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[woman] Let me tell you the tale of Jimmy Stubbins

and the golden jingle bells.

It all began 100 years ago when the small town of Pleasant Bay

fell on hard times.

A drought caused the local river to run dry,

which shut down the lumber mill,

putting most of the townsfolk out of work.

Spirits were down that Christmas Eve.

Kids like Jimmy Stubbins went to sleep

with little hope of getting any presents.

[thuds, bells chiming]

[footsteps]

[footsteps continue]

Through his sleepy eyes,

he saw something that had dropped from the sky.

[soft instrumental music playing]

Golden jingle bells from Santa's sleigh.

As Jimmy took the bells in his hands and felt their magic,

he wished with all his heart for the mill to reopen

so the town could get back on its feet.

When he awoke on Christmas morning,

there he saw a present under the tree.

[bells chiming]

And, to his delight,

the strip of jingle bells still lay by his bedside.

Mom, Dad, come quick.

[woman] It wasn't a dream.

Look. Merry Christmas.

[knock on door]

[man] Shane, Judy. Are you awake?

[woman] A neighbor appeared at their door...

Have you heard?

[woman] The river was flowing, and the mill was reopening.

The townsfolk were all getting their jobs back.

Jimmy knew his wish had been granted.

[Jimmy] My wish came true. These bells must be magical!

Wh... what are these bells?

I was sleeping, and then I heard Santa on the roof,

and then his sleigh was flying away, and then his reindeer...

[woman] The story of the golden jingle bells spread quickly.

The bells were put on display at the lumber mill

and became the town's good luck charm.

People started coming to Pleasant Bay from miles around

to see the bells and deliver their own Christmas wishes.

The bells became a symbol of hope for all who came to see them.

They were soon given a home in the town's museum,

and every year on Christmas Eve,

the town held a Ringing of the Bells ceremony.

[Santa] Ho, ho, ho! Merry Christmas!

[woman] As more and more people came to see the bells and make their wishes...

Pleasant Bay and its people began to flourish.

And since that Christmas,

Pleasant Bay has had 100 years of prosperity and peace.

Some people say it's just coincidence,

but true believers know it's all because of the golden jingle bells.

[man] Fiona!

There's customers waiting for you at the gift shop.

I'm sorry, Mr. Martin. I... I just love telling the story of the bells.

I can take it from here.

[exhales softly]

This year marks

the 100th anniversary of Jimmy Stubbins finding the bells.

So, this should be the biggest Ringing of the Bells ever!

That's why people come to our town,

to see the bells and to make their Christmas wish.

Okay, are there any questions?

Yes, Violet, what's your question?

How can Santa's sleigh still fly when he's missing the bells?

[chuckles] I'm sure Santa has plenty of other bells.

Does he know these bells are here?

Yes, he does. And he's very happy about it.

These bells have brought so much good fortune to Pleasant Bay.

How can those be Santa's bells when there's no such thing as Santa?

Reggie, of course there's really a Santa.

Right, Mr. Martin?

Absolutely, young lady.

-See? -Naughty list.

There will always be non-believers.

But don't let them rob you of your Christmas spirit.

Christmas is a time of goodwill towards all men,

and women, people, in general.

Good tidings to all the people.

All right, kids, feel free to look around the rest of the museum.

-[girl] Let's go look at the old fire truck. -Let's go over there.

What do you think that was for?

Probably for reaching into your butt.

Kenny.

[Glenn] Where did I...

Are you okay, Mr. Martin?

Uh... Yeah, uh, just seem to have misplaced my glasses.

You put 'em in your coat pocket when you were yelling at Fiona.

Yelling?

[scoffs] You mean, passion, maybe, but not... No.

I never put my gla... Oh...

Hey...

Hey now. [chuckles]

Thank you, Violet.

[George] Hey, what are you kids doing?

-Dad! -[chuckles] Hey, buddy.

-Hi, Mr. Bottoms. -Hey, Violet. How are ya?

You guys enjoying your visit?

Listen, I was thinkin' since you don't have school tomorrow,

why don't we make it a boys' night tonight?

Oh! Can we make popcorn and watch The Batman?

Uh, I was thinking of something a little more Christmassy.

Uh... how about Elf?

I love it when he eats his spaghetti with syrup.

-It's so gross! -That is so funny. [laughs]

Hey, I was looking at that.

Hey!

[boy] Reggie, give it back. Come on.

[Reggie] You want it? Come, get it.

-Hey, be... be careful. -[boy] Quit being a jerk.

-[Glenn] Boys, stop that. -[suspenseful music playing]

-[dramatic music playing] -[Reggie] Whoa...

[thuds]

[dramatic music intensifies]

[George grunts]

[lilting music playing]

[exhales heavily]

[Violet whispering] Oh, my God, did you see that?

It almost fell on his head.

[panting] You all right?

Everything's fine. No one's hurt. Right?

Yes. Thank you.

Did, uh... did that happen because I didn't believe in Santa?

Lucky for you, I do. [clicks tongue]

Okay, 20 more minutes, kids,

then the bus will be taking you back to school.

Thank God.

-[bell ringing] -[upbeat song playing]

Pumpkin pie's for Thanksgiving. Pecan pie is for Christmas.

Pumpkin pie is for both.

It doesn't make any sense. The same pie shouldn't get two holidays.

Oh, wanna go sledding over break?

Do you even have to ask?

My dad said that there's snow up on Table Mountain.

Maybe he could take us one day.

[Harrison] Kenny!

Come on. Mom said I have to walk you home today.

[Kenny] I can walk with Violet.

No, sorry. I'm going to the station.

Hey, Harrison.

Uh, any plans for the break?

Not really.

Yeah, me neither.

Um, I'll probably just be hanging out at home.

Okay, um, good... good talk.

Violet, come on, let's go.

-See you later, skater. -Catch you soon, baboon.

You wanna hear about our science project?

We're gonna get up early tomorrow

and walk all over town and look for leaves.

[upbeat song continues]

Why am I going to the station today,

and what are you doing that's so important?

It's none of your business.

[upbeat music playing on car stereo]

You're going to Patty's house

to work on the Student Council Santagram fundraiser.

What?

You have art supplies sticking out of your backpack,

and you put on lip gloss in case Patty's brother is there.

[scoffs]

Why can't you just act like a normal 11-year-old?

[Violet chuckling] Have fun at Patty's!

Hi, Sam.

Hey, Violet.

Hey, Deputy Terry.

Deputy Violet in da house.

-Ooh! Can I have one of these? -Yeah.

Uh-uh! Not before dinner.

[Terry] Oh, bummer.

[Sam] Pleasant Bay Sheriff's office. How can I help you?

[mouthing] Thank you.

[exhales sharply]

Hey, you.

Hi, Dad.

Oh, what you got there?

Science project for winter break.

We're learning all about the flora in Pleasant Bay.

Hmm.

We gotta find as many leaves as possible.

Well, that sounds intriguing.

Oh, hey. Guess what? We had a 10-90 today.

A 10-90?

-A bank alarm? -Mmm-hmm.

Someone robbed a bank in Pleasant Bay?

No, no, no. It's just a wiring glitch.

False alarm.

Oh, man. Nothing exciting ever happens around here.

Hey, that's exactly the way we like it. Isn't that right, Terry?

That's right, Sheriff.

[soft instrumental music playing]

[Margaret] Okay, coming at ya fresh out the oven.

[Kenny] Ooh! Smells good, Mom.

Go ahead and dig in. I have to get to work.

Not at the table.

Aren't we waiting for Dad?

I'm starving. Can we just start?

We can do both.

You should have seen Dad at the museum today.

He was all, like, flying ninja.

He saved a boy's life today.

Even though it was Reggie, who is kind of a jerk.

Oh, wow, I would like to see that.

All in a day's work.

[Margaret chuckles]

[whispering] The car took three tries to start last night.

[sighs] Okay.

I'm picking up some extra shifts at the school over break

so I can use that money to pay for the car.

Okay.

I gotta get going.

[clears throat] Well, we are set because we are having...

[in sing-song voice] ...boys night.

You wanna watch Elf with us tonight, Harrison?

I'm going to Doug's after dinner.

[whispers] He's too cool for us.

Hey, did you know they are doing some

basketball tournaments at the school over break?

We should check out a game, huh?

We should?

You know, I was a basketball coach here before I moved to Portland

and met your mom, and fell madly in love.

Yeah, we know.

We do?

State champs one year or something.

Well, regional champs, but still...

it was a big deal back then.

That's cool.

Well, don't keep this one up too late... [kisses]

-I won't. [chuckles] -...Regional champ.

-Love you. -Love you, Mom.

-[George] Salad? -Nope.

Someone's an angry elf.

[laughs]

[George] You are.

[Kenny laughs]

[Christmas song playing]

♪ I'd like Just one-fashioned Christmas ♪

[whistling tune]

♪ Just like my daddy Treasured so ♪

[continues whistling]

♪ A tree with Old-fashioned trimmings... ♪

[ominous music playing]

[Maddie] Dad?

Where's Dad?

He got a call. He had to go in.

I made you some extra eggs, if you want some.

[sighs sharply] I really need to teach you how to make coffee.

You should always start your day with a healthy breakfast.

And you should always start your day leaving me alone.

[doorbell rings]

That's Kenny.

We have a science project to do.

On the first day of break?

Hey, you want some eggs?

Sure.

Oh!

Do we have this one yet?

Nope. That's an Acer macrophyllum.

-A what? -A Bigleaf Maple.

Good find.

You're a great partner.

We should ride our bikes to Rec Park.

They planted Pacific Dogwoods back in 19...

Why is my dad at the museum?

[suspenseful music playing]

[police radio chatter]

[camera shutter clicking]

[Pierce] No sign of forced entry?

[Terry] Nothing.

[Pierce] They must've had a key.

What about the alarm system and the cameras?

It's all wired to the main circuit.

Somebody cut the power.

They must have known where the circuit breaker was.

And where is that?

It's outside, in the back, by the meter.

They would have to have a key for that, too.

Hey, Sam, check the circuit breaker.

See if it was forced open, and dust for prints.

Roger that.

This way.

Sorry, kids, we're closed today.

Hey, you two shouldn't be in here.

[door creaks]

Violet.

Dad, what's going on?

Somebody stole the bells.

[sighs wearily]

I thought you secured the door.

-Sorry, boss. -Yeah, put some tape outside.

We don't need anybody else wandering in here.

On it.

[Pierce sighs]

Dad, stop.

What in the world happened here last night?

[Pierce] No, Mayor Donovan, you can't walk around in here.

This is an active crime scene.

So it's true, the bells are gone.

Uh, yeah. It would seem so.

The Ringing of the Bells is in three days.

You can't have a Ringing of the Bells with no bells.

It's right in the name.

We're gonna do everything we can to find the bells as quickly as possible.

Yeah, and just before the election. Great.

My last accomplishment in the office will be losing the town's pride and joy.

No one's gonna blame you, Dad.

How could you let this happen?

-Dad. -Guys,

we really need to get back to work. So, Deputy Terry,

could you please help the Mayor delicately out of our crime scene?

Yeah. Come on, Dad.

Yeah, maybe my last accomplishment in office

should be appointing a new sheriff.

Three days before Christmas. I can't believe it.

[Terry] Don't worry, Dad. The sheriff, he's got it handled.

You two need to go.

-But, Dad... -I can't give you guys special treatment.

Not with the Mayor breathing down my neck.

Okay.

[Sam] The circuit breaker wasn't forced open.

They must have had a key to that, too.

Who has a key besides you?

Just one other person.

Your next-door neighbor.

Hey, George.

Hey, Grant.

Terry, Sam.

George.

What's going on?

Look, you mind if we ask you a few questions?

Yeah. Yeah, sure. No problem.

Come on in.

Hey, uh... do me a favor.

Check my security camera footage from last night.

Might have caught something.

[Maddie] What is going on?

I think Mr. Bottoms is in trouble.

So, what time did you leave the museum?

Glenn and I both left about 6:45 or so.

And where'd you go?

Here. Home.

Harrison and Kenny and I had dinner. Boys night.

Oh. Not Margaret?

No. She had picked up a swing shift at the diner.

She didn't get back till after 2:00.

And did you stay here all night after that?

Yeah, I did.

You have your museum keys on you?

Yeah. Right there on the counter.

What about the high school?

You still picking up custodial shifts there?

-Yeah. Mostly on the weekends. -[Terry] Sheriff.

I have something you need to see.

This is the video feed from your site security camera last night.

1:12 a.m.

You mind if the deputies look around a little bit?

Um, no.

Is your garage locked?

Side door's open.

What are you looking for, Grant?

The bells, George.

Somebody stole 'em last night.

What?

And you think they're here?

[Terry] I'll check this side.

[Violet] What's going on?

I think they're in the garage.

Why are they in the garage?

There's nothing in there. It's just my grandma's old stuff.

[Sam] Terry, over here.

[soft suspenseful music plays]

This is 'cause of my previous arrest, isn't it?

Well, it was for theft, wasn't it?

I got in with the wrong people. I made a mistake. Okay?

What's going on?

Nothin', Harrison. Just go back to your room.

Dad, what did you do?

I didn't... I didn't do anything. Okay?

Just, please go back to your room.

[Terry] Sheriff?

Found this tucked between a few boxes in the garage.

What... How did... I don't know how that got here.

You gotta believe me, I have no idea how that got in my garage.

Where are the bells, George?

I don't know! I told you. Grant, come on, listen to me.

Why would I steal the bells?

You know me.

George Bottoms...

-Wait a minute. Guys... -...you're under arrest.

I swear.

Dad?

Hey, it's okay, buddy.

It's just a misunderstanding, is all.

It's gonna be fine.

-Kenny, no. -Let go of me!

Kenny, wait! No.

[Kenny] Why are they taking Dad away?

Because he hasn't changed. Okay?

Let me know if you find anything.

You got it.

We can't go in the house while they search it.

I called Mom at the diner.

She's gonna come get us to go to the station.

Why don't you just have her meet you there?

I can drive you guys.

Okay. Thank you.

Yeah. Let me get my keys.

[Harrison] Let's go.

[keyboard clacking]

Here.

[Sam] Yeah, that's... pretty hard evidence.

-[footsteps approaching] -[Kenny] Dad.

Hey. Hey, buddy. [groans softly]

Dad, no. Not Mr. Bottoms.

What are you guys doing here?

We gave Harrison and Kenny a ride.

Oh.

Your father didn't do this.

How do you know that?

Hey.

I did not take those bells.

Someone sure is trying to make it look like I did.

Harrison...

you gotta trust me.

Yeah, right.

Let him go.

I know this is hard on him.

This is hard on all of us.

Harrison.

I believe you, Dad.

[sighs in relief]

[sighs]

What's that?

It's not good for Mr. Bottoms.

Sorry, Kenny.

George.

Come on.

Listen to me.

It's gonna be okay.

I'm gonna figure out a way outta this.

-I love you, Dad. -I love you too, kiddo.

[Pierce] Come on, George. It's time.

Look, I'm sorry, George.

I have to follow the evidence.

Another Christmas without my dad.

I know what it's like to have Christmas without one of your parents. It sucks.

My dad didn't do this, Violet.

You are the smartest person I know.

You have to help us.

-'Night, guys. -All right, good night.

There we go. [sighs sharply]

-Dad? -Yeah?

I have a Christmas wish.

Oh, yeah? What is it?

I want Mr. Bottoms to be home with Kenny for Christmas morning.

Oh, Violet...

I don't think Santa can help with this.

If the bells are really magical,

then it'll happen.

You know, I wish it were that simple.

Sheriff Pierce signing off.

Deputy Violet signing off.

I love you.

Love you, too.

Dad?

Yeah?

Did you find the bells at the Bottoms house?

No. No, we searched everywhere and...

they weren't there.

Doesn't it seem weird that the case would be at the Bottoms house,

but not the bells?

Yeah, but maybe he already did something with them.

Then why would he keep evidence that would make him look guilty?

[sighs] I don't know.

I want to help.

With what? Mr. Bottoms' case?

I can do something.

I don't want to just sit around and wait for someone to solve the problem.

Well, that someone would be me because that is my job.

You think it was Mr. Bottoms,

but I don't believe that he would do this.

I know that he's Kenny's dad,

but sometimes money makes good people do bad things.

Those bells are valuable.

Just get some rest, okay?

[sighs]

[mysterious music playing]

[doorbell dings]

Got any eggs?

Get in here.

[Violet] Means. Motive. Opportunity.

And what is that?

This is what my dad does at work.

He makes a board for a case and then puts pictures on it and things.

It's how he decides on possible suspects.

So, for your dad...

Means. He had keys.

Motive.

The bells are worth money.

Opportunity.

His only alibi is that he was home sleeping last night.

He could have snuck out of the house while you guys were asleep.

How do you know how to do all this?

I've learned a lot sitting at the police station doing my homework.

[sighs]

What can we do?

We have to find another person who has all three of these things.

Then we'll have another suspect.

Well, who else could be a suspect?

I have one idea.

Are we gonna need detective stuff?

[upbeat music playing]

I think it's closed.

Mr. Martin's car is here.

[door creaking]

[suspenseful music playing]

Sure is quiet in here.

Let's check it out.

[whispers] Wait for me.

He's probably in his office. Wait here. I'll be right back.

[suspenseful music playing]

Hmm.

Mr. Martin?

I'm sorry. We were closed today.

I just wanted to ask you a couple of questions.

[exhales sharply]

Okay.

I only have a moment.

Why do you think Mr. Bottoms would have stolen the bells?

Oh, I'm still hoping it wasn't him.

He has been a wonderful addition to the staff this year.

But it would probably be for the money, right?

It usually is. Yes.

What is the museum's donation money used for?

Just, general upkeep of the museum, mostly.

Old buildings like these, they're full of surprises.

If Mr. Bottoms was stealing the bells for money,

why wouldn't he take the donation money, too?

[suspenseful music playing]

[cell phone ringing]

[clears throat]

Ah. I really have to take this, and then I have to lock up.

So, bye, Violet. Sorry.

Hi.

Hold on just a...

Thank you for your time, Mr. Martin.

Bye, bye now.

[Mr. Martin clears throat] Hello?

Yes.

Hey.

I handled the shoplifting call at the M and M market.

Where's Sam?

Oh, she's out looking into who vandalized Carl's garage.

What do you think's going on, Sheriff?

I've never seen so much crime here before.

I know the town needs its Christmas spirit back.

We need to find these bells.

What's the latest on the pawn shops and the jewelry stores?

No hits yet.

All right, well, stay on it.

Go into overtime if you have to. Sam as well.

Uh, my Dad...

Uh, Mayor Donovan wants to hold a press conference today.

About the bells. At noon.

I can run point for the department.

No, no, I have to be there. This is too important

for your dad and the town.

Yes, sir. I understand.

Why don't you come, too?

[sighs wearily]

[Violet] Means.

Who else has a key to the museum? Mr. Martin, obviously.

And he was acting kind of funny.

What's the second "M" again?

Motive. Most likely money.

Sometimes money makes good people do bad things.

Why does he need money?

That's what we need to find out.

[cell phone rings]

I counted the money. It's a good haul.

Oh, you don't need to do that.

I can meet you somewhere about halfway.

How about the pier?

I'm on my way, okay?

He's going to the pier. We gotta beat him there.

How are we gonna do that?

He's got a dozen stoplights to get through.

If we take the footbridge, we can get there first.

[Kenny groans]

-[Violet] Come on, Kenny! -[grunts]

[tense music playing]

[Kenny] Whoa!

Slow down!

This way, Kenny.

[Kenny] Look both ways!

Not the stairs.

[Violet] You got this!

[tense music continues]

[Kenny grunting]

[tires screech]

There's his car.

[panting]

[tense music continues]

[Violet] We're almost there.

Pedestrians ahead!

-[grunts] -Whoops!

Hey! Watch out!

Sorry!

Merry Christmas!

[scoffs]

[Mr. Martin] Barbara.

How are you?

That's not Mrs. Martin.

-Well, guess what? -What?

We did really well this year.

Yeah, the donations were through the roof.

[speaking imperceptibly]

[Kenny] What's that?

[Violet] It's the museum's donation money.

Well, now we're never gonna know where the money's gone.

We can use the police computers to look up her license plate.

That doesn't sound legal.

That's why we're not going to tell anybody.

[groans]

[crowd clamoring]

[man] Mayor.

Where is the bell?

-Guys, guys, guys, please. Please, I... -[woman] Mayor!

There's never been this many reporters before.

-Mayor! -Hold on a second, please.

I can't hear the lady's question. Yes, ma'am?

Are you going to cancel the Ringing of the Bells celebration?

Absolutely not!

The great town of Pleasant Bay

represents the joy and spirit of Christmas.

Not without the bells.

[all] Yeah!

That's the whole reason everyone comes.

-Yes, I... -If no one's here on Christmas Eve,

my bakery's out a lot of money.

Yes, I understand.

I've had 15 cancellations at my hotel in the last 24 hours, Mayor.

The bells are the key to everything.

[clamoring]

Yes, yes. Friends, friends.

Keep that Pleasant Bay spirit up.

Stay hopeful, because in this town

we believe in Christmas spirit, don't we?

-[scattered cheering] -And we believe... Yes!

And we believe in the bells.

This is great publicity for the mayor.

[scoffs] This is horrible publicity for the mayor.

But not if the bells are found before Christmas Eve.

Then he would be a hero, and get a lot of attention.

And with the election coming up...

that's motive.

And we believe that our fine police force

will find our bells before Christmas Eve.

Wait, but what about Mr. Martin?

We can't just focus on one suspect, Kenny.

That's the mistake my dad is making with your dad.

But what if you don't find the bells before Christmas?

-[others] Yeah! -Or ever?

We have Sheriff Pierce on the case.

He has promised me

that he will return the bells to their rightful place.

Am I right, Sheriff?

[Violet] Right now...

these are our suspects.

[Maddie] Suspects?

Violet...

you don't seriously think you can solve this case, do you?

Why not?

I mean, for starters, you still sleep with a stuffed animal.

I already have two new suspects.

She's trying to get my dad home before Christmas.

And that's in two days, Maddie.

Kenny, I'm... I'm really sorry about your dad.

I hope it's all just a misunderstanding.

Can you drive me and Kenny to the police station?

I just got home.

Kenny's mom is there visiting his dad.

Kenny wants to go, too.

Uh, yeah.

Could you, please?

Fine.

I'll take you.

You don't... um...

you don't think your brother would want to go, do you?

Um, I don't think so. He's kinda mad about all of this.

He's been moping around the house all day.

Of course. Um...

Okay, grab your stuff.

All right, here you go.

[Violet] Thank you, Maddie.

[Maddie] You're welcome.

If you're going to check in on Harrison, your lip gloss is in the glove box.

All the business owners are calling my office

worried no one will come to the celebration

if the bells aren't found before Christmas Eve.

I know, Dad. I'm sorry about that.

They'll be found.

Now, how can you be so sure about that, Violet?

The bells mean everything to Pleasant Bay.

No one is going to rest until the bells are back where they belong.

[chuckles] Maybe I should make this girl the new sheriff.

She's the only one with any determination around here.

We're doing the best we can.

Yeah, well, if your best doesn't include finding the bells,

it's not enough.

[Sam] Sheriff's department.

He's out right now. I can take a message.

Your dad's out on a call, Violet.

I just came with Kenny.

He wants to see his dad.

Is that okay?

Oh, yeah. Yeah, of course. Come on, Kenny.

Your mom's already back there.

I'm just gonna wait in my dad's office.

Okay.

[suspenseful music playing]

Business is down at the diner since those bells were stolen.

People's moods are, too.

[sighs] Well...

gotta keep up hope.

How are you holding up, son?

I'm okay, Dad.

Um, Violet's helping, too. She's really smart.

[chuckles softly]

Well, thank you, Kenny.

And you make sure you tell Violet

I really appreciate it.

And, uh...

tell Harrison I really miss him.

Password. Mom's birthday.

[stealthy instrumental music playing]

[Sam] Sheriff's department.

Okay, tell me what happened.

Yes, as soon as he gets back.

Uh-huh. I'll let the sheriff know.

[tense music playing]

[Violet] Come on. Come on.

Hey, what you doing?

I was just looking up something for my project.

-On the police database? -[sighs]

I just had an idea who might have stolen the bells.

[sighs]

We're pretty sure we know who stole the bells.

I just want to look up a license plate number.

Does your dad know you're doing this?

No.

I don't like the idea of you keeping secrets from your dad.

I just don't want to worry him.

Well, little kids aren't allowed on the police database.

But police officers are.

Are you a police officer?

No, but you are.

[sighs]

All right. You're gonna have to tell me a lot more if you want my help.

Fine. I'll tell you everything. But you have to promise you'll help me.

Hey.

Hey.

Do you maybe wanna talk about anything?

You don't have to be nice to me, you know.

I'm not just being nice.

I thought you might need a friend.

[slow instrumental music playing]

I guess that doesn't sound so bad.

Do you really think that your dad could have done this?

He's stolen before. That's why he was in jail.

What did he steal?

Well, nothing, really.

He stole nothing and went to jail?

He worked in a huge warehouse, and someone recruited him

to make a delivery for a few extra bucks.

The truck was full of stolen goods.

Oh, no.

Yeah. He swears he knew nothing about it.

You don't believe that?

All I know is, we spent eight months without him while he was in jail,

and everyone at school looked at me like I was the son of a criminal.

-I'm sorry. -[softly] Yeah.

My dad grew up here,

so we moved here from Portland when he got out, you know? Start fresh.

My grandma had left us this place.

Yeah, I remember her.

I'm really sorry about her passing,

but I'm also really glad that you got a chance to have a fresh start.

Now I'm the son of a criminal again.

I just can't get away from it.

Is that why you're not on social media?

You tried to look me up?

[clicks tongue]

Maybe.

Can you at least tell me her name?

No, Violet. I already looked up the license plate number like you asked.

Now you have to do the rest of this on my terms.

Fine.

Are these cupcakes?

They were cupcakes.

Sorry. Meant to throw that away.

It's not usually such a mess in here.

Is that a London plane leaf?

Can I have this?

The leaf?

Yeah. It's for a science project.

Sure. You can have the leaf.

I don't currently have any plans for it.

[Maddie] My gosh.

What, the tins?

Yeah, um, my mom, she used to collect this kind of stuff.

This one is in pretty good condition.

What happened to your mom?

Most people get kind of uncomfortable talking about my mom.

I'd like to hear about her.

Well, um...

she was an amazing person.

She was so funny. [chuckles] Um...

she would do these little voices

when she would tell us bedtime stories.

And she actually made Violet pee her pants one time.

Poor Violet.

Yeah, no, it wasn't Violet.

-She made me pee my pants one time. -Yep.

[Maddie] Um...

The, um...

The cancer...

[melancholy music playing]

...came on...

pretty quick.

And then one day...

she was just gone.

[breath trembling]

How did Violet take it?

She was so little.

I have no idea how she processed it.

How did you process it?

[sobbing] Maybe I haven't yet, either.

[sniffing] I... I still wake up and I walk into her kitchen

hoping she'll be there, so...

My dad chose not to be in our kitchen.

I really wish you didn't think like that.

How can you have a relationship with him if you spend every day blaming him?

Take it from me.

One day, it'll be too late.

The Ashton Home?

That's what came up when I searched the license plate.

Mr. Martin is stealing money for a children's home?

Stealing? Uh...

Um, our newest deputy here

saw you giving some money to a woman from the Ashton Home.

Barbara?

Yes, I did.

See? I told you. He lied to me.

That was our Christmas donation.

For presents, for the children at the home.

Presents for children? Not much of a crime.

But he...

You told me the donation money was for museum upkeep.

It is.

Then why were you giving it to the Ashton Home?

Oh. Those were our December donations.

Everything from the first three weeks in December

goes to the children's home.

But he said...

What about the bells?

-The bells? -You have a key to the museum.

You could have taken the bells that night as easily as Mr. Bottoms.

I...

I was at the Spirit River Casino all night...

Did anyone see you there?

A lot of people saw him there, Violet.

Cameras, too. We already checked his alibi for that time.

[Pierce] Yeah.

I did that.

This is why 11-year-olds shouldn't be running police investigations.

You called my dad?

It's for your own good, Violet.

You shouldn't be interfering with this, Violet.

-Dad, I... -You're just a kid.

I can still help.

But you're not helping.

You're taking me away from the actual investigation.

Mom would have thought I could help.

Violet--

She wouldn't just see me as some dumb kid.

[sighs]

[stomping]

Dad?

We've had a rough day.

[knock on door]

You okay?

I'm fine.

I just wish I could have got Mr. Bottoms home for Christmas.

Is this about something else?

[breath trembling]

I wish Mom was here.

She is.

She's in you.

She's in me.

She's part of everything that we do.

Why didn't anyone save her?

Yeah.

Mom didn't die because we didn't do enough.

Everyone did everything that they could.

I wish I could have saved her.

Oh, Vi.

You couldn't have.

You know that getting Mr. Bottoms home for Christmas...

it won't bring Mom home for Christmas.

I had to at least try.

But you can't go around accusing other people, Vi.

Not without real proof.

[Maddie sniffles]

You know, the best thing about you, it isn't your big brain...

it's your big, giant heart.

I love you, Maddie.

I love you, too.

[whimsical music playing]

A little late, Terry.

I didn't get home till after midnight last night.

Well, it's not letting up out there. There is a list on your desk.

All right.

We're shorthanded right now. We'll get somebody on it.

Deputy Violet.

In the house.

Hi, Terry. Maddie was busy this morning.

She should be here any minute to get me, though.

Always happy to have you here.

You still mad at me?

No.

I get why you called my dad.

It's fine. I'm done investigating anyways.

Don't worry. We're gonna solve this case.

I just wanna say bye to Mr. Bottoms.

No problem.

Hey, Mr. Bottoms.

How are you doing?

Hey, Violet.

I'm okay. All things considered.

Maggie brought me a change of clothes, which was nice.

I hear you're on the case.

I was, but Deputy Terry ratted me out.

[chuckles]

[sighs] Oh, Terry.

How long have you known him?

I knew him from back in my basketball coaching days.

His dad asked me to make him an assistant coach.

Instill some discipline.

How'd that go?

Not good.

I had to fire him.

He wasn't too happy about that. Neither was his dad.

You know, the mayor is pretty hard on him.

But look at him now. I guess it worked out.

Look at him now?

The mayor asked my dad to give him this job, too.

-That's the reason he works here. -[chuckles]

I guess it's all about who you know, isn't it?

I guess.

Bye, Mr. Bottoms.

Bye, Violet.

[suspenseful music playing]

[music increases in tempo]

Mr. Bottoms, do you own any white sneakers?

White sneakers? No.

Pretty much, these are my work boots. It's all I ever wear. Why?

I think I might have to reopen your case.

Okay.

[tense music playing]

Maddie, I think I found some proof.

Violet Pierce, I thought you were done with this.

I was wrong about Glenn Martin, but this is the real thing.

Violet.

If there's anything we can do to help Mr. Bottoms,

shouldn't we at least try?

Buckle your seat belt.

Do you think Harrison would be willing to look at this?

What are we looking at?

This is our home security footage my dad had on his computer.

It sees over the fence, into your yard.

They think that's your dad going into the garage.

That's why they searched there.

It could be.

[Violet] But look.

You can't actually see him go in or out of the house, from this angle.

[Harrison] Yeah, but look at this.

What is that?

That looks like it could be the logo from the museum.

It's on all of our dad's work shirts and jackets.

But how many does he have?

Jackets?

I don't know. A couple. He does keep one at work.

What about this?

Whoever took the bells also took a jacket from the museum

so they would look like your dad.

Then he could have put it right back when he was done.

That's a stretch.

Violet, we can barely see anything in this video.

It's too grainy and dark.

[Violet] But we can see this. Look at his shoes.

White sneakers with two stripes.

[Maddie] Violet, a lot of people own white sneakers.

Yeah, but my dad doesn't.

He hates how white shoes get dirty so fast.

But do you know who does own white sneakers with two stripes,

just like those?

Deputy Terry.

You think Deputy Terry stole the bells?

[dramatic music plays]

[Violet] I think he has an old grudge with Mr. Bottoms.

I had to fire him.

He wasn't too happy about that.

He went out of his way to stop me from looking into other suspects.

Terry knows all the details of the case and everyone involved.

He's been to my house,

he knows about the security cameras.

He could have been messing with Dad's investigation this whole time.

But why would Terry steal the bells? For money?

For attention. If Deputy Terry finds the bells right before Christmas Eve,

he's going to be the town hero. That's his motive.

She's good.

So do we tell your dad?

-No. -No.

After what happened with Mr. Martin at the museum,

we need actual proof.

Terry's sneakers isn't enough evidence.

Although a really weird coincidence.

Where can we get more evidence?

We have to find the bells. That's the real proof.

What do you wanna do?

Break into Terry's house? See if the bells are there?

No, we can't do that.

But he does leave a lot of stuff in his car.

Hey, you're back.

Hi, Deputy Terry.

You forget something?

Uh, I was just wondering if I could see my dad again.

Oh, yeah. Yeah, of course. Come on, follow me.

[cell phone ringing]

Hey, I'm pretty busy, Dad. No.

[suspenseful music playing]

She did it.

Let's go.

Oh, come on.

[suspenseful music continues]

[Terry] Well, you should have a little bit more faith in me.

I don't know. Have you tried unplugging it and restarting it?

[tense music continues]

Hey, Dad, I... I'm pretty busy right now.

I gotta go.

Maddie.

Come on, let's go.

[gasps]

Violet.

You caught me.

Just take one. Okay?

Okay.

No, I'm not having trouble with Violet, Dad.

Everything's fine.

Hey, Violet, um, we need to go.

[Violet] We just got here.

I know. I'm sorry, that's my fault.

Um, can you grab Kenny?

Sisters. Am I right?

Hmm.

Oh, there you are. [chuckles] Let's go.

There were no bells in Terry's car. Mostly just regular cop stuff.

Oh, man.

But I did find something that was a little weird. A map.

"Department of Public Works?"

Hey, that's... that's where Terry worked

before he started at the sheriff's office.

Man, Terry's had a lot of jobs.

Is this a tunnel map?

[Harrison] There's something similar in Portland.

They're called the Shanghai tunnels.

They connect Downtown Portland to the Willamette River.

They run all over the city.

All under the city.

All under the city, yeah.

But there's access points all across town,

and just like these tunnels right here in Pleasant Bay. And, look.

There happens to be one right under the Pleasant Bay museum.

That's means.

You don't need a key to the front door if you're coming through a tunnel.

We have motive and means now. This is getting good.

We have to find

-that tunnel entrance under the museum. -[Harrison] Yeah.

[thumps]

Hey!

-What are you guys doin'? -Nothing.

We were, uh... we were just leaving.

[engine starts]

[tense music playing]

It's definitely closed today.

Now what?

Well, that's why we stopped at our house.

To grab my dad's backup set of keys.

That's why they think he did it, right? His keys.

Don't you also think he did it?

No. Not anymore.

And I wanna find out who did.

Wait! The alarm!

I know how we can deactivate it.

As long as one of those keys also opens the circuit breaker box.

[suspenseful music playing]

If there's an access tunnel in this building...

it's probably down there.

You should go and check.

We're all going down together.

[suspenseful music continues]

-[Harrison] Got it? -[Maddie] Yeah.

[gasps]

[sighs in relief]

[Violet] I guess we're looking for a door or something.

Okay. Violet and I will take this side.

[Harrison] Come on, Braveheart.

[Kenny] Who's Braveheart?

[Harrison] Come on.

Nothing.

Nothing on our side either.

Maybe there's another basement.

We have to check under these boxes.

Okay, but how could someone get out through the ground

and then also use the boxes to cover the opening?

Deputy Terry was down here the next morning

while they were investigating.

He could have put boxes over the opening to cover his tracks.

[Harrison] All right.

[Kenny] Remember, lift with your legs.

[Harrison] I got it, Kenny.

[grunts]

[suspenseful music playing]

That sure looks like something.

Whoa!

[Kenny] Yeah, uh, no.

[Violet] This has to be it.

Now what?

We have to find out where it goes.

[Kenny] Um, I don't think that's such a great idea.

Man up, Kenny.

That's sexist.

Give me a hand.

[Harrison] Looks like power conduits.

Gas lines, water pipes maybe.

What's that?

Looks like an emergency power shutoff.

That's how Terry could have deactivated the security system.

He could have done it from down here.

[loud clanking]

[Kenny] What was that?

It's fine. It's just the pipes.

I got this. Stay behind me.

That's also sexist.

But I'm also gonna stay behind you.

[suspenseful music continues]

[Maddie] Where are we going?

[Harrison] Let's just see where it goes.

Maybe we'll find clues along the way.

[Kenny] Did anyone bring snacks?

-[clanking] -[Kenny gasps]

Pipes, Kenny.

[music continues]

[Maddie] What now?

[clanks]

This does not feel safe.

So, should we split up?

No!

Let me see the map.

What are you looking for?

I'm not sure yet.

Where would Deputy Terry come into these tunnels?

There.

That's it.

The school? Why there?

It's surrounded by London plane trees.

-So? -I found a London plane tree leaf in Deputy Terry's car.

He's been there recently.

The school was closed that day for winter break.

Wait.

But then how would Deputy Terry get into the school that night?

They have a lock box

for police to use in case of emergencies.

The school it is.

[suspenseful music playing]

[Kenny] What's this?

Looks like some kind of storage.

There. That should be the school.

[Harrison] Yup. There's a hatch.

Now we tell your dad?

No, not yet.

I'll go up first.

Breaking into school. Never thought I'd be doing this.

Come on.

So, this is our school?

Yeah, we're in the boiler room.

-Look. -Oh.

Our dad works here on the weekends to make extra cash.

He also used to coach basketball here, too.

That's right. A long time ago, with Terry.

Deputy Terry?

Is that just a coincidence or...

No.

Terry plans to find the bells here.

If Terry finds the bells here,

that's another thing connected to your dad.

It'll make him look even more guilty.

So, the bells could actually be here right now?

No, but our dad already searched the school,

and he said the bells weren't here.

Maybe they were just focused on places related to Mr. Bottoms' work as a janitor.

Your dad used to coach here.

Terry could have planted the bells somewhere related to that.

You're right.

Come on, let's check it out.

[Kenny groans]

This is so weird.

Okay, there's the gym, there's the locker room, there's Coach's office.

There's so many hiding spots. The bells could be anywhere.

[Harrison] Well, let's start looking.

Maddie and I will start with the locker rooms.

-Okay, I'll start with the bins. -I'll check the lockers.

[sniffing]

I have an idea.

Great. What?

Do that thing where you think about something for a moment

and then you have a brilliant idea.

Kenny, be serious. The Ringing of the Bells is tomorrow.

Come on, I'll help you. [clears throat]

The bells.

The bells. The bells.

Kenny, stop. We have to just look everywhere.

Fine.

[crunching]

Kenny, don't move.

-What? -Let me see under your foot.

That's from the bell's display case at the museum.

How do you know?

I found a piece just like it when we were there.

It had a purple tint just like it.

Yeah. Good one, Kenny.

If this is where Terry took the bells out of a pocket or a bag,

some glass could have fallen out.

That means he was about to hide them somewhere close.

But where?

[thumps]

You heard that, too, right?

[thumps]

[mysterious music playing]

The trophy case.

Of course. Guys, come here!

What?

[thumps]

My dad's trophy.

Um... his keys.

One of them should open the trophy case.

[keys jangling]

Got it!

Okay.

Oh, my gosh!

The bells! We did it! You did it, Violet!

You found the bells!

-Violet, you did it! -Great job, Violet.

Now do we call Dad?

Now we call Dad.

Okay.

-But don't mention me using his computer. -Okay.

Or searching Terry's car.

-[Maddie] Okay. -Or breaking into the museum.

This is going to be a very short story.

-[thumping] -[bells tinkling]

Someone's here.

[suspenseful music playing]

Maybe it was just the wind.

[Terry] That's right.

I found the bells at the high school.

It's Deputy Terry.

He's here to grab the bells.

Let's get outta here.

No. Let's punch this guy in the face. He framed our dad.

No. This is our chance to get more proof.

[Terry] I'm giving you guys the exclusive on this.

You're gonna wanna get a news crew over here right away.

I have an idea.

[Terry] Sam.

[Sam on radio] Yeah, go ahead.

I found them. I found the bells.

You remember how George used to be a coach at the high school?

They're right here in the trophy case.

We gotta get a forensic kit over here right away.

[Sam on radio] That's great, Terry.

Sheriff Pierce isn't too far.

I'll radio for him to head your way.

Copy that.

No, no. No, no, no.

Something wrong?

Violet?

What are you doin' here?

I was just looking for the bells.

What are you doing here?

Same thing.

I remembered that George, he... he used to be a coach here.

Yeah.

He fired you, didn't he?

Yeah. It was a long time ago.

He didn't respect my opinions. It...

it wasn't a good fit.

That must have been really disappointing for your dad.

Losing a job like that.

Yeah.

Well, he's gonna see how capable I am...

when I'm the one who finds the bells.

Right. You'll be the hero when you find them.

Your dad's finally going to be proud of you.

He might even make you the new sheriff.

Just doing my job.

Is it your job to frame an innocent man?

George Bottoms isn't innocent.

He's an ex-con.

People don't change, Violet. Once a criminal, always a criminal.

That's a funny thing for a criminal to say.

Me?

I'm just investigating.

And your investigation somehow took you to the exact hiding spot the bells were in?

You were so sure, you even told Deputy Sam you already had them.

No, no, I didn't...

I... I told her that I thought I was about to find them.

That's not what I heard.

Should I replay the video I have of you going straight to the hiding spot?

They're right here in the trophy case.

We gotta get a forensic kit over here right away.

Let me have the phone, Violet.

I really shouldn't. I think this video, the tunnel map in your car,

and the two-striped sneakers on the security camera footage

are going to be all the proof my dad needs to put you in jail instead of Mr. Bottoms.

[ominous music playing]

Give me the phone.

Okay.

That's enough.

[Violet] Whoops!

[sighs wearily]

Don't worry.

I caught it.

[sighs wearily]

You're making a big mistake.

You're not acting like I am.

The phone.

Please.

I don't have it.

I'm done playing games with you guys.

[Harrison] Looking for this?

[dramatic music playing]

[Terry] Harrison, stop!

[chuckles] Looks like you dropped something.

-[Harrison] Kenny, now! -[Kenny] Got it!

Let me out!

We heard Sheriff Pierce is on his way.

We can let you out then.

I'm just gonna destroy this phone.

-And the video that's on it. -Go ahead.

We already have the video of you going straight to the bells' hiding spot

on the phone my brother has.

[panting]

Hey! Let me out!

[curious instrumental music playing]

[reporter 1] Does this have anything to do with the missing jingle bells?

[reporter 2] Deputy Donovan...

-Come on, guys, back off. --Deputy, do you have anything to say?

I'll have a statement for you tomorrow.

[reporter 2] ...George Bottoms?

[reporter 1] Okay.

I thought I told you to stand down.

I know, Dad, but he was messing with your investigation,

and he was your deputy.

How could you have known?

I couldn't let him do that.

I'm not sure how you guys did this.

I'm not sure you want to know.

I had a lot of help.

I stepped on the glass.

Is that right?

I broke into the museum.

I was the getaway driver.

Yeah.

Everyone pitched in, Dad.

I'd better take those. [sighs]

And we will talk about this when we get home.

But...

you guys did good.

[Fiona] Let me tell you the tale of Violet Pierce

and the golden jingle bells.

The magic of the bells went beyond just a wish that year.

[Pierce sighs]

I'm sorry you had to go through this, George.

It's okay, Grant.

-You're just doing your job. -Yeah.

[laughs]

[Fiona] They gave a chance at reconciliation.

[George grunts]

[Harrison] I'm sorry I didn't believe you.

It's okay.

I love you, son.

I love you too, Dad.

Come on. Come here. Come here.

[George sobs]

[Fiona] They offered an important wake up call.

You, um...

you did all of this because George Bottoms fired you 18 years ago?

I wanted to do something... something big.

-Something... something... -Something big?

Something to make you finally notice me.

I'm sorry, Dad.

No, no. I'm sorry, son, if I made you feel you needed to do something like this.

I just want you to be proud of me.

Oh, son.

You're gonna get through this, okay?

I'm here with you.

Okay.

[Fiona] They allowed a chance to move through a difficult memory.

Oh, boy.

Look at you.

It's one of Maddie's old dresses.

Hmm. Well, that is... that is lovely on you.

Maddie said I remind her of Mom.

Oh, yeah. Wow.

You sure do.

Uh, you are, um... [chuckles]

You are funny, and you are kind, and so smart.

-[chuckles] Yeah? -Mmm-hmm.

You know who else you remind me of?

Who?

Me.

You won't let anyone tell you what to do or how to behave,

or when to take "no" for an answer.

You got a little bit of both of us...

and it's perfect.

I love you, honey.

I love you too, Dad.

[sighs softly]

[Harrison] Hey, Maddie.

-[Fiona] Even planting seeds... -Hey.

...of love for new relationships to blossom.

Thank you for everything.

Me? [chuckles]

I mean, you're the one who found the tunnel map.

You gave me a reason to believe.

This is for you.

To say thanks.

-For me? -Yeah.

I mean, you don't have to put coffee in it

if you don't want, but...

[chuckles]

[chuckles]

[Fiona] Young or old, believer or not,

no matter who you were that year,

you were forever changed by the magic of Santa's golden jingle bells.

Just in case.

[Fiona] And the town of Pleasant Bay

still celebrates the Ringing of the Bells ceremony every year on Christmas Eve.

Fiona! It's time.

Sorry.

I just love telling the story of the bells.

[chuckles] I gotta go.

Welcome, everyone, to the 100th anniversary

of the Ringing of the Bells!

[crowd clapping, cheering]

Tonight, the honors go to a young lady

without whom, ladies and gentlemen,

frankly, we would not be here.

Violet Pierce.

[crowd clapping, cheering]

And now...

The Ringing of the Bells!

[crowd clapping, cheering]

You made this happen.

[bells jingling]

Deputy Violet...

do your duty.

With honor, Sheriff Pierce.

[George] Attagirl, Violet!

[boy] Yo, get ready.

-Merry Christmas, everyone! -[bells chiming]

[crowd clapping, cheering]