for coming by, Mary.

And thank you for hiring me.

I look forward to speaking to Beth, and I'll get all my designs today.

I'll walk you out.

$12 ,000?

Do you want everyone to hear? Why does he get that kind of money?

He's some retail bigwig in Manhattan.

He's a good paying job, I guess. Yeah, you'd think.

He seems to really want to make his family happy for Christmas.

Christmas cove, though that is a rough drive and bad weather.

I'll watch the forecast.

Well, if you get stuck there, call me. I'll take care of Thaddeus. I'm not

getting stuck there. You might want to get stuck there. Bella, it's strictly

business.

Besides, I don't even know if he's single.

Well, if he wasn't, wouldn't you have brought his girlfriend with him?

I don't know.

Is he cute?

Very.

But he's very polished.

Nothing wrong with a little polish.

Bella, it's just business.

Yeah, yeah, you said that already.

Okay, so why don't you introduce him to me? No way.

I knew there was interest.

Of course not.

I just don't want you getting me into any trouble.

Wait until after Christmas and I'll introduce you.

Deal.

So you're going to take the job?

I'm 90 % sure I'm going to take it.

Don't do this to yourself.

Do what? You know what, Mare?

Not everyone has a close relationship with their parents.

I don't know what you're talking about.

Meredith Locke, we have been best friends since we were 12 years old. You

spent every holiday with me since then. So?

So, it's okay that your parents don't celebrate the holidays.

And it's okay that you don't see them all the time.

Or any time at all.

I knew it was that. Okay, look, call them if you think it'll make you feel

better. What for?

In case they have special plans for the holidays.

You never know.

Right, I guess.

Okay, let me ask you a question.

If you know your parents aren't doing anything for the holidays, would you

the job?

Absolutely. So call them.

Let's see.

And plus... This guy's probably sending you the contract now, so you should sign

that and get it right back to him.

Why? I mean, his assistant said that I was the only one interested in the job.

You never know who might turn up.

True.

Call him.

What, now?

Yes, now, call them.

Okay, fine.

Dr. Carl Block.

I don't know why you answer the phone like that when you know it's me, Dad.

Well, hello there, Meredith.

How are you?

Doing well, thanks. How are you?

Just great.

Is everything all right?

Yeah, of course.

Just calling to chat.

How's Mom?

She's fine.

She's working a lot.

Doing a lot of overtime over the holidays so that other doctors can spend

with their family.

Really nice of her.

I'm glad you brought up the holidays, Dad.

Oh, did you have a nice Thanksgiving with the friends?

Yeah, it was wonderful.

I really missed you guys.

That's sweet of you.

Do you have any plans for the holidays?

Plans for what?

I don't know, Dad.

Spending Christmas with someone special.

Like who?

I'm sure your mother's probably working.

Me, Dad.

Me. You know, your only daughter.

The one that lives in your old house in Maine? The one that you haven't seen in

three years?

I'm not sure why you're getting so upset, Meredith, but you're always

come down and visit us here in Baltimore.

Our door is always open to you.

I have spent every holiday since I was 12 years old with the Franz family.

Well, remind me to send them a gift basket.

Dad, come on.

What, Meredith?

I don't know what you're trying to get from me, honey.

I thought you and Isabella were best friends.

Dad, we are.

Do you want some money so you can go on a cruise with her?

No, Bella doesn't want to go on a cruise for Christmas.

Then what is it?

You're 29 years old.

Things haven't changed.

Your mother and I have very important work to do.

We are saving lives.

I'm 28, Dad.

I thought this year was going to be different.

I was offered a terrific opportunity, and I have to work on Christmas, and I

just wanted to see if... Maybe you had a surprise plan.

Honey, you know how I feel about surprises.

Take the job.

It'll be good for you.

Good for me?

Sure. A little hard work never hurt anyone.

And I'm sure you'll make a nice paycheck since you're working over the holidays.

You can save it for a rainy day.

Okay. Thanks, Dad.

I'll talk to you later.

I'll tell your mother you called.

Goodbye.

Happy? Are you taking the job?

Yes. Then yeah, I'm happy.

Also, did he offer us a cruise?

I don't want to talk about it.

Look, don't let this get you down.

You got an amazing job for Christmas. It's your favorite holiday.

I know.

And you're going to do a great job at it. I know.

And afterwards, Mr. Megabuck is going to sweep your best friend off your feet,

take you to New York City, live happily ever after.

Belle, stop.

Let me sulk. No, this is a sulk -free zone, okay?

You know what you're going to do? You're going to go home, sign that contract,

and you're going to make his lake house a winter wonderland.

What would I do without you?

Go.

You can put all these away in the kitchen back there. Put them away?

Yeah, the fridge and freezer are empty, so wherever you put them is fine.

Um, we don't do that. I can put them on the table for you, but we don't put

groceries away for people.

Why not?

I don't know, dude. I'm just dropping the groceries off.

Here, let me help you. Thanks.

Straight ahead.

You just put everything on the table. Sure.

Here you go. Thanks. Happy holidays.

You too.

Expecting someone else?

Yeah, I just had a grocery delivery.

I thought she'd forgotten a bag or something.

Can I help you?

Hi, I'm Marty Stein.

I was Joseph Pasquarello's attorney.

Please, come in.

Yeah, I'm handling the execution of his will.

And I assume that you are Christian Ackerman, Joseph's grandson, right? I

Well, it's really good to meet you.

Your grandfather, he was a great man.

A great man. Thank you. He certainly was. Would you like a drink? No, thank

This is going to be very quick. I just wanted to introduce myself.

Nice to meet you as well. Good. And I assume your mom explained the

of your inheritance, right? To host Christmas?

Yes.

Well, it doesn't look like you've started decorating yet.

No, no, I haven't, but I did just hire someone to help me with that. All right.

Okay, so look, I'll pop by Christmas and I'll make sure everything is as your

grandfather wanted, okay?

Oh, why don't you join us?

That's very nice of you, but I don't think I could leave my family. See,

Jewish. We always have Chinese food every Christmas.

Come see what a Pasquarello Christmas is all about.

Bring your family. It's a big house.

Really? You wouldn't mind? I mean, it would be me, my wife, my daughter.

Oh, no, not at all.

Gosh, that's very nice of you.

You know, Hanukkah came early this year. I've never been to a family Christmas,

and I really loved your grandfather, so I think it might be fun.

Trust me, it is.

Please, I insist.

You know what? If my family gratefully accepts your invitation, that'll be

wonderful. Thank you. Great. I'll have Mary reach out with the details.

Mary? Mary Block?

Yeah, she's the one that's going to be helping me with Christmas.

Oh, that's very good.

You know her?

Yes, yes.

Mary planned our daughter's bat mitzvah. She is a good girl.

She's very good at what she does. You made a good choice.

Well, that's great to hear.

Thanks for coming by, Artie. My pleasure.

Oh, you know what? I'll bring the papers so you can sign them Christmas.

Papers? What papers?

You can assume the deed for the house, of course.

Right, of course.

All right, it's a pleasure. I'll see you at Christmas.

You too. Thanks for the invitation.

Good morning.

Morning. You can just come on in, you know. Oh, thanks.

I don't have a key, though.

I'll get you the spare before you leave.

Coffee? Oh, you went grocery shopping.

I did, indeed.

I would love a cup, but I'm going to bring in the boxes first.

Boxes? Decorations. I'm going to start upstairs.

Very nice.

Do you need help bringing anything in?

No, thanks. You're busy. I got it.

Well, if you're sure.

I am.

Oh, and here you go.

What's this?

Our contract.

You have me until the day after Christmas.

I have you?

My services.

Planning and decorating, cleaning.

You know? Yeah, I know.

Well, I have some work to do, so I'll be in the game room.

Coffee's in the kitchen. Help yourself.

Will do. Thanks.

And you know what? It might be easier if you just come into the game room.

No, I don't want to disturb you.

It's no big deal. Plus, less steps to climb.

Great.

Are you sure? You don't need help bringing anything in? Mm -hmm. Yep. No,

busy. I got it.

Okay. Mm -hmm.

All right.

Started snowing. Yeah, it did.

Do you have a lot more to bring in?

No, not really.

Let me know if I can help you.

Oh, no, I'm good.

Anyway.

This is Chris.

Chris, it's Larry.

Oh, hey, Larry. How's everything in the office?

Terrible.

Terrible?

I've only been gone a day.

Did you see the email about the strollers being recalled?

What? No. When did you send it?

Five minutes ago. I thought you said that working remotely wasn't going to

affect your performance.

It won't. It's not.

Okay, I just found it.

So? This is the stroller we based our new mom's marketing campaign on.

I know.

It's going to be released at midnight.

I'm aware.

All right.

I need to fix this.

Get on it, Chris.

What's going on out there?

Hanging some lights.

You need to prop the door open.

The slide's closed and locked.

So I noticed.

Are you okay?

Yeah. I'm sorry to have bothered you. You look like you were really busy.

Just a little crisis at work.

Is it fixed?

No, not yet.

A few more phone calls to make.

Listen, I was going to do a tasting for you tonight, but I got a little carried

away out there.

What if I make a meal that I might potentially make for Christmas dinner?

That sounds terrific.

You don't mind?

No, not at all.

Will you join me?

For dinner?

Yeah. I mean, if you'd like to.

Strictly business, of course, so I can provide feedback.

Of course.

Great.

I'll finish up out here, and I'll let you know when it's ready.

Perfect. Thank you.

Oh, mother dear.

Hi, Chris.

I was just finishing work and I was thinking about you.

I just finished work myself.

Not working too hard, I hope.

Probably just as hard as you, Mom.

I hear you invited Artie Stein and his family for Christmas.

Shoot, I forgot to tell Meredith.

Meredith? Who's Meredith?

You'll meet her, Mom. She's helping me with Christmas.

Oh, honey, please tell me you didn't hire an event planner?

That was not Grandpa's intention.

What do you mean?

He wants you to connect with family, to carry on the Pasquarello tradition. You

know, Grandpa did all the cooking and all the decorating himself, even when

Grandma was still alive.

Yeah, I know. I have heard the stories.

I just thought it would be a nice tradition to decorate with someone else.

Okay, but did you hire this person? You didn't pay her, did you?

What's the difference?

Christian, did you pay someone to do this?

No. She's upstairs cooking dinner right now.

Oh, so it's the romantic edge.

Mom, come on.

Is she coming for Christmas?

Yes, and she loves cooking and decorating.

Why have I not heard about this person before?

Dinner's ready.

Mom, gotta go. Dinner's ready.

Wait, Chris?

Oh, it's delicious.

I hope you like it. Have a seat.

Do you want wine?

Do you have wine?

I sure do.

Is red okay?

That's perfect.

I made chicken.

My attorney brought me wine.

Attorney? Well, my grandfather's attorney.

I'm hosting Christmas as per my grandfather's wish.

I see.

Which reminds me, I actually invited him and his family to Christmas dinner.

How many people?

Three. Two adults and one child.

You know the man, really?

I do? Yes.

Artie Stein. He said you planned his daughter's bat mitzvah.

The Steins. Of course. They're terrific people.

Pretty much said the same about you.

And that you're really terrific at your job.

That's great to know.

It'll be nice to have them here.

So, what are we eating?

Orange chicken, broccoli, and a simple salad.

It looks delicious.

I could see it in your eyes. You're disappointed in something.

Am I that transparent?

Maybe a little.

No chicken.

No chicken?

It's too basic, Kathy. My grandfather went way over the top with cooking.

What about the broccoli?

Give me a second.

I haven't even swallowed my chicken yet.

Right.

Definitely make this.

Yeah? Definitely.

And the salad's fine, too.

Not too basic?

Isn't all salad basic?

I'll make plenty of options. We have a lot of time before you have to make any

decisions.

But I definitely want the broccoli.

Yeah? Okay, you got it.

in there. You don't have to wait on me.

Go on home.

Okay. I'll leave them in the sink.

Don't you want to try dessert?

Dessert?

I mean, it's a little something. I just want to gauge your sweet tooth.

I like sweet in moderation.

Okay.

Tell me what you think about this.

Vanilla whipped cream.

It looks pretty to you.

Oh, well, if you don't want it. I didn't say that.

You like?

You don't have to be nice. If you don't like it, just spit it out.

Oh, I love it. It's really good.

Chris, what's wrong?

Every year my grandfather would make chocolate cream pie for dessert.

It reminds me of it, that's all.

Almost exactly the way he used to make it.

Just bisque in the crust.

He used to call it Aunt Minnie's Chocolate Cream Pie.

Aunt Minnie.

Yeah, but I didn't have an Aunt Minnie.

I did.

This is her recipe.

You're joking.

No, really.

My grandfather had a sister, and her name was Aunt Minnie.

This is her chocolate cream pie recipe. She was a baker.

She won a Christmas bake -off, and they published her recipe in the newspaper.

I bet that's where he got it from.

I would have made the pie, but I didn't have time to make the crust.

Please. Make this for Christopher, please.

My family will be blown away.

But make it a pie, though.

All right.

I promise.

I'll make two so that everybody can have some.

Thank you. You don't know what this means to me.

I have an idea.

Well, it's getting late.

Oh, I'm sorry. Did I overstay my welcome?

Oh, no. Not at all. I appreciate dinner and dessert.

Especially dessert.

I'm glad you enjoyed it. I just don't want you to feel like you have to stay

overtime, you know?

No, I enjoy being here, really.

You're my only client this month. I want to make you extra happy.

Thank you.

I'll take it from here.

You, sir?

Yes, thank you.

Don't.

Here.

He did that?

Yes. Great.

I'll walk you out. Let me get my shoes.

No, no, don't worry about it. I could get going.

is probably upset that I haven't made him dinner yet.

Well, I don't want to keep him waiting.

Here you go.

Good night, Chris.

Good night.

Holiday tree.

They wake up the dark.

Walking across.

Song in my step.

Gonna buy you something.

That you never forget.

The best loved time of year.

Filling up with winter cheer.

Moments of.

BYE!

It's a magical scene.

What I want to see is your eyes light up. Your eyes light up at Christmas.

Oh, Christmas.

Oh.

Oh.

Good morning.

Good morning, Chris.

I didn't disturb you, did I? Oh, no, not at all.

I'm all finished up here.

and I have to move into your office.

Yeah, I figured as much.

I can start it over the weekend if that's better for you.

Mary, you've been spending every single day here over the past two weeks.

Don't you want a break?

I'm sorry. Am I getting in the way?

Oh, no, not at all. I love having you around.

You do?

Yeah. The house is awfully quiet when you're not here.

That's what happens when you live alone.

Part of the reason why I have Thaddeus.

Yeah.

Do you want to invite him for Christmas?

What?

Well, you rush home every night to give him dinner.

I kind of feel guilty you've been having dinner with me.

Why?

Doesn't he mind that you're here?

I mean, he probably would prefer it if I was home, but that has no bearing on my

work hours.

I know. I'd be pretty upset if my girlfriend spent every waking hour with

boss, especially if he was single.

Wait. Your girlfriend?

No, not my girlfriend. I don't have a girlfriend.

Wait, Chris, I'm confused.

What does Thaddeus have to do with any of this?

Well, he's your boyfriend, isn't he?

My boyfriend?

Yeah, don't you live with him?

Yeah, I live with him.

Thaddeus is my cat.

Your cat?

I can't believe you thought he was my boyfriend.

Wait until I tell Bella about this. No, no, no, please don't tell anyone,

please.

Chris, you're all I have for the holidays.

Really?

Really. I spoke with my dad about spending the holidays with me, and he

that he and my mom are busy working and they don't have the time.

I'm so sorry.

No, it's fine. It's the same every year. They're workaholics.

I get it. So am I.

But you take time for your family.

I'm an only child, and I wasn't planned.

So they kind of just live their life with me on the side.

That can't be true.

Unfortunately, it is.

And then when I started my event planning business, forget it, I didn't

from them.

I even went to the Ivy League college that they wanted, but I didn't follow in

their footsteps.

What do they do?

My dad is a scientist. My mom is a neurosurgeon.

You were way on the opposite end of the spectrum.

And they remind me every chance they get.

But you're really good at what you do, Mary.

Thank you. I really appreciate it.

But I hope you can see why I throw myself into my work.

It's not really work to me.

I get to plan the dream Christmas that I always wanted.

I knew you were perfect.

Excuse me?

Perfect for the job.

Oh, yeah, right.

Well, I have some work to get done.

Let me know when you want to get into the game room.

Will do.

What are you doing?

Setting lights up on the roof.

Why?

Because it's my job.

Mary, this is really high.

Don't be silly.

I'm not afraid of heights.

Why don't you just go to the balcony?

I don't want to leave the door open. I don't want to track dirt in.

Mary, this is really dangerous.

No, it's not.

I've strung lights on my house since I was 12 years old and much higher than

this.

Can I at least hand you the lights from the inside?

Fine.

You can get under the roof from the balcony, you know.

Yeah, I guess.

Or we can just clean up whatever stone dirt you're tracking.

Really no big deal.

I'm not leaving the door open. I don't want my decorations to blow down.

Just leave it open a crack.

Come on.

You're doing my job.

But I want to help.

I know, but it makes me feel bad.

Don't forget to prop the door open so you get back in in case I'm not back

Where are you going?

I'm on an appointment in town.

In an hour, maybe two.

Okay, thanks.

Great work today.

Bye. Thank you.

You must be Christian Ackerman.

Bella? It is so great to finally meet you.

Mary has told me so much about you.

Hi. All good, I hope.

My God, I haven't heard her talk about how much she loves a job.

Ever. That was a job.

That's great.

Well, she speaks very highly of you, too.

Really? Yes.

I'm surprised we haven't met yet.

Well, I never made it further than Christmas Cove when I come visit for

or summers.

Grandparents pretty much had everything we really needed there, you know?

Totally. Family time, right?

Exactly.

So, what can I help you with?

Can we sit for a little?

This might take longer than a couple minutes.

Hence, how I made an appointment.

Sure. Have a seat.

Meredith told me that she's been spending the holidays with you and your

since she was 12.

Oh, so she really has talked about me.

Yeah, she has.

She loves you like a sister.

I feel the same.

How about you coming to Christmas at my house?

That's very sweet of you, but...

I'm spending Christmas with my family.

Invite them.

All of them?

Yeah, why not?

That's seven people and a baby.

It's me, Mom, Dad, my brother Brian, his wife Lauren, their baby, my little

sister Jessica.

Can you talk to them and find out if they're okay with it?

Sure. But Christmas is three days away. I'm sure they've already started

planning for dinner.

So bring it.

The more food, the better, right?

I'll text you.

Don't tell Mary, okay?

I want it to be a surprise.

That's very sweet of you.

But that's not all.

Okay.

What's up with her parents?

What do you mean?

I feel bad for her.

There's nothing to feel bad about.

Well, you've seen her deal with this situation her whole life.

She doesn't seem to have any sort of closure.

Well, can you blame her? She basically doesn't exist to them.

They're her parents.

Well, some people don't have a comfy, cozy relationship with their parents.

people don't have a relationship at all.

It just seems like Meredith really wants one.

She does.

I'd like to invite them for Christmas.

They're going to say no.

Telling you right now, they're going to turn you down.

Plus, you don't want Meredith around them when she's hosting your Christmas

dinner. She'll be a mess.

Fair enough.

How about Christmas Eve dinner?

Maybe I can call them and invite them here.

I'll give you their phone number, but don't hold your breath.

I can be very convincing.

Yeah, I can see that. Give me your phone.

Thanks.

Don't say I didn't warn you.

I know. I appreciate it. How are you going to get her to cook for four

I'm not. I thought I'd set up a dinner at a restaurant, pick her parents up

the airport, meet her there.

That's very sweet.

Mary loves surprises.

That would make her Christmas.

You think?

Yeah.

Don't say anything to her about it. I don't want her to get her hopes up.

I won't.

I'll text you about Christmas.

Thank you for the invitation.

You're welcome.

Is that everything?

Yes.

Thank you. I really appreciate it, Bella.

You're welcome.

Hey.

Yeah?

Don't hurt her.

I wouldn't dream of it.

what's going on the bridge is closed what why bad action on both sides

we're just waiting on a tow truck any idea how long it could be no idea but if

you want there's a strip mall over there you can wait at the coffee shop and

wait for traffic thank you

Hello?

Hi,

where can I get you?

Hot chocolate would be great.

Marshmallow and whipped cream with that?

Sure.

Okay, that's going to be $3 .25.

Keep the change.

Thanks. If you want to grab a table, I'll bring it over to you when it's

Thanks.

Carl Block?

Hello, Dr. Block.

My name is Christian Ackerman.

Christian Ackerman?

Do I know you?

No, sir. Not yet.

I know your daughter, Meredith.

But is everything all right? Yes, of course. No need for alarm.

I actually hired Meredith to work for me this month.

Oh, so you're her boss.

How's that going?

Very well, Dr. Block.

Your daughter is immensely talented.

Well, thank you.

Her mother and I are very proud of her.

Really? Well, of course.

She went to an Ivy League college for a bachelor's in business, and running her

own company puts it through excellent years.

Did you ever tell her that?

Excuse me?

Dr. Block, I'll be frank with you.

Meredith misses you.

She wants a relationship with you, but she doesn't know how to go about having

that relationship.

Dr. Block, are you still there?

Please, call me Carl.

She told me that your wife is working on Christmas.

Yes, she is.

Is she also working on Christmas Eve?

No, neither of us are working.

Why? How would you feel about taking a quick trip to Maine for an early dinner?

Need anything else?

Nah, thanks.

Traffic's moving again.

You care for crossing that bridge?

Will do.

Thank you.

I took long to expect that there was an accident on the bridge.

Mary?

Meredith?

Meredith?

Mary?

Mary? Mary?

Say something, Mary.

You got to dry off, Mary. You got to get warm.

Come on, Mary.

Meredith.

Come on, Mary.

Meredith.

Say something, Mary.

too warm.

I see what you and Grandma had together.

For the first time in my life, I want something more than a successful

career.

I want what you had.

I want family. I want love.

Grandpa, please, please wake her up.

Good morning, Larry.

Well, well, well.

Look who decided to answer his phone.

I had an emergency last night.

I don't care.

I called you nine times.

Larry, your first call came in after eight.

I'm your boss.

You answer any time I call.

No, I work from nine to five.

Last time was the first time in seven years I didn't answer when you called.

You listen to me, Ackerman.

You working remotely isn't working. I need you back in the office today.

Are you kidding me?

been putting in more hours working from here than when i'm in the office i need

you to be accessible and you clearly are not that's ridiculous back in the

office today ackerman tomorrow is christmas eve so i'm not coming in larry

i said i'd be back the day after new year's if you don't come back in today

don't come back at all i'm not coming back

Being up here has made me realize that there's a lot more to life than work.

I quit, Larry.

If you quit, don't you dare come crawling back to me for a job.

I quit.

Ackerman! Merry Christmas, Larry.

Ackerman!

Taking a break? You can say that.

What are you making?

Apple pie.

Can I help?

Really? You know how to make apple pie?

No. Can you teach me?

Sure, but don't you have to work?

I'm taking some time off.

Can I help, please?

I need to start learning to do this stuff on my own, right?

Sure. Take your sweater off.

Really? You don't want to get it dirty, do you? Humor me.

Okay.

Okay, you're too domestic looking.

All right, are you going to teach me or what?

Yes. Here we go. Hi.

You're so handsome.

You are so handsome.

We're going to have a fun night together.

What? What are you looking at?

Wow.

You look fantastic.

You really think so?

Absolutely. Not too over the top? No.

You look amazing.

Thank you.

I'm sorry I'm skipping out on Christmas tomorrow.

Don't sweat it. I feel awful.

I'm not spending Christmas with you and your family for the first time in 16

years. It's okay, Mare.

Really.

I'm coming over as soon as they start eating dessert, okay?

Fine. It will all work out.

Stop being such a worrywart.

Yeah, you're right.

Come on.

We'll walk you out.

No.

Chris Ackerman?

That's me.

Very nice to meet you, Dr. Block.

Carl, please.

This is my wife, Karen. Other Dr. Block?

It's a pleasure.

Thank you for flying us up for dinner. That's very generous of you. Meredith's

going to be very surprised.

It's been a long time since we spent Christmas Eve with her.

We haven't seen her in quite a while, either. So I've heard.

Shall we?

Thank you.

Merry Christmas.

Reservation? Yes, I'm meeting someone here. Ackerman?

Um... They have not checked in yet.

Would you like to check your coat? Sure. Okay, coat check is right there. Thank

you. No problem.

Merry Christmas.

Reservation? Yes, Ackerman.

Oh, here it is.

The reservation's only for three, though.

Correct. Well, a young woman just came over and checked in on this reservation,

so that would be four.

No, I won't be dining with them.

What? Why not?

I don't want to impose.

Absolutely not. I insist you join us.

Mom?

Dad? Surprise!

What are you doing here?

Merry Christmas, Santa.

But you hate surprises.

Yes, but you love them, don't you? I do.

Merry Christmas, Mom.

I can't believe you're here.

Well, it's all Chris's idea.

Thank you.

Well, I'll leave you three to dinner.

Wait, no. You have to join us.

That's what I said.

You sure?

Absolutely, yes.

We insist, Chris.

Can you make room for a fourth?

Sure.

No problem.

Thank you.

Check your coats over there.

It's too bad you can't stay for Christmas.

If I'd have known how much it meant to Meredith, we would have been here.

Maybe next year.

Yeah, maybe.

Meredith, honey, you really need to communicate with us better.

What do you mean?

I never knew how important the holidays were to you.

Neither did I.

We just thought you wanted to spend the holidays with Isabella because she had a

bigger family than we do. What? No, never.

We didn't want you to... I feel like you had to spend the holidays with us.

We just wanted you to have fun.

We wanted you to enjoy the holidays.

I always enjoy spending time with you, Daddy.

I didn't think you guys wanted to be around me.

I didn't think you wanted me.

Didn't want you?

Don't be absurd.

But all those years of me decorating alone?

We thought you wanted it that way.

We didn't want to bother you.

You never asked. Meredith, neither did you.

We just thought... We thought you were ashamed about it.

Ashamed of you? Why?

You never brought any friends to the house. What does that have to do with

anything? You never once invited us to visit you during college.

I just thought you were too busy.

If you don't mind me stepping in here, I think a good New Year's resolution for

all of you would be to open up more to one another.

Agreed.

Definitely.

To new beginnings.

Are you sure you want to drive them to the airport?

I don't mind.

Yes. I want to spend as much time with them as I can.

Okay. Thank you for this, Chris.

I'll never forget it.

Are you sure you can't make it to Christmas?

No, I have to work.

Maybe next year.

That would be great.

Come on, you two.

You don't want to miss your flight.

Well, thank you, Chris. This is really, really special.

You're welcome.

And if you ever decide to come to Baltimore, you're always welcome at our

Thanks.

Thank you again.

You guys are safe.

Good night, Chris.

Hey, when does everybody arrive?

Well, my parents should get here around 1.

Okay, and everybody else is at 3? That's what I told them.

Great.

Are you okay?

You seem nervous.

I am nervous.

Why?

I don't know. I just...

I want everything to be perfect.

Mary, it will be.

I hope so.

Come on.

You're a professional.

Isn't this just another event you've planned?

No. I wouldn't say that.

Why not?

It just... It means a lot to me.

Why?

Because... You mean a lot to me.

Mom. Dad. Hi.

Merry Christmas, son.

You guys are early.

We made great time.

I couldn't wait to get here.

This place looks amazing.

Yeah, Mary did a great job.

When do we get to meet her? She's in the kitchen.

Oh, great.

Mom, wait.

You must be Meredith.

I am. Hi.

You are?

Renee.

I'm Chris's mom.

Oh, I'm so glad to finally meet you.

What? I can't hug the woman who's responsible for all of this? Oh, I'm

doing my job. It's no big deal.

Your job?

Chris, you're not supposed to hire anybody.

Oh, that's not what I meant. I just meant it's my job because I love

so much. You know, I feel a responsibility for making sure that

whole family have the best Christmas ever.

Oh, that is so sweet.

I'm so glad Chris met somebody like you.

Mom. What?

Hi, Meredith.

I'm Chris's dad, Jeff.

Please, call me Mary.

Here. Renee, make cornbread.

Great. Thank you.

I'll let you know. I'll help you bring your bags in.

We'll take over Mary's room and the gray room. Oh, I can't wait.

Thank you.

The house looked marvelous.

I can't believe how much it reminds me of how my dad used to decorate.

I'm so glad.

Chris sent me pictures, and I did my best to replicate them.

Well, you did a great job.

Thank you.

So how long have you known Chris?

About a month. I met him when he got here.

Are you from Christmas Cove? No, I live in South Bristol.

Oh. How'd you meet?

Through his assistant, Beth.

Blind date?

Well, he seems really happy.

You think so?

Yes. You know, Chris hasn't been himself since his grandpa died about a month

ago. I can tell they were very close.

Yeah, they were very close.

And my dad always wanted to see Chris with someone around this time of year,

he never brought any girls home.

Really? Really.

He lets you very special, Meredith.

I got it.

Well, Chris is very special to me. I'm glad.

Mom, the Steins are here.

Oh, do you know Artie Stein?

I do. And his wife, Helene, and daughter, Shira.

Really? Yeah, Shira just made her bat mitzvah.

Mom! Okay.

We gotta go.

Hi,

Mary. Hi, Shira. Give me a hug.

Mary, it's so wonderful to see you. It's nice to see you, Elaine.

Thank you. Hi, Artie. Hello, Mary.

Merry Christmas. Merry Christmas.

Elaine? Hardy, Shira, meet my mother, Renee Ackerman.

Mom, the Stein family.

Hardy, it's so good to meet you in person. Finally, all of you.

Like what? I'm so sorry about your dad. He was a great man.

Thank you. He was.

We certainly met them.

So, what are you doing here, Mary?

Oh, celebrating Christmas, of course.

Oh, she's being humble. She's dating my son.

Mom. Is that so?

Oh, Mary, I'm so glad. You're such a lovely young woman. It's about time you

found a nice man.

Mom! Come on now, it's none of your business.

When I was going to introduce her to your cousin Joshua, she was bought mid

-size. I just ran out of time.

Mom, you're embarrassing her.

Add me.

Well,

why don't I take your coat upstairs?

Great idea.

And I'll take the wine.

Thank you. And I'll take my wife.

Let your heart be alive.

From now on our trouble will be out of sight.

Have yourself a merry

little Christmas.

Make the yuletide gay.

From now on...

Happy golden days of yore.

Faithful friends who are dear to us, gather near to us once

more.

Through the years we all will be together.

May I have your attention, please?

Yay! Great meal, Mary!

Yay!

Thank you.

I have a little surprise for Chris and his family.

I'm not one for public speaking. So if you want to put on your coats and shoes

and come with me outside through the game room, I'd love to show you.

All right.

What's all this about?

You'll see.

Chris told me that his grandpa used to have a theme when it came to decorating

the outside of his house every year.

I wanted to stick with doing a theme, but I wanted to make it really special.

Chris, when we found out that your grandpa used to make my Aunt Minnie's

chocolate cream pie every year, I knew he was smiling down on you.

On your family.

On this house.

Maybe even on us.

That night, I knew what I wanted the theme to be.

Merry Christmas, everyone.

Wow.

Look, an angel, Daddy. Just like Papi's here with us.

It sure is funny.

There you are.

Hi.

Helping come in for everyone else?

Yeah. Walking around outside, checking out the lights.

Really is a winter wonderland out there. You did a great job.

Oh, I don't know.

Mary, what's wrong?

I feel like I made a fool out of myself, you know?

No, not at all.

My mom totally believes you're my girlfriend.

You really saved my skin there.

Oh, yeah.

I'm a great actor.

Oh, that reminds me.

What's that?

It's your paycheck.

You certainly earned it.

Oh.

Is something wrong?

No. That's what this is, right? You're my boss. I'm your employee.

Oh, well, I guess it is then.

I think I should go home.

I have to feed Thaddeus.

Are you sure?

Yeah.

What's this? Just a little gift.

You don't have to open it right now if you don't want to.

Well, good night.

Meredith, wait.

What? Please don't leave.

Somewhere along the way, you became more than an event planner.

You made your way into my heart. I am not about to let you go.

It's not going to work, Crit. You're going to go back to New York? I'm not.

What? I'm not. I quit my job.

I'm moving here permanently.

I don't understand.

I'll tell you all about it tomorrow, but for tonight, please don't leave.

I don't know.

I don't belong.

Mary, this past month has been...

Magical.

I have never been so sure about something.

Someone, for that matter, in my entire life.

You made me see how important family is.

You rearranged the priorities in my life.

You made me want to be a better person.

Really?

You belong here, Meredith.

You belong with me.

Thank you, Chris.

We scream at the world asking, what do you want from me?

What do you want from me? Yeah, little do we know.

If we just ask, we shall receive.

It takes a lot of faith to fly in the blind.

Stronger than you know, and know you're not alone

It's all the love.