Original subtitles

d

Hi, welcome to The Chesterton.

Thanks, thanks.

Woo, halleloo!

d

[phone rings]

d

Hey.

Is Jasper there? Put him on.

Jasper!

It's Leslie.

Mm-hm.

[sighing]

Leslie, you know

we can't take the tree--

Jasper, sweetie.

Can you believe

it's already been a year?

Look, I'm telling you, Leslie,

it's a union rule.

Even for me?

Come on, Jasper.

We go through this every year.

Back and forth, back and forth.

Yep--and let's be honest,

how does it always end?

But you--I--

With a tree in my damn lobby.

So can we keep the ugly on

our sweaters? It's Christmas.

Now give my love

to Jean and the kids.

Thanks, Jasper.

Buh-bye.

I hate you right now.

Here.

Okay, boys,

what are you waiting for?

Let's, uh,

let's move that tree out.

Hold it together, Belinda,

I'm right outside.

Perfect.

But did you grab the Santa?

Girl, I got this,

don't I always?

d

Oh dear Lord.

Oh wow.

Already?

Time to set our sights

on the family business.

Christmas is killing

The Chesterton.

Your grandfather is running

this hotel into the ground.

We need to re-brand from bottom

up like we did in Philly.

Turn the red into some black

on that balance sheet.

Now that won't be easy.

Edmund, the city's changing.

It's The Chesterton's turn.

Yes, Millicent, I understand.

But there's

a lot of history here.

You don't fully expect

to just delete all that, do you?

Not delete, just edit.

Don't worry.

You got me by your side.

We're a team.

We're gonna wrap this revamp up

in a nice,

pretty little package.

And they say it's

the most wonderful time of year.

d

Welcome to The Chesterton.

Mr. James, Ms. Williams,

we've been expecting y'all.

Thank you, um...

Thomas.

Thank you, Thomas.

d

We have a call

with New York at 3.

- Got it, Millicent.

- Investment bankers at 4.

- Got it, Millicent.

- And then dinner

with your grandfather at 7.

- Got it, Millicent.

- Bring these bags up

to our room

as soon as we've checked in.

Got it, Millicent.

d

Okay, I'm just

gonna go freshen up

and then check us into our room.

Rooms.

Yes, of course.

Rooms.

d

Yes, let's turn it.

And stop, that's good.

- Thank you.

- You're welcome.

d

Yeah.

d

Miss Major, wow,

I love how

you bring in Christmas.

Thomas! And I love how you're

always right there to greet me.

Hey, well, you know it's

The Chesterton's way.

Plus I got to end up

on his nice list.

- Good idea.

- Do you need help with him?

No, no, no, Santa is my gig.

d

Woo, light shipment

is finally here.

Five thousand lights?

No, we're gonna need

much more than that.

Yes, you are right.

Girl, you know 5000 more lights

are already coming ASAP.

You're my little Nutcracker,

always got my back.

That's what

a legit assistant does.

All you need to do

is be dazzled.

Oh!

That's hot.

Call

Conran's Lighting Supply now.

Needs much more gold.

Well, then you shall have it,

my dear.

Anything you need.

Oh, Mr. James.

My favorite client. How are you?

Ah, this is gonna be your

most beautiful Christmas yet.

Now you say that every year.

Well, it's true every year.

You have the gift.

Oh, thank you.

Beautiful as always.

Well, thank you.

And our favorite moment.

Well, of course you know

the star gets lit

on Christmas Eve

to show Jesus the way.

Yes.

Remember last year when we had

Thomas's sweet little sister

throw the switch?

I think that was the only

Christmas they got to have.

But it's time to spread

that holiday cheer.

We have the kids

from Holy Redeemer Church

coming to celebrate with us.

Leslie, I think

you've topped even you.

No, this is about you

and what you've built here

and how you served the church

and the community, like...

Yes. Listen, Leslie,

I would like to--

Ooh, that tree is on lock.

Sorry, Mr. J,

but it won't move at all.

What would I do

without you, Kevin?

Hey, you dream it, I scheme it.

Now you sure it's solid?

Yeah, all I gotta do

is tighten the base a little bit

and we're good to go.

Or stay...

put.

- You get it?

- Thank you, Kevin.

Thanks.

Listen, Leslie,

before I lose you again,

I'd like to introduce you

to my grandson.

I know. There are 24 days

until Christmas.

- I know this. Okay?

- But, Belinda, we can't--

- There's no way.

- Listen.

Excuse me? Yo, this is

the mother flippin' Chesterton.

We need to have this

delivered now.

We'll try, we'll try.

Leslie, they're winding

the lights, not weaving them.

Oh hell no,

we've always been weavers.

Hello.

d

Oh hey, J.J.!

Regina.

My songbird.

Hi.

- Welcome.

- Thank you.

It looks like I'm gonna

be spending the holidays

here at The Chesterton.

Yes, we've been expecting you.

d

This lobby.

Every year, it just...

just lifts my spirits.

- Ready, Kev?

- Ready.

Okay, good, here.

Take these

and take 'em all around.

And weave.

And weave, yes.

Do you remember your run here?

Sold out every night.

Glorious voice.

You know I left that

behind years ago.

Well, spot's still open for you.

And you'd better grab it quick

while I'm still running

things here.

What are you talking about,

you've been The Chesterton

for what, 40 years?

You're not going anywhere.

Mm, no, no, no, not just yet,

but I'm not getting any younger.

Well, it's not The Chesterton

without J.J. James.

Hmmm.

Always a charmer.

Now you make sure

we grab a drink

before I leave, all right?

Ooh!

d

[screaming]

d

Oh!

d

And just like that,

it's Christmas.

Oh, I am so sorry.

[crowd murmuring]

Leslie.

Well, I see you've met

my grandson.

Leslie Major, Major Design,

meet Edmund James,

Howard Business School.

d

Nice to meet you.

Very nice to meet you.

Oh my God.

Edmund, what the hell

happened to you?

Oh, she, uh...

d

Who's she?

Me.

Leslie Major

of Major Designs.

I handle Christmas around here.

Oh, fascinating.

Why are you shiny?

Oh, it's the "snow."

I put glitter in it

to make it glisten.

Oh, well, whatever it is,

it's all over you.

It's okay, I'm okay.

It's fine.

I'm good.

Um...

Well,

it was a pleasure catching you.

Pleasure being caught.

d

Well, I'm gonna go check us in

while we get you de-glittered.

I can't wait to get Christmas

the hell out of this place.

d

Lord.

d

[sighing]

d

[sighing]

Would you like

to go ahead of me?

Yes, actually,

I'm on a really tight schedule.

d

Okay.

d

Doesn't this place

just give you life?

Tscht, more like

it needs to get a life.

[laughing]

Well, Christmas,

I love Christmas.

Thought I was over it this year.

Bad break-up.

But this place just always...

Let me just stop you

right there.

Listen, I don't do

small talk with strangers,

I don't do

close proximity chit chat,

and I definitely

don't do Christmas.

d

Well, I don't do bitches.

- Thank God.

- Welcome to The Chesterton.

Yes, it'll be

Millicent Williams.

Double I, double L.

Edmund James.

Checking in together.

Will you be sharing a room?

No, no, but I did call ahead

and request adjoining rooms.

Ah, yes, I see it.

Two rooms.

[stifled laugh]

d

Adjoining.

d

Edmund here is to help us

transition the hotel.

- Transition?

- Easy now.

This'll always be

The Chesterton,

but we need some change

around here.

I'm not sure I like

the sound of any of that.

Leslie, you worry too much.

Edmund is very innovative.

His business partner Millicent,

she's a go-getter.

[scoffs]

She goin' and gettin' all right.

All right,

let's clean up this mess.

Uh, Kevin,

why is my tree still leaning?

d

Belinda, what's the update

on the lights?

Uh, I don't know but I'll get

one for you shortly.

We got a lot more to do, team!

d

I wish it could stay

Christmas forever.

Me too.

d

Think I'll make sure it does.

d

The tree always looks

a little empty until this part.

Until that star lights the top

of the tree on Christmas Eve,

it's just a bunch of lights.

- A bunch is right.

- Woo-hoo-hoo-hoo!

'Cause you can never have

too much sparkle, okay?

See, other hotels have

New Year's Eve

and Valentine's Day,

but we own Christmas.

- Mm-hm!

- Kevin,

let me see the star!

Prepare to be blown away.

- Right.

- Hey.

What the hell?

You oversold it.

Kevin, don't you ruin

my Christmas.

- Never.

- You will have

a working star here in...

two days?

Guaranteed.

Whew. You know what?

Y'all go get some rest.

I'm gonna stay behind

and do some paperwork.

We gotta really turn

it out this year.

We're almost there.

How about next year we have

a ice skating rink?

Kevin, see, I'm gonna hurt you.

I'm gonna hurt you.

d

Hello.

Hello. Oh, um...

Edmund.

Oh, yeah, yeah, yeah, hey.

You're the decorator lady

I saved.

[laughing]

Designer, Leslie.

Designer Leslie.

Just Leslie's fine.

Okay, Just Leslie.

d

So, you okay?

Oh, pretty sure I'm fine.

Oh, the fall, the fall, yes.

No, I'm fine,

mm-mm, yeah, I mean,

you're a hell of a catch--

catcher.

Catcher! I mean you are

a hell of a catcher.

Oh, you probably saved my ass

or something else

more important.

You...

- I'm fine.

- Okay.

Just leave it there, yeah.

Yeah.

Fine is good.

d

- Okay.

- I just needed to, uh,

find a nice, quiet spot to relax

and just process the entire day,

'cause, Lord...

Oh, Smitty, scotch him.

- Okay.

- Oh, no, no, no.

I'll just take a Diet Coke...

Oh, it's not gonna happen here.

And, you know what? This mess...

there.

What, you don't like my tie?

Okay, all right, hold on.

d

- Is that better?

- Better.

Better.

[laughing]

All the way, as I say.

All right.

All the way.

d

Mm.

Mm-mm, mm-mm, mm-mm, mm-mm.

Mm-hm, mm-hm, mm-hm.

Mm-mm.

[laughing]

There you go, little bit more.

Ah, ah!

That's how you do that.

Not as good as you.

- That's nice.

- Thank you.

I really needed that.

You know, Millicent has, uh,

taken over my entire room

and turned it into

a makeshift command center.

M--Millicent?

Yeah, my coworker,

project coordinator person.

Well, I guess she sounds like

she's on her games.

Oh yeah, she...

she's definitely that.

A bit more sometimes.

Um, yeah,

so this place seems to really be

pretty crazy around

this time of year.

Yeah, I mean,

don't you just love it?

[squeals]

It's like a drug.

The start of The Chesterton

Christmas holiday season.

There's nothing like it.

I mean, I just feel

like I'm, uhh...

The Queen of Christmas.

What? I mean,

I'm not that much into labels,

but if you mean I, um,

order people around my domain

and make things happen,

then yes.

- Yes.

- That's me.

It is you, I know!

That's cool though, I like that.

I mean, everybody else

seems to really dig it.

You know,

the whole Christmas vibe.

Uh, don't you?

Oh, no, I'm not much

of a holidays person.

Never have been.

To me it just seems like

an excuse for people

to spend money

they don't have and overeat.

I mean, and then the banks,

think about it.

The banks aren't even open.

Or the escrow companies.

How can I make money

if they're not open?

- Wow.

- I'm serious.

- Okay.

- Seriously.

Okay, that is quite

the anti Christmas list.

I mean, not to mention

the added pressure

of having to be happy.

What? You're...

Pressure?

Uh, why can't you just be?

Happy, I mean, just...

be happy.

You make it sound so easy.

It's not that complicated.

I mean,

people been doing it for years.

What's it like waking up

at your house Christmas morning?

Excuse me? You're just gonna...

No, no, no, I--

Time out.

I don't mean it like that.

I'm asking because

your line of work.

So I'm sure you got

the Christmas lights

and the big tree

and all the decorations and...

Let's just say

I make Christmas happen.

No, no, that's cool, I'm--

I'm just not wired like that.

You know, I try to relax

but my mind automatically goes

to more important things

to focus on.

You know, practical things.

Mmm.

That's why I'm here.

Yeah, I know why you're here.

d

You care to enlighten me?

d

I think you're here to...

try to fix something

that ain't broke.

You know, sometimes it's...

sometimes it's good to get

a new perspective on things.

You talking about

the hotel or you?

The hotel...

and...

maybe both.

Which--oh!

Okay then, I see you.

All right.

Well, you know what then?

It's kinda hard

not to be happy

when you got this bling

around your neck.

- Let's see.

- Okay.

- Uh huh, there you go.

- Yeah.

Okay.

You might be on

to something there.

Hilarious.

d

To...

Just Leslie.

To open minds and open hearts.

d

Oh Edmund, thank God.

There you are, finally.

Um, okay, we need to go over

a whole bunch of--

[laughing]

Oh my God.

Please take that

tacky thing off.

Okay,

the PowerPoint's not ready.

We need the online brochure

mock-ups for the revamp.

The graphic designer

wants approval by tomorrow,

and I--I don't even think that--

Millicent.

Settle.

Let's have a look at it.

Okay. I need your sign off.

The investors are gonna be

here in two weeks,

and we need to make sure

that we impress

so that those with the dough

don't say no.

[snickering]

Conference Center.

Wow.

It's not exactly sexy.

It's not.

It's business.

Look, look,

we have the opportunity

to save this tired--

"classic" hotel

and slam it

into the 21st century.

This neighborhood

is changing fast.

The Chesterton

needs to change with it

or die.

We talked about this.

I know,

but we didn't discuss the--

This will be

the destination hotel

for urban professionals.

State of the art

office facilities,

video conferencing.

Did it ever occur to you

that people

might just want to get away

at a hotel?

I mean, isn't that the point?

No, that's not our point.

Business related urban hotel

occupancy is up 65%.

Uh! Clear head, Edmund.

Everything's faster now.

Business happens

in the blink of an eye.

There's no time to slow down.

You and I have a vision

that will put The Chesterton

on top year-round.

So if we have to sacrifice

some jacked up Christmas crap

to do it, so be it.

The Chesterton can be more than

just a seasonal novelty hotel.

The Chesterton stays booked out

during Christmastime.

And it's hemorrhaging money

the rest of the year.

Plus your grandfather

spends way too much money

on frivolous nonsense.

Hey.

We're talking about

my family legacy here.

Slow down.

Yeah, and we need to think

about that future.

You know, when this hotel

started, it was in a ghetto.

This neighborhood

has gentrified.

Now you and I have

the opportunity

to take advantage of that.

We can make this place great.

Together.

Same page, Edmund.

d

Hm, I like my bells.

d

Girl, you did it.

Ah--oh, whoa-hoa-hoa.

I likey, I likey. Come on,

let's light this mother up.

All right.

d

- It--

- Kevin.

Being dramatic.

d

- Oh, love it.

- I like it, okay--

- Uh...

- Aw.

Oh.

Oh.

Ke--You know what?

This might be your last day.

- Okay, uh...

- What is this?

I'm calling, I'm calling.

d

Rodney, turn on your FaceTime.

I need you to see my rage.

What is this?

Get this, get this hot mess

up out of here.

d

Okay...

I want everything to be

perfect this Christmas.

Oh, have some faith.

Don't I always deliver

a perfect Christmas?

Yeah, yeah, but this Christmas,

this--this might be

our last big Christmas.

Last big Christmas?

Yeah, so make it big.

I can't do this much longer.

I want to retire.

You know, maybe take one

of those sexy senior cruises.

Oh, well, if you're there,

it'll be sexy.

- Yeah.

- But Mister,

you are the soul of this hotel.

This old place needs

some new blood.

Hmm...

Hmm, Edmund, huh?

Oh, he got some big ideas.

Shift the focus to something

that caters to--

to business conferences

and stuff like that.

He's gonna bring in

some money people in two weeks

and have

an investor's reception.

Ah, but we'll still have room

for some Christmas.

Hmm. Well, great.

At least the investors

can see this place at its best.

- Amen.

- What's The Chesterton

- without Christmas?

- Amen to that.

Ha.

Mmm.

d

Ooh!

Okay,

Rodney will have the lights

fixed and delivered by tomorrow.

He knows I know where he lives.

That bastard.

Ah, okay. Calm down.

It's all right,

he always comes through.

That man is trying

to Grinch my Christmas.

Technically Christmas

belongs to everybody.

No, it doesn't.

That grandson of J.J.'s

is trying to shift things up

at The Chesterton.

I mean, Christmas

at The Chesterton--

the tree,

the church choir singing,

the children's faces--

that's what makes

this place magical.

Without it,

we're just another hotel

with a fax machine.

Oh, girl, nobody faxes anymore.

Don't hush my rant.

You know exactly what I mean.

Okay. Yeah, I do.

Yes, she does.

I can do this.

I saw the way

you looked at that man,

and, real talk,

think it's a little more

than business...

Oh no, mm-mm,

it's all business,

'cause I'm gonna set up

a business meeting

with that little Mister James

and give him the business...

- Ooh--

- Uh, or show him

that Christmas means business.

How are you gonna do this?

I got facts

and figures and stuff...

And a bang-bada-bang body.

Kevin, really,

I'm trying to be serious here.

Okay, we're gonna help you.

Okay, I can totally do this.

Yes, you totally can.

You got this, boo.

But we are here for you

in case you fall

flat on your ass.

- Okay?

- Good thing I got cushion.

Oh, yeah, okay.

Go do some work, go.

All right, bye.

- Get to work.

- Too much.

d

Christmas.

d

Yes. No, that's fine.

I'll totally help.

Yes, I understand.

I already signed off

on it so it's fine.

Just go with it.

d

Ow!

d

I think I'm gonna call you back.

I, uh, think I just

got assaulted by Santa.

All right.

d

- Ooh, I'm sorry.

- Yeah.

You and that ladder

are both a hazard.

I hope you don't

really think that.

No, I don't.

But there is a lot of stuff

around here.

Well, that's kind

of the purpose.

Trying to put

my Christmas together.

- Hmmm.

- Leslie.

Mrs. Lawrence, how are you?

Now, Leslie,

I told you to call me Bev.

You did, Miss Bev.

This is J.J.'s grandson, Edmund.

Edmund, meet Mrs. Lawrence.

She got married here

on Christmas.

Oh!

Edmund.

You know, this would have been

Samuel and my 50th anniversary.

- Oh really?

- I come here

every year to celebrate,

even though Samuel passed.

Oh, I'm so sorry to hear that.

Oh, don't be.

I feel closest to him

when I'm here.

It's like he's right here

beside me.

And this is where we had

our first date too.

And Miss Sara Vaughan performed.

Did she now?

And I knew that very night

that I was gonna marry that man.

And, Edmund,

I want to thank you so much

for carrying on

the holiday tradition.

My kids are too busy

for traditions.

I think that's a shame.

Oh, such a shame.

Well, anyway, I guess

it is what it is, child.

[laughing]

Isn't she lovely?

She is.

I'm sorry,

let me grab this call.

Oh, okay.

Hey, Frank, yeah.

Hey, do me a favor on this one.

Just, uh, take things slowly.

Yeah, I don't want to rush it,

you know,

it being Christmas season

and all.

No, no, no,

we're definitely moving forward,

I just...

I just want to be respectful

of the climate, you know?

Yeah.

Okay, talk soon.

Bye.

Oh hey, Darren.

How are you?

Hey, hey, hey.

Oh, so wait, are you and Gloria

gonna lead the choir

on Christmas Eve?

We always do every year.

Yes, y'all do. I love it.

Y'all can sing, baby.

Oh, you know it, you know.

The flowers look beautiful.

Thank you.

You know, my family has done

holiday florals here

for 20 years.

Family's been

in the business for 70.

So you guys are

a local company.

Oh, yes, sir.

Rollins Floral and Designs.

One of the first black-owned

businesses in this area.

Our contract here

helps support us all year round.

Huh, mine too.

[laughing]

Woo, they can sing,

I'm telling you.

I know what you're doing.

What?

The nice old lady,

the poinsettias,

the Christmas cheer?

You're laying it on

a bit thick, aren't you?

Let me guess, next you'll have

a parade of orphans

coming through the door.

Uh, shhh!

Don't you ruin my big finish.

That's on Christmas Eve.

Um, Edmund,

do you think we could,

uh, maybe have a talk?

I just want to plead my case.

Yeah,

that shouldn't be a problem.

Okay, how about tonight?

Ooh, not tonight.

I have a dinner thing,

and then I'm leaving

first thing tomorrow,

but I'll be back next week

for the reception.

Oh...

I'm sure it can wait.

Or...

Maybe we could, uh,

meet at the bar later.

Cool. Uh, ten-ish?

Yeah, ten should work.

All right, awesome.

d

All right.

d

Well, if you need me before then

you can always just...

hit me up.

d

Not on my watch, biotch.

d

- Edmund.

- I will...

Ugh, emergency conference call.

Was this "service person"

bothering you?

d

[squealing]

d

You don't like that woman,

do you?

Oh--well,

it's not for me

to judge in that way.

She's a hotel guest

and I will always be

respectful and courteous.

That's very professional.

But you don't like her.

She's just...

Mr. James,

I really love this hotel

and I love the family

we have here,

and I don't see her...

fitting in very well,

or wanting to.

Leslie, I appreciate

your honesty and your concern.

Thank you, sir.

We're in good hands here.

Now, let me tell you

about my grandson.

He has a solid heart,

but sometimes

he lets his head get in the way.

His parents were divorced

when he was about 16,

right before Christmas,

and he took it hard.

His spirit used to just light up

when this tree was put up

in the lobby.

But after the split,

well, the boy just walked around

with his nose in some book.

He eventually stopped coming

for Christmas.

He lost his faith.

Well, I don't mean

to toot my own horn,

but who can walk in here

and resist Christmas?

Yeah, I know, I know,

but eventually his heart

will shine through.

It's been hurt

but it's a strong heart.

And I believe in him.

Hm!

d

Ah, Mr. James.

Miss.

d

Welcome to The Soul Kitchen.

As you know,

my health benefits and Christmas

are no longer on the menu.

But save room

for Chef Bessie's peach cobbler.

d

Here you go.

Thank you.

d

Wow.

News travels fast.

I'm concerned that

some of the staff thinks

that we're gonna be gutting

the hotel.

Good. Keep 'em on their toes.

Tscht, this place is

the first thing to go.

I'm thinking something

more sophisticated.

Millicent, my grandfather

built a family here.

We've got to tell them

something.

Absolutely. You're right.

And the key to good business

is open communication.

We'll set up some staff meetings

and explain

that not everyone will survive

in this environment,

things have to change

at the hotel,

but we will always have

a strong foundation,

which is what I think

you and I have.

d

Yeah, I guess we're a good team.

We're a great team.

Let's take it to the next level.

Are you buttering me up

for a raise?

No, darling.

d

Darling, huh? All right.

Okay.

What's this?

A proposal.

For us.

d

All right.

Well, it certainly looks

well thought out.

It's a very solid

long range plan.

And with you and I

being together...

I mean,

the possibilities are endless.

Millicent, we're...

we're not "together."

Okay, in business,

we make a great team,

one that can't fail.

Why not make us

both business and pleasure?

d

Are you asking me to marry you?

The time to strike is now.

Whoa, whoa, whoa, easy, I--

Isn't the man

supposed to get down on one knee

and ask the woman, with a ring?

Oh, I didn't have time

to get a ring,

but I do know what I want.

Turn to page eight.

All right.

Sure...

I'll take care of everything.

Yeah, I see.

This...

this is crazy.

d

- Whoa.

- What?

This infographic

showing the lead-up

to the consummating

of our relationship.

It's on the table,

but we can always negotiate

an earlier rollout

or sequence of events,

if that works for you.

I gotta be honest,

this is all a bit much.

But you do know this is

where we're headed, right?

Bottom line, we make sense.

Yeah, I know we make sense.

On paper.

But what about off the page?

Well, if we approach

this thing the right way,

get the right momentum going,

we will become

an unstoppable brand.

Have you made up your mind?

Yes, he'll have the salmon,

but cook it through,

sauce on the side,

salad instead of potatoes.

I'll have the steak,

black and blue.

And we'll split

the peach cobbler.

We just ran out

of the peach cobbler.

Ugh!

And it was so delicious.

d

It's not a date.

It's just two professionals

presenting strategies,

looking for common ground.

That is a date.

It's not a date.

You better run

and tell that dress.

It's too hookery?

I'll leave you a 50

on the night stand.

- Oh!

- You know, don't steal

nothing on your way out.

[laughing]

Oh, okay, girl.

I know you've been off your game

and it's been

a long, long, long--

Oh, oh, okay,

one long is enough.

Don't need to be reminded

that it's been a while.

My point is,

maybe you wouldn't know

a date if it hits you.

d

Ooh, Lord, no. Mm-mm.

You ain't getting

no nice nice in that outfit.

Look, I'm just trying to present

a strong, sensible image.

Wrong one.

d

Ooh,

that's a definite possibility.

Oh! Ooh, you need

some pearls though...

What, you just gonna have

pearls...

I'm telling you,

this is just business.

Mm.

Boom.

d

Boom.

Bam.

[laughing]

Have a nice date.

This is not a date!

Girl, you mean to tell me

that that boy

wasn't wrapped

under the Christmas tree

that you wouldn't mind?

Okay, that may be.

But first things first.

I gotta save Christmas.

d

Good evening, Mr. James.

Well, damn.

Thank you.

Yeah.

You...

you look...

so clean.

Clean?

No, not--not like that,

I'm saying...

I've only seen you

in your work clothes

covered in glitter and ornaments

and whatnot, so...

so it's good to see you

out of those clothes.

And in some other nice clothes.

You look beautiful.

So do you.

I mean, you know,

you always look on point.

You try and do

a little something something.

Thank you. Appreciate it.

d

You know, all these years,

I never even noticed

these pictures here.

It's hard to believe

my grandfather

had all these stars

at the hotel.

Eartha, Teddy, Smokey...

I know, I know.

There is so much history here,

Edmund.

You know,

this is the one place

where all these musicians

came after their gigs.

You know what I'm saying?

Like, they would play

the large venues and all,

but--but when it

was time to jam,

haha, baby,

they was at The Chesterton.

Yes, they were.

You know, I really appreciate

you hearing me out.

I really do.

[clattering]

Let me help you with that.

d

Edmund, will you...

uh, get your cell phone

flashlight?

Oh, yeah.

d

- Thank you.

- Got one right there.

Ooh.

Oh, ooh!

Smitty, hit me.

What about you?

Yeah, hit me double.

- Hit us.

- Hit us.

[laughing]

Oh, gosh, I just can't tell you

how much I appreciate this.

The Chesterton is just,

you know,

it's such a important part

of our community

and of our city

that I wanted to let you know

about some ideas I have

to preserve that.

- Okay.

- I can show them to you.

- Yeah.

- Oh, great.

I've been working on this.

Got me all nervous.

So I was thinking--

Hey, wait a minute, no--

We're done

with the business talk,

the proposals and the ideas.

I don't want to hear it.

Oh.

Okay, well, um....

- Right now.

- Yeah?

It's just you and me.

- Is that all right?

- Yes, I like it.

Uh, so, rough day

"transitioning?"

Yeah, you know,

the basic mergers

and acquisitions.

Oh, were you expanding

your holdings?

Millicent proposed to me.

Come again?

Yeah.

It came out of nowhere too.

I mean, I guess it was more like

a presented proposal

for the next phase of our

development, according to her.

Well, I didn't know

you two were, uh...

Oh, no, no, no, we never have

been intimate in any facet,

but she just came out

of nowhere with it.

Well, sounds romantic,

I guess...

You have no idea.

When I tell you she had

pie charts and bar graphs.

Wait, pie charts and bar graphs?

She just went straight for sexy.

Yeah.

Mm.

I guess we're good on paper.

What about off the page?

That's exactly what I said.

Smitty.

Get over--two more.

Give us the bottle.

[laughing]

Thank you.

Oh my goodness.

You...

d

Wait a minute, you play?

Damn straight I play.

Oh my G--I sing.

I sing. Come on.

- All right.

- Let's get over here.

What songs you know?

All of 'em.

d

Come on.

After you, maestro.

You ain't said nothing

but a thing.

I cannot believe you can play.

- Oh my goodness.

- All those years

of piano lessons,

I better know how to play.

Oh, this is one

of my favorite Christmas songs.

We gotta do this one.

Can you do--can you read?

- You can read music, right?

- You got jokes.

[laughing]

Oh my goodness, ah!

- Oh, okay.

- You'll love this.

All right. Can--yeah.

d I don't do Christmas songs d

- Oh, come on, please?

- No, nah.

I mean, this is clearly not

your favorite time of the year.

Look, contrary to what

you believe about me,

there was a time when,

yes, I loved Christmas

just like everybody else.

Then one year I came downstairs

and caught Mommy kissing Santa.

Oh, that's cute.

And that's when

I knew the truth.

That it was your daddy?

That it was Mr. Davidson,

the neighbor.

Ouch.

Right. So, no.

d So no Christmas songs

up in this place d

Come on, please, for me.

d It's not happening d

d So don't state your case d

Okay, a verse and a chorus,

and then we're done. That's it.

Please, pretty please,

pretty, pretty, pretty please?

d I can't resist

your beautiful face d

Ah! Okay, okay, come on.

- Just a little bit.

- Just one.

Ah.

Yeah, I remember, I remember.

- Ready?

- Mm-hm.

Let's see if I got this...

d Hop on Santa's

sleigh tonight d

d Shoot up

to that pole and back d

d Down that chimney

with all them toys d

d My Santa baby

is right on track d

d Got a gift for me

when I'm on his lap d

d Nice or naughty,

get in that sack d

d Can't fight the merry d

d Can't fight the bright d

d Jolly's gonna get you

on Santa's big night d

d No, you can't

fight Christmas d

d You know your baby's right d

d You can't fight Christmas

come Santa's big night d

[laughing]

[applause]

Oh, thank you!

Thank you.

d

Oh my God, thank you.

Yo, that was so good.

Aw, that was good.

That was...

good.

Let's--let's do another one.

Please, go.

d

Mm!

d

[grunting]

d

[whimpers]

d

Girl, no.

d

Oh, hell no.

d

Kevin, when you look up,

what do you see?

d

Leslie, it's gorgeous.

Do you see a star

on top of my tree?

I don't see a star

on top of my tree.

Where the hell is the star

on top of my tree?

This is so not about a star

on top of that tree, is it?

d

Kevin, worry about your business

and I'll worry about mine.

d

Get my star!

d

Do you need a girl hug?

Belinda, what we need

is to confirm the number of kids

coming from Holy Redeemer.

And swap out that busted ass

wreath in the atrium.

And will you please fluff

the wilty poinsettias?

And get that wise man outta here

that's looking like

Katt Williams.

And then meet me over in the...

[sighs]

In--in the where?

Velvety soft lips.

What?

Hot cocoa brown skin.

d

Oh.

[laughs]

d

- Oh!

- What? What?

You frosted his cookies.

- No--well, no...

- Ooh!

And you--but see,

you didn't tell your girl.

- I know, I know, shh.

- That's--

Well, I'm here now

and he's here so just...

And he doesn't know that I know

what he's trying to do,

but I know what he's trying

to do, so what should I do?

So now you want to ask me

what you should do?

Yes, come on.

Come on!

You do know that's the one man

that can end your business.

Well, obviously, I didn't think

this all the way through.

Okay. It's all right.

Belinda's got you.

- Okay.

- Mm-hm.

d

You need to be ice cold.

- Cold?

- Ice cold.

You know what? And then you kick

his trifling ass to the curb.

Okay?

Ice queen.

- Ice queen.

- Ice queen.

d

Ice queen.

d

Hey.

Edmund.

You left before I woke up.

I did.

Had a dream about you.

Hmmm.

Visions of sugar plum

and hostile take-overs

dancing in your head.

No.

- I thought we had a--

- I thought we did too.

I saw your plans.

- You went through my stuff?

- I was looking for my shoes.

On my desk?

This isn't working for me.

So...

You know,

that's really unfortunate,

because last night was--

Edmund...last night...was fun.

Well, I--

it meant something to me.

But we'll never be

on the same page.

I think we need

to talk about this.

Talk about what?

Um...

Leslie and I were just saying

that, uh, the--

the Christmas Eve crowd

is projected to be the biggest

that we've had

in quite some time.

So what.

Oh, yes.

The decorator girl.

Leslie.

We just can't shake you,

can we, Leslie?

Could you give me

and Edmund a minute?

Thank you.

Need to discuss

some personal details

before we leave to the airport.

[Leslie exhales]

Woooo.

Jesus, let me keep this job.

Whew.

My God.

d

Hey, you got a minute?

Well, I didn't think

you would have one.

You're a busy lady around here.

Well, they don't call me

Miss Christmas for nothing.

d

But I need to talk to you.

And I think I know

what this is all about.

Oh.

You like Edmund.

No. No. What?

No, it's been business.

- Please, Mr. James--

- It's okay.

Your secret's safe with me.

Mr. James, I'm--

I see the way he looks at you.

- He looks.

- Yes.

Okay.

Believe there's

still something else

on your mind though.

Uh, yes, uh...

Right.

Um.

You...here...this place.

Leslie, what is it?

Mr. James, you don't know

what's going on here

at The Chesterton?

This minute, this second,

it's, it's what?

It's Christmas.

No, I mean the plan that

Edmund and Millicent have.

They're gonna to rip

the soul out of this hotel.

Edmund has assured me

that whatever changes happen,

they will be slow and with care.

I trust my grandson.

I don't mean to imply

that you shouldn't.

Leslie.

When my father

bought this place,

it was a transient hotel.

We built The Chesterton

from the ground up.

We made it grand.

We had the biggest entertainers,

Luther and Billie, Tina.

- And Stevie last year.

- You remember.

Yes.

Now this place is an icon

in our community.

My grandson will look

after this hotel

and all of its people.

Not according to this.

d

They plan to turn this place

into a slick corporate

convention center tomorrow.

I mean, catapult us

headlong into the future,

bulldozer first.

No grease.

Damn. Edmund.

I thought he'd look after

the family's interest.

I mean, I knew we were running

out of money, but...

Whoa, whoa--what?

Running out of money?

Well, Christmas

keeps getting bigger.

But the rest of the year is...

[Leslie stammers]

Mr. James, you give me

a 5 percent increase every year.

You never said anything.

We can't survive

on Christmas alone.

[J.J. sighs]

d

I guess we just

can't fight change.

You know what you can't fight?

What?

Christmas.

Christmas!

This is The Chesterton.

We can do both.

We can still be

the same historical,

traditional hotel

we've always been

and, you know,

move forward with the times.

They don't have to gut

this place altogether.

And I have a plan

that can prove just that.

If you let me.

d

That would be something.

d

Good luck.

d

Mm-mm.

Luck, I won't need.

Cause I got a vision!

["Hark! The Herald Angels Sing"

plays]

d

Leslie.

What are you doing?

You can't mix your Santa

and your black baby Jesus.

d

Oh, Edmund's coming back today.

I'm over him. She can have him.

She's already got him.

Help me test this thing.

d

[Leslie sighs]

Just telling it like it is.

d

Ugh, she is so

not right for him.

Because you are?

Girl, are you even

still on his radar?

[camera countdown beeping]

- I don't know.

- All right.

You've only talked to him that

one time since "room service."

- Yes, but--

- Smize.

[camera countdown beeping]

d

We had a connection.

Okay, look.

You gotta have

bigger jingle balls

if you plan on going up against

little miss "good on paper."

Okay, so show him that he has

the best option

right in front of him.

I just don't want him

to end up with her.

Blech.

d

Exactly, that's what

I'm talking about.

All right. All right.

So I got two things to do here.

Um, convince that man

to save Christmas

and get him all up on me.

Ooh, that sounds

nice and naughty.

d

Yes, go do that, girl.

Let's get it.

Look at this.

I just can't take a bad picture.

You look, uh...nice.

Focus. Focus.

You know they have

that reception planned.

Attracting all

that new business.

I think I'm gonna get

in that room and work my magic.

Show him

that the Christmas spirit

can bring him that paper.

Woo, and then tie it all up with

a big, ole, shiny, perfect bow.

I'm thinking silver, gold,

glitz and glam, baby.

- You see it?

- Oh yeah!

Okay, I see it.

So how can I help you?

Keep Millicent away.

Of course, all of your plans

lead to me doing the dirty work.

And Kevin.

I delegate to you

and you delegate to him.

It's the circle of life.

Okay, fine,

I'll keep Millicent away.

Oh, damn, where did I put

my Black to Bougie dictionary?

d

Hey, uh,

I need to take this call.

Catch up with you in a sec.

Okay.

d

Hey, Frank.

Oh, thank you.

No, we don't have a ring yet.

Just a formality.

Anyway, listen.

I need your help with something.

It's this Chesterton

revamp thing.

There's one annoying fly

in the ointment.

The decorator girl's

causing some problems

so I want to convince her

that we're on her side,

blah, blah, blah.

That's right,

I want to make it look

like we're backing her

to expand her little business

while we expand the hotel.

Get her under me

so I can get rid of her.

Leslie Major.

The name of her little company

is Major Designs.

So what if it's a clever name?

I just want her out. ASAP.

Thank you.

Now could you put me through

to Marshall's office?

Yes, without Edmund.

It's fine.

d

Hey, Leslie.

d

Hey, Edmund.

You're back.

Yeah.

I've been texting you all week.

Well, you know

it's my busy time.

Plus you've seemed...

otherwise engaged.

Hey, Granddad.

What you know good?

Edmund, let's walk.

Leslie seems to think this hotel

is going to be gone tomorrow,

some kind of corporate razing.

That's not my plan at all.

Not according to this.

This is just for the investors.

I trusted you.

Granddad, this is

just to sell them.

I never meant to--

Break my heart.

Granddad, no.

That was never my intention.

This has been forty years

of my life.

- I know.

- I've put everything

into building a community

inside and outside

of this hotel.

You're going to lose this hotel.

Now, I know

you don't want to hear that,

but the way things are going,

the numbers just

aren't adding up.

Son.

Business is not

just about numbers.

It's about people.

I know that,

but you gotta have the revenue--

No.

You know it here.

You don't know it here.

d

Leslie, Leslie, Leslie.

Do you have a minute?

Yeah, sure. How can I help you?

I'm, uh, headed to a meeting.

Got to keep those elves

in line, right?

[stifled laugh]

I know you think what I do here

at the hotel isn't important,

but it is to me

and to this place.

That's exactly what Edmund

and I have been thinking about.

We've been looking

at the problem all wrong.

And I definitely don't see

my business as a problem.

No, no, no, course not.

We're actually missing

a great opportunity here.

What are you talking about?

Well, with the wedding

coming up--

oh, did I mention

Edmund and I are engaged?

d

That's wonderful.

Congratulations.

I just--you know,

it's all so new,

I forget who I've told.

Ah.

Do you have a special guy?

Um...no.

Oh...

You really oughta

get yourself out there.

I mean, you got some good stuff

and, well, tick tock, right?

Got your eggs frozen?

d

Anyway, as I was saying,

with the wedding coming up,

Edmund and I are looking

for "all hands on deck"

here at The Chesterton.

And how does that involve me?

How would you like

to come on full time

as the official event

and design company

here at The Chesterton?

d

Uh...

Well, I mean,

that's very generous

of you, but--

Just think about it.

Can't be Major Designs

if you stay in the minors.

d

Motivation.

d

Girl, did I over-hear

that conversation correct?

I do not trust that woman.

I may have lost the man,

but I will not lose this hotel.

d

Um, are you unpacking

or stealing?

'Cause I do have a taser.

Thomas?

Miss Major?

Oh.

Little help, please?

Come on.

You have to be careful

or Christmas is gonna get you.

Oh, that's all right.

You know, everything's got to be

bigger and better this year.

You done with your shift?

Yes, I was just punching out.

Well, if you have time, do you

mind helping me out tonight?

Well, I always got time

for extra loot.

All right. All right.

Take this.

Get that box over to the venue.

All right, perfect, got it.

d

That better light up this lobby.

I tested it like

a hundred times already.

Oh snap,

what if I tested it too much

and blew out one of the bulbs?

Stop it.

Watch out.

Oh, girl, this girl--

oh, here she comes.

[Belinda groans]

d

Miss Williams?

Millicent.

Oh, Millicent.

Can I call you Millie?

No.

Do you need something?

Because my reception

is at seven and I have to go.

No, that's exactly

why we're here.

- Water main break.

- In Ballroom Two.

No, that's where

my reception is--

No, don't you worry.

We booked you in Ballroom Three.

Mm-hm.

And it's been pushed to 7:30.

Okay, I need to contact Edmund,

the investors.

Done and done.

- What?

- It's okay.

Mr. James, and us,

handled everything.

Follow us.

- Everything?

- Everything.

We got you.

d

I'm stunned.

It looks perfect.

So subtle

and sophisticated and...

clinical.

Mm, that's courtesy

of Major Designs.

Just a little taste

of what we can do for you

in the future.

This will do.

This will do very well.

And that's not all.

Mr. James has booked you

for a full day of spa treatment.

Hair, nails, makeup, honey.

Everything, head to toe.

We sent your dress

to the spa already.

All you gotta do

is stay fabulous.

Uh, no, I have to check

my guest list,

I need to organize--

No, no, no, no, no.

Honey.

Mr. James, and Major Designs,

we worked it all out for you.

He'll meet you

down here at 7:30.

He really cares about you.

He cares about me?

Yeah, he--he really does.

Well, this is all so unexpected.

But so Edmund.

Oh, that Edmund.

Um, you know what, girl?

All you have to do

is just show up...

and bedazzle, darling!

Mmm.

Thomas, would you please

show Miss Williams--

Millicent to the spa.

Yeah, of course,

Mr., uh, Christmas dude?

Have a lovely time, honey.

You deserve this.

Oh, bye now.

Okay, Kevin,

put up the signage

for the Killundine

Accounting Firm

non-denominational,

non-fiscal, non-fun,

just whack

end of the year party.

- Okay?

- Got it.

Okay--boy, please.

Uh-uh, no.

Wait, why I gotta do

all the dirty work?

Kevin.

Please.

It's the circle of life.

You got to find somebody

to delegate to.

Way too much fun.

Circle of my f--

d

Woo! And that's

how it gets done.

Jazzy black Santa too much?

Nah, I love a jazzy black Santa.

You get to stay!

d

[Thomas sighs]

Thank you, Leslie.

For what?

I should be thanking you.

Nah, I really need this.

The money?

It's more than the money.

Christmas is skipping me

this year.

Why?

I mean, last year we had

your sweet little sister, um--

- Brie.

- Yeah.

She lit the star for us

at Christmas Eve on midnight

and that's what gave me

the idea to invite

the church foster kids

this year.

Really?

And I better see

that precious little face, too.

I don't really know.

Ever since my mom died,

my dad's been...

[Thomas sighs]

There's so much drama

going on in my house

that you don't understand.

I'm sorry.

But all of this,

this really lifts up my spirit.

Helps me forget about

what's going on for a minute.

Well, I hope you know

that under all of this,

it's the spirit that

gets built from the inside.

It's inside of all of us.

And it's up to us to let it out.

And that's the joy

of Christmas, Thomas.

d Well can I get a amen? d

d You can get a amen d

d Hmmm d

And that's all you need.

That's absolutely all you need.

What?

Is that all I'm getting,

is just a amen?

You know what? If you don't--

Yes, you gonna get paid.

Go do something

with them lights.

d

Crazy boy.

d

- Wait.

- Damn.

Them cucumbers ain't gonna fix

your personality, girl.

Mm-mm.

- Damn.

- Wait.

- Go, shh.

- Damn.

d

[Belinda sighs]

Just make sure they keep

her hands ocupado.

They took her phones.

- But--

- Both her phones.

Somebody called her bra.

d

Hello?

I need that.

[Belinda exhales]

d

Well. Oh!

Look who's here!

Oh my goodness.

You look--Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

You look fantastic.

Like--likewise.

Likewise.

You have to try this.

Ooh, what am I holding here?

Yes, yes.

A little something

I put together.

A little 1, 2, 3.

Okay, okay.

That's what they say.

What would they do

without me here?

There's only one of me,

two assistants, and voila.

Why not?

d

[panting]

d

What can I do with...

What can a girl do

in sixty minutes?

Hey, Arnold!

- Right.

- Yeah.

So glad you could make it.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas to you as well.

Miss Major,

can I see you for a moment?

Oh well, I'm right here.

Peek-a-boo.

Hello.

Yes, you are. You're right here.

With my favorite banker at that.

Uh, interesting choice from

the "we mean business" hotel.

At least this

charming young lady

was able to hook me up

with a--

A Mistletoe Mule.

Get it? Drink up.

Mistletoe Mule!

Isn't she so witty?

Leslie. Confab. You and me.

- Come on.

- You need a drink.

I think we should get you

a Santa Claus

is Rumming to Town.

Keep going. I just keep going.

- I just keep--

- Yes, you do.

She just keeps 'em coming.

I'll pass today, unfortunately.

But you drink up, Arnold.

We'll be back in one moment.

Yes, Arnold, we'll finish up

our conversation

in just a little.

You and me.

[Leslie laughs]

My God...

What the hell?

Now I know that this is not

exactly what you planned--

Not what I planned?

To have Santa throwing up

all over my investors?

Leslie, you know

how important this is to me.

To the hotel.

You mean important

to the hotel, right?

Yes.

And not operating at a profit

because of this

is also important.

Oh, Edmund, come on.

We can make a few changes

and with a little faith,

Christmas can be good business.

You have no idea

about good business.

You decorate trees

for a living.

- Stay in your lane.

- Oh, whoa.

Hold on, home boy.

I've been making magic

at this hotel

long before you decided

to pop back in.

d

Edmund, this is a disaster.

Yes, I know, and we need

to fix it immediately.

- And where were you?

- What?

Her and her minions lied to me.

They told me

the reception was moved,

different place, time,

and that you were taking care

of everything.

Is this true?

Yes, but I was just trying to--

Deceive us all.

Oh, like you

and your "fianc�" here

gonna invest in my business.

- Excuse me?

- Yeah.

And she said that,

"You can't be in the majors

if you keep playing

in the minors."

When will the lies stop?

Edmund.

I'm just trying to show you

how important

Christmas is to this hotel.

- To J.J. and to me.

- Leslie,

you cannot just sprinkle tinsel

on the problem and fix it.

This is serious.

For the future of my hotel.

But, I'm just trying

to tell you...

We know what

you were trying to do.

Edmund.

What are you gonna do?

d

Leslie...

d

- I think it's best if we--

- I get it.

Oh, I'm out of here. It's okay.

Edmund, you are

so disappointing.

I just had so much more...

Nothing but a suit.

d

It's okay.

I'm here now.

Let's get this whole thing

back on course.

d

Come on, Scottie.

You know you want some

of my Christmas cheer.

Damn that man.

Oh. Hold those lips.

I got a sister down.

Hey, what's going on?

I was just about to head in.

Well, don't bother.

Ooooh, that man...

He is trying to kill Christmas.

Okay. Calm down. Calm down.

Look, maybe you need one

of your little Ho Ho-tinis.

Girl, nothing quicker

than liquor.

- We'll look--

- Not now.

I'm going home.

d

Honestly.

Who likes this cheap,

tacky Christmas trash?

d

Well, I gotta tell you, Edmund,

you know how to launch

a new concept.

All this festiveness

has got me seeing dollar signs.

What you talking about,

Mr. Willis?

d

It's Arnold.

We'll talk.

Merry Christmas.

d

Great job.

d

Millicent. Millicent.

No, keep it.

We're good.

We're fine.

d

Yay, Christmas, right?

Woo!

Okay, where were we?

[Edmund clears his throat]

This is not happening.

Where's Leslie?

She went home.

She swiped left on yo' ass.

Well, I need her address.

You expect me to give you

her home address?

Look, I was wrong.

I need to apologize.

Immediately.

No, not happening.

I'm your boss.

Those are the magic words.

Give me your phone.

d

What?

Now I got to fire Belinda?

No.

She cares about you.

Plus I threatened her.

d

I cannot believe

the Queen of Christmas

doesn't have one single

Christmas decoration up.

You really don't get it.

I only care

about spreading cheer.

I only need to give spirit.

I don't need to get it.

I guess I was just too busy

ruining your hotel.

Oh no, you didn't ruin anything.

It all worked.

I guess you and Millicent

were right.

I mean, you guys

know what's what.

So, whatever.

Leslie,

you're not listening to me.

You did a great job.

The investors loved your ideas.

Everything.

They loved my ideas?

Yes, that's what I'm saying!

Well, look at that.

Are you serious?

I guess you can't fight

Christmas.

d

I really just came to apologize.

Really?

When I met you,

you were just this--

this ball of energy

just right in front of me.

And you--you--you woke

something up inside of me--

That's your spirit.

Whatever it is, it's great.

But it's not solid.

And I need solid.

I need to know every morning

that I wake up

exactly how my day's gonna go.

Every detail, every aspect,

every variable.

That's how I function.

d

You and I, we...

we're a lotta fun, but we...

We don't make sense.

I need to make sense.

d

I'm leaving tomorrow night.

d

With Millicent.

You really gonna marry her?

I don't know.

But it's practical.

d

And maybe practical'll

just have to do for me.

Well, it'll never do for me.

d

So how long are you with us?

We're here until the 26th.

Mm, good, good, good, good.

Again, Granddad,

I'm--I'm really sorry.

But I promise I had

your best interest at heart.

I knew you'd come around.

The Chesterton is in your blood.

Yeah.

I guess it just takes

seeing things in a new light.

She's something, isn't she?

[cell phone rings]

Take this.

Edmund speaking.

[crash]

[Leslie struggling]

Damn Santa.

d

Whoa, whoa, whoa.

Miss Major, you all right?

Yeah.

Get this old geez off of me.

Help me up.

d

- Merry Christmas.

- Ho freaking ho.

d

Well, that doesn't sound

very much like Christmas to me.

I'm sorry,

I'm just not into it right now.

d

So you're going to let him

just check out

of the hotel

and out of your life?

Mr. James,

I'm not what he wants.

I know my grandson.

He has no idea what he wants.

But I know what he needs.

d

[Millicent sighs]

d

You guys aren't staying

for the big reveal?

Can't, have to stay on schedule.

d

Right, Edmund?

Yeah, uh, schedule.

d

Besides,

we've seen lights

on a tree before.

d

So, we land in Boston at nine.

I was thinking

we could call Copley Capital,

see if we can get

on their schedule for tomorrow.

Edmund?

Tomorrow is Christmas.

Oh, that's right.

Well, we'll call on the 26th.

I can't do it.

Well then,

we'll call on the 27th.

No.

I can't marry you.

What?

I'm not in love with you.

What are you talking about?

We have respect and trust.

And love will come later.

No.

I'm sorry,

can you pull over please?

Oh, what is this about?

Is this about

that decorator girl?

Her name is Leslie.

Edmund.

Think about this.

Think about us.

I mean, do you have any idea

what you're doing?

No.

For the first time in my life,

I don't know what I'm doing.

And I like it.

d

Kevin, I am Christmas'd out.

[phone rings, Belinda groans]

Hey, Belinda.

It's Edmund James.

I need your help.

No, I don't think I can help.

Edmund?

Girl, hang up.

He broke our girl.

No, wait, wait, shh.

What?

Nah-uh.

Seriously?

Okay.

All right.

Kevin.

We have a Christmas 911.

Let's go.

- Oh no.

- Come on.

I said come on!

d

'Scuse me.

Vodka seven and vodka.

d

Now that's a holiday drink.

What are we celebrating

or not celebrating?

Love sucks.

- Here, here.

- Thank you.

d

If it wasn't for the top shelf

Christmas at The Chesterton,

I would have zero

Christmas spirit in my life.

d

That's good to hear.

And if my love life

was as wondrous as my decor.

Honey, you couldn't

possibly have me beat.

Try me.

I just got engaged

to a millionaire...

d

...to make the man

I really love jealous.

d

Okay.

I fell for a guy

that's totally wrong for me,

that's totally engaged,

and who can totally

get me fired.

d

Call it a tie.

d

Yeah.

d

[Regina sighs]

I gotta fix this

before it gets worse.

d

I have faith in you.

You don't know me.

d

I know you have great taste

in Christmas decor.

I do.

d

Well, with that being said,

I need to head out to the lobby

to make sure the star gets lit

at the top of the tree.

'Cause remember,

it's The Chesterton

Christmas tradition.

d

I have faith in you.

That's my line.

It's a good line.

d

- Merry Christmas.

- Merry Christmas.

d

Oh, Thomas,

I didn't even recognize you.

That's all you gotta say with me

looking all

sharp dressed man and all.

Sorry.

Look, have you seen my staff?

Maybe they next

to your Christmas cheer?

I got to do everything

my damn self.

d

Yeah...

d

Leslie Major.

You are everything.

Well, if this is

my last Christmas,

you're sending me out

with a bang.

Hush with that.

But as long as you're happy.

- I'm happy.

- Yes.

Oh!

Well, it's show time.

d

[applause]

d

[cheering]

d

Oh my goodness!

Oh my goodness.

It's so awesome to see

all of you out tonight

with your shining faces.

Thank you guys so much

for being here.

We started a tradition last year

here at The Chesterton

where we had one special child

throw the switch

to light our star.

And I see her here tonight

with her dashing brother.

Let's give her a hand.

Brie, will you come and join me?

- Can I go?

- 'Course you can, baby girl.

[applause]

So, are you ready

to throw the switch?

- Hey, Miss Leslie?

- Yes?

I was thinking,

I already got to do this...

and Christmas and all...

maybe the other kids

can light the switch.

Oh, isn't she a doll?

Come on guys,

the more the merrier.

- All right.

- Let's do this.

Yes, let's do this.

You ready?

Let's count down, everybody.

Ten, nine, eight,

seven, six, five,

four, three, two,

one!

d

d Go tell it on the mountain d

d Over the hills

and everywhere d

d Go tell it on the mountain d

d That Jesus Christ is born d

[applause]

Thank you, Thomas.

d

Look, it's really snowing!

And, by the way, you looked

very handsome tonight.

Thank you, I had a chance to go

to the Christmas party here.

Hmmm, did you meet somebody?

Now you know your boy

don't kiss and tell.

But, yeah.

What about you,

you doing anything special

for the holidays,

a special someone?

This was my Christmas.

Just gonna go home and chill.

d

Merry Christmas.

Aww.

d

Now don't do too much chilling.

You go out there and have you

some fun tonight, all right?

Yes, sir.

- Goodnight.

- Merry Christmas.

d

Always.

Let's hope.

d

What?

d

Surprise!

Really, guys?

Okay, y'all went in for this?

We took most of it

from the hotel.

Boy! Shh.

No.

We actually had some help.

Help?

Yes.

Uh...Edmund?

Aren't you supposed

to be on a plane?

Plans change.

You did this...for me?

Uh...hello!

Ugh.

- This guy right here--

- No, he's lying.

He did it all for you.

We did it for you.

- We did it for you.

- Merry Christmas.

Bye, girl.

Wow.

You're speechless.

I guess you approve.

It's beautiful.

Um...what?

You trying to show me

how to do my job?

Oh no.

A job in which

you will be keeping, by the way.

What?

Wh--okay...all right.

Yeah, the tradition

at The Chesterton is, um,

it's going to be Now and Always.

Catchy slogan.

I'm glad you came around.

But I'm going to need

your help, though.

If we're going to keep

Christmas,

then we got to step our game up

the rest of the year too.

Oh, are you sure?

Because I thought

we didn't make sense.

I thought you needed

a Miss Practical.

The hell with practical,

all right?

I thought the woman that I loved

would jump at the chance.

Love?

Yeah.

d

I think I might love you.

d

Okay.

Uh...

well, I think I might

just love you back.

Now that's good for business.

And I love good business.

I know you do.

d

Now this is the Christmas

that I want,

spending it just making

the woman that I love happy.

Love and Christmas.

d

What more could

a girl ask for?

d

Y'all did all right.

d

I'm still not hiring you though.

Whatever.

Come on.

Oh, God, yeah.

d

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