Original subtitles

I am so happy the city let you buy the building

instead of moving forward with demolishing it.

Community needs a gathering place, right?

But this place does need a lot of upgrades, that's for sure.

Hm. More than you bargained for?

We found a few surprises during our inspection process,

but overall, it's what I expected.

I mean, the building's over 70 years old.

Exterior is mostly cosmetic.

So, structurally, the building is sound.

Now, what are you thinking for the inside?

We're definitely gonna have to redo the main hall

to accommodate for larger events

and we're gonna be upgrading the kitchen facilities

so that we can offer cooking classes, community dinners.

Offering new programs would be a welcome change,

- bring more people back in. - Yeah.

We're even gonna be adding some audio-visual equipment.

So, we can do presentations, movie nights.

That's a great idea. Beats the old whiteboard

we use for community meetings now.

Yeah.

How about accessibility?

New ramps, for sure. And we're gonna update the bathrooms

so we can accommodate for people with disabilities.

I'm even entertaining an elevator.

Might be a nice addition for the seniors.

Yeah. Renovations will start in the new year,

but in the meantime, I'm gonna get going

on some minor work to the event hall.

You see, I...

I'm planning on re-establishing the Christmas party

as an annual event.

Just like it was in the past.

Get people excited about this place again.

It is not every day that we get to revamp

such an important part of our community.

I'm looking forward to seeing the final result.

Yeah, me, too.

This place was like my second home.

Played on every sports team,

volunteered for every event.

I even learned how to sew here.

Sew?

Yeah. Uh, Mom thought it would be a useful life skill.

Is it?

Not really.

I can sew a missing button for you or hem your pants.

Oh, perfect, I'll bring them all over to your house, then.

Sounds good.

Sorry.

This company has called me six times this past week.

Oof, who are they?

Clark & Johnson Development?

Some acquisitions firm.

They want to buy the building.

That name sounds familiar.

Really?

- Mm-hm. - Yeah.

Let's see here.

No way.

What?

Victoria Mason works there.

Oh, boy.

Yeah.

Eric, hi. I just pulled into Brookhollow.

Owner of the center is still ignoring our calls.

Well, he can't ignore me in person.

I just got into the parking lot.

Oh, great. You brought this project to us

along with the new building design idea.

Do you still think you can convince them

to allow us to proceed with the rebuild?

Absolutely. This community center is old and run-down.

Our design plans are incredible.

We do have another center in mind to invest in instead.

No, no, no. I mean, no.

I know that I can get this deal to go through.

Just give me a few days to try. I grew up in Brookhollow.

This center was the heart of the town.

I have a lot of good memories here.

I really want to see it developed into something

the town could be proud of and enjoy.

Okay. Well, I've seen you in a room.

You can convince anyone of anything.

Thank you, sir.

I'll be back in a few days

with all the signed papers.

The center's closed.

Luke?

You know...

I had this sinking suspicion

that your company would send you.

We heard the center was sold

while we were trying to acquire it.

Do you know who bought it?

Here, hold this for me, will you?

- Thank you. - Uh...

Some private investor made a last-minute offer to the city.

They didn't reveal a name.

Maybe they wanted to remain anonymous.

Luke, nothing in this town remains anonymous.

Do you know who bought it or not?

Yes.

I did.

What? Why?

'Cause I heard the building was gonna be torn down.

No, torn down and a new one rebuilt, a better one.

We're happy with this one.

"We're?" What are you, the spokesperson for the whole town?

A lot has changed here since the last time you were home.

Yeah, I see, um, you're hosting the old Christmas party now.

Yep.

Hm. Okay, well...

What if we could do something in the new year?

The Christmas party could be a send-off,

a goodbye to the building of sorts.

I just bought it to renovate it.

I'm not selling.

So, why don't you tell your company to stop calling me

when you get back to the city?

Well, the Luke I used to know

was more interested in renovating historical buildings

and cool craftsman homes,

not some run-down community center.

Hm. Victoria.

It's been a long time since you and I have spoken to each other.

Perhaps I'm not the same guy that you remember.

- Hm. - Besides...

This community center has a lot of history here.

That means something to most of us.

Could you, uh, please just take a look

- at our proposed design? - Would you look at the time?

I would love to continue this conversation.

It's gonna have to happen another time

'cause I have dinner plans.

Okay, tomorrow then.

I'm not gonna be changing my mind.

We'll see.

Yes, we will.

Mm.

So, since when is Luke Johnson

interested in owning a community center?

I don't know, dear.

You said he worked for an architecture firm.

You'll have to ask Luke those questions.

Since when are you so tight-lipped?

Are you calling me a gossip?

Mm, never.

All I know is I'm happy

this turn of events brought you home for a visit.

I'm only staying long enough to get the sale papers signed.

I won't be able to stay for Christmas.

But at least you're coming to the city for New Year's, right?

I wouldn't dream of missing an opportunity

to watch the ball drop from Times Square.

Okay. Good.

Uh, grab an extra one.

Hello?

Mom, you invited Luke?

He hired me to plan the Christmas party.

We're going over the details tonight.

Besides, I had no idea you would be here.

This is such a huge conflict of interest.

You two will figure all this business stuff out.

Maybe a nice dinner will help.

Just in time.

Hey.

So good to see you.

Heavenly Father, as we come together

for this unexpected special reunion,

we bow our heads in gratitude for the gift of old friends.

We thank you for the bonds that unite us

and the shared memories that have shaped us.

We thank you for this meal.

And may your blessings flow upon each of us,

embracing us in your grace and peace

in this season of love and forgiveness.

- In Jesus' name. - Amen.

Amen.

Hm.

So, Victoria's company wants to rebuild the community center.

- Mm-hm. - So I've heard.

Yeah, the city approved the preliminary designs last month.

And then someone swooped in

and talked the city out of the deal.

A deal that never should have been considered.

Luke has some wonderful remodel ideas himself.

Huh.

I just mean that maybe

you two could work together.

Well...

This is really nice.

That was delicious.

I'd love to stay, but I really need to get going.

But we haven't gone over the plans for the Christmas party.

And you haven't had dessert.

But I trust you.

I know you're gonna plan the perfect event.

And I also need to watch the Christmas sugar intake.

Oh.

So good to see you.

Why don't you see Luke out?

Sure.

So, I'll see you tomorrow morning at the center.

Um...

Look, Victoria, it was great seeing you,

but you're wasting your time.

I told you, I'm not selling a building.

Have a safe trip back to the city.

All right, let's go.

Let's get a little 2-on-0 here.

How was seeing Victoria again?

Fine.

I mean...

- Super weird. - Yeah.

She's really only come back here to try to get me to sell.

She's probably halfway back to New York by now.

Well, I did see a rental car with New York plates

parked outside the cafe about an hour ago, so...

I guess she's not gonna give up that easy.

So, what you're saying is the community center's hers.

What? No. No way. Come on.

Since when have you been able to say no to Victoria Mason?

For starters, when she broke things off

about a month before our wedding.

I don't think it's right that she can waltz back into town

and make changes to a community she doesn't belong to anymore.

Hey, don't get caught flat-footed out there.

Keep your feet moving.

Well, maybe while she's here,

help her reconnect with the community.

She'll have a change of heart.

Victoria's never been one for small-town living.

Yeah, but she's always loved Christmas.

Okay, look. Remind her how special it is

this time of year here in Brookhollow

and how the community center plays a role in that.

- They're looking good this year. - Of course we're looking good.

- 'Cause you're the coach. - I'm the coach.

Eric, hi.

- How's it going? - Um, it's going great.

I just met with the new community owner yesterday.

Are they open to selling?

Not exactly, but don't worry.

After I show him the new design plans,

I'm sure he'll consider it.

Consider it?

No, no, he'll sell.

Just send over the buyout offer as soon as you receive it.

Financing is finalizing numbers now. We'll talk later.

Okay.

- Rachel. - Hi.

- Oh. - I hope it's okay I'm here.

- Yes. - Your mom let me in.

She stopped by the store yesterday for more wool

and said you were coming home for Christmas.

Well, not for Christmas, just a few days.

But it's so great to see you. Okay, sit down, sit down.

It is like stepping into a time capsule in here.

I know, right?

Mom insisted on leaving everything exactly as it was.

- A lot of fun memories. - Mm-hm.

A lifetime ago.

Although everything feels oddly the same. It's a bit unnerving.

Hm. Nothing changes around here.

Life in the big city must be exciting, though.

It is.

My work at Clark & Johnson keeps me pretty busy, though.

But I do get to travel a lot.

You always wanted to travel.

Have a big corner office.

And speaking of work,

I hear you're trying to buy the community center?

If Luke would stop being so stubborn.

Mm, he's refusing to sell?

Yeah, says he wants to preserve history. But what history?

The place isn't a cherished landmark.

It's an old, run-down gymnasium

with a bunch of event spaces and... What?

Hm? I didn't say anything.

You have a terrible poker face. What is it?

I'm just saying, maybe go with a softer approach on this one.

What do you mean?

You left town so abruptly.

I needed to get to New York for the position

or risk losing the opportunity.

- It all happened fast. - I know.

But this time, maybe give Luke a little time

to realize it's okay to let go of something

that means so much to him.

You mean have patience?

Not your strong suit, I know.

I'm just saying it's the season of goodwill.

Maybe embrace the Christmas spirit.

- Hmm. - Mm-hm.

Breathe. Christmas in, Christmas out.

Embrace the Christmas spirit.

Embrace me, too.

I like that. Embrace the Christmas spirit.

Yeah, you can do it.

Hey, Bryce, thanks for calling me back.

No problem. Just leaving the courthouse. What's going on?

Uh, well, I may be sending you some legal documents.

For the sale of the community center?

Wait.

News travels pretty fast.

I'll get you a good price for it.

Oh, no, no, no. I'm not actually planning on accepting the offer.

I'd like another set of eyes on the paperwork, that's all.

Listen, I get that the community center means a lot to you,

but you're gonna have a lot of your own cash flow

tied up in the renovations.

It's not like the center's gonna turn a profit.

Yeah, I understand

that it's a bit more work than I originally thought.

But I'm just not okay with some big corporation

coming in and destroying the heart of this community

with some big flashy building.

Just saying, you should let Victoria have what she came for

before you get attached to something else you'll miss.

Oh, no, she doesn't have that effect on me anymore.

If you say so.

I'll talk to you later, okay?

- Here you go. - Oh, thank you, dear.

Thank me?

Thank you.

I know my offer on the community center was accepted

because of your influence on the committee.

Oh, my son is reluctant about renovating.

He was ready to sell to that firm in New York.

I know.

But I promise you, I'm not gonna let you or Mayor Kingston down.

Oh. I have faith in you, Luke.

By the way, I was gonna let you know

that I still haven't found those photo albums

that you've been asking about.

I'm gonna check the garage later today, though.

Oh, thank you.

I just want a little bit of home in my room at the senior center.

Yeah, of course. I'll find them.

I certainly do miss it here.

Hey.

This is still your home.

You are welcome here anytime.

Oh, Luke, thank you.

- So glad to have you here. - Oh, it's good to be here.

- Merry Christmas. - Merry Christmas.

So great catching up.

You, too.

Hope to see you again before you leave town.

- Oh, I will make sure of it. - Okay.

Oh, and hey, if Luke isn't willing to hear you out,

maybe you should talk to Mrs. Kingston.

Our high school English teacher?

Yeah. Her son was just elected town mayor last month.

He's away on a business trip,

but she has a lot of pull on the committee.

- Might be able to help. - Thank you.

It's some place to start at least.

Yeah. See ya.

See ya.

Luke?

What are you doing here?

I live here.

I guess you heard about our new mayor?

What do you mean you live here?

Like, since when?

Since I bought the place last year.

Oh.

Please come in.

Oh.

Wow, I didn't even know this place was for sale.

They didn't have it listed.

It was some private sale through extended family.

I got a call from an architectural firm.

They were offering me a contract job

to fix this place up so it could be sold.

I mean, Mrs. Kingston, she couldn't keep up

with the repairs and the maintenance,

and I didn't want the integrity of the original house destroyed,

so I jumped on it. I met with the family

that intended to buy the house,

and, well, let's just say they had different ideas.

I mean, they practically wanted to rebuild the entire house.

No, you can't destroy the history of this place.

Huh.

I wish you had that same opinion about the community center.

Okay, that is different.

This is... Just continue your story.

Anyway, I put in my counteroffer,

and knowing how much I loved this house,

Mrs. Kingston accepted it.

She was just happy that her family home

wouldn't be torn down or modified beyond recognition.

Well, it's a beautiful home, so I'm very happy for you.

You know, I, um...

I know that we, at one point in time,

talked about owning this house together.

Oh, well, believe me.

I mean, the last thing I'm interested in

is owning an old Victorian home in a small town.

Right.

Right, right.

Well, you're probably here to see Mrs. Kingston.

She lives over in the seniors complex now.

Okay. Well, I guess I'll head over there.

You know, if you're trying to rally support for your cause,

it won't work.

You see, it was Mrs. Kingston that influenced Brent

to accept my offer on the building.

- She's on my side. - Right.

Uh, well,

you underestimate how persuasive I can be.

Believe me, I don't.

Since you're gonna go see her, though,

on your way out of town, you could help me.

I'm looking for some photo albums that she was asking for.

- You could take them to her. - Uh, I don't know.

But you wanna win her favor, don't you?

Fine, let's go look for those photo albums.

What is all this stuff?

When did you accumulate so much?

Most of it's the Kingstons.

Mrs. Kingston didn't have anywhere to store all this,

so I told her she could keep it here.

- Huh. - I just might have to break out

the Christmas decorations.

If you stop being so annoying, maybe I'll let you help.

You know, we should really start looking for those photo albums.

Well, I found them.

Oh, wow, check this out.

It's their old wedding photos.

Aw, she looks beautiful.

Man, look how happy they look.

Well, most people are on their wedding day.

- Yeah. - The unique thing

about the Kingstons is they were happy

every single day for 50 years.

You know, I think

you and I could've lasted that long together.

No way, we fought too much.

Didn't you hear all the stories that Mrs. Kingston used to tell

about the early years of their marriage?

No.

Okay, my favorite one was probably

how their eldest daughter got her name.

Mel? No, I have not heard this one.

Okay, the way the story goes is that Mr. Kingston

wanted to name her Ann after his grandmother,

but Mrs. Kingston wanted to name her Mel, short for Melissa.

And they fought about it and argued for days and days

leading up to the christening.

And finally, Mr. Kingston just said,

"I'm the man, I make the decisions."

That would never work these days.

It didn't work then either. Because Mrs. Kingston,

she's so strong-willed. She's determined.

She waited patiently right up until the moment

that the priest asked what the baby's name was.

And without pausing, without waiting for Mr. Kingston,

she just said, "Melissa Ann Kingston."

Ah, good for you, Mrs. Kingston.

What was Mr. Kingston gonna say? In front of the priest,

in front of the family and the friends?

It was really awesome.

Oh, so that's why he still calls her Ann.

Yeah.

- Ah. - Drove Mrs. Kingston nuts.

- Mm. - But she still loved him.

And for the record, I think we fought

because we're both passionate about what we want.

Well, in our case, we want very different things.

I don't know.

I think we wanted the same thing,

we just went about it a very different way.

Well, now that we found this, I should probably get going.

Before I do, would you please take a look

at my company's design for the building?

Fine.

Okay, here is the new building design.

Tell you what.

I'll make a deal with you.

Why don't you help me decorate this place,

and then we can look at the designs?

Luke, you already agreed to look at them.

Right, but I've reserved the right to make some changes.

Luke.

Suit yourself.

You can head back to your company

and tell them it's a firm no.

Embrace the spirit of Christmas.

What?

Nothing. Um...

Fine, I will help you decorate.

But then you look at the design. Deal?

Deal.

With rights reserved.

This is fun.

Cheers.

What about... I think it was sophomore year.

We tried to bake cookies and almost set the kitchen on fire.

Those lopsided gingerbread men were so worth it.

They were good.

I think my favorite was...

It was that Christmas party at your parents' house.

You know, the one where we snuck up to the attic

and watched the snow fall through that little window.

Oh, yes. And we almost got in trouble

when your mom wanted us to go caroling,

but then she totally covered for us

and was like, "I can't find them."

I think she realized we were sharing a special moment.

I think that was the same Christmas

that we made those handmade gifts for each other.

I still have that homemade scarf you got me.

Hey. Okay, that was my first attempt.

I really loved the drawing that you did of us in the snow, too.

We made some really good memories.

Yeah, we did.

There's something about you being here with me now.

Makes me think that we could make a few more.

We should probably get to looking at those documents.

We will, right after dinner.

- Luke. - Come on, you got to eat, right?

And you can't deny I'm a great cook.

Embrace the spirit of Christmas.

Embrace the spirit of Christmas.

Embrace the spirit of Christmas.

So?

We will review the documents over dinner.

How is it?

The food is fantastic.

I'm glad you're enjoying it.

I take it you don't do a lot of cooking in the city.

Why would you assume that?

It's just that when I asked for the pasta strainer,

you gave me the gravy strainer.

Okay, guilty.

I get most of my meals from a salad bar or takeout.

I'm usually just too busy to cook.

And besides, in the city, you can order anything you want

from anywhere you want delivered to your door, day or night.

So...

You work long hours?

Around the clock, but I don't mind.

I love my job.

Besides, that's what it takes to get ahead.

So, is that what this community center deal is about?

- Getting ahead? - No.

No, I truly believe

that the building design that we're proposing

would be great for the town.

- Hm. - Do you really think

renovating the old one makes any sense?

Yeah, I do.

History, tradition.

These are the things that Brookhollow was built on.

And I want to preserve those things.

I still can't believe you bought this house.

Like I told you, it's a rescue mission.

I didn't really have a choice.

It's so beautiful and peaceful out here.

Not like the city,

where it's just traffic and sirens all night long.

But you love the city, don't you?

Yes, I do.

So, is that why you stayed away for so long?

Just couldn't tear yourself away

from everything that New York City has to offer?

When I left, I was determined to become

the ambitious and successful person

that I felt like I was in the inside.

But I could never become...

Living here.

I understand. I really do.

Believe it or not, Victoria,

I've always understood you.

And I know that you would have resented me if you'd stayed.

Okay.

Okay, so we did a little digging.

And the new owner was very smart

in negotiating with the city before they bought the building.

They were protecting themselves

from a situation exactly like this.

Okay, but we should still be able

to get an offer to buy soon, right?

I mean, maybe that would help persuade him?

Yes, but the bottom line is if they refuse to sell,

there's not much we can do.

- Fantastic. - Look. I know

this is special to you, but we are running out of time

to secure the other potential location.

So, we need to get this done by the Christmas break.

Don't worry, Eric, I've got this.

Just send the offer as soon as you get it.

Oh, that's the confidence I like to hear.

All right, we'll talk soon.

This is getting complicated.

I'm sure you've met with resistance before.

This is different.

- And never from an ex-fiancé. - Mm.

Like my old feelings for Luke are throwing me off my game.

Hmm, I thought you'd moved on.

No, I did. I have.

Mm-hm. Then what's going on?

I don't know.

I think, like, spending time with him,

reminiscing about old Christmases.

We had this nice dinner at the Kingston house.

You know, the house that we said we were gonna buy

and raise a family in?

So, are you letting nostalgia cloud your judgment or...?

I'm afraid it's more than nostalgia.

No luck with Mrs. Kingston?

Well, I stopped by the seniors complex,

but she was in caroling practice.

I think it's time we gather some community support.

Yeah, I mean, I know that there were some people

who were excited about the idea of the new center.

You know, if the community puts enough pressure on Luke,

he'll have to consider it.

Mm-hm.

Huh.

I know the right place to start.

Honey, please tell me you're close.

Yep, I'm just pulling up now.

Your aunt Rose and Uncle Marty

- will be here in the morning. - Uh-huh.

And this house currently says "festive family Christmas"

only if the family has given up emotionally.

Hold on a second, Mom.

Well, I need the tree decorated

- before she gets here. - Yes, yes, Mom.

I'm getting your tree for you right now.

Oh, good. And while you're out,

I need a replacement bulb

because the angel she gave me

has only one eye that lights up.

Hey, Mom, I'm sorry to do this, but could I call you back?

Well, hurry, or I'll have to forget to put that out.

Yeah, I'll call you right back.

This stuff here. A new bell.

- What are we doing here? - Oh.

Just talking to some community members

about the new community center.

Only there isn't going to be a new community center, right?

This community center

has been the heart and soul of this town for decades.

A place filled with memories, from children playing basketball

to senior bingo nights,

after-church picnics, bake sales.

This place is very special, and I know how tough change can be,

and no one is suggesting that we forget those memories.

What I am suggesting is a new state-of-the-art facility

- to create new ones. - The old building

is still structurally sound, and the renovations

that I have planned have a lot of upgrades.

Upgrades can only go so far

with the limits of a smaller building.

This one is three times as big.

Okay, bigger is not always better, though.

More events can run simultaneously,

bringing in more revenue.

Renovations are more cost-effective.

Our proposed design includes economically friendly

and energy-efficient materials.

A new building has its perks,

but is it really worth losing a part of this town's history?

Maybe not everyone wants to preserve

the history of this place.

Maybe this existing building

doesn't mean so much to others.

I'm beginning to understand that.

Heard about your run-in with Luke at the Christmas tree farm.

He's being so stubborn about this.

Only him?

My company made an offer to the city first.

He swooped in.

And by the way, you should've told me

he now owns the Kingston house.

I thought it might upset you.

Well, it wasn't how I pictured being in that house with him.

Aw.

These are so tiny.

Donations for the hospital for the babies born over Christmas.

Look, I know that you always hoped I'd settle down here

and marry Luke,

start a family of my own, have babies.

Darling girl.

I am so proud of you and all you've achieved.

Would I like grandbabies someday? Sure.

But only if that's the life and future you want.

You have never and will never disappoint me

following your heart.

Thanks, Mom.

Are you happy?

Most days.

Except this business trip is proving to be

a bit more difficult than most.

I think the new community center is gonna be great.

Well, hopefully other people agree with you.

Most do.

Well, I know the new owner

isn't very impressed with me.

Have you told him why it's so important to you?

Well, maybe you should.

Are you baking Dad's favorite fruitcake?

I do every year.

But no one else likes it. We always refused to eat it.

I know.

But I made that cake for him every Christmas

for almost 30 years.

The smell reminds me of him.

Me, too.

Mmm.

Renovations are a bit presumptuous, don't you think?

No, I don't.

Can you just, like, take a break for a second?

I brought cinnamon eggnog lattes.

Victoria, I still have a lot of work to do here.

Can we just take a walk?

I want to apologize.

For?

For some of the things I said at the tree farm.

I just really believe that the residents here

would benefit from the perks of a community center

and corporate sports sponsorship.

I don't completely disagree.

Yes, the new center might be great for the residents.

I said might.

But it's not gonna be great

for my local construction crew

I hired to do all the renovations.

These guys really need the work.

But I've seen your company listed

on some major developments in the city.

It seems like your guys are quite busy.

My company has projects in New Jersey,

Boston, and New York, but we hire local crews for each one.

There's not a lot of work going on here in Brookhollow.

Okay, so what if...

we hired your crew to do the rebuild?

You can do that?

I mean, if I was

actually considering selling?

I can try.

Well, if you can...

we can have that conversation.

Hmm.

Hi.

So, your mom, did she tell you that she signed you up

for the hot chocolate stand at the tree lighting?

- You're kidding, right? - Nope.

She failed to mention that.

So, I've been thinking.

All this bickering back and forth between us,

it's been a lot of fun, don't get me wrong,

but I was wanting to know if you wanted to try

something a little different.

What do you suggest?

Seeing as we're at a standstill

with the community center,

I thought maybe we could, you know,

enjoy the Christmas festivities together, like old times.

- I don't know. - Oh, come on.

Decorating the Kingston house, that was a lot of fun.

What do you have to lose?

Embrace the spirit of Christmas?

Fine. But promise me you'll keep an open mind about selling.

I should have an offer for you soon.

I promise. I promise I'll keep an open mind.

When you mentioned Christmas festivities,

I was envisioning old Christmas movies and snacks,

not freezing to death watching kids play hockey.

You used to love hockey.

Correction, I did not love hockey.

I loved watching you play.

I was pretty good, wasn't I?

So, what kind of Christmas traditions

would you be engaging in if you were in the big city?

Well, every year, my company hosts an annual Christmas party

where we invite all of our clients

and corporate sponsorship partners.

A work event.

Really, that's it?

Oh, it's way more fun than it sounds.

Okay, maybe it's not that fun.

But it's also our annual celebration of success

where each of the agents

who have perfect track records get awards.

It's, like, a big deal.

Hmm. Am I messing up your chances

- for this year's award? - Yes.

I do apologize for that.

Well, I'm not giving up that easy.

There's still time to convince you to sell.

Speaking of, have you looked over the designs?

Uh, no.

Okay, look. I said I would, and I will, okay?

Trust me.

These sponsorship opportunities that you mentioned.

Mm-hmm. Yeah, we partner with some big sports stores.

They'll donate equipment as well as funding.

- It's really worth considering. - Hm.

Yep, yep, yep.

Yeah!

Nice shot.

Hm.

- You okay? - Hm.

Don't worry about the trees. This is kind of their purpose.

Nah, just being here reminds me of

cutting down our family Christmas tree with my dad.

Oh, yeah.

Christmas just isn't the same without him.

So, is that part of the reason

you haven't been home since he passed?

A big part. It's just easier to celebrate in the city.

You know, being here, so many traditions remind me of him.

It's just not the same.

I miss your dad, too.

You know, he was...

He was like a father to me after I lost my dad.

What an inspiration he was.

That's why I got into architecture in the first place.

He would've been so proud of you.

Why didn't you tell me

that your dad was the one who designed the center?

You finally, finally saw it.

I told you I would.

I guess I just didn't want to guilt you into selling it.

I wanted you to see the value in it the same way I do.

It's an amazing design.

Your father was one of the best.

Does that mean you're willing to sell?

I think it puts another point in your favor.

So, when did he design the center?

Um, about a year before he died, right when I took the job.

He asked me to present it to the company,

and I did several times,

but it wasn't until recently,

with my track record of acquisitions

that gave my boss the confidence in my judgment calls

that he finally accepted it.

By then, Dad was already gone.

So, this is your way of preserving your father's legacy,

to honor him?

Yep.

What about you?

Why do you want to preserve it so bad?

Well...

The happiest moment of my life.

The night I proposed to you

after the annual Christmas party, and you said yes.

It happened in that center.

- Luke. - It's okay.

I guess...

letting go of the center...

it would mean saying goodbye

to the last place that we were in love.

I'm not staying.

I know.

But you're here now.

So, Luke told me you signed me up

for the hot chocolate stand

at the tree lighting.

You volunteered for that event every year.

I thought it'd be nice to have you there again.

I'm sure everyone would be glad to see you.

I really need to get back to the city.

If Luke signs these sales papers,

I probably won't be here for the tree lighting.

If you aren't, I'll take the shift.

It's just been so nice having you home this Christmas.

And it seems you and Luke have set aside your differences.

Temporarily, at least.

Yeah, we've been having fun.

Everything okay?

Uh, yeah. I just received

the buyout offer.

You're having second thoughts?

Uh, no, no, not second thoughts.

I guess I just realized why he wants to hold on to the place.

Well...

Whatever the two of you decide,

I'm sure it'll be the right thing.

Thanks, Mom.

Good stuff today, guys. Good stuff.

Hey, Victoria. Good to see you.

- Long time. - Nice to see you.

Um, is Luke around?

Um, no, you just missed him.

He's meeting with the contractor regarding renovations.

Should be back in, like, an hour.

- You want me to pass that along? - Sure.

Hey, Jim, um, how do you feel about all this?

I mean, you do run the sports teams here.

Look, Victoria, I'm sure the new center will be fantastic,

but Luke has some pretty impressive upgrades planned.

Hm. But does he have corporate sponsorships for the teams?

You see, with all of our community center acquisitions,

we offer big sponsors who donate funding to the local teams

in exchange for advertising.

That would help a lot.

Oh, maybe just think about it.

And then you'll talk to Luke?

Yeah, I'll discuss it with him,

but ultimately, I support whatever he decides.

Oh, that's all that I ask.

Hey, let's go!

We're still missing a return air vent in the kitchen.

Could you go check that out for me?

Thank you.

Victoria dropped these off for you.

Thanks.

Oh, man. Am I making the right choice keeping this place?

You want my honest opinion?

Yeah.

She did mention some impressive sponsorship opportunities

for the sports teams.

She talked to you and the team?

Just me, and I told her

that I'm in support of whatever you decide.

- I appreciate that. - Mm-hmm.

But you, uh...

You think the new building's a good idea?

I think you should do whatever makes the most sense.

Emotions and attachments to this place aside.

Well, financially, the numbers just aren't adding up.

But if I sell, what about the crew?

I mean, our guys are counting on this project

to get them work through Christmas

and into the new year.

There's just a lot of things to consider.

You'll figure it out. You always do.

- Hi, boss. - I just received your e-mail.

What's this about the local construction crew?

It's one of the reasons the owner's holding out.

Um, I think he feels a certain obligation

to the crew he hired here in Brookhollow

to do the renovations.

So, you would like to hire them for the rebuild?

Are they qualified?

Oh, very much so.

I'll send you the company profile.

But I think if we can guarantee

the crew will keep the work in the new year,

I'll be able to get Luke, the owner, to sign.

I... I don't know. This is taking...

Sir, this design is my father's.

I wouldn't insist on hiring this crew

if I didn't believe that they could do it.

Okay.

Thank you, sir.

Thank you.

You sure about this?

Yeah. Yeah, I am.

The proposed design...

Well, Mr. Mason's design.

Is truly great.

The crew's guaranteed the work, and if I'm being quite honest,

I think I've taken on a little too much with this one,

given my commitments in the new year.

You know?

Well, have you told Victoria yet?

No.

Why not?

Well...

We've been having a great time together.

You need to tell her.

I will, okay?

I will. I just...

I don't know.

Are you hoping to win her back?

I'm hoping that if she can see how great life can be here,

that she'll want to come back and visit more often.

Her mom misses her so much.

You mean, you miss her.

I get it. I do.

But if you keep her here on false pretenses,

this could backfire.

- Whipped cream? - Yes. No.

Actually, yes.

Enjoy.

Hi, Ms. Kingston.

Hi. How's it going?

It's going well.

A few indecisive customers,

but otherwise, no problem.

Oh.

You know,

I was nervous at first

when you got here.

I thought Luke had quite the challenge on his hands.

Luke would do anything for the community.

Oh, Luke would do anything for you.

Well, grab a hot chocolate. The tree lighting's about to start.

Will do.

Good job.

- Catch you later. - Okay.

Hey, Jim.

Hey, Victoria.

Thank you.

Well, you are in for a treat this year

because we have a record number of lights.

- Oh. - Guess how many.

Mm, 600.

Six hundred? Come on. That's way off.

No, no, no. 1,349.

Forty-nine? Not an even 1,350?

- One broke. - Mm.

But luckily, it's not one of those strands

where when one goes out, they all go out.

- It'd be truly disastrous. - Yeah.

Victoria, I, uh...

There's something I've been meaning to tell you.

- Mm-hmm. - Thank you all for coming out

to Brookhollow's 32nd annual

Christmas tree lighting at this farm, huh?

Let's hear it. Yeah!

We're gonna start from the countdown of five...

Four, three, two, one.

Be careful. People are gonna see.

We're supposed to be business rivals, remember?

We still can be.

We can also be personal... friends.

Friends?

Maybe more.

Feel free to redline anything you want.

This is open to negotiation.

Okay.

Um...

I'm gonna go grab some coffee. Want one?

I just... You know, I need caffeine for stuff like this.

Sure. Thanks.

I'll be right back.

Well, that was quick.

Bryce, hi.

Hey, Victoria.

Um, is Luke around?

Oh, he just ran out for coffee.

I'm surprised you're still here. Do you plan

on spending Christmas with your mom?

Still working on getting your cousin

to agree to sell me this building.

So close.

But Luke is willing to sell.

Since when?

Since he sent me the buyout terms

to look over a few days ago.

What?

Oh, I mean, um...

I think he was considering it.

This is something different.

- I think he was considering... - Bryce.

Maybe, um...

I shouldn't have said anything. I really don't know for sure.

I cannot believe him.

I don't know why I even brought the...

I'm sure he had a good reason for not telling you.

Oh, yeah, I'm sure he did.

Those look good. And I need an afternoon to pick me up anyway.

I'll just see you guys later.

Hmm.

Um...

So, when exactly did you decide you'd sell the building?

A few days ago.

And you didn't think to tell me?

I was just...

Prolonging my stay here?

Yes.

Okay, yes.

I... I was enjoying spending time with you,

and I thought that maybe if you just stayed a little longer...

What, I'd wanna, like, move back home to Brookhollow?

Maybe.

Or maybe at the very least

that you would consider giving us another chance.

That's... That's what all this has been about.

The Kingston house and then the Christmas festivities.

I wanted you to be reminded

of what is special about Brookhollow.

You said it yourself the other night,

that you're happy to be home.

No, I said I was happy despite being under duress.

It's... It's not exactly the same thing.

Luke, I... I have a life in the city.

And you've made it no secret that you love your life here.

Right.

Right, we're still worlds apart.

What if we weren't?

What do you mean?

What if I...

moved to New York?

You can't even say those words without cringing.

- No. - You... You'd hate the city.

And your family is important to you here.

You're the one that's important to me, Victoria.

You. You always have been.

Luke, um...

Our relationship wasn't enough years ago.

And...

I'm not sure it is now.

I... I mean, I know it's only been a few days.

What are you saying?

Let's just call this what it was, you know?

It's just two old friends

reconnecting over the Christmas holiday.

That's all this was for you?

After you sign those sale papers, um...

I'll be leaving Brookhollow.

Sorry.

You okay?

I just found out Luke has been planning

on selling the community center and didn't tell me.

You knew?

I may have heard from Francine

who heard from Jim's wife, Barb.

Why didn't you tell me?

Because you were having a great time celebrating the season

and being with Luke.

And, well, I... Selfishly...

I was enjoying having you home.

I should start paying more attention to the gossip chain.

I guess you'll be heading back then.

I have to. I have a really important

Christmas Eve event at the firm, lots of important clients.

Oh, I understand, darling.

I'm grateful for this time we had together.

Can I at least help you?

- Yes. - Okay.

The love of your life offers to move to the city to be with you,

and you say no?

When you put it that way,

it sounds completely ridiculous.

But believe me, Luke would be miserable in New York.

So, you're leaving just like that?

What else am I supposed to do?

Tell him you love him and spend Christmas under the mistletoe?

Look, you know that I love you,

so I want you to take what I'm about to say

in the context of I only want what's best for you.

Okay.

I'm proud of you and the success that you've made for yourself.

But I feel like, um, something's missing.

And more importantly, I feel like you feel that way.

I'm... I'm happy with my life.

I think you were content with your life before coming home,

seeing Luke and your mom,

yours truly.

But not anymore.

I think

being here has made you see that maybe you want more.

Hi. Come in.

Thanks.

Heading out?

Yeah, driving back to the city tonight.

Thank you.

It's what you wanted for Christmas, wasn't it?

Yes, it is.

Victoria.

Drive safe.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas, Luke.

Luke, when it comes to business, you are the smartest,

most successful person I know.

But?

What are you doing?

I thought you wanted me to sell the building.

I did. But you were supposed to sell the building

and keep the girl.

It doesn't exactly work that way.

I couldn't stop Victoria from leaving all those years ago.

I wasn't gonna try to stop her now.

I even offered to move to the city, and she still said no.

You what?

Most of my work is there these days anyway.

I'm commuting all the time.

But you hate the city.

Yeah.

That should tell you something, right?

It doesn't matter.

Victoria doesn't feel the same way anymore.

I'm sorry, buddy.

At least you had this Christmas with her.

Yeah.

Yeah.

There you are.

What are you doing in here?

You're missing the party.

I'll be there in a minute.

I'm just finalizing things for the buyout.

You okay?

Yeah, yeah, I'm great.

Look.

That town is going to have the best community center ever.

Your father's design is something

I wish I could use everywhere.

So, don't second-guess yourself.

Oh, no, it's not that. It's just... I don't know.

It was just nice to be home for a little while.

You know, Christmas nostalgia getting to me.

That's all.

You know that most of our reps work remotely, right?

Oh, no, I wasn't saying that.

I know, I know. I'm just saying

that you have a choice.

You're traveling 80% of the time.

You could be anywhere.

Maybe even Brookhollow.

Thank you. I appreciate that.

Okay, now, get out here

and join us for some good old-fashioned eggnog.

Will do.

Embrace the spirit of Christmas.

Hey, Eric?

I'm gonna have to take a rain check on the eggnog.

I'm going home for Christmas.

Hi.

Hey, Victoria.

Luke, I love you.

Did you hear what I said?

Yeah.

I heard you.

Is that it?

That's kind of huge.

Is it?

I've loved you since the second grade,

and look at where it's gotten us.

I wasn't the one who left Brookhollow all those years ago.

I've always loved you enough to put us first.

But you chose your career twice.

Your heart is in New York.

No, no, it's not. Not anymore.

I'm... I'm home to stay.

I mean, I'm gonna travel and commute,

but I want to make Brookhollow my home again.

With you.

It's a self-preservation thing, okay?

So, what? We're supposed to just go on living together

in this small town, doing what?

Pretending that we don't still love each other?

Letting pride and our past stand in the way

of actually being together?

It's not...

It's not pride...

or our past that is keeping me

from taking you in my arms right now.

It's common sense.

Look, we push and we pull,

and then we expect the other person just to give in.

I mean, how is that supposed to work?

Well, you... You said it yourself.

The Kingstons made it work.

The Kingstons were braver than me.

'Cause if there's a chance that we try this again

and then it doesn't work out, I...

- I don't know. - You're just gonna walk away

from what could be the most fantastic future

either of us have ever hoped for?

I'm sorry, Victoria, but...

I just...

I can't do this with you anymore.

Oh.

Thank you for finding this.

No problem.

And you can store your stuff here as long as you need, okay?

Oh, you're a dear.

Is Brent... Sorry, Mayor Kingston.

Gonna be coming by the senior center tonight?

Oh, not tonight. He's gonna pick me up for dinner tomorrow.

Tonight is the Christmas social at the seniors' complex.

It's probably gonna be the most exciting party in town

now that the annual Christmas party

at the community center is canceled.

You're gonna spend the evening with Victoria, I assume.

No, I don't think so.

Well, why not?

We're not exactly... back together.

She's back in Brookhollow, but nothing's changed.

I... I don't understand.

We decided that

us together

doesn't make sense.

Oh, that doesn't make sense.

You two are perfect for each other.

You always have been.

We have very different ideas of what's important in life.

She's big-city ambition.

And I'm...

I'm small-town reliable.

Yeah, but your differences

are what make you both great together.

You balance each other in the best of ways.

You learn

to support and encourage each other's goals

instead of impeding them, and you are gonna discover

that you have a much richer and fulfilling life.

I don't know.

Neither one of you is willing to work hard

to make the relationship work?

It's not that simple.

We have a history, me and her, and we did try.

Yeah, but you were both children then.

You're older, wiser now.

Or at least you should be.

I mean, all my time at that high school,

did I teach you children anything at all about life?

Yes. You taught us so much.

Listen.

Why do you think that girl moved back here

after all these years of having no interest in Brookhollow?

She achieved her goal of attaining that building.

She had her life in the city.

She had no reason to come back here.

She came back for you.

You both are still in love with each other.

Anybody can see that, but you're both so stubborn

you won't do anything about it.

You know, maybe I should be talking to her about this

if I can't get through to you.

Well...

Actually, Victoria's... She is willing to try again.

Ah.

So, it's your fear

that's keeping you from what you've always wanted.

Look. Look here, Luke.

This house... This house, your new home,

deserves to hear the laughter of children echoing in the halls,

to hold the secret passions of a lover's quarrel,

to be passed down through generations

of strong family ties.

I really messed things up, didn't I?

Oh, no.

How do I win her back, Mrs. Kingston?

Think big gesture.

Big gesture.

I got it.

Oh.

Where are you go... Wait, where are you going?

To spend Christmas eve with the love of my life.

Have fun at your Christmas party. And you behave yourself.

What's the fun in that?

All those are for me?

Making up for past Christmases.

Oh.

I'm so sorry I haven't been home for Christmas since Dad died.

I understood, darling.

Your father made Christmas so special.

He would have been so proud of you.

And that community center rebuild

will help preserve a piece of him.

I take it things didn't go so well with Luke?

I, um, may have hurt him one too many times.

Well, you're home now.

Yeah, I don't think that matters.

It's what he's been waiting for.

Luke is still single for no other reason

- than he's been waiting for you. - Nah.

He hasn't been serious about anyone since you,

and this Christmas is the happiest I've ever seen him.

Oh, he loves you.

And when he sees that you're here to stay, he'll come around.

Just give him time.

I hope you're right.

Maybe a big gesture couldn't hurt.

Like what?

Well, we were all disappointed

that the community center Christmas party got canceled.

Do you think we still have time to set it up?

Darling, I was the best event planner in New York.

I think I could pull this together.

Okay. Let's do it.

Hey, Jim. I'm on my way to the Masons.

- Can I call you back tomorrow? - Sorry, buddy.

I left a gift at the community center when we were packing.

I was hoping you could meet me there and let me in?

Yeah, of course. I'll be there in five.

I take it Jim's not actually meeting me here.

I'm sure he's coming to the party later.

The party?

Decided to host it one last time.

I can't believe you did all this. How did you have time?

I had some help.

Some help?

- A lot of help, actually. - Yeah.

You are so beautiful.

Thank you.

And for the record, um...

I love you, too.

And what about everything you said?

I was scared.

Aren't you still scared?

Maybe a little.

But I'd rather be scared of losing you

while holding you in my arms every Christmas

than missing you and longing for you every season.

I've already lived like that, and...

I choose us this time.

I've always loved you, Luke.

Thank you so much for showing me

that everything I always wanted was right here with you.

I still can't believe you did this.

Well, you said the center was the last time we were in love.

So, I decided to embrace the spirit of Christmas.

Hmm. So did I.

My old engagement ring.

You kept it all this time.

I was holding on to hope

one day you'd wear it again.

Victoria Mason...

Will you marry me?

For real this time?

Yes, for real this time.

I love you.

I love you.

And as excited as I am about this Christmas party...

It's gonna be amazing.

I'm looking forward to next Christmas

that we get to spend together... at home.

Home?

Yeah, the Kingston home.

I bought it for you, for us.

You never gave up hope.

No.

That's the thing about Christmas. It's about...

It's about love, forgiveness, and hope.

And that's what this center always meant for me.

That's why I was holding on to it so tightly, but now I realize

it's about the feeling and the people that make it special,

not the concrete and the wood.

Well...

I did buy some new mistletoe, you know, just in case.

Huh.

Who needs mistletoe?

Merry Christmas, Luke.

Merry Christmas, Victoria.