Original subtitles

This is the start of something new. Look in your eyes and the world comes into

view. I got a feeling like this Christmas gonna be a little different.

I would crumple up my wish list and trade it all for you and all you

need to say to make it a Merry Christmas Day.

Did you know Christmas is the best time to fall in love?

It's like scientifically proven.

And love is scientific.

Chemistry. Think about it. People are more social during the holiday season.

They're more open to getting out of their comfort zone.

Sis, this single is quite happy not to mingle.

So therefore, people who are open to the magic of Christmas time open themselves

up more to love. This episode, we'll be diving into a hot new dating app. Take

to heart.

Take to heart.

It's not until 9.30 I'll be there with plenty of time to spare.

I'll be there in five.

Can you pass these Halloween show me tickets?

Hello, everyone.

Merry almost Christmas.

I must have missed the 9.30 actually means 9 memo in the chat room.

Nora, we felt this board meeting was of particular importance given the current

state of the company.

Well, that is quite cryptic, Christine. I mean, our readership has dipped a bit.

Oh, not a dip. A major drop.

Well, usually.

Christmas is our biggest reader season and our biggest advertising season.

Well, that may have been true in the past, but it has been brought to our

attention that level 11 is taking a bite out of our audience.

We are missing out on a key demographic that our advertisers are very interested

in reaching.

People aged 18 to 39.

Max.

Nora.

I know that you feel you have a...

certain stature on the board because of your recent move to chairperson. My

father handed over a multi-million dollar hedge fund to me and I nearly

doubled its value in less than a year.

It's that same hedge fund that allowed you to build this company.

People, the board, me, I am thirsty for a Nora Winters column.

Now look, we have run all of the online data and we have found a partner with

some stellar potential.

One that's going to help bring readers into this new target demographic.

Have you ever heard of Take to Heart?

Oh, Nora, get out from under that rock. It's a revolutionary new dating app that

pushes people out of their comfort zone and into situations they wouldn't

normally find themselves in to meet people the old-fashioned way, face-to

-face.

What does this have to do with Prism?

Well, you know, Christmas is the most romantic time of the year. Oh, it is.

What about Valentine's Day?

It's too cliche.

Christmas is magical. It's cozy.

The program on Take to Heart's app will be used to prove that Christmas is the

best time of year to fall in love. And the person who is going to test out this

theory will be, drumroll Christine, Nora Winters.

Excuse me?

So, you are going to follow Take to Heart's multi-step plan on how to fall

in love.

And... While doing so, you're going to create a series of columns to be posted

on the Prism site with some exclusive content along the way.

Romance and Christmas pull very high with new demographic and you pull very

high with the current demographic.

So it's a win-win for everyone.

Except me.

I'm not doing a dating app and I'm not writing a dating column.

You don't really have a choice.

It's my company. No.

It's a public company of which my hedge fund owns the majority of voting shares.

Okay, look, this is a fun and engaging idea.

However, if you really do want to go after this new demographic, I'm sure

that there are other ways. Nora, your way is costing us.

And if I don't do this?

Hypothetically. The board could vote you out as CEO and put in someone else who

is willing to do what it takes to ensure the future of PRISM. Are you serious,

Max? Your way is not working, Nora.

Let's put it to a vote.

All those in favor of me doing this silly, likely momentary dating app...

All opposed...

I'm going to send over everything you need to get started.

Take to Heart would like to start publishing articles by Wednesday.

That's two days.

Well, Christmas is only two weeks away. Time is of the essence.

I, for one, am looking forward to seeing what you create.

Come on, Christine.

The take to heart steps for success.

Okay, so you just stand like right like that. I do realize I can't sing, right?

That's okay. That's okay. Sandy will balance out the altos. You're just here

to sort of balance out visually.

Okay, thanks.

Oh, this take to heart thing is just so much. Adley, they want me to stage my

own meet cute.

That's insane.

Well, how else are you supposed to fall in love?

I'm going to write a great article and make everyone think I'm falling in love.

I'm just going to write it. Nobody's going to know.

Or you could actually put yourself out there again. I'm just saying.

What I need to do is I need to find someone to fake fall in love with.

You've seen a romantic comedy. All you have to do is spill your hot cocoa on

someone and boom, you've got a meet cute. Or a second degree burn.

Ah, shoot.

It's Clark. He's just running things down at the bakery.

Hi, honey.

Yeah. Oh.

Hey, reader, so I know it's been a while, but I think

this is all insane, and what did I get myself into?

What am I doing?

Okay, it's not real. None of it's real.

Just do the meet-cute.

Make the board happy keep your job from a whiny little nepo, baby

Wow,

I mean that

that's you nailed that Excuse me That meet cute that you just tried to

stage for yourself. I don't know what you're talking about right? No, it's a

it's a classic I've only ever seen it in movies, though. I've never actually seen

it in real life.

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

So you're just trying to pour piping hot cocoa on some poor, unsuspecting

stranger? That's almost worse.

No, it was for work.

Why is that funny?

No, I just... That's good.

Well, it's too bad I didn't choose you.

Yeah, yeah.

Huge, huge bummer.

Look, whatever it is you were trying to do to meet someone there, I...

I hope it works out for you. Okay.

I wasn't. I wasn't trying.

I'm not.

Oh, whatever.

Is everything okay?

What happened to you?

Wait. Did you?

Yeah. Yeah, I did. And it was a huge fail.

Oh, by the way, Lola wanted to come straight to you from college. So would

it be okay if you brought her to dinner tonight? Oh, of course. I can't wait to

see her.

Okay. Okay.

Go time. Here you go. First page.

Well, you remember I'm miming.

A merry Christmas we wish you. A merry Christmas we wish you. A merry Christmas

and a happy new year.

Aunt Nora?

Hello? Lola? I didn't hear you come in.

Oh,

oh, wait, wait, wait.

I hope nothing in there is breakable. I miss you so much. I missed you too, Aunt

Nora. Wait, so this thing with Take to Heart seems cool.

What?

You, dating, using the program.

Wait, how do you know about that?

I mean, it's all over. There's socials. I was just looking at it. Right here.

Nor winters trust take to heart to fall in love before Christmas Wow Is

something wrong?

Uh No, nothing.

Okay, we should go. Yes.

Your mom will not be thrilled if we are late for dinner No, especially given

your track record with family dinners recently.

Don't bring that up and I'll help you carry these presents.

Okay. Thank you You got it. Yep

Wait, you're doing what?

It's called How to Fall in Love by Christmas.

That sounds like so much fun.

And you've been so focused on your work. And you haven't dated anyone for, like,

as long as I can remember.

I have been a tiny bit busy. This will be really good for you. Get you out of

your shell, into new experiences.

Yeah, and if you really do fall in love... Okay, it's just the name of the

series. But it wouldn't be the worst thing. I mean, just have a little fun,

sis. It's Christmas.

I saw the invites to the fundraiser, and they look great.

Well, Lola designed it. Oh.

How's the foundation doing?

Well, uh, the invites for the charity event all went out. What was that?

What? That look.

There was no look?

Okay, you always play with your earring when you're not telling the truth.

Just tell her, Mom.

Tell me what?

Well, I don't know if you've seen the foundation's financial report.

I have been preoccupied.

We've been a little overextended this year and, you know, what with the after

-school baking classes.

And the free seniors programs.

And other charity donations.

We might be in the red.

How much in the red?

From what I've gathered, better than a poinsettia.

But we always find a way to bounce back.

And the bakery is humming along, and I'm not going to let this stop us from

making as much money as possible at the charity fundraiser.

Which we will.

Okay.

So, your mom tells me that you have been taking a patisserie class. Oh my gosh.

Yes, yes.

Okay, so, cool news. You see the photos from that recent billionaire space trip?

Amazing. Right? The guy who shot it just moved to town, like, literally just got

here, and we hired him to photograph the series.

What? Why?

Because his fans are a totally different demo than the readers of Prism and the

users of Take to Heart, so it's kind of like this perfect Venn diagram of new

potential readers.

Okay, do we really need a photographer?

I mean, I think my writing speaks for itself.

No, not in this day and age of short attention spans and visual media.

We need pics.

But, like... cool, edgy, shareable pics that are likely to get stellar

impressions. Plus, Take to Heart wants to make sure you're actually going for

it and really holding up your end of the bargain.

Hey, uh, Jack, can you come in here, please? This photographer's incredible.

You're gonna love him.

You.

And you.

You two know each other?

Uh, no. No, we... We met.

Yesterday. When she tried to stage her own meet-cute. Okay, no, uh, we...

Kind of meant we didn't really meet me.

No, we definitely met.

What's my name?

See, we didn't meet.

What is your name?

Nora. Oh, cute.

What a weird thing to say, especially to a CEO.

This is kind of stellar, right? You guys already have natural chemistry.

Oh, no, no, we don't. No, I try to have chemistry with everyone I meet.

Right.

Okay, so, Jack.

You are going to capture Nora's journey to love by showing the magic of the

season. People love love.

People love Christmas.

People love Nora Winters.

I think that we should keep my dates anonymous.

I mean, if we keep the guys anonymous, then I think there's a higher

probability that I will make a connection with someone who isn't dating

me for the wrong reason.

Yes, that is why we pay you the big bucks.

Dig it. Okay, so, Jack, you are going to capture Nora's face in that stellar

style of yours and keep the guys obscured and anonymous.

All right.

I am very excited to see what you two cook up.

I'm free now. You want to get started?

Go. Uh, yeah, yes.

I just, uh, have to, um, find my wallet. Uh, so

I will see you back here soon.

I got a signed Sammy Sosa rookie card. You want to see it?

Uh, sure.

What do I do?

He saw me stage my own meet cute.

You're blowing this way out of proportion.

Adley, he slow clapped.

All right, it's not ideal. I'll give you that.

What other options do you have?

Oh, shoot. I gotta run. Taking for the fundraiser is in full swing.

I love you. I'll talk to you later, okay?

You find it?

My wallet?

No,

it's probably in my purse.

We have a lot of work to do. We should probably get started.

Sure.

So the way I see it, I will meet someone, we will go on a few festive

dates, get in the holiday spirit, and then we can end with this fundraiser

that my family does every year that benefits my mother's bakery and her

charitable foundation.

The fundraiser could serve as the climax to our column, wrapping up our magical

love story with a bow and call it a day.

I think that sounds perfect.

Unrealistic, but perfect.

Perfect's what I'm going for.

Okay.

We'll come back to that. My vision for the series is high art.

Raw, alter realism.

We need it to feel romantic.

We want the reader to really believe that I am actually falling in love.

Do you plan on not actually falling in love?

No one has to know. We just need them to feel like I'm falling in love.

It feels a bit deceptive. Think of it like writing beautiful fiction.

And now, the way I see the style is to frame it like a classic romance movie.

Give the people something aspiration.

We need real, not fake, aspiration.

Well, it's not fake.

But you just said you don't actually plan to fall in love, which, for the

record, I don't support.

So I say we go in the opposite direction. We go for drama, high impact.

Put yourself out there, you get hurt. Real.

Raw.

You actually think I could fall in love?

I think you have a better chance of doing so if you come at it with an open

mind. I mean, what are you afraid of? I'm not afraid of anything, except

sharks in storm drains.

Right. So, we follow the back-to-square-one plan from take

to heart, and we should be set.

What is that?

It's for people who want to put themselves out there but haven't dated

in a while.

What makes you think I haven't dated in a while?

Anyway, I have an idea.

Should we get started?

We are on a tight deadline, but I am sure that I... Yes, I have back-to-back

meetings today, so how about tomorrow morning?

Great. Great.

Fine. Fine.

Hey,

Sarah. My favorite client.

This is huge for both you and the agency.

Yeah, yeah, we'll see.

Not sure how real this is going to be. But have you heard any word back yet on

the proposed exhibition at the Smith & White Gallery?

Not yet.

However, with this announcement, I do have some news.

Prisons' rival, Level 11, is keeping a very close eye on you.

Why? Because they're super competitive with each other. And Level 11 is looking

to bring on someone full-time.

Ever since they saw the post about you working with Nora Winters, they have

been chomping at the bit.

You crush this, and you could have more offers than you know what to do with.

Then maybe Smith & White will give us a second look.

Maybe. I will follow up with them soon.

Dear reader, Christmas is the most...

wonderful time of the year but what if it was also

the most wonderful time of the year to fall in love

stay tuned to see if the

holiday meet cute is true or a work

of

You're late.

Time is just a construct.

And infuriating. One of my better qualities.

Right.

Look, I'm sorry. My nephew's staying with me for the holidays. He lost his

shoes. He?

Anyway, you're right.

I should have let you know I was running, literally running behind.

Hmm.

Name's Kyle.

He's my half-sister's son.

He loses everything.

Do you want to know where his shoe was?

On the ceiling fan.

How does a fifth grader get a shoe on a ceiling fan in the first place? Okay, I

believe you, kind of.

Let's go.

After you.

This is the surprise?

I love this place.

You've been here before? Well, then it doesn't fit the brief.

Oh, I think it's perfect.

Huh. Let the mingling begin.

And you have...

How many cats?

Uh, no. I don't think I could see myself living in a bunker full time.

And that's, um, whose hair?

This isn't working.

I don't disagree with you.

How many times have you been at this Christmas market over the years?

Quite a few.

Exactly. The take to heart step says to meet someone outside your comfort zone.

This is, well, seems to be well within your comfort zone.

You think that's the reason that I'm not meeting anybody here?

I think you're not following the instructions on the app.

Look, I know you said you're going to write fiction, but isn't fiction better

if it's based in reality just a little bit?

What would you suggest?

I didn't know they had skating in here.

This is the same place that my family holds their Christmas fundraiser every

year. Okay.

We need a new place.

Oh, no. No, I can confidently say that skating is outside of my comfort zone.

Perfect. And the light's great in here.

Well, go run some skates and get out there.

You only have a few days left to fall in love, right?

You gonna be okay?

Yeah. Yeah, just need to get my sea legs.

I got this.

You sure?

Just get your shot.

You've got great technique.

Those are some serious skates. I totally agree.

Are they custom?

Yes. Oh, neat. Where'd you get them?

Uh-huh.

I'll meet you guys later.

Oh! Oh!

Oh, I'm so sorry.

No, it's fine.

Are you okay?

I am.

Great.

I got you.

Oh, we're doing good.

Thanks for skating with me.

It's not bad.

That was surprisingly fun.

I'd love to do it again sometime.

I'm actually seeing someone.

Have a Merry Christmas.

Well, that could have gone better.

Yeah, right? Ouch.

Yeah, he was never into you.

Why did he skate with me?

Because he was just trying to be nice. You were kind of desperate.

I'm not desperate.

I'm not that desperate.

The photos look great.

I'm going to grab something from the snack bar.

You want anything?

No, I'm just going to return these skates. I'll meet you back here.

Is this seat taken?

Oh, no, not taken in the slightest.

Have you been here before?

First time.

You? First time.

Yeah, not as brave as I was as a kid.

Right? Yeah.

Fear of falling.

None at all. Oh, no.

Leo. Oh, Nora.

Nice to meet you.

This might sound a little crazy, but it's the holidays, right?

Would you like to get a drink sometime?

That doesn't sound crazy at all.

I would love that.

My number's on the back.

Just text me and we'll set something up.

Cool.

It was nice to meet you. Nice to meet you too, Leo.

Now that's what I'm talking about.

What?

Is that him already?

That's a good sign.

Yeah, he asked me out for tomorrow.

Great. Still think you need a backup?

What? Why?

He just asked me out.

You need insurance this series will work, right?

So humor me.

A former colleague of mine is having a Christmas mixer tonight. Come by, have a

drink. Meet someone who could be your backup in case option one here isn't

actually the one.

Okay, well, I don't believe in the one.

Says the woman famous for writing a dating column.

Huh.

Pick you up at eight.

Dear reader, I am... surprised to report that the

holiday meet cute might have worked.

I met someone out of my comfort zone.

We'll call him Mr. L.

Will he be the romantic connection that this writer is seeking this

holiday season or

Will he be the proverbial lump of coal in my stocking?

I'm just worried about him. It's Christmas. We're not together.

It's going fine.

He's signed the kid up for enough holiday activities to fill his whole

winter break.

Well, that's the idea, to keep him entertained and you sane.

I know how hard it can be moving to a new city.

How are things at the hospital, Superwoman?

chaotic and short-staffed.

Well, they're lucky to have you.

Oh, I'm sorry. They're paging me. I got to run. But I'm going to text you my

Christmas plans, and I'll let you know if I can make it, OK?

Sounds good.

I love you. Bye.

What?

Did you forget how to roll out dough?

It's been a while since rolling in dough is part of my day-to-day activities.

I can tell.

So I went online and I saw Jack, and he is cute and single.

And mildly infuriating and full of himself.

But I saw the post. You said you met someone.

Yeah, in theory.

As long as the board and Take to Heart believe I'm really falling in love, who

cares if I fluff it up a little bit?

They want a good story, I'm going to give them a good story.

Hey, Max, what can I do for you?

Take to heart, just sent notes on your article.

That roller rink bit, that was cute on brand.

And they love that fail with the first guy. That was actually super real.

But they do have some tweaks.

Oh, do they?

Look, Nora, I know that you and I don't always see eye to eye, but I am on your

team here.

You built Prism from the ground up.

And while I agree that there need to be some changes, I believe that you should

be a part of them.

However, for this series to work and for the crossover of users to happen, I need

to know what you're feeling, not just what's happening.

You know, give me gritty, real, honest.

Give me the old Laura Winters.

Okay?

I gotta bounce.

I agree with him.

I think you really gotta open up if this is gonna work.

How many of these snowmen cookie do we have to make? For the fundraiser, about

a hundred.

What, you got soft on me?

I admit, I am a bit out of practice.

Oh.

Hey, guys.

Oh.

Hey, how you doing?

Very kind words.

Hey,

I just need to do a quick lap.

Sure, yeah, yeah, whatever.

Do whatever you need to do.

Are you sure? I just don't want to bail on you since you don't know anyone.

You're not bailing. Not at all.

Why are you acting weird?

I'm not acting weird. Not me, no.

Not weird.

Okay. Meet back here in 20?

10-4, good buddy.

Yeah, that was weird.

I'm so sorry.

I didn't know anybody was in here.

I'm Jeffrey.

Nora.

And I never played another game of mini golf again in my life.

It just flew right out of his hands. It was incredible.

Excuse me.

I am so sorry.

I'm going to have to go.

Okay. But I would love to take you out sometime, you know, if you'd like.

I would love that.

Have you ever been to Gregson's Christmas Market?

No, but it sounds magical.

Oh, it is.

It is so nice to meet you. Oh, you too.

Jack.

Jack.

Excuse me.

So, it looks like you found a very photogenic insurance policy, I see.

Oh, aren't you sneaky.

That's fantastic.

We can definitely use that.

Which leads me to, I should go home. I'll walk you.

I am all the way across town.

I love the subway.

Okay.

So, this fundraiser thing.

Oh, well, my parents started it to raise money to give back to the community.

They offered all these free programs, baking lessons for kids, senior events.

And so now my sister, she still does the thing once a year.

And the funds that they raise, well, pretty much... Covers the whole thing.

I used to be really involved, but as PRISM grew, I just couldn't juggle it

all.

Sounds important.

Look, I have some ideas for dates that I want to run by you, and I think they're

fully take-to-heart approved.

How about bowling?

No, I do not think bowling is on brand for PRISM.

How about volunteering in a soup kitchen?

Oh, terrible lighting.

But I do fully support the cause.

What about Christmas karaoke?

Absolutely not.

We are going to have to settle this like adults.

All right.

That's your version of settling something like an adult.

Yeah. Isn't it yours?

On three? On three.

One, two, three. Ah-ha!

Christmas market it is. It's festive, it has amazing lighting, so you'll like

that. Plus, we already know our way around the place. It'll be the perfect

date.

This is me.

Thank you for getting me home.

Happy to.

Meet me tomorrow morning at the bakery?

Sounds like a plan.

Who is that?

That's a woman I'm working with.

She's pretty.

I like... that one.

Yeah, me too, little man.

Can I call mom before bed?

Oof.

She's probably still at work, but we can give her a try.

Adults are always at work.

How about this?

I have to visit a Christmas tree farm tomorrow. What do you say you play hooky

and come with me? We could even start the day with all-you-can-eat pancakes at

the diner.

All right.

Dear

reader,

this writer can confirm for you that yes...

People are way more willing to be open to you if you

put yourself out of your comfort zone.

But is it the holiday season or is it just that I am

finally putting myself out there for the first time in a very long time?

I have a plan.

Okay.

I might have told everyone that you were working with the space photographer guy,

and that he's going to be at the fundraiser, and that Prism is going to

do a write-up on the bakery, and that if people come to the Christmas charity

event, that they could maybe get a chance to be featured in your column.

Well, that is not a bad plan. I just wish you'd asked me before you told the

whole town.

Okay, yes. Thank you. And if anything changes...

Please, just let us know.

Hey.

Hi. You must be Kyle.

I'm Nora. Nice to meet you.

Hi. And you must be Jack, the famed Jack.

Uncle Jack and I went for pancakes this morning before the apartment went

underwater.

What?

It was a small leak turned into a literal flood.

Yeah, we don't know when we can get back in.

And I'm currently on the hunt for a hotel room for us, but as it's close to

Christmas... You can stay with us.

I mean, we're just up the road, and we've got plenty of room at the

Metaphorical Inn.

Do you have a Christmas tree?

A big one.

I'm sure they have other offers.

Well, actually, we don't.

Uncle Jack, can we please... From what I've read online, you're relatively new

to the city, so... Are you a stalker now?

I am new to the city, and my family's all out west, so... No one should be

without their family during the holidays.

I insist.

Okay? Plus, I could use some help baking cookies for Santa.

It was very nice to meet you, Kyle and Jack.

Nora will give you my address and I'll see you soon.

Well, your sister is very generous.

That she is.

We should go.

Well, that looks like fun.

You want to join them?

All right.

So, where's your guy?

Option A.

His name is Leo, and he is no longer an option.

So I was right. You did need insurance.

Wait, does that mean no one is coming?

Jeffrey was gonna come, and he asked for a recheck, too.

Can we at least look at the trees?

Please?

I do still need content.

But your date's not here.

I don't have to actually go on a date to write about a date. Fiction, remember?

What do you say we try to find the tallest Christmas tree?

Flashcards? Oh, you did not.

They help me stay organized.

For a date?

For the column.

How is a woman like you single? I mean, you are incredibly successful,

conventionally attractive.

Thanks. I meant that as a compliment. Okay.

Well, actually, I was married, briefly, a long time ago, to a fantastic guy.

But it was right when Prism was getting some traction, and I wanted to grow

that, and he wanted to move to a farm.

and have a big family and live off the land.

Yeah, we really loved each other, but we just weren't a good fit.

So after that, prison started to take off.

So what about you? You ever been married?

No, no.

Engaged twice.

Both times I literally put everything ahead of her and it cost me everything.

It's part of the reason for the career change.

I mean, life's too short.

I want to experience as much love and joy as I can while I'm here.

Do you miss writing?

Sometimes,

I guess.

But I don't miss baring my soul on the internet only to be trolled for it.

Says the woman writing a dating column.

No, that was not my choice.

I just need the readers to believe that I am falling in love.

And then the board won't vote me out of CEO.

No pressure.

No, none at all.

Isn't it perfect?

We need it.

Kyle, why did you pick this tree?

Because it's tiny and funny looking.

And I was worried everybody would want the big fluffier trees.

And I didn't want this one to be lonely. So I think we should take it home.

Do you think your sister would like this Christmas tree?

Kyle, I think she would love it. Yes!

How long is he staying with you?

Until the new year.

My half-sister Olivia, she's a single mother ER doctor back in Boston, and she

needed a little help this season, so I offered to take Kyle for a few weeks.

That's nice of you.

It's the least I can do. She's the one saving lives.

Well, if she comes to town, she is more than welcome to the fundraiser.

I'll extend the invite. Thank you.

Uncle Jack, can we get hot cocoa after this?

I would never turn down hot cocoa.

Yes.

All right, I just finished my last gift for the Michelson family.

Anyone need help?

I just started on the Smiths gifts. Give me one.

So do you guys do this every year?

Sponsored this many families?

Well, Nora actually started the tradition.

Oh, we started it together.

So, Jack, why don't you tell us about yourself?

We know you're a photographer.

Your photos are wonderful.

Thank you. It was actually quite a career change.

What did you do before?

Corporate finance.

Yeah, I worked for the same company for three decades. But my grandfather,

Franklin Peterson, he was a photographer.

You did wildlife photography, right?

Taught me everything I know.

But you went to corporate finance anyway?

I took a safer route.

But one day it was like I woke up and I realized that my life was flying by and

I hadn't done all the things that I really wanted to do. I was too afraid to

do.

So I quit.

I packed my bags, I bought a new camera, and I traveled around the world taking

photographs of all those places I'd seen as screensavers.

That's pretty adventurous.

You wouldn't recognize me in my finance days.

You like this version better?

Most of the time.

More so now.

And the column is going well?

It's a... Off to... A start.

It's a solid start.

Okay. I mean, I met a guy, and it's going well.

Nora, don't forget to stop by the train museum to drop off the deposit for our

space. We have to get it in by 4 p.m. or we lose the location.

Okay. Thank you.

Night in, Nora.

So, what's the plan? Because your guys keep bailing.

My guys don't keep bailing. They keep rain checking.

Which, based on my call, nobody would know. So, well, kind of.

What have you got to lose? I mean, if you really put yourself out there.

Nothing other than being mocked, ridiculed, never taken seriously again?

Well, I'm here to help.

If you need me.

I mean, I know how much this series means to you, so if I can help, then I

want to.

You're going to help me lie to my readers.

I read that piece you wrote on Kyle and the Tree. That wasn't a lie.

And you encouraged us dear readers.

to do a small act of kindness this holiday season so consider this mine it

is the most wonderful time of the year after all well that is very com thank

you and have a good night at my sister's house

which will never not be weird

Dear reader, Christmas is a few days away, and there is a new candidate, Mr.

G, who, after a bumpy start, I am finally going to get to spend some one

-on-one time with.

Now, I'm not saying that this writer is no longer a skeptic, because I can

assure you, I still am, but... Be

honest.

Christmas can be a challenging time.

For me, it is.

This experiment has offered me more bites of the apple,

if you will, than I have had in a long time.

Will that lead to love?

That is yet to be determined.

Okay, everybody, listen up, all right?

Welcome, ladies and gentlemen, to the annual Winters Family Snowman Building

Contest.

Unfortunately, Clark got stuck at the bakery, so Kyle, you, and Lola are gonna

be against Jack and Aunt Nora, and I am gonna be the ref.

Whoever builds the best snowman with full facial features wins.

And for the record, I never lose.

I like that attitude.

Okay, on your mark, get set, go!

Looking good guys!

Nice

try.

Nice try.

Gotta staple it too.

Yeah.

Time's up!

You guys only won because we let them

Well, see for yourself.

Oh, she's done.

She's done.

Oh, that looks fun.

Listen, I don't think I'm going to be making it down tonight.

Come on. We still have a few days left till Christmas.

Yes, and I'm going to try to make it work, but we're going to need a

Christmas miracle.

We're really short-staffed.

Well, don't worry.

Cows and good, very festive hands.

You look happy.

You know what? I am.

And I think I want to make this a family tradition.

What? Sleeping over at your co-worker's sister's house?

Uh, no.

Us spending family time together.

I feel like we're seriously lagging in the family traditions department.

Yeah, I would like that.

Oh, listen, I gotta go. Love ya. Bye.

Oh,

nice one.

Winning snowman!

Hey, Kyle, do you want to come with me to the bakery? We're meeting my dad to

finish up some baking for our booth at the fundraiser.

Uncle Jack, can we go too?

Oh,

I've got something else I've got to do. Nora, don't forget to drop off the

deposit at the train museum. Larry is going to meet you there at 4.

I'll see you later.

Come on, kiddo.

Bye.

She cares, man. I know. I just wish she'd be a bit more present, is all. You

know, holidays are about spending time with family.

Not trying to cram in as much work as possible.

I know.

Okay, Max, what is going on?

You might want to sit down for this.

I

know

this whole...

How to fall in love by Christmas thing is kind of your worst nightmare, but I

think it's kind of great.

You and Jack, you're creating something that's unique, compelling, and kind of

beautiful.

Why do you look like you're going to pass out?

Because I don't think it's enough.

It's the board, Nora.

CEO evaluation.

They're putting measures in place to vote you out.

I guess the take-to-heart deal is a bit shaky after the low engagement.

Why are you telling me this?

Because I don't agree with the direction they want to take Prism in.

Yeah, of course.

So, what do you think?

These are just phenomenal.

Some of your best work yet, Jack.

Well, I'm glad the photography's authentic because not everything is.

What do you mean?

This whole falling in love thing, I don't know how real it is.

Well, with work like this, there is no doubt Prism is going to be offering you

that photography contract.

Get you that home base.

When I said that, I meant a gallery, not another website.

Another website pays quite a lot of money.

I don't want to give up on the gallery.

I am going to keep working on it. In the meantime, you keep killing it like this,

and you are going to have a... a lot of offers to choose from.

I'm gonna follow up with level 11 right now.

Talk soon.

Hi,

yeah, this is Sarah Miller.

Look, I have some information I would just love to share with you about Jack's

assignment with Nora Winters over at Prism.

Apparently there is some fabrication going on.

So what do we do?

We find a way to prove to the board that their motion shouldn't go forward.

Haven't they already made up their minds?

They still need a majority vote. Christine, she's on the fence.

Nora? We can fix this. And the way we're going to do it is through your column.

I need some advice.

Can you meet me at the Christmas market? Hot cocoa's on me.

So... Take to Heart isn't thrilled with the content, and the prison board is

actively talking about replacing me.

Okay.

Have you ever done a SWAT analysis before?

Uh, strength, weaknesses...

Opportunities threats.

Um, yeah, I've done one for my business, but I've never done it for myself Okay

strengths as a CEO I

Am hard-working trustworthy

independent I Founded a company and grew it to what it is today

And your weaknesses

can be narrow-minded to a fault.

You know, we spend our whole lives trying

to be something, trying to do something, trying to achieve something.

And, I mean, in the end, this is all that matters.

This old-fashioned human connection.

Which, I would say, is your opportunity.

And my threat?

Hmm.

That if I don't do this, everything I built, my lifestyle brand, by women, for

women, to empower women, is just gone.

You know...

I wouldn't even mind bringing in the younger readers.

I just don't want to lose the connection we have with the ones that are already

there. I think we're looking at another opportunity here.

I know it's scary to push yourself out there, but think of all the women who

could relate to your journey of opening up your heart again. Partnership would

take to heart or not.

So I dug a little deeper on your work.

Oh, yeah? What did you think?

You have a very unique eye.

Was that a compliment?

It was more of a statement.

Was that a laugh?

More of a positive emotional reaction.

Look,

I know this isn't easy.

But you're embracing the challenge. I think if you lean into the Christmas

spirit just a little bit more, you might find exactly what you're looking for.

Whoa, that was... Oh, no.

No way.

Nope. That's like, I mean, I didn't want to kiss you.

You don't want to kiss me. No. Right.

Gross. Gross.

What do you say? Do you want to get out of here and grab a bite to eat?

Oh, I'd love to, but I am having dinner with Jeffrey in an hour.

A real date, huh?

Well, do you think I should photograph it? Get some actual photos with the

actual guy for this new non-fiction version?

Actually, I think I should fly solo on this one.

You won't even know I'm there. And this is kind of the reason for the series,

after all.

Okay, fine.

We're going to be at ZD's at 8, and I

won't see you there.

Oh, man.

Hey.

Thank you again for your help.

Happy to.

All right. See you soon.

See you.

Dear reader, I want to tell you a story about a person in my life.

We will call him Space.

Now, Space has really stepped it up for me this holiday season.

But he really helped me see

that the people I always thought were so much happier than I was during the

holidays were just letting themselves be happy.

They were leaning in to the magic of the season.

Which, dear reader, is something I am going to try to do for

real this time?

Are you kidding me? I would never kid about something as serious as a radio

show contest.

It's just so wild. You won multiple prizes on air.

Well, what can I say? I'm a lucky guy.

In more ways than one.

Oh.

It was fun tonight.

Yeah, I agree.

Listen, my sister is having this dinner thing at her house tomorrow, and I know

we just started seeing each other, but I was... I would love to go.

You would?

Yes, I would.

Okay, so according to Adley's list, we need to make custom ornaments for all of

the silent auction winners, and she gave me a rough sketch of what they should

look like.

Do you guys always do this level of detail?

We try to.

Actually, the last few years, Adley really has had to shoulder most of it.

But she has done a fantastic job keeping my mother's vision alive.

Oh.

Shoot. Sorry.

No, no, go ahead.

Hello? Okay, so, good news and bad news.

I feel like you and Jack are really starting to find your groove.

But, take to heart wants to avoid any potential girl falls in love with a guy

right under her nose angle.

It's a little too convenient.

I'd stick with Mr. G if I were you. Lean into that.

Yeah, okay.

I don't have feelings for Jack.

I mean, space.

Sorry, I can't really talk right now. Chat soon. Bye.

But... Sorry about that.

Should I stick to photography?

You might want to not quit your day job. Okay.

I mean, it's... It's cute.

It's like... Oh, now it's a... There we go. There's the tree. Yeah, there's the

tree.

We'll take care of it.

We'll take care of it.

I got the fancy ornaments.

You forgot.

What? I forgot?

The form.

Oh, Adley, I'm sorry.

You know what?

I'll go talk to him. I got my check. No, no, no. No. I handled it.

Oh.

Okay, then we're good?

No. No, we're not good, Nora.

Look, I know that Prism is important to you.

But you and I, we made a promise.

To mom.

To run this foundation together.

And sometimes it feels like I am the only one who takes that promise

seriously. Okay, Adley, you do this. You do this every time.

Every time this idea that I abandoned the family or whatever because I didn't

take over the bakery.

That's kind of exactly what you did. You know what? You're right. I did follow my

passions and my dreams, and they didn't involve making cookies. But I am always

there for you.

Actions speak louder than words, Nora. And your actions speak loud and clear.

Everything okay?

Uh, no.

Apparently not.

She's just stressed.

Yeah, okay. You should take those.

I should go.

Hey, no. I think quite the opposite.

I think you're very wanted here.

Come on.

And I told him, no, there's no way we're going to take that deal. My client

deserves better. Excuse me, pass the potatoes, please.

You know, that reminds me of the time. And they did. They came up on their

offer, which, of course, I always do.

You know, I say the client comes first.

That's my motto.

And then, of course, there was another time. Hold on for a second. They got

away. And then there was another time.

Client comes in from out of town.

And, you know, he says, hey.

I need you to do something, right? He comes in completely unannounced.

And, you know, he says, I need you to take care of X, Y, Z. And I can't tell

you what X, Y, Z is, of course, because that's completely confidential. But he

says, needed to be done ASAP.

So I did it. You know, what can I say?

I'm good at what I do. You know what I mean?

Client comes first.

I'm glad you like the potatoes. Oh, everything was wonderful.

The roast was a little dry, but a trick my mother used to use, she'd put just a

little bit of water on the base of the tin.

Keeps everything nice and moist.

I'll make sure I pass along the tip.

So I will see you tomorrow.

I'm excited for the fundraiser.

I'll see you there.

Don't say anything.

It's late.

You should probably just stay here for the night. Your room's already made up.

You know what? I should, uh, I should put Kyle to bed.

I don't know. I think I should. I just miss you.

I know that you have so much going on.

It's honestly so impressive.

Look at you.

You have this beautiful family and this business that people love and...

Every year you throw this event that actually makes a difference in people's

lives. I mean, you're the one that's impressive.

And I'm sorry I don't tell you that enough.

And I miss you, too.

I love you.

Don't cry.

I guess you should just stay the night, then. Can I borrow some pajamas?

Yeah. I got lots.

So, Jeffrey.

He seems nice.

Yeah, he is, I think.

I mean, we have a lot in common.

Jack.

He's a lovely guy.

He's just a friend.

I always thought that was a funny saying.

What do you mean?

I think a soulmate is just a friend you happen to have deeper chemistry with.

You know, the kind of friend your soul just...

Nose. That is so cheesy.

I know, I know, but I'm just saying, you know, there's a lot of people out there

that you'll have a deeper chemistry with in your lifetime.

But not everyone will make you feel like home.

Sarah?

Jack.

Level 11 is sending over a job offer. I forwarded them a sneak peek of your

latest work. And they absolutely love it.

Is that legal?

I mean, my work for PRISM is owned by PRISM, right?

It's not like they're publishing it. They're just using it to evaluate you.

Anyhow, there should be an offer coming soon.

Keep an eye on your email.

Gotta go. Bye.

What are you doing up?

What are you doing up?

I asked you first.

Oh, I was having trouble sleeping.

Thought I'd get a midnight snack.

Test that?

I don't mind if I do.

I wanted to edit some of the new photos.

This is one of my favorites.

I love how alive you look in these.

You always shoot in black and white?

It was my grandpa's style.

Said he got rid of anything superfluous.

I like that.

And this gallery placement that I'm trying to land? It was the first gallery

to feature his work all those years ago.

Yeah, he loved that place.

I think it's really brave that you went for it.

I just got tired of feeling like I wasn't doing everything I could to live.

The life I loved.

Mm.

Life you love.

I'm gonna take another chestnut.

I'll see you in the morning.

Night, Nora.

Night.

So... Adlai and Clark finished all the baking last night, and they are at the

museum setting up, and they want us to finish stuffing these gift boxes.

You got it, boss.

We want to put one Christmas tree and one gingerbread in each box. Okay.

Here's a glove.

Thanks.

Oh.

I'm waiting for this.

Oh.

What's up?

It's from Max.

The board has scheduled a call for later today.

That's not such a bad thing, is it?

No, but a fit of that glove is a bad thing.

Why don't you take the boxes and I will touch the cookies?

Deal.

So are you really worried? I feel like this whole thing is manufactured.

Love can't be rushed.

I mean, if you plant a seed, you don't get a plant the next day.

It has to grow. It takes time.

Laura Winters, are you a romantic?

No.

No, of course not.

I just... I don't know why I thought I could get away with faking the whole

thing.

No wonder the board's not happy.

I never used to write like this.

And why is that?

I used to be a different person.

You know, when I started writing, I didn't think about what was going to be

in the comments section. I just wrote what I felt and pushed publish and never

gave it a second thought.

We need more boxes.

Well, that's what made you so successful.

Yeah.

But at some point, as the site grew and grew and grew, then, you know what? The

scrutiny on me grew and grew and grew.

I think you're admitting that you're afraid of something.

Before I took this assignment, I went back and I read all your old writing.

And you're right.

You're not the same.

You're better.

You... You're more thoughtful. You come at things from a stronger point of view.

And, look, I understand your concerns, but I don't think you actually have

anything to be afraid of.

I just don't want to be a fraud.

So don't be.

They want honest.

Give them honest.

Tell the board and your readers that Mr.

Haircut or whatever anonymous name you gave Jeffrey is handsome and charming,

but you just don't feel it with him.

I mean, who cares if you don't actually fall in love before Christmas?

Well, that is the title of the series.

It would literally ruin it.

Not if you're real.

What are you really feeling, Nora Winters?

Because if you write about that, I think you'll get your stellar content.

Which I need.

Cheers.

Hey. I'm gonna need you to pack your bags.

Because Level 11 just offered you the full-time position.

They want you at their holiday company party tonight so they can introduce you

to the team.

But I'm in the middle of the assignment for PRISM. Yeah, but you're finished

that tomorrow, so you can just sneak out a few hours early.

Well, who'd finish shooting Nora's series?

Jack, did you hear the words that I'm saying?

Level 11.

Full-time position.

Big deal.

This is not contract or freelance work.

Okay, well, where are we at with the gallery?

Jack, you are being offered more money than any client I've ever had in my

entire career.

Why are you still thinking so small?

You knew a gallery exhibition was always the goal.

And it will be, while you're crushing it at level.

What time can I tell them you'll be there?

No.

I'm not going.

Jack, don't be silly.

Look, Sarah, you took a chance on me all those years ago, and I'll be forever

grateful, but I think... I think it's time for me to focus on other things.

Like what?

A gallery exhibition.

Time with loved ones. Look, I just... I need a change.

Thank you for everything, but... I'm not bailing on Nora.

She needs me.

This series means too much to her.

I'm not going.

Look at you.

That looks stunning.

Thank you.

I actually just learned this new makeup tip.

You put the white in your waterline and then just like a dash of glitter in your

corner and it makes your eyes pop.

And then you use this primer to smooth out your pores, which you literally

don't have, but I do.

I didn't realize that you knew so much about makeup.

Trial and error.

Listen, I know that you still have another semester at school, but would

you have any interest in writing for the site?

Maybe doing a monthly roundup of makeup products, tips you've learned, that kind

of thing. Are you serious?

I'd love to.

Writing for Prism has been my goal since I was like eight.

Why didn't you ever say anything?

I mean, I guess I didn't think I had anything to say.

I mean, you're such a legend.

Oh. And I know you took a break from writing, but this thing that you're

doing would take to heart.

It's so cool.

And plus, you and Jack are like the ultimate creative duo.

Well,

he is talented.

And he definitely has a crush on you.

Okay.

So, tell me whatever other magic makeup tricks you have. Okay.

Whoa, whoa, I got it, I got it, I got it.

Oh, gosh.

I'm sorry.

I just... I thought I was tall enough to reach the top. Oh, well, allow me.

Thank you.

There you go.

Look, I know that Nora didn't intentionally invite you to our little

fundraiser, but we are all so glad that you and Kyle are here.

Are you kidding?

I'm honored to be here.

And you have a really special family.

And Nora, well, she's... She's pretty great.

Look, I don't mean to overstep, but in my experience, telling someone how you

feel, it's always a good idea.

That's good.

What?

Everything looks so good.

Great setup.

Hi,

guys.

Okay, Winters family, let's get this party started.

Bye.

Oh, my God.

So exciting.

Magic. And you know what? Here's a donation slip in case you want to

contribute to the bakery's free programs.

Hey.

Sorry. Give back to the community.

In addition, I'll be giving away a free photography class to all donors.

Thank you.

Hi, guys.

Yeah, if you could just a little closer. There we go.

Hi. Thank you for coming. Oh, my pleasure.

Good to see you. Yeah, you too.

Oh,

yeah.

We're getting there, but, you know, it could be better.

Well, let me show you. Oh, you remember.

Yeah. Hi.

Nice to see you.

Let me show you the rest of this. Certainly.

Hey, Katie, it's Jack Paxton.

Yeah, it's been a while.

Hey, listen, is your company still looking to make some donations before

the end of the fiscal year?

I think I might have the perfect charity for you.

Yeah, that's so generous. Thank you.

I am telling you, it is wild, man.

Well, no, the Nora Winters is actually writing about me.

Well, yeah, because I'm Mr. G.

Well, yeah, of course she's nice. She's great. But, you know, but her name next

to mine, this is huge.

Hey, I'll tell you what. See if you can get me an interview with the Post, and I

can do one of those kind of, you know, tell-all kind of things.

Oh, yeah.

Yeah, because this will be great for my business. And you know what? They will

eat this stuff up.

That's good, right? Oh, we got a couple more down here.

Max! Hi.

Nora, I'm sorry to call you on Christmas Eve, but I wanted you to hear it from

me.

Oh, is this about Jack and Level 11?

Yeah, no, I heard, but this is about you and the column.

I'm so sorry.

I just heard from the board.

They're pulling the collaboration between us and Take to Heart.

I guess they weren't thrilled with some recent developments.

I just sent you an email.

Nora Winters.

How to fall in love by Christmas series was completely fake, and inside source

says.

Wow.

Any idea who the source is?

Well, Jack, right? Who else could it be?

I'm sorry, Nora.

Merry Christmas.

I was looking for you.

Oh, you were?

Were you going to tell me?

What is this?

I don't know, but...

Listen, Jeffrey, he's using you. Jeffrey is using me. You would say that because

you use me.

That's not true.

Oh, so you didn't basically wrap me out with the work that we did for my column

by selling it to a rival site for more money?

That was my agent.

And you didn't know that she was doing that?

So you're just basically motivated by money and...

This was all a lie.

Says the woman.

Totally comfortable faking falling in love.

Well, at least I'm trying to change.

Unlike you.

You know what? Forget it.

This was a waste of time. Yeah, it was a waste of time.

Why don't you just go have a great, fun Christmas party at your new company?

Everything all right?

Uh, yeah.

How we doing?

Um, might have to cut back a little.

But the foundation, that's not what Mom would have wanted.

Sometimes you just have to face the fact that things don't always go your way.

What's with you?

This whole silly thing, this partnership with Take to Heart, I shouldn't have let

myself get pushed into it.

But you started writing, and you have real feelings for someone, yeah?

Hey, there you are.

I have been looking for you everywhere.

Did you want to go do the photo booth?

Um...

Are you recording right now?

Well, uh... Well, yeah.

I mean, but can you blame me?

Well, because you're Nora Winters, and I just thought it would be a good idea if

I had some proof.

Proof?

That I'm Mr. G.

Why would you need proof?

Because I am getting so much more investors interested in my company by

mentioning you in the interviews.

Interviews? Yeah.

And I've got another one tomorrow. I just want to make sure I can, you know,

quote everything factually.

Okay, wow.

I don't think this is going to work out.

What about your column?

Nora, hold on. Wait.

Jeffrey, I think it's time we excuse ourselves.

Just come this way.

It's okay.

Hey, buddy.

I think it's time to pack up our things and head out, okay?

Here.

Come on.

I was totally wrong about everything.

I mean, Jeffrey was so obvious. I should have known what was going on there right

away. Sure, but Jack?

I mean, I've seen the way you two look at each other.

Adelaide, he used me as a bargaining tool.

No, he didn't.

No, Nora. Last time I saw him, he was doing everything he could to fundraise.

He did it.

Apparently, he knew people who wanted to donate to that cause.

We're good.

He left to go to Level 11's Christmas party tonight.

No, he didn't.

He fired his agent. He turned down the job at Level 11. I heard him. I heard

him do it with my own two ears.

Listen, he lights you up in a way I haven't seen in years.

You two have something really special.

And I would think twice about letting it go.

Hey, Max.

I'm going to go live with one more piece.

Yes, hi. I'd like to book a hotel room for a few nights.

Hey, where are you two headed?

Santa's coming here in a few hours. This is the address I told him to go to.

Mom! Sorry, I'm going to have to call you back.

What's a Christmas miracle?

But how?

I had a little help from Nora and a little bit of luck. The hospital was

fully staffed. They didn't need me tonight.

Sorry,

one sec.

Dear reader, I have to come clean.

Did I start this series as a skeptic?

I sure did.

Did I think it was actually possible to lean into the magic of the season and

let that magic open your heart?

Absolutely not.

But was I wrong?

I very much was.

I am here to tell you that I did, in fact, fall in love, more or less by

Christmas, thanks to Take to Heart.

It happened with someone...

I never expected.

Someone who challenged me, supported me, protected me, encouraged me.

Someone who took me totally by surprise.

Nora Winters, I think you just saved your job.

I didn't realize it was even happening.

And that's the best part about love.

It can surprise you if you stay open to it.

What are you waiting for?

Go. Yeah.

Yeah. Go. Okay.

Did you read my post?

I'm very impressed.

Impressed enough to forgive me?

It's bad luck not to kiss under the mistletoe.

It's gross.

So Jack Paxton, in your professional opinion, do you think that you can fall

in love by Christmas?

Absolutely.

Do you?

Absolutely.

the first noel the angels did

say was too certain for shepherds in fields where they lay

in fields where they

their sheep on a cold winter's night that was so deep

no