Original subtitles

This isn't working!

You ridiculous creature!

The Universe is trying to tell you that thing is embarrassing.

Really?

I thought it was telling you to help me.

Dad's wreath is on the door.

I'm done.

No, uh-uh.

No, come here.

We have work to do.

Are you trying to get in good with the neighbors

by being as tacky as they are?

Come on, after years of being in San Francisco with no yard,

I just want reindeer.

I want lots and lots of reindeer.

I'm not the kind of help you need.

Come help me, please.

I participate under protest.

Okay, here.

If you do that, like that, a-ha!

Okay, okay!

So exciting!

Drum roll, please!

Okay, this'll be great.

Okay...

What was that, Universe?

It's so not fair!

I know it's tough.

Your mom was excited about the trip too,

but something came up.

What's his name?

It was work.

I'm sure she'll take you to New York some other time.

Yeah, but not at Christmas time.

The only time it's worth being there.

Look I'll make sure you have fun here, okay?

With your cousins.

And you gotta see what me and Uncle Pete

have going for the Christmas concert, it's gonna be awesome.

How could she do this to me?

And how could you let her leave in the first place?

Honey...

Thanks, Nate.

Merry Christmas.

You too, Lisa.

Thank you.

Oh, I'm sorry.

It's all right.

Sorry, I didn't mean to do that.

I'm in a bit of a rush.

'Tis the season.

Yeah.

So I bought this reindeer here and I need to exchange it.

Oh, did you want something else?

I want another reindeer, but one that lights up.

This one doesn't.

And I couldn't fit it back in the box,

so, yeah.

Oh, I'm sorry.

Except...

I just sold my last two.

You're kidding me?

Sorry.

Figures.

I mean, it's fine.

You say it won't light?

Yeah.

Did you check the fuse?

It's in the-- The hoof?

Yeah, I checked the fuses, both fuses in both hooves.

Well, maybe Walter's got some over at the nursery.

He's not carrying them this year.

Oh...

well, thanks for the thought.

Wait, wait!

How committed to reindeer are you?

On a scale of one to ten?

Yeah, like a one being, it's a passing thought,

and a ten is like, you know,

the true Christmas spirit is reindeer on my lawn.

You'd be surprised how crucial LED animals

are to my family having a perfect Christmas.

How about on a scale of,

I'll pay you more than you paid her.

You're gonna scalp my reindeer in front of me?

Maybe we should take this outside.

Unless you're a lawyer or a cop?

Oh no, she's the new veterinarian.

He's an excellent cabinetmaker.

Nate, Jennifer.

Jennifer, this is Nate.

Hi.

Hi... Nate.

This is the first Christmas in Brookfield

for my daughter and me.

And it's actually our first Christmas with a lawn.

And my daughter is just so excited

about having a full display out front.

Jennifer, we've had kind of a crushing year

and the only thing that's been giving me hope

is the fact that my daughter really wants to decorate.

She's the reason I'm out here trying to buy

all of the reindeer even though Lisa only had two.

So I'm really sorry, this is our first one on our own.

Yeah, she'll be so disappointed.

I'm sorry. You know what?

I'm really sorry, I completely overstepped,

I apologize.

No, you were trying to do right by your daughter

and I respect that.

And I respect what you're doing.

Yeah, Merry Christmas.

Should I just leave this guy here?

Oh yeah, just leave it there I'll take care of it.

I'll just get your credit card.

What do you say to one?

What?

No mark up.

I can't do that, I can't.

Your daughter is already settling

for less than she wanted.

Yeah, but you're not gonna have anything

on your brand new lawn.

I'll figure something out.

You sure you checked the fuse?

I'd be happy to take a look.

He's very handy.

No, that's okay.

Merry Christmas.

One's better than nothing.

Oh yeah, but the guilt.

Thank you.

Merry Christmas...

Nate.

Leave that there, it's fine.

And an Xbox in a pear tree!

On the fourth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me.

Four bath bombs.

Three season tickets.

Two shopping sprees.

And an Xbox in a pear tree!

On the fifth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me.

Five manicures!

Shut up!

Sorry, I panicked.

That was so dope!

Where have you been hiding that voice?

There's been nothing to sing about.

Are you kidding?

You should totally be part of the chorus with us.

Well that, but you should so sing my newest song.

What?

She can do the first song on your YouTube channel.

You're on YouTube?

He is, because he's an amazing songwriter

and people need to hear his stuff.

I'm starting a YouTube channel!

[Cell phone ringing]

Don't answer.

We're having fun.

Hey MJ.

Yeah, I'm just out on a walk.

Right okay.

Yeah, I'll be right over then.

Don't keep the queen waiting.

It's not like that, it's just...

I actually do have to go though.

We will be talking about music and stuff.

MJ?

Yeah, she's part of the chorus with Henry and I.

Like you should be.

I don't think I've met her yet.

Lucky you.

I mean she's a good singer

and he helps her write some songs, but...

she used to be kinda sweet and now she's a total ice-cold diva.

So, are her and Henry a thing?

Eww, no!

No, they just collab.

He's way too smart for that.

Whoa, cookies!

What's that?

Oh, this is a song I've been working on

for my YouTube channel.

I was gonna show you, actually.

It's like--

Wait, so you were late

and you're not even working on my songs?

Yeah, I guess so.

Okay well let's stop wasting time

and start working on my stuff.

Right, okay.

Let's work on your stuff, MJ.

15 minutes late?

Come on.

Maybe Ms. Baxter is going over special music with her.

Hey!

Oh by the way, Charlotte.

Those are our chorus pals.

So umm, you should probably be careful.

Why?

Because they're pirates.

Henry...

They are, they're terrors on the high C's.

Right?

That was okay.

Who's that with Audrey?

Henry?

No, it's Charlotte.

She's in my math class.

Her mom's the new vet.

My dad took Sadie in for shots and says her mom seems nice.

Well, Henry better be careful, or he'll catch fleas.

Danielle? What's wrong?

Thank you all for your patience.

Danielle and I needed some time.

We've had some difficult news.

Danielle has vocal nodes.

She's on complete vocal rest for the next six weeks.

And I know, even without me having to ask,

that she has your full support.

We want her to be in full and complete voice for Juilliard.

So who's going to sing the solo at the Christmas Festival?

We're going to have auditions.

This is incredible.

I doubt that Danielle thinks so.

I know, that's terrible.

But it means Charlotte can audition.

What? No.

Come on!

I can't, I don't even have an accompaniment.

I'll accompany you.

Perfect!

It'll be great, come on I'll do it!

Charlotte, you have to audition.

Oh my God, you have to.

She's gonna do it, it's decided.

Perfect!

Freshman, right?

Junior.

You will slay, MJ.

Oh my God, this is gonna be perfect...

Hope people don't think we're overdoing it...

No, making the chair fancy this year

should distract from the fact that last year,

Ray broke it with his Santa Shuffle.

Santa Claus, Santa Claus, Santa all the way, hey!

Hey, get up here.

It's good.

It's Ray, get up here!

Even Ray can't break this.

So, Melissa excited to have another year as Santa's helper?

Not this year.

She's so mad at her mom, I think she might boycott Christmas.

Well why don't you take Melissa somewhere,

just the two of you?

Somewhere sunny and expensive.

It'll just look like I'm trying to show Vivian up.

Just showing up shows up Vivian.

C'mon, Pete.

Sorry, but you know that I'm right little brother.

No, the other way.

No, the other other way.

Yeah, here.

This level of expertise and focus?

No wonder you need me around.

I can bring in some help if you want to get away.

I don't, I want to spend Christmas

with you and Marcie and the kids.

I want her to want that, too.

But you can't make her want it.

I just gotta help her move past this hurt.

Oh yeah?

How's your moving going?

Who's my favorite fat kitty?

Mrs. Reilly's concerned that Cleopatra

is not going to be eating while she's away.

What does she feed her? Marc Antony's army?

Welcome to detox, your majesty.

You're wonderful, but I can't let you work the entire holiday.

You need to have some time off,

enjoy your first Christmas in Brookfield.

We'll manage to have some downtime.

Hi.

I have a delivery for Dr. Flynn?

Nate Prentiss?

I see endangered species by appointment only.

This guy's endangered?

Well no, but...

I know that this is not a reindeer.

You had to come all the way to the vet to figure that out?

Hey Cristina.

Hi Nate, Merry Christmas.

So if you're Santa's helper, where's my BMW?

Sorry, just the one delivery today.

I called everybody I could think of

and nobody had a reindeer.

This is the man who stole your reindeer?

I didn't steal it!

I believe I used the term, grabbed it before I did.

Yeah and I felt really badly about that.

I kept thinking about your daughter

and the fact that she wanted a reindeer.

So you brought me a penguin?

Yeah.

I wanted to be a good neighbor.

And if you don't accept this awkward gesture,

this penguin is gonna be homeless for the holidays.

Well, I don't want that to happen...

but I can't accept it.

I made sure it worked before I bought it and everything.

Well that's very thoughtful of you,

but I'd be taking it under false pretenses because...

My daughter didn't want the reindeer.

I did.

That's gonna make me feel even worse.

No, you shouldn't feel bad at all.

This is probably like the most bizarre yet heartfelt gift

that I think I've ever received from a relative stranger.

Gotta find out what came in second.

When we know each other better.

Okay, so you'll accept Percival?

Penelope.

You're the vet.

Merry Christmas, Jennifer.

Welcome to Brookfield.

Thanks, Nate.

Bye, Nate!

Don't be a stranger!

So?

25 words or less.

His wife left him, cheated on him,

ripped his heart out, left him with an angry teenage daughter

and a mountain of debt.

But...

Most eligible bachelor in town.

That's 25!

Thanks, but no.

Time to concentrate on men who actually need me.

Mr. Wiggles?

Here he is.

Thank you, hi honey.

I gotcha.

Okay, I'll be right back.

Come on...

Is that Vet Girl?

Yeah, Charlotte Flynn.

If she sings, how come she's not in chorus?

Maybe she's getting Henry to coach her privately.

Very privately.

Says who?

Jeez I'm just being funny, Melissa.

You want funny?

"Girl, fleas."

Send that to me.

Me too.

Snapped it to all of you.

Don't worry, you've got this, Melissa.

Henry, I changed our rehearsal schedule so you can help me

with my audition for the Christmas solo.

That's really generous of you MJ,

but I'm actually kind of working with somebody else this time.

But you're always my accompanist.

This time, I'm working with Charlotte.

That new girl?

Yeah.

Did you know she had to move here

because she got in huge trouble at her old school?

No, she actually moved here because her dad died.

Not what I heard.

Okay, stop!

Stop what?

Whatever it is that you're doing.

Just leave her alone.

You sure this is okay?

Perks of stage managing the last three shows.

Best acoustics in town.

You need to stop worrying.

Stop thinking so much.

Just saying.

Here, close your eyes.

I mean it! Close your eyes.

Just you and the song.

That's it.

Like the man said, "Lose yourself."

We can even just do something simple like...

Jingle bells, jingle bells...

Actually...

Do you know Silent Night?

Yes.

Yeah you do.

♪ Silent night, holy night ♪

♪ All is calm, all is bright ♪

♪ Round yon virgin mother and child ♪

♪ Holy infant so tender and mild ♪

♪ Sleep in heavenly peace ♪

♪ Sleep in heavenly peace ♪

First of all, let me just say I'm not following you.

As long as you don't have another penguin,

I will stay calm.

No, I'm out of the penguin business.

I was just buying Christmas tree lights,

which I could've sworn I bought last year.

Well then, it's nice to see you again.

Maybe one more penguin comment?

Ouch, you were doing so well there for a minute.

The wheels have sort of come off my holidays,

so I might have been overcompensating a tiny bit

trying to make sure that everybody had everything

they needed for theirs.

Well, I'm sorry about your Christmas.

Just trying to make it right for my daughter,

not really batting a thousand.

You know the first one alone is hard.

Cristina told me that you're newly divorced.

Yeah.

Thanks.

My daughter is a teenager, too.

And, well, my husband died two years ago--

Oh I'm sorry, I didn't know.

Yeah, thank you.

I get the whole perfect Christmas thing.

Our first one was...

And this is the first one we've had

since moving from San Francisco,

so there's other challenges there, too.

Well, then I'm very glad that I stopped.

I was going to walk on by, but then I did notice

you were trying to make a decision here between the pies.

Oh, was it that obvious?

Was I drooling?

No, no drooling.

But you were about to make a terrible mistake.

So, wait a minute.

The pecan over the apple?

No, you need to walk away from this place,

and go to the Brown Sugar Bakery.

No, but Cristina told me this was the best bakery in town.

I've known Cristina since kindergarten and I love her,

but this indicates a serious gap in her knowledge.

Why should I trust you over her?

Because I'm trying to impress you,

and I have something to lose.

There's more to me than penguins.

Well, there's also pie.

Yeah, all year round.

So, where is this Brown Sugar Bakery?

It's two blocks south, Main and Seabrook.

Okay, I think I can find that.

Full disclosure: they do have an enormous selection,

so you might want to order a slice, sit down,

take awhile to decide, maybe have a cup of coffee?

It seems like I might need a guide.

I might know someone.

Tomorrow night?

I don't know about you,

but my teenager is probably really hungry.

I gotta get home and make her dinner.

Yeah.

Eight o'clock?

I'll see you there.

Okay.

Okay, bye!

♪ I heard the bells on Christmas Day ♪

♪ Their old familiar carols play ♪

♪ And wild and sweet the words repeat ♪

♪ Of peace on earth, good will to men ♪

I thought--

Please don't stop.

I'm done.

It's nice hearing you sing again.

They have this Christmas Festival here.

Yeah, I've heard of it.

Well, on the first night,

they do a bunch of special stuff.

Like singing.

And Audrey and Henry convinced me to audition.

Honey, that's a great idea!

I know I'm not gonna get it.

Don't say that, you have a beautiful voice.

I've missed hearing you sing.

You sang so beautifully with Dad.

You know he'd be really proud of you for auditioning.

I've got homework.

♪ And wild and sweet the words repeat ♪

♪ Of peace on earth, good will to men ♪

♪ In despair, I bowed my head ♪

♪ There is no peace on earth, I said ♪

♪ For hate is strong and mocks the song ♪

♪ Of peace on earth, good will to men ♪

Hi! I'm MJ.

For some crazy reason, we haven't met.

But since we're competing for the solo,

I figured we should.

Nice to meet you, I'm Charlotte.

You know, it's pretty weird we haven't talked before.

Especially since you're hanging with one of my best friends.

I'm flattered.

I meant Henry.

Of course you did.

It's so sweet Henry's encouraging Charlotte.

He has such a big heart.

Always willing to help the people who need it the most.

Glad you're grateful.

Buh bye, MJ.

So is it true you moved here

so you wouldn't have to go to juvie?

What?

When did you become such a liar?

You know, I remember when you were nice.

Charlotte!

You're right.

This pie is great.

Could be the company.

No, I think it's the crust.

But the company's really good, too.

I'm glad we agree.

I got a confession to make.

It wasn't that my daughter was demanding

that I get the reindeer.

I just thought it'd make her happy.

And did it?

For 15 minutes.

I get it.

I'm wise in the ways of sulky teenage girls.

Really?

I'm gonna have to hit you up for some tips.

You know this...

this is really nice.

I'm a little out of practice, the whole dating thing.

Not that this is a dating thing!

I'm just saying it's been awhile and I'm-- it's just nice.

You know there some other places in town,

they serve whole meals.

Dinner.

We could give that a try.

I'd be into that.

As long as we can come back here afterwards.

Yes, more pie.

You think it'd be rude if I just licked my plate?

No.

We could get another slice though.

No, I'm gonna have to jog home tonight.

We could jog home after.

That's a great idea!

I'm gonna have to jog home for a week!

I don't wanna jog home.

No more pie.

One more piece!

Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way,

oh what fun it is to ride in a one horse open sleigh.

When were you planning on telling me

you were going out on a date?

Before I went on one?

You sure about that?

It wasn't a date.

I recommended Brown Sugar to somebody.

Selena works there, she was texting me the whole time.

What did Selena say?

That it looked like a date.

Well, Selena's wrong.

And even if it was,

it would be my decision, not yours.

Of course not.

Why would anyone ask me about decisions that ruin my life?

Can we please?

Can we agree to just try to move on,

a little bit?

Fine, I'll just go to Brown Sugar

and have a piece of pie and then everything will be okay.

I'll grab my jacket.

I'm not saying it would be easy, but it would be a start.

What's this?

Chocolate caramel cheesecake.

I hate caramel.

What, since when?

Since right now!

Who hates caramel?

Uh, check.

I'm a rap man this is fine,

Cause this is like Christmas time,

So I'm a just sit and spit this rhyme,

but it's okay cause if it's not, then I hit rewind,

I'm a rapper, I can do no wrong,

if you like it then peep my YouTube song.

If you like it take a pic or photo,

cause we're gonna find out who sings the Christmas Solo.

Sounding good!

So, I'd like to thank everyone who came out to the auditions.

I'm impressed and look forward to seeing more from you,

especially the underclassmen.

It was tough, but here are the callbacks.

Laurie.

Dwayne.

MJ.

Charlotte.

And Teresa.

Congratulations to you all.

If you'd like to see the details,

they'll be outside my door.

If you'd like to discuss your audition with me,

I'm happy to do that.

Carry on.

Who's gonna sing the opening?

You can't have what's mine.

Hey, how's the music stuff going?

What music stuff?

The songs you and Henry have been writing together.

Yeah, we're taking a break.

Hmmm, that's too bad.

No, it's not.

I have to work on my callback for the Festival, so...

I thought he always played for you.

He has some stuff going on.

Did you guys have a falling out?

So what if we did?

Well that'd be sad, Henry's good people.

Yeah well, we've kinda figured out good people

make life-ruining decisions sometimes, right?

So something did happen?

Life, Dad.

Life happened.

And it sucks.

Forget it, I have to get ready for school.

Is this okay?

The outfit? Looks cute.

Great, I'll go change.

But I said it looks cute.

I don't want cute.

I don't think you have an outfit that says

I'm nervous about my callback.

I don't want that, either.

I'm not nervous.

I'm sorry.

I guess I misread the symptoms.

Fine, I'm nervous.

And laughing at me isn't helping.

I'm not laughing.

I need to change.

Honey, what's going on?

Nothing Mom!

Deck the halls with boughs of holly,

fa la la la, la la la la!

Jingle bells, jingle bells,

jingle all the way!

Oh come all ye faithful...

Hark the herald Angels sing,

Glory to the newborn king.

Sleep in heavenly peace,

sleep in heavenly peace.

Thank you very much.

Thanks, Ms. Baxter.

Thanks, Ms. Baxter.

Please send in the next singer.

Did you slay?

No survivors.

MJ, she's ready for you.

Break a leg!

You usually have someone else accompanying you.

He wasn't available.

Well I'm happy to accompany you, MJ.

Thank you, but I've been practicing a capella.

As long as that's all right with you.

Of course.

I mean, you've been listening to me sing for years now,

so you know what I'm capable of,

and you know I'm always well-prepared.

Whenever you're ready.

Can you play me an A?

♪ The first Noel, the angels did say ♪

♪ Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay ♪

♪ In fields where they lay keeping their sheep ♪

♪ On a cold winter's night that was so deep ♪

♪ Noel, noel... ♪

Hey.

Hi.

Thanks for letting me drag you out here.

See how I'm kicking and screaming?

Thank you.

I just needed some advice and I thought

lurking outside the clinic all day waiting until you're done

might be a little desperate.

Yeah it probably would've,

but I'm happy to make house calls.

You have a nice house, from what I can see.

Yeah, I would invite you inside,

but that's a little tricky.

Oh, okay.

Okay, then we can talk outside.

Okay.

I like your reindeer.

Since we've been getting to know each other,

I've kind of made a point of not talking about my daughter.

But I kind of gotta talk about my daughter.

Okay.

You were the first person I thought of.

Because I have access to horse tranquilizers?

I'm not sure they're going to be strong enough to calm her down.

I mean for you.

Am I that bad?

You'll be okay.

So tell me what's going on.

Okay, so...

when her mother left,

she didn't just leave.

She had an affair and then she left.

I'm so sorry.

Yeah.

So that's been a thing, obviously,

and it's gonna take her some time to work through that

and I understand that, I totally get it.

But in the meantime, there's literally nothing I can say

that's not some sort of catastrophic insult or injury.

I thought 16 year old girls were tricky when I was 16!

Well I was a 16 year old girl once

and I don't understand my daughter.

Well, so much for the advice.

Oh, right.

I just try to remember what it was like when I was her age.

I remember what I was like when I was her age

every time a boy comes to the door.

I'm sure.

I just...

I just think about all the changes that are going on,

for me, my friends, all the hormones!

My parents moved me into a new high school junior year.

I didn't know anybody, I just--

My dad was in the army.

I was in 16 different schools by the time I graduated.

17 if you include kindergarten.

Wow, no wonder you're so good at making friends.

Just not that experienced at keeping them.

You seem to be doing pretty good so far with me.

You must've been pretty smooth in high school.

No, not really smooth.

I better go.

Here, good luck.

Sorry, thank you.

It's okay.

Bye!

Melissa!

Get over here.

What was that about?

Total embarrassment.

So then you say excuse me, and you step back inside.

You don't stomp and slam.

What is this mood all about?

Was she the Brown Sugar not-date?

Because that sure looked like a post-date.

How about this?

How about for Christmas you give me the chance

at having an adult relationship again.

And in return, I'll give you whatever you want.

I want Mom!

I want Mom to want to spend Christmas with me.

Can you give me that?

Yeah, I didn't think so.

How did your audition go?

Pretty good, actually.

It's nice how supportive Audrey and Henry have been.

Henry supported, Audrey demanded.

They've been really good friends.

Yeah.

You know, I'm really proud of you for trying something new.

More like returning to something old.

In a new way.

Even if I don't get the solo, I feel good about auditioning.

So, do I get to be proud of you for going on a date?

It wasn't--

For going out for coffee with a new friend.

Thank you.

How do you feel about his audition?

I think he's getting a callback.

Give me one of those.

I'll share, I promise.

We believe in you.

You so got it.

You two are the best.

Good afternoon, music lovers.

I want to thank everyone who came to the auditions,

especially those who were called back.

I'm impressed with your performances,

I'm impressed with your passion for the Christmas Festival.

I'm thrilled that you're all invested

in one of our town's oldest and finest traditions.

The solo will be sung by Charlotte Flynn.

I'm looking forward to working with you, Charlotte.

Yes, ma'am.

I mean, thank you.

Congratulations.

Ms. Baxter?

Yes, MJ?

Can you please explain--

You gave an excellent audition, MJ.

Then what happened?

Charlotte gave a better one.

But I've been in chorus all these years.

You know me, I've worked so hard and--

Gave a better audition.

MJ, I'm a fan.

I'd be happy to sit down and talk with you.

We can discuss techniques to work on for your next audition.

This is going to be the worst Christmas ever.

It shouldn't have to be, MJ.

Come see me in the study hall tomorrow,

we'll talk more.

Let's celebrate!

Wait.

Hey no, you don't have to do this.

Yes, I do.

Charlotte, wait!

I just wanted to say--

You think you're so much better than me, don't you?

What?

You don't know the first thing about me.

And you don't care about anyone but yourself.

Standing off on the sidelines, judging the rest of us.

MJ, stop!

Shut up, Henry.

You shut up, MJ.

This was supposed to be special, Miss San Fran.

Okay, this was important.

And instead some stranger has to come in

and ruin literally everything.

You and your fleas can go infest some other town.

You must have been awesome.

Congrats!

What the heck just happened?

Honey, you're gonna be late for school.

Don't care, I'm not going.

Come on, what hurts?

Is this a I'm not ready for my history test bug?

Or a I have 100 pages left of Tale of Two Cities flu?

Or the I'm dodging the paparazzi

before my amazing Christmas solo stomach ache?

Honey come on, tell me what's going on.

Probably just an adrenaline crash

from the auditions and everything.

It's stupid.

It is not stupid, it's exciting.

Come on.

And for the record, I finished Tale of Two Cities.

Congratulations!

Two days early.

Fantastic!

In that case, it is a far, far better shower

you take now than you have ever taken before.

By the way, tell Charlotte I say congrats on the solo.

How'd you know?

I hadn't even told you about the audition.

Oh I know, thanks a lot, boss.

I didn't want to brag.

Are you kidding? You're required to brag.

You could put signs on your front lawn

and people would stop and cheer.

This is a big deal.

I figured it was important with all the auditions.

Yeah and I bet you

there's a lot of buzz at school about it,

in fact, there's probably some noses out of joint.

I remember my sophomore year,

Didi Bartholemew barely got offstage

before she threw up all over the place from nerves.

Probably ate shepherd's pie, I could tell

but I was really close to the front.

But it doesn't really matter because what people

remember is she had a beautiful songbird voice.

Although there are some people that do remember the barf.

I don't think Charlotte will be that nervous.

I hope Charlotte won't be that nervous.

She probably won't be that nervous.

So, if Nate didn't explain that to you,

then what did you talk about?

Oh, Santa's bringing someone a boyfriend for Christmas!

I want all the details!

Nope, you get nothing!

Come on!

What?

So, how long have you known Henry?

Since pre-school.

You guys seem so great together.

We are now.

Fifth grade got a little ugly, but we worked it out.

Have you ever--

Don't even.

What're you guys talking about?

Our favorite Christmas cookies.

Right!

Chocolate chip snowballs.

Any luck finding your mom something?

I found her the perfect slippers.

The ones she has are so old.

Did you find what you were looking for?

Yeah, actually.

Oh my gosh, I am so sorry!

Are you actually insane, MJ?

I just don't know what happened.

We just came to say hi to you guys

and I guess I must have tripped.

We'll go back to the store and we'll talk to them.

I'm not usually a klutz.

But you're always a liar!

Excuse you?

I'm sorry, Charlotte.

Accidents happen, Eva.

You ruined my mother's Christmas present

and you think it's funny?

I'm hurt you'd say that, Charlotte.

I'm trying to help you.

Better dry off, Charlotte.

Don't want to catch a cold.

True, you need to stay healthy for the Festival.

I'll be fine.

Sure hope so.

Let's take you back to the store,

and then we'll get you home, come on.

Close your eyes.

Keep them closed.

And voila!

Santa's throne!

It's not finished, there's gonna be a window

behind it and all the toys surrounding it.

It's amazing.

Everyone's gonna love it.

I hope you do.

I do.

And I'm kind of fond of the guy who built it, too.

Ahhh!

Seriously?

Seriously!

What'd you do?

Oh man, oh man.

How bad is it?

No, don't show me, just tell me.

I don't know, I didn't look.

Okay, let's get you to the hospital.

May I?

I'm just checking your reflexes.

They're working.

I can handle this.

Look, I don't want to seem difficult,

on top of being bloody,

but aren't you a veterinarian?

Pete!

What?

It's okay. Yes, I am.

But you know, we're not that different.

And it's just your paw.

You missed your front pastern, which is good.

You could have nicked a ligament.

And well, you know what we'd have to do to you.

Put him down.

Should've done that years ago.

You know what? You can take care of me,

just don't let him touch me.

Does he have a first aid kit?

Yeah.

I'm Jennifer, by the way.

Pete.

Well, that's yet another member of my family

that appreciates your help.

I was happy to do it.

Consider it my way of saying thank you.

I have really enjoyed these last few days.

You know, I knew it was the right thing

to move here for me,

but I've been wondering if it was right for Charlotte.

But this past week has been so special,

all these new opportunities for both of us.

I just think if I had been holding on to the past,

I never would've said yes to pie.

Good, then I don't have to get you a Christmas present.

I'm pretty sure you still do.

If it's a gift exchange you're after...

What?

I didn't even want to come here!

Why can't everyone just leave me alone?

Another late night?

Not the kind you're thinking of.

Did you know that Jennifer's place

got vandalized last night?

Why would I know anything about that?

I figured it was kids from the school.

They spray painted her garage and driveway.

They broke a bunch of lawn decorations.

You don't know anything about this?

No.

High school kids don't keep secrets these days,

they put everything out there on the internet.

Out there on Snapchat, or whatever.

Not anyone I know.

Do you know Charlotte Flynn?

Is she in any of your classes?

Who?

Charlotte Flynn, Jennifer's daughter.

I guess, sort of.

Are you friends with her?

I don't make friends as fast as you do, Dad.

Is anyone you know friends with her?

Why does it matter?

Because if we know who she's hanging out with,

maybe we'd have idea who'd want to trash her house.

I know she auditoned for the Christmas Festival solo.

That's it.

Really?

Jennifer didn't tell me her daughter sang.

She probably didn't want to spoil things

by telling you her daughter beat me out for the part.

Why didn't you tell me?

You've been busy.

With Uncle Pete and Santa's Workshop.

Yeah well, I should've been paying more attention.

I'm sorry.

I guess there's always senior year.

She'll be a senior next year, too.

I'm not gonna hold my breath.

I gotta get ready for school.

If you hear anything, please let me know.

Because this was way beyond a prank.

Yeah.

Pancakes should make you feel better.

Whoever did this,

maybe they pranked you because you're new?

Mom, please.

I know what this is about.

The Christmas solo.

The song for the Festival?

The minute I decided to audition,

this girl, MJ, started hassling me.

I guess she thought she deserved to sing the solo.

Even after Ms. Baxter gave it to me,

she's been after me.

What do you mean, after you?

She says nasty things to me every time I see her,

she's mean to my friends.

She threw a soda on me and almost ruined your--

She's vicious.

Why didn't you tell me?

Because I didn't realize it was going to get this bad.

Did you tell a teacher or something?

No.

Why not?

Because I thought she'd get bored

and move on to torment someone else.

Honey, you should've told me.

What were you gonna do?

I could... be supportive!

So what're we gonna do now?

I'm trying to figure that out!

Just give me a minute!

You know you can always talk to me.

Not really.

Always!

You've been so happy, enjoying your time with Nate.

I didn't want to spoil that.

Charlotte: you come first.

Always.

I thought, just for a minute,

this Christmas was going to be great.

It's still gonna be great.

I'm going to talk to this girl's parents.

No! Don't, please.

It'll just make it a thousand times worse.

No, I'll be reasonable, okay? I promise.

And hopefully her parents will be, too.

But this has to stop.

What was her name again?

Mom...

Charlotte!

Everyone calls her MJ.

It stands for Melissa Jane.

It should really stand for Major Jerk.

What's her last name? I'll call the school.

Prentiss. Melissa Jane Prentiss.

What?

Eat your breakfast, I'll drive you to school when I get back.

Mom, you don't have to do this.

Yes sweetheart, I do!

Do you need her address?

I know it.

[Doorbell ringing]

Hey, what a great way to start the day.

Come on in.

How're you doing?

Not good.

Not good at all.

Did something else happen?

Yes.

Tell me.

I can't see you anymore.

What?

I thought you deserved to hear it face-to-face.

I don't understand, what happened?

Dad?

Melissa, just give us a second, would you?

No it's fine, she should stay.

She should hear this.

Hi, MJ.

I'm Jennifer Flynn, Charlotte Flynn's mom.

What you did to my daughter is inexcusable.

And if this is your daughter,

then you are not the man I thought you were.

That's why I came to say goodbye.

Melissa...

Melissa!

Tell me what happened.

There's nothing to tell.

Come on sweetie, the longer you stall the worse it's gonna get.

We pranked their house, big deal.

That was you?

What were you thinking?

I didn't do any of the big stuff!

Some of the guys did that.

And I never...

I was mad and I started this stupid meme as a joke,

and it spread all over school and people thought it was funny.

And then people kept adding on to it,

and everyone thought it was funny,

but I thought they'd get bored and stop.

But Kayla told Bobby we were going to prank Charlotte,

and he got the lacrosse team and all of a sudden,

it was this whole big thing and I couldn't stop them.

How hard did you try?

I just wanted to get back at her,

I didn't mean to...

Get back at her for what?

She ruined Christmas!

She stole my song.

Not according to Ms. Baxter.

Yeah, Ms. Baxter decided I couldn't have the song.

And Mom decided I couldn't have New York.

And you decided I couldn't have Mom.

You have to stop taking out your anger

at your mom on everybody else.

Especially people that had

nothing to do with that situation.

It's not fair.

No, it is not.

But it's life and we're gonna figure out

a way to get through this together.

But in the meantime,

you got your work cut out for you, kiddo.

You're going to pay Jennifer back for the damages.

What? How?

By working for me.

And you're going to give me the names of everybody else

who was involved that can pay their share.

I'll end up with no friends.

And you're gonna apologize to Jennifer and to Charlotte.

And until I see some significant change

in your behavior, you're grounded.

Give me your cell phone.

- Seriously? - Yes!

And you're not going to the concert.

I knew you'd take her side.

It's not about sides,

it's about right and wrong, and you are wrong!

So you're not going.

Fine.

It's not like anyone's gonna miss me.

But I am so not apologizing to Charlotte.

Get back here!

Nobody cares about me!

Not you, or Jennifer, or Ms. Baxter, or Mom.

Nobody! I hate everything!

I can't believe you broke up with him because of me!

This isn't your fault, Charlotte.

I saw a different side of him and I wasn't comfortable--

Just because she's awful, doesn't mean he is.

Charlotte, stop.

Stop what?

Letting Melissa ruin things for you.

So this is my fault now?

No I'm sorry, that was a poor thing to say.

I tried to handle this, Mom.

I know and I'm sure this has been difficult for you

and I'm sorry I didn't see what was going on.

How can I help now?

Well, you can't follow me in school.

So what are you going to do?

This thing has escalated way too far.

How about I go into the principal's office with you?

Please don't.

Just give me a day.

Audrey and Henry have my back.

Let me try to handle this, one more time.

Okay, one more day.

At least I understand now.

Thanks, Eva.

I should've said something--

It's okay, I get it.

I'm sorry.

Thank you.

Your dad's not going to tell my dad, is he?

I don't know what he's going to do.

Eva, where have you been?

Away from you guys.

What's your deal?

My deal?

You're the ones who went all Suicide Squad

on someone we barely even know.

So you're choosing Charlotte over us?

Pretty sure I'm picking the decent thing

over the awful thing.

You're out of control, MJ.

I can't stop you, but I sure as heck

don't need to be a part of this.

Go ahead...

Say it.

Wow.

Yeah, wow.

She's mad at you, mad at Jennifer.

Mad at the daughter.

Doesn't sound like the Melissa I know.

It doesn't sound the one I know, either.

And I went two or three rounds with this one last night.

Really? How'd that go?

She threw the whole Vivian thing at me.

The fact that she wants her around and I don't.

I've been trying protect her from all this,

and somehow, I ended up being the bad guy.

Or just the first in the line of fire.

Feels deeper than that.

Maybe she's digging at a wound that you want to ignore.

Uh huh. See?

Vivian cheated on you.

And that's 100% wrong.

And Melissa needs to know that.

Divorce is hard on everyone, especially for children.

You're working so hard to be strong and good

that you're not acknowledging the hurt

and the real damage that Vivian caused.

And if you're not gonna work through that,

then you're never gonna let it go.

I just want her to understand that

we can survive this thing, the two of us.

Yeah okay, sure.

But you still got to show her that

even the strongest of us feel pain.

And when you choose to trust and to love

that's true strength.

Melissa is... she's struggling, Nate.

Yeah I know she is, brother.

So help her let it go.

Because if she comes out of this thinking

that anger is the only way to be...

then we've lost her.

So how was school?

Good.

My Latin quiz was really easy.

I'm allowed to be concerned.

I know, I just...

don't want to be thinking about it every minute.

I mean I am, but I don't want to be.

That's good.

I've been thinking about something Dad used to say.

He always said Christmas means hope and new beginnings.

Yeah he did, didn't he?

So, maybe MJ needs those things more than I do.

Okay, but what does that have to do with you?

I want to talk to Ms. Baxter about giving up the solo.

What?

And letting Melissa sing it.

And let the bully win?

No honey, that is not the way to handle this.

Mom, I don't want to fight.

Look, I'm not going to force you, okay?

And I know you don't want to,

but let me fight this fight for you.

You can't shadow me in school, Mom.

You can't fix this.

I can talk to the principal,

I can talk to Melissa, to Nate...

Stop!

If you really want to help, come with me to see Ms. Baxter.

You don't have to do this.

Yes, I do.

Okay then.

Thanks for having my back.

Always.

[Door knocking]

Yes?

Are we interrupting?

We can come back.

Charlotte, why don't you and your mother stay?

I'm fairly certain we're all here to discuss the same topic.

[Bell ringing]

Are you okay?

Have you talked to Charlotte?

Talked to Charlotte, about what?

The solo.

Why, what happened now?

She texted this morning.

She wants to give it to MJ.

No way!

Way.

If she does that, MJ will be unbearable.

Chorus will be so painful, we have to stop Charlotte.

Or not.

What?

I respect what Charlotte's saying.

She's saying she doesn't need the solo as bad as MJ does.

Okay, that's not it.

Charlotte's just done with MJ.

Like we all should have been a long time ago if someone--

C'mon, MJ hasn't always been like this.

You, me, and MJ, we all used to be friends together.

That was a long time ago.

Like, middle school.

C'mon, she was fun and sweet, remember?

Barely.

Look, if it wasn't for her mom and that--

Okay yeah fine, she has a difficult life.

But there are plenty of people in this school

with difficult lives, and do they run around

making everyone else more miserable?

No, they don't.

Thank you! So MJ has no excuse.

See...

When you're surrounded by people that really get you,

you don't want to focus on the people that don't.

You almost want to just,

kind of focus in on the people that do, you know?

What's that?

I'm hoping it's not a huge mistake.

It can't be a huge mistake, if it's a tiny box.

Merry Christmas, Audrey.

I don't understand.

You see during Christmas time, there's this custom.

People give gifts to people who receive gifts--

We don't exchange gifts till Christmas Day.

Why are you giving me...?

You've been my best friend most of my life

and I've never told you how important that is.

No, I'm pretty sure you have, once.

Third grade.

When I told off Annie Zeleski

for stealing the cookies out of your lunchbox.

Look, all I'm trying to say is

I'm really lucky that you're my best friend.

Henry...

And it also made me realize that

maybe we could be a lot more?

If you'd be into that at all, because I feel stupid.

And if I just wrecked everything,

I'll take the box back

and we'll pretend none of this happened

and I'll probably transfer to Antarctica in senior year.

Please don't!

Open it.

Wow.

There's also a part two to the gift.

The song that I've been working on

is actually a song about you.

♪ We sip on cocoa when it's snowing outside ♪

♪ You keep me warm, you make my heart feel on fire ♪

♪ This year for Christmas I don't need a surprise ♪

♪ Don't want no presents, I got something in mind ♪

♪ Swear I'm losing my mind when I start thinking of it ♪

♪ Taking too many nights, some thoughts start sinking in ♪

♪ I know, yeah I know we'll be doing just fine ♪

♪ I'll cross this Christmas list off one at a time ♪

♪ My Christmas letter comes from all that I need ♪

♪ All that is special, special to me ♪

♪ I pray this Christmas that I get what I'm due ♪

♪ This Christmas letter has one wish, it's you ♪

Henry, I love the song.

And I love the necklace.

And this guy?

Thank you!

Okay, let's go.

I'm late for biology.

I didn't mean for things to get so out of control.

I just want to understand why you hate me so much.

I don't hate you!

I hate...

how you seem to have everything figured out.

You just show up in town and you get the solo

and all the people I really care about and...

I used to love Christmas.

And now, I can't stop being angry.

Yeah, we're gonna work on that.

Together, a lot.

I'm sorry about your house and decorations, Dr. Flynn.

Thank you, Melissa.

And I'm sorry how I acted during auditions, Ms. Baxter.

Thank you.

And Charlotte, I'm sorry about the solo thing

and just... for everything.

I've been worried about you, MJ.

That's why I asked you and your father to come in today.

We appreciate that, Ms. Baxter.

I just wanted to say, Charlotte,

The fact that you're offering to give up the solo

at this point, after what you've been through...

you're quite a young lady.

Obviously, Charlotte earned the solo,

above and beyond anything else that's happened.

I'd come hear you sing, but I'm grounded.

Break a leg.

Well, I'm glad we've been able to resolve that.

But we need to have a separate discussion

about your future in the chorus, MJ.

What does that mean?

We have rules in chorus.

You'd kick her out? Why?

It doesn't have anything to do with us, honey.

Yes, it does!

She already convinced half the school

that I'm such a terrible person,

they were happy to wreck our house.

What's gonna happen when people find out

one of the best voices in school

got kicked out of chorus because of me?

Charlotte, people will believe what people want to believe.

Which is how we got into this mess in the first place!

If I can forgive her and move on,

why can't everyone else?

Charlotte!

You were four years old.

It was June...

I was washing the car,

and I hear this unbelievable noise from the garage,

so I come racing up the driveway,

and there you are, up to your ears

in tipped over boxes because you tried to drag all

the Christmas presents out of here and into the house.

When I asked you why, you said--

I miss Christmas.

You remember!

I don't whether I remember, or if I've heard that story

enough times that I think I remember.

I love that story!

I love what it says about you, how you feel about Christmas.

I know you miss Christmas this year, sweetie.

It isn't what it used to be in our house.

I miss a lot of things.

So do I.

But we can't get back the things we lost

by taking them away from other people.

That's not what I was trying to do.

Things are never gonna be the same, sweetie.

But that doesn't mean they can't be good again.

It's just gonna take some work.

But it's work that we can do together.

I know I've been a brat,

and I've made some really stupid choices, but I...

Help me, Dad.

Tell me how to fix this.

I don't want to get kicked out of chorus.

I hate that I'm not going to the festival.

I don't want to lose Christmas.

You're not gonna lose Christmas, okay?

Or me.

We've gotta let go of this anger, okay?

Be thankful for the things that we do have.

Build on that.

Okay...

Where do we start?

Charlotte.

You really hurt her, you gotta make that right.

How?

Friendship, forgiveness.

Let her get to know the person you really are.

Okay.

And you gotta pay Jennifer back for all the damage,

just like we talked about.

Yes.

Ms. Baxter, you could ask her about

volunteering or fundraising for chorus,

let her know you're serious about coming back.

Okay.

And you gotta talk to me, next time you have a problem.

I will.

I swear, Dad.

Well, if you can do all that,

and you can manage to find your smile again,

I suppose you could go to the festival.

I will, I promise!

See, there it is!

There's that smile!

You know what else you used to do when you were four?

What?

You used to wipe your nose on my sleeve.

Thanks, that was great.

I was thinking so.

I'll see you at the festival.

I'm looking forward to it!

Charlotte!

Just the person I'm looking for.

I can't imagine this morning was very easy on you.

No, ma'am.

Well, I'm impressed.

You've given me a lot to think about.

In the spirit of the season,

MJ will stay in the chorus...

on probation.

Thank you, Ms. Baxter.

Well, perhaps you'd care to join us in chorus?

I think I'd like that.

But first go home and work on your solo,

especially the bridge.

Yes ma'am.

I'm looking forward to working with you more, Charlotte.

Leave your scarf on, keep your neck warm.

It's making my neck sweat, so--

Are you sure it's not just nerves?

No, I feel absolutely... ready to die.

You're gonna be great.

But what if I get up there and I...

I start to think of Dad and I...

No, you're gonna be fine. You're not.

But I just keep thinking, that--

Okay, if it does happen while you're singing,

just think about Dad and how proud he'd be

of you for being up there trying something new.

Okay? And don't forget to breathe.

And you look beautiful.

You're gonna do great.

Hi.

Hi.

I thought you couldn't come?

Yeah, Dad and I worked out a deal

and I'm gonna be really good about following it,

so he let me.

That's great.

And this wasn't part of the deal,

but I just wanted to catch you

before you started warming up

and say, again, I'm sorry.

Thank you.

Did they move the time of the song?

Because it's getting--

Oh...

I was working so hard on relaxing that...

I gotta go!

Ms. Baxter has--

No tolerance for tardiness!

Henry's over there, come on.

Wish me luck, Mom!

Break both legs!

Hey.

Hey!

I have a confession to make.

Oh, do you now?

I have been to the Brown Sugar booth twice already.

Are you trying to get on Santa's naughty list?

I figure I'll be okay if I share?

Nate Prentiss, are you trying to bribe me?

A little bit.

I'm begging for forgiveness

and I'm using brownies as a bribe.

[Laughing]

That just might work...

Well, there's a lot of brownies.

Yeah, I think that's gonna work.

I have a lot to apologize for.

You don't really.

I do...

I didn't know what I was doing.

I didn't know how to help Melissa with her mom.

I was so busy trying to convince her

everything was gonna be okay

that I lost track of how hurt she was.

Not that I'm making excuses.

You're just an imperfect parent.

There's a few of us around town.

Oh yeah?

You seem to be doing pretty good.

I hope so.

But that didn't mean I needed to come down on you so hard.

You were looking out for your girl, I respect that.

That was good.

If it was me, I might have punched me in the face.

I have a better idea.

Hold this.

That was a great idea!

We have a saying at our house,

that Christmas is a time of new beginnings.

So how about for this Christmas, we try this again?

You got a deal.

Merry Christmas, Brookfield!

It's my honor as part of the Christmas Festival committee,

to welcome you to tonight's celebration.

I hope you're all enjoying the fabulous food, crafts, company;

all the things that make the Christmas Festival special.

And I know that some of you,

especially our youngest citizens,

are anxious for Santa to arrive.

First, let's thank Nate and Pete Prentiss

of Prentiss' Woodworking for Santa's marvelous workshop!

You've really outdone yourselves, Nate and Pete.

Thank you!

And now, it's my special delight,

as Brookfield High's choral director,

to introduce to you the young lady who will start our evening,

which begins Christmas in Brookfield.

This year's soloist is Charlotte Flynn!

Charlotte Flynn and her accompanist, Henry Jackson!

[Applause]

♪ Joy to the world, the lord is come ♪

♪ Let earth receive her king ♪

♪ Let every heart prepare him room ♪

♪ And heaven and angels sing ♪

♪ And heaven and angels sing ♪

♪ And heaven, and heaven and angels sing ♪

♪ Joy to the world, the savior reigns ♪

♪ Let men their songs employ ♪

♪ While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains ♪

♪ Repeat the sounding joy ♪

♪ Repeat the sounding joy ♪

♪ Repeat, repeat the sounding joy ♪

♪ He rules the world with truth and grace ♪

♪ And makes the nations prove ♪

♪ The glories of His righteousness ♪

♪ And wonders of His love ♪

♪ And wonders of His love ♪

♪ And wonders, wonders of His love ♪

♪ Joy to the world, the lord is come ♪

♪ Let earth receive her king ♪

♪ Let every heart ♪

♪ Prepare him room ♪

♪ And heaven and angels sing ♪

♪ And heaven and angels sing ♪

♪ And heaven, and heaven and angels sing ♪

[Applause]

That was incredible!

Are you ready for Christmas now, Brookfield?

[Applause]

All right!

That was really great.

Thanks!

I'm sorry.

I forgive you.

You were amazing.

Just a second.

That was amazing!

I'm so glad you liked it.

I've always loved that song.

I wasn't just talking about the song...

What you did, Charlotte, that was so lovely.

I just want everyone to have a wonderful Christmas.

Thank you.

So, to fresh beginnings and...

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Hey!

Merry Christmas!

♪ We sip on cocoa when it's snowing outside ♪

♪ You keep me warm, you make my heart feel on fire ♪

♪ This year for Christmas I don't need a surprise ♪

♪ Don't want no presents, I got something in mind ♪

♪ Swear I'm losing my mind when I start thinking of it ♪

♪ Taking too many nights, some thoughts start sinking in ♪

♪ I know, yeah I know we'll be doing just fine ♪

♪ I'll cross this Christmas list off one at a time ♪

♪ I pray this Christmas that my wish will come true ♪

♪ My Christmas letter has one wish, it's you ♪