All language subtitles for Christmas.With.The.Darlings.2020.1080p.WEBRip.x264-RARBG-English

["JOY TO THE WORLD" PLAYING]

[DOORBELL RINGING]

DELIVERY MAN:
Is this the Darlington house?

The one and only.

- Mrs. Darlington?
- Mr. Darlington's assistant.

Well, one of the Darlingtons.
And I picked out that beauty.

Jessica Lew.

DELIVERY MAN: Thank you.
It'll just be a minute.

["WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS"
PLAYING]

You've outdone yourself
this year, Jess.

Thanks, Mrs. Brooks.

I figure it's the last Christmas
doing this

so I should go out
with the biggest tree possible.

And you succeeded. You're going
to be missed around here.

Oh, I'm still gonna be part

of the Darlington Corporation
family,

just one of the many,
many attorneys.

You'll never be just anything.

Hey, boss.

Not for much longer.

Uh, you are the chairman

so you're still gonna be
my boss.

Good point.

And besides, I have to finish
off the last details

of the Christmas party--Which you can do blindfolded.

And then get you off to Europe.

Then I can spend the rest
of December relaxing

until I start my new gig.

I like that plan for you.

Thanks. I kinda like it myself.

The last time I spent
more than a weekend

doing nothing was...

Never mind. I can't remember.

Actually, Jess,
there's one last favor

I need to ask of you.

Jessica, this is Lena Thomas,
our family law attorney.

Lena, this is Jessica Lew,

my soon to be ex-assistant
extraordinaire.

LENA: Nice to finally meet you.

Same. How many times have
we spoken on the phone?

Oh, quite a few.[LAUGHS]

And Charles tells me
that congratulations

are in order.
You passed the bar.

Oh, thank you. I'm so glad
to finally be done with school.

Especially while working
for a tyrant at the same time.

[LAUGHS]
Yes, there is that.

So, I guess because you're here,
that means the one more favor--

Is about my nieces
and nephew, yes.

They're coming back
to the States from Australia.

Oh, wow. I've never actually
met them before.

I've only handled
- their paperwork.
- Well, they've been gone a while.

- CHARLES: Three years.
- How long will they be here for?

Permanently.

LENA: Charles and his brother,
Max, will be assuming

full guardianship of their late
brother's children

when they return in three days.

I'm sorry, you and Max?

Will be their new guardians,
yes.

Max?

Their late mother's aunt,
Mathilda became their guardian

- after the accident.
- CHARLES: Wonderful woman.

She's in Sydney, where the kids
have lived for three years.

We all originally agreed

that it would be better for them
to stay where they were,

not disrupt them any further
by bringing them to the States.

- So, what changed?
- Mathilda's had
some health challenges

and she can't take care
of them anymore.

And the rest of Nicole's family
in Australia

aren't able to assume
the responsibility.

Which means... Max and I will take care
of them.

Hmm. Max.

[MUSIC PLAYING]

[INDISTINCT CHATTER]

Ten seconds off my best time.

- I'll alert the media.
- But first, aprés skis.

See, this is why we're friends.[CELLPHONE CHIMES]

Ah, that must be
the lovely Vanessa.

- She misses me.
- It's been two days.

It's called marriage.

You know, when two people
like each other a whole lot

and miss each other
when they're apart,

- even for two days?
- I've heard of such things.

[LAUGHS] Someday, Max. Someday.

Yeah, yeah.

Emma's 13, J. Henry ten,
and Abby's eight.

This is a recent photo.

[INHALES] I'm gonna meet them
in Los Angeles and then fly back

with them here to Connecticut
on Friday.

Oh, well you'll be in Europe
when they arrive

and I will be up
- to the Christmas party.
- Which is why I need your help.

- JESSICA: Okay.
- I've made all the arrangements
for them.

Max is watching them
over Christmas?

Oh, no. [CHUCKLES]

They'll be going
to Paden Academy in Vermont.

- Boarding school?
- Yeah.
One of the best in the country.

Max, Jarrett and I
all went there.

- It's fantastic.
- JESSICA: But I don't understand.

Where will they be
during Christmas?

Paden Academy. It's okay.

My brothers and I,
we stayed there several times

while our parents
were on various holidays.

I know it's not ideal timing.
I would love to have

the children at the house
over Christmas,

but you know how important
this trip to Europe is.

Paden really does have
an incredible staff.

The children can settle in,
be ready for the new year.

So what is it you need from me?

It's simple. Take 'em to Paden.

- That's it?
- CHARLES: That's it.

I would do it but as soon
as they arrive, I have

to leave town for my parents'
anniversary party.

And Mrs. Brooks can watch them
for a bit,

but I don't wanna overwork her,
especially with her arthritis.

- No, of course.
- And Max, well...

Well, I don't know where Max is.

Skiing in Vermont.

Right.

Does he know
about all of this yet?

I haven't been able
to reach him.

Jessica, I don't suppose
you could--Yes, I will let him know.

CHARLES: Thank you.

So everything is set
for Whistler over Christmas.

- Reservation starts Monday.
- Nice.

Hal?

Yeah. I'm... [CHUCKLES]
...out for Whistler.

Come on!

We've been planning this
all year.

See? This is why you two
are still single.

All right, I wanna be
with my wife

on our first Christmas together.

- Bring her. The cabin's huge.
- We're heading
to her family's place.

Bring them. It's a huge cabin.

Okay, this isn't Arbor Day,
it's Christmas. Some of us

like to spend Christmas
with our families.

You should try it sometime.[CELLPHONE VIBRATING]

I gotta take this.
I'll be right back.

They're going to Paden?

JESSICA: Your brother swears
it's fantastic.

Yeah, Charles would.

He was practically born
in a coat and tie.

I take it you don't share
his enthusiasm for Paden?

It was not my scene.

JESSICA: They expected you
to study, didn't they?

Rude, right?

And there was
this little incident

with the headmaster's
private pool

-and some pink dye.
- Oh, Max. [LAUGHS]

If I had a nickel for every
"Oh, Max" I've heard in my life.

You'd have as much money
as you already have.

Close.

So I just wanted to make sure
that you knew the situation

before your nieces and nephew
got here.

Which is when, again?

JESSICA: Friday.

And you're gonna
take them there?

I am.

And then the amazing Jessica
is free.

At least until I start
my new job.

Well, it won't be
the same without you.

Well, I've only been
Charles's EA

for two-and-a-half years.

It feels longer.

- JESSICA: Aren't you charming?
- No, no, I... [CHUCKLES]

That was supposed
to be a compliment.

"Supposed to be." Bye, Max.

Bye, Jessica.

[CELLPHONE BEEPS]

Okay, guys, so...
slight change of plans.

- What do you think?
- It looks great.

I think kids
would actually like this.

Kids? [CHUCKLES] What kids?

The Darlington nieces
- and nephew.
- Oh, right.

And when are you chauffeuring
said nieces and nephew

to the boarding school?

To be clear, there will be
an actual chauffeur.

Of course there will, darling.[CHUCKLES]

They're arriving on Friday
and then they're gonna be

staying the weekend
to adjust after the long flight,

and then I will be going
with them

to the boarding school
on Monday.

Oh. If they can stay
without their uncles

for the weekend,
why can't they stay longer?

Christmas is only a little
over two weeks away.

Mrs. Brooks can watch them
short term, but I think

anything longer than a couple
of days is asking a lot.

Hmm.
Too bad there's no one else.

I mean, it's Christmas.

No one should be alone
on Christmas.

Hey![CHUCKLES] Well done!

Thank you.

[SOMBER MUSIC PLAYING]

CHARLES: Okay.

What else?

Alfonso will meet you
at the Lisbon airport

and take you directly
to the Darlington offices there.

And where are you
in the preparations

- for the Christmas party?
- The Plaza grand ballroom
is booked,

and Zumel's will be
catering again.

Excellent.
Everything needs to be perfect.

Because...

Because Mr. Lee
from Liuxing Motors

has agreed to be my guest
at the party.

Did you secure the deal?

Mm, not yet, it's between us
and York Ventures

which is why
I need to impress him.

Well, fortunately,
the Darlington Corporation

Christmas party
is always impressive.

Yes, it is.[JESSICA LAUGHING]

Getting into the Taiwan
auto market would be

a major coup
for our corporation.

Then I'm sure it's gonna happen.[CELLPHONE CHIMES]

And speaking of cars,
yours to the airport

- is now downstairs.
- I'll be right there.

Oh, hey.

Do you have everything you need
for getting the children

to Paden?[INHALES]

I do.

What's on your mind?

Max?

- Max.
- Motion passed. My name is Max.

CHARLES: What're you doing here?

Well, dear brother,
this is the Darlington company

and rumor has it I am
the president of said company,

so I thought I'd make
my quarterly appearance.

Did we replace the access cards?

- Two months ago.
- Ah.

I was just on my way
to the airport.

Europe, right?

It's in the calendar.
I do check.

- I also told you.
- And that. Hi, Jess.

Paden Academy?

- What about it?
- Don't I get a say
in what happens

- to my nieces and nephew?
- What could you possibly say?

It's one of the best schools
in the country.

Yes, but if we're both going
to be their guardians

then we both need to be involved
in these decisions.

Fair enough.

And do they have to go
right away?

[SIGHS] There's no one else
to watch them.

I'll be gone and you're,
well... [INHALES]

Go on.

It's the same reason
we didn't take full guardianship

in the first place.

I work 24/7.

And you don't exactly have
a parenting lifestyle.

[CLEARS THROAT]
There'll be no one else here
while I'm in Europe.

Thanks.

I can help watch the kids
through Christmas.

[CHUCKLES] The Christmas party
is on automatic pilot,

and you're in Europe
until the 20th... [INHALES]

...and I basically have the next
couple of weeks off.

- It's your vacation.
- Which means I have time.

Yeah, but...

why?

[STUTTERS] It's Christmas.
[CHUCKLES]

Let's just say
that I know what it's like

to be a kid alone at Christmas.

I can handle all three of them.

And Mrs. Brooks is there
if I have any questions.

- MAX: And I'll stay, too.
- CHARLES: What?

[CHUCKLES]
What's happening here?

- You don't have to.
- I know.

But I'll go to Whistler
after Christmas,

you'll be back from Europe
by then.

- I've already made the plans.
- Plans can change.

But the plan to get you
to the airport

- needs to start now.
- Hold on.

Are you sure you can
handle this?

I am.

I am, too.

Okay, I trust you completely
and you're right...

it would be better
for the children

to be at the house
over Christmas.

Especially after what they've
been through.

I'm gonna call you as soon
as I land in Lisbon,

and we'll go over the details.
Max, please,

don't make me regret this.

Have a nice trip.

Don't forget the chocolate!

Ground rules.

For me watching my family?

Well, for us watching
your family. Together.

Go for it.

I'm in charge.

[CHUCKLES]
Yeah, that seems self-evident.

- And I have a vision.
- Ooh, do tell.

Well, it's still forming
but from what I understand

the kids have been in Australia
for three years?

Uh, more like four, actually.

Jarrett and Nicole moved
to Sydney six months

before the accident.
Nicole's from Sydney originally.

So that means they've had
three warm Christmases.

Yep. Summer Santa.

So why don't we give them
a real old-fashioned

New England Christmas? I mean,
like, cookies and hot chocolate.

My friend Zoe, she has
a Christmas fair fundraiser

- that I could take 'em to.
- I got ya.

Okay. Well, I'll come up
with a list of things

that we can do
and places we can go--

And sometimes
maybe we'll just, uh, wing it.

Uh, no.
We do not wing it with children.

Well, my parents did with me.

I doubt that. I'm sure
it was more that you were

too much of a handful
to control.

Yeah, probably.

So I'm thinking for this
to work, I need to stay

at the Darlington house
when the kids are there.

That makes sense to me,
there's plenty of rooms,

enough for the kids to have
their own room, too.

Okay,
so I'm gonna call Mrs. Brooks,

update her on the plan.

The kids are coming
on Friday afternoon

so I'll come over
on Friday morning

and then we can just go
pick them up together?

Yes, boss.

Don't you forget it.

Never.

- Hmm, busy.
- Yeah.

So you gave up
your first vacation in years,

right before your new job,
I might add,

to watch three children
you don't know over Christmas?

I did.

Tell your mom thanks for

the Christmas dinner invite,
though.

Ah, she loves you.
She'll get it once I explain.

As your best friend,
I might be the only person

who won't immediately ask you
why you're doing this.

- You've been there.
- Yeah.

It doesn't make it
any less crazy

- that I'm doing it, though.
- Oh, no, definitely crazy.

[LAUGHS]
Also kind, generous,
and very, very you.

- What're you getting?
- Christmas roll fudge.

JESSICA: Oh, I've never had
- that before.
- ZOE: It's delicious.

- Mm, it's the last piece.
- We'll split it.

No, it's okay. I'll just stick
to the chocolate fudge.

Uh, there's one more piece
in the back.

I can get it for you
- if you'd like.
- Uh, perfect, thank you.

No problem, Zoe.

Kate's flirting with you again.

- Is not.
- Is, as she always does
whenever you're here.

You should ask her to come
to the Christmas Fair.

I can't.

I get too nervous.
- You've seen me.
- True.

- Okay, well give her a flyer.
- Y-- you do it.

You are a surgeon. How are you
not able to ask someone out?

Because unlike surgery,

people are conscious
and can reject you.

Do not give me that look
"Miss I'm always too busy

to date."
How long ago was Jason?

A long time. [CLEARS THROAT]

This is the last piece,
but I can make more tomorrow.

Feel free to come by.

Thank you so much. And uh, here.

This is happening next week,

all proceeds are going towards
the children's wing

at St. Francis Hospital
which is where Zoe works.

- As a surgeon.
- KATE: Cool.

- Maybe I can bring my nephew.
- Uh, sure.

That sounds perfect.

[EXHALES]

[PLANE ENGINE REVVING,
TIRES SCREECHING]

[INDISTINCT CHATTER]

Stop pacing.
Lena will bring them.

What are those?

Christmas presents
for the children.

From you and Charles.

You really do think
of everything, don't you?

And here they are. [EXHALES]

Hey, hey! Hey! Hey, kids!

EMMA: Hello, Uncle Max.

Hi, Uncle Max.

Who's she?

This is Miss Jessica Lew.

She is your Uncle Charles's
executive assistant.

[CHUCKLES]
Jess, I'd like you to meet
my eldest niece, Emma,

my nephew J. Henry,
and my youngest niece, Abby.

- Hello.
- Hi.
It's nice to finally meet you.

Finally?

I've been hearing
- a lot about you.
- Are you the one Ms. Lena says

is gonna be watching us
over Christmas?

- I am.
- Actually, we-- we both are.

So, when-- when--
when was the last time

- that you guys were back here?
- Three years, seven months,
ten days.

J. Henry likes math.

That's right. [CHUCKLES]
I remember.

That's-- that's cool.

I like-- I like math, too.
Sort of.

Uh... Oh, but not as much
as I like presents!

That's for you.

- What are these?
- These are some welcome gifts.

Your uncles realize
it's been a while

since you've experienced
Christmas in New England so...

We got you some uh...

Christmas... [CHUCKLES]
...sweaters.

Thank you. We did pack sweaters.

I love mine! Mm.[LENA LAUGHING]

- Shall we head to the house?
- Great idea.

Do you want me to grab that?J. HENRY: Sure.

Okay.

And this is probably
a lot colder than you're used to

but... here it is!

That's a really big tree.

MAX: [LAUGHING] It is, isn't it?

Hello, children.

CHILDREN: Mrs. Brooks![LAUGHS]

I don't know if you remember me.

I'm Mrs. Brooks and I've worked
for the Darlington family

for many years.

But you were very young
when you were last here.

Are you the nice lady who makes
the chocolate pies?

[LAUGHING] French silk
is one of my specialties.

Of course I remember you!

Okay, let's show you
to your rooms.

Okay, I'll grab your coats.

- Thank you.
- Thank you.

MAX:
I'll race you up the stairs.

They're so quiet.

- Well, part of it's the flight.
- Is that the only reason?

The last three years have been
a challenge for them.

And having to leave
their great Aunt Mathilda

and come here again
after so long

is yet another change.

JESSICA: Well, I'll make sure
they video call her

as often as they'd like to help
with the transition.

Thank you.

Okay, J. Henry,
this will be your room.

It was actually your dad's
when he was growing up.

Um... Okay ladies,
I'll show you to your room next.

You've got my cell.

Feel free to call me
if you have any more questions.

I will. Thank you.

This is a big thing
you're doing, Jessica,

- watching them like this.
- Is it?

It feels so natural.

I mean, what kid
wouldn't want to stay here

- versus going to boarding school?
- I think you're quite right.

- Good luck.
- Safe travels. Thank you.

[SIGHS]

- JESSICA: [SIGHS] Long day.
- Yes. [CHUCKLES]

But it's good to have children
in the house again.

Yep, four of them. [LAUGHS][LAUGHS]

Well,
Max always was a free spirit

but his heart's as big as Kansas
and his energy

is, well, boundless.
[CHUCKLES] Always was.

What was he like as a kid?

Oh, you'll find out as soon
as J. Henry warms up.

Oh, full of life and love.
Max was a happy child.

He always thought
Jarrett was the glue

between the three brothers

- but really I think it was Max.
- Hmm.

He took it very hard
when we lost Jarrett.

[INHALES]
I think that's maybe when...

Uh...

When what?

Oh, when he and Charles
became more distant

and Max spent less and less time
at home.

But now he's back and I think
he's taking this very seriously.

Assuming guardianship.

I hope so.

Ah, give him a chance, my dear.

He may surprise you.[SIGHS]

Well, I'm gonna go check
on the kids.

You have a good night,
- Mrs. Brooks.
- You too, Jessica.

MAX: Emma?

Abby?

I can't find the girls anywhere.

How did you lose
the kids already?

I don't know, but I checked
Emma's room and Abby's and--

EMMA: Pass the sheet.[STUTTERS]

[INDISTINCT CHATTER]

What's this?

We all wanted to stay together.

And I wanted to stay
in dad's old room, too.

That's-- that's okay.

But if you guys change
your minds

we have plenty of rooms
for each of you.

- You just let me or Jess know.
- Thank you. [CHUCKLES]

Also we wanna make sure
that you have

the best Christmas possible

so why don't you make
a list of Christmas activities

that you wanna do over
the next couple of weeks?

But it-- it doesn't have
to be an actual list.

Though the act of making a list
can help generate ideas.

Right, but if something happens
to come to mind

spur of the moment
you just tell us--

And I will write it down.

- She will write it down.
- Hmm.

[YAWNS]

I think that's our cue.

Goodnight, guys.

J. HENRY: [YAWNS]
- Goodnight, Uncle Max.
- Goodnight, Jessica.

See you at breakfast.

Eight a.m.

Or whenever you wake up.

J. HENRY: It could be fun,
doing Christmassy stuff.

EMMA: It could be.

But remember, we're leaving here
after Christmas.

- J. HENRY: I know.
- EMMA:
So don't get too comfortable.

[WHISPERS] I think we have
a lot of work ahead of us.

I think you're right.

Yeah.

Goodnight.'Night.

[MUSIC PLAYING]

[FAUCET RUNNING]

Did you guys sleep okay?

- Mm-hmm.
- EMMA:
The bed was so comfortable.

JESSICA: Oh, good.
- Good, good, good.
- EMMA: Yeah.

Sorry, sorry. I overslept.

- Good morning, family.
- Mm-hmm.

Jessica. How is everybody?J. HENRY: Fine.

So now that we are all here,

did you come up
with any Christmas ideas

for things that we can do?

Any ideas?
There's no wrong answers.

Um, we usually decorate
the Christmas tree together.

Their trees already decorated.

Oh, right.

Doesn't mean
we can't decorate another tree.

You want to chop down
one of these trees?

Nope. No trees will be chopped.

- Where are you going with this?
- We are gonna decorate them
right where they are,

and we're gonna make ornaments
that are okay for the animals

to eat if they want.

And let's face it,
they probably want.

We'll make the ornaments?

Yep, and then you can see
the trees

every time you look out
- the back window.
- That's cool.

It is cool.

Thanks. It's something
I used to do with my mom

when I was growing up. We had
this pine tree in the back yard

and we would decorate that
sometimes instead of buying one.

I think that's the first bit
of personal information

I've ever heard from you.

- Is it?
- Yeah.

Huh.

Okay.

Who's ready to get started?[GIGGLES]

[LAUGHS]

Okay. Now we get to make
the ornaments.

And I have some bags
of bird seed in my car.

- Come on, let's go! Race you!
- You just happen to have
bird seed in your car?

- ABBY: Wait for me.
- And all-weather fairy lights.
It's called "not winging it".

- Mm.
- Mm-hmm. [CHUCKLES]

["CHRISTMAS TIME IS HERE AGAIN"
PLAYING]

♪ Christmas time is here again ♪

♪ With all of winter chill ♪

♪ All the people gather round
As Christmas Day draws near ♪

♪ Snow falling
Never had so much fun ♪

♪ We're rocking on
Christmas Day ♪

[ALL CHEER, CLAP]

♪ Ding, dong, ding♪

How's your dough coming, Emma?

Fine.

- I'm mainly helping Abby.
- Don't forget
to have fun yourself.

This is your Christmas, too.

I know, I'm just
used to helping them.

Hmm. I can see that.
But you know,

that's what your Uncle Max
and I are here for.

For now. Then we go
to the boarding school

- and it'll be just us again.
- Yeah.

That's okay. We can handle it.

- What now?
- Now we wait for them to dry

and then tonight we can hang
them on the tree.

So, what are we gonna do
until then?

- What would you like to do?
- Oh, ooh, ooh. I have an idea.

[LAUGHS]
Are you winging it right now?

As a matter of fact I am.[CHUCKLES]

What's the most Christmassy
of Christmas activities?

Could you tell us?

[HORSE SNORTS]
A carriage ride!

[ALL LAUGH]
MAX: Come on!

[SNORTS]

Put the blanket down there.

- You like horses?
- Yeah.

I used to love reading books
about horses when I was little.

- Mm. Do you ride?
- A little.

My Aunt Mathilda
knew I loved horses

and let me take lessons
on the weekends.

Mm. I'm sure your uncles

could arrange more lessons
for you over your spring break.

There's plenty of equestrian
centers here.

Mm-hmm. [CHUCKLES]
Okay, shall we?

[MUSIC PLAYING]

MAX:
- I could get used to the snow.
- EMMA: This is so beautiful.

- J. HENRY: This is so much fun.
- ABBY: I love this.

EMMA: Can I drive... [CHUCKLES]
...please.

I think they like it.

- This is cool, hey?
- Mm-hmm.

Good call.

Wha-- Could you say that
a little louder?

[GROANS] Oh. [LAUGHS]
Maybe record it?
Perhaps post it on social media?

Well, at least
you're not gloating.

[EMMA LAUGHING]
This is fun.

I haven't done this
since my last winter

- in college, I think.
- I never have.

I think it's safe to say

you and I had some very
different childhoods.

Apparently.[CHUCKLES]

Oh. [CHUCKLES] Sorry.

[MUSIC PLAYING]

EMMA: C'mon guys, let's go.J. HENRY: Thanks!

- MAX: Wasn't that great?
- ABBY: We so need
to do this again.

[CHUCKLES]
Good.

[HORSE SNORTING]

- ABBY: Thank you, that was fun.
- MAX: You're welcome.

[CELLPHONE CHIMES, VIBRATING]J. HENRY: That was fun. Thanks.

JESSICA: Who's that?

Uh, that was my buddy. [SIGHS]

He's upset that I'm delaying
my Christmas trip to Whistler,

especially after our friend,
- Hal, already bowed out.
- Oh.

Why'd Hal bow out?[HORSE SNORTING]

He wanted to spend time
with his wife and her family.

Hmm, imagine that. [LAUGHS]
I know, right?

What about your family?

How come you're not spending
Christmas with them?

- I don't have any.
- None?

My parents got a divorce
when I was really young

and it was just me and my mom
growing up.

Where is she now?

She passed away when I was
a junior in high school.

I'm sorry.

So you're like us?

I guess so.

And you too, Uncle Max.

I guess I never thought
of it that way.

How about we head up
to the house

and finish decorating
- those trees?
- Sure!

- MAX: Yeah, let's do that.
- JESSICA: Okay.

["JINGLE BELLS" PLAYING]

♪ Dashing through the snow♪

♪ In a one-horse open sleigh ♪

♪ O'er the fields we go
Laughing all the way ♪

♪ Bells on bobtails ring ♪

I like that one.

♪ Making spirits bright ♪

♪ What fun it is to laugh
And sing ♪

♪ A sleighing song tonight ♪

♪ Jingle bells, jingle bells
Jingle all the way ♪

♪ Oh, what fun it is to ride
In a one-horse open sleigh ♪

[ALL CHEER]

- JESSICA: Oh, it's beautiful.
- EMILY: Amazing.

Yeah, good call
on the outdoor trees.

ABBY: So pretty.[CHILDREN LAUGHING]

Oh, now who's gloating?[LAUGHS]

- JESSICA: Hello.
- Hey, Jess, how's it going
at Chez Darlington?

Okay so far.

We did a lot on their first day.

We made tree ornaments,
went on a carriage ride.

Oh, sounds fun.[CHUCKLES] That was Max's idea.

The crotchety uncle?

JESSICA:
I never said he was crotchety.

Are you reading Dickens again?

I am, actually.

So, then what's he like?

Basically,
big kid with all the toys

and no responsibility.

Cute?

Mm. Yeah, but see aforementioned
"big kid."

- Can't take him seriously.
- ZOE: Oh, too bad.

I really would like you to find
someone now that you're done

with law school and can't use
"I'm always busy" as an excuse.

Yeah, um, Zoe, I'm gonna
have to call you back.

Okay.

Video link established

and the kids are on
with Mathilda now.

[EXHALES]

Uh-oh, what's up?

So Mr. Lee doesn't like fancy.[JESSICA SIGHS]

Which means as much
as I love the Plaza Ballroom

and the amazing job they do
for us, every year...

It's definitely fancy.

Yeah. Mr. Lee's gonna be
arriving in the States

in less than a week.

He's meeting with us
and York Ventures

to see who he feels more
comfortable with.

Well, he should totally pick us.

York Ventures already has
a ton of business in Taiwan--

Which means we need it more,
which means

we're gonna work harder
for them.

- How do you know that?
- I do pay attention, you know.

- Do you?
- Yes.

My MBA
is not entirely decorative.

So, what're you gonna do?[SIGHS]

I don't know.

I also don't like to go
to Charles with a problem

if I don't already have
the solution.

[CLICKS TONGUE]
Well, no pressure

but the Christmas party
is next week.

Thanks. [CHUCKLES]

MAX: You know what I do

when I'm trying
to figure something out?

I know it's not make a list.

No. But it is have fun.[JESSICA CHUCKLING]

["DECK THE HALLS" PLAYING]

♪ Deck the halls
With boughs of holly ♪

♪ Fa-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la ♪

♪ 'Tis the season
To be jolly... ♪

Oh, look!

- Puzzles!
- EMMA: Hot chocolate!

I'll... And I'll...

[LAUGHS]

Here it is.

MAX:
You really like puzzles, huh?

- Yeah.
- So did your dad.

I know.
We used to do them together.

He was good at putting
things together.

He really was, wasn't he?

He tried and tried
to get me to sit still

to learn how to play chess
but I could not do it.

I guess that's why he became
the engineering professor

and I didn't, huh?

So 2,000 pieces?

That will take between 15
and 20 hours on average.

So if we work a couple of hours
each day

we'll be done on Christmas.

Oh wait, you're leaving
before then.

[SOMBER MUSIC PLAYING]

Well, then we'll just have
to work harder, won't we?

[BELL DINGS]

- MAX: Hey.
- Oh, hey.

I need your orders
for the hot chocolates.

The options are... Oh, a list.

Shush.
There is iced hot chocolate,

frozen hot chocolate,
salted caramel,

cinnamon, Belgian dark,
and peppermint white chocolate.

Peppermint.

- Salted caramel.
- Really?

I would have
totally called Belgian dark.

I am a man of many mysteries.

Mm-hmm.

- Max, good to see you again.
- Hey, Gus.

Come here often?

Oh, only every Christmas
when he practically buys me out.

Well, it's uh,

it's no big deal. [CHUCKLES]
GUS: It is a big deal.

The Boys and Girls Club
are always sending me

their thanks because this one
won't put his name on the gifts.

Well, today we are here
just to buy this puzzle.

KATE: Here you go.

I'll be right back
with your Christmas cupcake.

[DOOR CREAKS]

- PHIL: Jessica.
- Phil, hi.

- Havin' some Christmas fun?
- I am, yes.

PHIL: Good, glad to hear it.

Especially since we plan
to keep you very busy

once you start
in our department.

[LAUGHS][LAUGHS] I am looking forward
to the challenge.

That's what I like to hear.
Let's hit the ground runnin'.

See you soon.[CHUCKLES] Okay.

EMMA: Who was that?

My new boss as of January 4th.

You aren't working
for Uncle Charles anymore?

- Not directly. I'll be in legal.
- Is that fun?

Probably not fun. But steady.

Have you always wanted
to be a lawyer?

Mm, not necessarily.

But I always knew I wanted
to help people.

- Like me.
- A lot like you.

I like fun.

[LAUGHS][ABBY LAUGHING]

Well, do you like hot chocolate?

- ABBY: Yeah!
- Okay.

Is this helping you come up
with a solution?

Alas, no. But it is delicious.

Solution to what?

Jessica has a problem to solve.

And when I posed it
to your Uncle Max

his solution was to have fun.

- A suggestion which you followed.
- I did. No regrets.

What's the problem?

I have to change
the company Christmas party.

Very last minute.

Thank you for hammering
that point home.

Oh, you're welcome.[LAUGHS]

[LAUGHS]
Why do you have to change it?

Because your Uncle Charles
wants to impress

a very special guest that
he wants to do business with.

And the plans that we have
right now won't accomplish that.

What did you have planned?

A very fancy party
at a very fancy hotel.

But Mr. Lee--That's our special guest.

Right. He doesn't like fancy.

- Uh-oh.
- Uh-oh is right.

[GIGGLES]
What does Mr. Lee like?

- Family.
- That's nice.

JESSICA: That is nice.

But it's also very vague.
I mean, how do you show family?

Not at the Plaza.[LAUGHS] No.

Maybe you could have the party
at someone's house.

I like it when I go
to friends' houses for parties.

- True.
- Homes feel like family to me.

[CHUCKLES]
That's a really great idea.

We should have just
asked you first.

Good job, Em. Up top.[LAUGHS]

Okay, so now I just have
to find a house.

Darlington.

What? It makes the most sense.

My family used to throw
huge parties growing up,

and it's connected to us,
which is the whole point.

You know, if I didn't know
any better I would say that you,

Mr. Darlington, know a thing
or two about business.

Well, it's a good thing
you know better.

Hmm.

[CHILDREN LAUGHING]
What?

You've got foam on your mouth.

Where? Here?

Right here.[JESSICA LAUGHING]

[ALL LAUGH]

- Still?
- ABBY: [GIGGLING]
Yeah, it's still there.

I'm meeting Lena Thomas
in town tomorrow for coffee

and also to give her the update
on the kids.

Okay, cool. I'll totally
corrupt them while you're gone.

[LAUGHS] Excellent.
I'm also gonna call Charles

about the changes
to the Christmas party.

I mean,
unless you wanna tell him,

'cause it was your idea.
Well, yours and Emma's.

- No, you go ahead.
- You sure?

Yeah. He won't listen to me,
but he will listen to you.

Or... [INHALES] ...anybody else.

Trust me. Story of my life.

[SOMBER MUSIC PLAYING]

[WHIMSICAL MUSIC PLAYING]

First you gotta find
all of the corners,

then the edges,
then you group them together.

- Very logical.
- Thank you.

I wanna help.

Promise not to take
the pieces away?

- They gotta stay together.
- I promise.

- Okay then.
- Where's Jessica?

She's in town meeting
with Ms. Lena.

Has she told Uncle Charles
our idea yet?

Uh...

The Christmas party
at the Darlington house?

JESSICA:
It's the most logical place

for a party of this size
on such short notice.

But,
that is not the only reason.

Oh?

I heard York Ventures will be
doing the wine and dine route

with Mr. Lee when he's in town,

which means the best way
for us to separate ourselves

from them is to show the people
of Darlington

in a family-oriented setting.

Okay, okay. I can see that.

That's a good idea.

That was actually Max's idea.

Max?

Yes. He's a lot more
dialed into the company

than I ever realized.[LAUGHS]
We're talking about Max.

JESSICA: Yes, Max!

And he's been really great
with the kids, too.

- Good, good.
- JESSICA: And I had another idea.

I think that we should open up
the Christmas party

to the families of Darlington
Corporation's employees.

To families?

- JESSICA: Yes.
- We've never done that.

Well, it's because we've always
had our events at locations

that weren't family friendly.

But it can't look like
a circus, either.

It'll be different,

but I really do believe
that we can thread the needle

between professionally
impressive and family-oriented.

There's a lot riding on this...
[SIGHS] ...but...

okay.

I trust you, Jess.[SIGHS]

It's gonna be perfect.
[CHUCKLES]

[LAUGHS][LAUGHS]

LENA: Aw.
Thanks for keeping me updated.

I've never seen them look
this happy.

I'm glad they're in such
good hands.

It was the right idea to have
them stay here over Christmas.

Can I ask you a question?

How did you get into family law?

Oh, same way most people do.
Personal experience.

I had family members who were
trying to navigate

the legal system
and it inspired me

to become their advocate.

I interned at a family law firm
for a while.

What drew you to family law?

[SIGHS, CHUCKLES]

Something similar.

My mom passed when I was
a junior in high school

and my legal advocate got me
through a lot of tough times.

What stopped you?

Finances. [LAUGHS]

I had to work my way
through college, and then

after graduating I got the job
as an admin at Darlington

to save and then went back
to night school after that.

And that's when Charles
hired you on as his EA.

Is that why you chose
corporate law instead of family?

Because of where
you were working?

It was an influence, yes.
[CHUCKLES]

Understandable.

Family law is hard
and it is not always rewarding.

But when it is...

it touches
your heart like nothing else.

Listen, I know you're about
to start a new position,

but in my opinion you have
exactly what it takes

to be a great
family law attorney.

At least consider it.

We can talk later.

[MUSIC PLAYING]

MAX: J. Henry that looks great.[MACHINE WHIRRING]

Here...[LAUGHS]

Smells good.

What's all this?

Christmas cookies!

[LAUGHS][JESSICA LAUGHING]

It seemed like a good idea
at the time.

[LAUGHS]

E-- e-- Everything
is perfectly under control.

- I have no doubt, Mrs. Brooks.
- What if Mrs. Brooks wasn't here?

I would have so much doubt.

Are you gonna join us?

Of course.
Where are the raisins?

What-- wha-- Raisins?

You can't have raisins
in Christmas cookies.

- Of course you can.
- No. It's either shortbread
or sugar.

- I like shortbread.
- I like sugar.

- See?
- I like oatmeal raisin.

No. No oatmeal raisin.

I can't believe
I'm explaining to you

the rules of Christmas cookies.[LAUGHS]

The only rule
is that they have to be shaped

into something Christmassy,
like a Santa or a star.

No, that is a 100 percent
not true.

JESSICA: It's a 100 percent true
if I say it is.

Oh, this is the thing
that you're gonna rebel against?

We all have
our chosen battlefields.

[JESSICA LAUGHS][LAUGHS]

What about you, Emma?

Do you have a favorite
- Christmas cookie?
- I like toffee.

As did your mother.

- How did you know?
- I used to make it for her.

- You did?
- MRS. BROOKS: [CHUCKLES] Yes.

She taught me how she liked it,
with cinnamon?

Yes.

Do you remember
- how to make them?
- No need. I have her recipe.

It's in here.

Ah, here we go.

That's mom's handwriting.

Emma, would you like to make
some toffee?

Okay. [LAUGHS]
Okay, so what do we need here?

Uh, sugar...

["SILENT NIGHT" PLAYING]

♪ Silent night ♪

♪ Holy night ♪

♪ All is calm ♪

♪ All is bright ♪

♪ Round yon Virgin... ♪

The kids are asleep,
or on their way, I hope.

Excellent.

And he comes bearing soup,
as well.

MAX: Yeah, I thought
you could use a snack.

- Thank you.
- You're welcome.

♪ Sleep in heavenly peace ♪

This looks fantastic.[EXHALES]

♪ Sleep in heavenly... ♪

- Cheers.
- Cheers. [CHUCKLES]

- Mm, that's good.
- Yeah?

Mm-hmm. It's a go
at the Darlington house.

- Nice.
- Mm-hmm.

I just passed along the solution
you helped me come up with.

Oh, well, getting them
to take it seriously

is half the battle.

Is that why you don't get
more involved

with the company, for real?

Maybe. [CHUCKLES]

I think, I um...

I kinda fell into the trap
of the younger brother,

lower expectations thing
and it became a trend.

Mm.

By the time I graduated, Charles
was already running the company

and there wasn't really
a role for me.

But you're the president.

Yeah, but we both know
that that's in name only.

Do you want it to be more?

I used to.

But um...

life had its own ideas.

Yeah.

I get that.

♪ ...so tender and mild ♪

Are you thinking about your mom? ♪ Sleep in heavenly peace ♪

Christmas has a way of bringing
up a lot of memories.

I hear ya.

It's been a while
since I celebrated.

- Like this, with family.
- Yeah. [CHUCKLES] Me too.

Not that we're family.

I disagree.

I think we are.

I mean,
at least through Christmas.

["SILENT NIGHT" PLAYING]

Mm.

["DECK THE HALLS" PLAYING]

[CHILDREN CLAMORING]

- ABBY: Face painting!
- Chocolate.

- That's not an activity.
- Well, it is for me.

You guys are giving
awesome suggestions.

This Christmas party
is gonna rock. Thank you.

Oh. There's Zoe. I'm gonna
pop over for a quick hello.

Okay. I'll meet you
at Santa's workshop.

- Hi.
- There you are.

- Is she here?
- That's a no.

Ah.

Well, maybe it's not no
but not yet.

Or it's no.

I should have been braver,
given her the flyer myself

so she knew I wanted her here.

I mean, what do I really know
about her

besides adorable
and an excellent baker?

Okay, breathe.

[LAUGHS]

Distract me.

[JESSICA CHUCKLES]
Where's the cute
not crotchety uncle?

Max is over there. Red scarf.

No way. That's your Max?

[ALL LAUGH]

Well, he's not my Max.
Wait, do you know him?

Uh, yeah.

He volunteers
in the pediatric ward

being awesome.

Why didn't you tell me?

Because I only know
that guy as Max,

or cute Max, as some say.

- Cute Max?
- Yes.

Empirically, he's very well
put together.

Also, a really good person.

Remind me again why you
don't have a crush on him?

Well-- I...

I mean, he's-- he's Max.

I have never thought of him
that way.

Yeah, you do tend
to get tunnel vision

and forget to see
what's in front of your face.

There are other craft options.

I like pine cones.
Pine cones are fun.

[CHUCKLES]
Not if you step on them.

Then don't step on them.
Right, kids?

Yeah.[LAUGHS]

Yeah.

[LAUGHS]
Your friend Zoe looks familiar.

Yeah, she's a surgeon
at St. Francis.

She recognized you, too,
from your volunteer work,

which you have never mentioned.

Well, we haven't spent that much
quality time together.

Do you tell Charles about it?

Or your work with the Boys
and Girls Club?

There's no reason to tell
anyone any of it.

[CHUCKLES] Why?

Because then it takes
away from it.

You should do the right thing

because it's the right thing
to do, not to brag about it.

[MIMICKING ROARING][LAUGHS]

JESSICA: Oh, Kate showed up![CHUCKLES]

Whatcha doin'?

Last minute tweaks
for the layouts for the party.

[CHUCKLES] You're working
very hard at a job

you technically no longer have.

Because it is important to me
that I do a good job.

Plus, I don't want your brother
to think

that I don't appreciate him
for all the years of support

he gave me
so I could get my degree.

[LAUGHS]
Charles is the lucky one.

I don't know
how your replacement

is gonna live up to your legend.

Especially after this Christmas.

Everyone is acting like me
volunteering to help

watch the kids
is something extraordinary.

It is.

That's part of what makes you
the amazing Jessica.

[FIRE CRACKLING]

[CELLPHONE CHIMES, VIBRATES]

[DOOR OPENS]

Hey, Abby.

- What's going on?
- I had a nightmare.

Oh no.

What about?

A fish.

[CHUCKLES] A fish?

It was a really big fish.

Oh.

That's scary.

Will you read to me?

Yeah, of course.

[EXHALES]

What've you got there?

-The Wizard of Oz.
- Oh.

I love this book.

[CLEARS THROAT]

"Hour after hour passed away,

and slowly Dorothy
got over her fright.

But she felt quite lonely,

and the wind shrieked
so loudly all about her

that she nearly came deaf."

Hey. Everything okay?

- Do you know where Abby is?
- Um...

MAX: "At last she
crawled over the swaying floor

to her bed, and lay down upon it

and Toto followed
and lay down beside her."

"In spite of the swaying house
and the wailing of the wind,

Dorothy soon closed her eyes
and fell fast asleep."

[WHISPERS]
She just had a little nightmare,

but I think she's okay now.

She usually comes to me
when that happens.

What's wrong, honey?

I just-- I'm worried about them
getting too attached...

when we just have to leave again
for the boarding school.

Especially after you just left
your aunt.

But, Em, you know this will
still be your home

even when you come back
from Paden.

And if I have my way you'll be
coming back here a lot.

- Get some sleep.

- Goodnight.
- Goodnight.

- Thank you.
- MAX: You're welcome.

[CLEARS THROAT, EXHALES]

You're getting really good
at this uncle thing.

You think so? [EXHALES]
JESSICA: Mm-hmm.

I feel so uncertain
all the time.

I think uncertainty
is a part of parenting.

-[LAUGHS] Parenting?
- JESSICA: Mm-hmm.

I never thought of it like that.

Then why did you offer
to help me?

I mean, you could have gone
to Whistler with your buddies.

Well, when um...

when the accident
first happened...

Charles was right.

We weren't ready
to be guardians.

And Mathilda,
she's a wonderful person

so it made sense
them being there.

I-- I wanna do more than just
visit them once in a while.

Growing up, um...

Jarrett was my idol.

My parents were older
and a little distracted

and Charles already had
his own life

by the time I came along...

and Jarrett was there for me.

Always.

So showing his kids Christmas--It's the least I can do.

You're doing a really good job.[CHUCKLES]

You promise?

I promise.

That means a lot.

- JESSICA: Oh.
- Late night snacking?

Yep.[MRS. BROOKS CHUCKLING]

And it is way past my bedtime.

Goodnight, everyone.

Goodnight.

MRS BROOKS: Max...

don't mess this up.

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

MRS BROOKS: Yes, you do.

I was there the first time
you saw her.

You almost ran into a door.
[CHUCKLES]
I-- No, I...

[SIGHS]

She's way out of my league,
Mrs. B.

Listen,
I've watched you grow up.

I know that there is
so much more to you

than you let even
yourself realize.

Yeah, but...

she doesn't take me seriously.
I mean, why would she?

Oh, my dear Max.

You have to figure out
how to take yourself seriously

before anyone else will.

[FIRE CRACKLING]

I think I may have
- a crush on Max.
- Yes!

Such good news.[CHUCKLES] Is it?

Because my head
is kinda spinning.

Because he's too handsome?[EXHALES]
Because it'll change things.

- Into awesome.
- Into the unknown.

And you know how much I hate
the unknown, which is why--

Take the chocolate fudge instead
of the Christmas roll fudge

because chocolate is safe
while Christmas roll

is oddly exotic albeit
in a still safely Christmas way.

Wow, you just went down
an analogy rabbit hole.

ZOE: You followed.[CHUCKLES]

Jess, sweetie,
you can't be too cautious

because then you'll miss out.

- Do you think I'm too cautious?
- Sometimes.

Oh. I never used to be.

When I was young
I was bold and brave.

I remember your eighth grade

tap dancing ventriloquist
talent act.

[CHUCKLES] You are never
gonna let me live that down.

Never. But you being cautious

after losing your mom
makes sense.

Maybe I am missing out
on some things.

Hey, do you wanna go
dress shopping with me?

I have a sudden compulsion
to look really, really good

for tomorrow night's
Christmas party.

I can't.

- I have a date.
- Wh--

[ZOE CHUCKLES][GASPS]

[LAUGHS]
I wanna hear everything!

[ZOE GIGGLING]

- Jess?
- Hey, Max!

Hey.

Are those--The uniforms.

It's very nice.

You know, Max, there's something
that we haven't done yet

that is oh, so Christmassy.

MAX: Oh...

what's that?

["WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS"
PLAYING]

♪ We wish you
A Merry Christmas ♪

♪ We wish you
A Merry Christmas ♪

♪ We wish you
A Merry Christmas ♪

♪ And a Happy New Year ♪

♪ Good tidings we bring ♪

♪ To you and your kin ♪

♪ We wish you
A Merry Christmas ♪

Yay![ALL CHEER]

All right, give me a high-five.
Yay! One, two, three.

[CAMERA SHUTTER CLICKS]

JESSICA: One, two.

Snowball fight![SCREAMS, LAUGHS]

♪ To you and your kin♪

♪ We wish you
A Merry Christmas ♪

[ALL SCREAM, CHEER]

I'm gonna get you![JESSICA LAUGHING]

[MUSIC ENDS]

EMMA: Oh, no!

- J. HENRY: I am gonna get you!
- CHARLES: Hey! Be careful!

Uncle Charles!

Hey!

Wow. What a warm welcome.

I'm sure my schedule had you
coming back later on tonight.

Actually, I changed
the plans last second.

Sorry, I wanted to be refreshed
for the big day tomorrow,

and of course to see
my beautiful nieces and nephew.

- How are you all?
- CHILDREN: Good.

- I like to hear that.
- We made ornaments!

And went on a carriage ride
with a horse.

And we're building
a Christmas puzzle.

That sounds very Christmassy.

All right kids, let's get
cleaned up and ready for dinner.

Charles will tell us
about his trip later.

Can I have some hot chocolate?

I think that can be arranged.
Come on.

Hey...[SIGHS]

...when did Max
become Mr. Rogers?

Max has been full of surprises.

MAX: Hey, Charles?

Yeah?

Could I talk to you for a second
about my role at Darlington?

Your role?

Yeah. About doing more.

Can we talk about it
after the Christmas party?

I'm pretty wiped out
from the trip.

- Yeah, sure.
- All right, thanks.

That's a nice suit.

- Thank you. You, too.
- Thank you.

Oh, wow.
Don't you two look pretty?

Thank you, Uncle Max. [CHUCKLES]
You both look pretty, too.

Thank you.[LAUGHS]

[J. HENRY GROANING]

Oh, what's up?[GROANS]

- I need help.
- What've we got here?

You almost got it.

You just gotta take
this big one,

cross it over, and up...

down and through.

And you look like a Darlington.

Yes, I do. [CHUCKLES]

["JINGLE BELLS" PLAYING]

[INDISTINCT CHATTER]

Is it done yet?

Almost. Oh, my.

You're going to look like
a little Christmas angel.

[CHUCKLES]

- ZOE: Hi.
- Hi.

It's Max, right?

- Yeah, Zoe. Right?
- Yes. [LAUGHS]

- Ah, yes.
- Yes.

Uh, we know each other
from the hospital

where Max volunteers.

And through Jessica.

- MAX: Hmm.
- Um, Max, this is Kate.
Kate, Max.

Kate, it's nice to meet you.

Same.
Your house is really beautiful.

- Oh, thank you.
- Can we come back?

[LAUGHS][LAUGHS]

Yeah, anytime.

Sounds like you and Jess
have been having fun

- with your nieces and nephew.
- Yes.

Yes, the kids have been great
and, well, Jess is amazing.

No argument here,
and I know she's really enjoyed

spending time with you
and the kids.

Hi.

- Hi. So wonderful to see you.
- Hi.

Great to see you, too.

Have you seen the children?
They're over by the Christmas--

I saw. They are having
quite the time.

I'm glad to see that things
are going so well.

Well, Max is really great
with them.

Well, Emma says
that you're a big part

of making them
feel at home, too.

She does?
Hmm, well, they make it easy.

Have you thought about
my suggestion?

- Yes, a lot, actually.
- I hear a "but."

I don't have
any practical experience.

You have something better.
Personal experience.

And instinct.
Neither of which can be taught.

I just owe so much
to Charles and Darlington.

I mean, they have been
incredibly generous to me

- over the years.
- I see.

Well, you have my info
if you should change your mind.

Thank you.

Hi.

Hi. [CHUCKLES]

You look really beautiful
in that dress.

Thank you.

You look very handsome yourself.
[CHUCKLES]
Thank you.

What time are you heading
to Whistler tomorrow?

I'm n-- I'm not. I-- I pushed it
'til after Christmas

and the kids go to Paden, so...[CHUCKLES]

That's Mr. Lee.

That is Mr. Lee.
Do you mind if I...No, go. [LAUGHS]

MAX: I'll be right back.

Mr. Lee. Max Darlington,
Charles's brother.

- Nice to meet you, Max.
- And you.

- So how was, uh, your flight?
- Oh, not bad.

Not nearly as long as my flight
from Harbin. [CHUCKLES]

Harbin?

You know, I was in Harbin
about five years ago

for the Ice Festival.
Have you been?

Of course, yes. It's one
of the best winter experiences.

Oh, totally. My favorite part
was the um,

uh, the Lantern Art Fair.

- CHARLES: Excuse me.
- VICTOR: Mine, as well.

I'm taking my daughter there
in January.

Oh, well, we should meet up.

CHARLES: Victor.

- It's so good to see you.
- Charles.

I'm sorry I missed you
- coming in.
- Oh, it's okay. Uh,

Max and I were just discussing
the Harbin Ice Festival.

- Oh.
- I wasn't aware that Darlington
is a family-run company.

Well--[CHUCKLES] Yes, I mean,

family has always been
an integral part

of Darlington Corporation,

starting with our grandfather
and great uncle

and now continuing
with Charles and myself.

Good family, good company.

This is our motto
at Liuxing Motors.

Victor,
I would love to introduce you

to some of our
other board members.

- Of course.
- Right this way.

Okay, Max, good job.
I'll take it from here.

Yeah, but we were just
in a conversation--

This is a very important deal.

I'm aware of that--[CHUCKLES] Max, just go do
what you do. Go have fun.

JESSICA: Hey.

Hey.

You must be freezing.[CHUCKLES]

- Thank you.
- You're welcome.

You okay? You seemed upset.

No, I'm fine.

Did something happen
between you and your brother?

No. Nothing I'm not used to.

It's just, it's hard to change
people's opinions of you...

especially when they've
held them for so many years.

Charles only sees
what you show him.

It's what we've all seen.

I know that there is
so much more to you.

Well, it...

it helps when somebody
believes in you.

It does.

And I do.

ABBY: Uncle Max! Jessica!

Hey, Abby. What's up?

I made some more
outdoor ornaments

to replace the ones
the birds ate.

Nicely done.
What's the carrot for?

A deer ate the snowman's nose.

[LAUGHS][LAUGHS]

These are so beautiful.

Mr. Lee. Hi, I'm Jessica Lew,
Charles' personal assistant.

[SPEAKING TAIWANESE]

Merry Christmas to you, too.
And a pleasure to meet you.

Victor saw the lights
from the window

and wanted to come take
a closer look.

I put two new ornaments
on the trees

to replace the ones
the birds ate.

They're okay for animals.

- I'm delighted to hear it.
- This is our niece,
Abby Darlington.

Yesterday we built a snowman.
Do you build snowmen?

As a matter of fact, I do.

I was telling your Uncle Max
about taking my daughter

to the Harbin Ice Festival
next month.

Perhaps you could come visit us,
and bring your uncles, too.

Well, that sounds like
a great idea.

That is an excellent plan.

Shall we?

Yes. [LAUGHS][ABBY LAUGHS]

[CLEARS THROAT]

You have a lovely family,
Charles.

I couldn't agree with you more.

- I'm so happy you came.
- Thank you.

- Good morning.
- Hey.

Excellent.

You two are exactly
who I wanted to talk to.

Can you join me
in the office please?

We are in business!

- Mr. Lee?
- Wants Darlington Corporation
for the joint venture in Taiwan.

That is fantastic news!

- Congratulations!
- To you two!

One of the big factors
in Victor's decision

was how welcome he felt
at our Christmas party.

You were right.

He puts a great deal of emphasis
on family in everything he does,

which was why
he especially loved

that we put emphasis on family
at our Christmas party.

- So I wanna thank you both.
- Ah, we were just doing our jobs.

CHARLES: About that.[CHUCKLES]

Victor made a point of saying

how much he enjoyed
your company, Max.

- Really? He did?
- Yes, and he's looking forward

to going to Harbin with you
and the children

if they can get the time
off school.

Yeah, well, that's gonna be fun.

Also, I wanna... [CLEARS THROAT]

...apologize if I was short
with you last night.

You've done a great job.

Thank you, Charles.

So you wanna be more involved
with the company?

Uh, yeah, I do.

Well, that is great
because Victor

specifically asked for you
to be the liaison on this deal.

- Really?
- CHARLES: Really.

I-- [LAUGHS] I don't--
I don't know what to say.[LAUGHS]

I'm so surprised.

You think you can handle it?

I can.

CHARLES: Good.
You'll need to pack your bags.

Excuse me?

Well, if you're gonna run
the Taiwan division

you'll need to get
started immediately.

Your flight leaves Thursday
to Taipei.

- This Thursday?
- Yes.

But that means he's gonna
miss Christmas with the kids.

Yes. That is unfortunate...

[SIGHS]
...but I will be with them

until they settle at Paden,
then I'll fly over to join you.

This initial trip is to lay
the groundwork,

then you go over in February
on a more permanent basis.

I'm proud of you, Max.

Congratulations.

Thank you.

Congratulations.[CHUCKLES]
Thanks. Yeah, it's um...

I'm just... [SIGHS]

...tryna wrap my brain
- around it.
- Yeah, of course.

But it's a great opportunity.
And--

and you wanted a bigger role
in the company and you got it.

What's wrong?

Nothing. [CHUCKLES]

[INDISTINCT CHATTER]

We gotta tell the kids.

Yeah...

we do.

You're not gonna be here
for Christmas?

No, but your Uncle Charles
will be.

And you can teach him
how to make Christmas cookies

and how to throw snowballs
and make snow angels.

Okay.

Will you be here for Christmas?

If you want me to.

- They're sending him to Taiwan.
- No!

Yeah.[GRUNTS]

Exactly.

How long is "permanent basis?"

My guess, a couple years?

- No.
- JESSICA: Yeah.

Oh.

Are you gonna tell him?

- What?
- That you...

No. It is way too soon.

Seven years would be
insufficient to make some people

acquainted with each other

and seven days are more
than enough for others.

Dickens?

Austen.

[CHUCKLES]

[LAUGHS]
I figured you had to see them

in their Christmas sweaters
at least once.

They're awesome.

ABBY: We'll miss you, Uncle Max!

Hey.

We didn't get to finish
the puzzle.

That's right.

Well, don't worry.
Jessica will help you.

She's much better
than I am anyway.

That is true.[CHILDREN GIGGLING]

- Hey.
- All right, Max.

You ready?

Ready.

Merry Christmas.

ALL: Merry Christmas.

[VEHICLE ENGINE STARTS]

Who wants hot chocolate?

- Can I have the first one?
- CHARLES: Sure.

[JESSICA CHUCKLES]

We're missing a piece.

I gave it to Uncle Max.

Why?

So he could think about us
over Christmas while he's away.

I wish he was here and we could
all be together.

It's not the same.

Yeah.

JESSICA: Can I help you
with anything, Mrs. Brooks?

Oh, all done. Thank you, though.

How far away is Paden?

It's in Vermont. Near Canada.

It would take approximately
five hours to get there.

But can we live here
on the weekends?

- It would be impractical.
- ABBY: Oh.

I really like it here.

Me too.

We'll get used to Paden,
like we've always done before.

She's right.

I'll be right back.

- Can I speak to you for a minute?
- Sure.

What do you know
about Riverside School

down the street?

It's excellent. Why?

I think the kids should go there
instead of Paden.

Riverside isn't a boarding school.

I know.

The kids would come home
every day here,

do their homework, eat, sleep
and just be regular kids.

Who'd watch them?

I would.

You would give up
your career as an attorney

- to watch my nieces and nephew?
- No, I would still be
an attorney.

I mean, it is the 21st century
and there is a happy medium

between kids in boarding school
and me giving up my career.

- Fair enough.
- JESSICA: I mean...

if I can be your full-time EA

and go to law school
and pass the bar, I can do this.

I am excellent
with time management.

Yes, you are.

But, why would you wanna
do this?

[CHUCKLES] Because I love them.

Seven years, seven days,
seven minutes.

It doesn't matter how long
I've known them

or that they're not related
to me.

I want the best for those kids
because I love them.

[CHUCKLES] Hmm.

Okay.

Okay?

Okay. We can work something out.

Okay!

[GASPS, CHUCKLES]
CHARLES:
Lena was right about you.

She said you're an excellent
advocate for the children.

- Lena?
- She told me
that she approached you

about coming to work for her.

- She did?
- CHARLES: Yes.

We've known each other
since college,

there's a mutual respect there.

So have you thought
about her offer?

- Well, yes, of course.
- And?

I turned it down.

Why?

Because I already have a job.
I think.

Jessica...

you will always
have a job at Darlington.

The question is, is a job
in our legal department

the one you truly want?

No.

I don't wanna be
a corporate lawyer.

I wanna be in family law.

[CHUCKLES] I've-- I've always
wanted to be in family law

and protect families and I--

I think I just forgot
for a minute.

I'm glad you remembered.

You should never settle.

- Can you watch the kids?
- Sure.

Wait. Where are you going?

To be bold and brave. [CHUCKLES]

MAX:
This is Max, leave a message.

Max?

Call me when you get this.[CELLPHONE BEEPS]

[CELLPHONE BEEPING]

[DIAL TONE RINGING]

LENA: This is Lena Thomas.
Please leave a message.

This is Jessica Lew.

I thought about what you said
and you are right.

Family law is where I belong.

I am gonna take you up
on your offer.

[TIRES SCREECH]

- You're here!
- Yeah. Where are you going?

To the airport.

To stop you.

- What's wrong?
- No, nothing.
Nothing's wrong, I...

I just realized that
I don't want you to go,

so I thought I would
tell you that and then,

you know, maybe you wouldn't...

go. [SIGHS]

Wait, are you being impulsive?

I am. [LAUGHS]

I-- I made a list.

- You did?
- Yes. Of all the reasons
to stay and go to Taiwan,

and I gotta be honest,
there was a lot of reasons to--

to go but...

Only one big one to stay.

Which is?

Love. [CHUCKLES]

I love the kids and...

I have been in love with you...

for two-and-a-half years
since the first day I saw you.

And I know I have a lot of work
to do to be worthy of you.

You inspire me in so many ways,
every single--

Sorry.

I'm just-- I'm being
impulsive again! [LAUGHS]

Is this gonna be a thing?

- Maybe.
- I mean, 'cause I was

in the middle
of a pretty good speech--[LAUGHS]

[LAUGHS]

I love you, too.

You do?

I do.

Even though I may have just lost
my fledgling career?

Let's find out.

MRS. BROOKS: Children?

CHILDREN: Uncle Max!

- J. HENRY: You're here!
- I thought you were getting
on a plane.

I was, but--
Okay, here's the deal. [EXHALES]

I wanna have a greater voice
at the Darlington Corporation.

I think I can add value and...

I wanna make you proud.

And I'm very aware
that not getting on that plane

to Taiwan undermines
those goals, but...

I can't leave the children
and Jess,

- especially during Christmas.
- I see.

And I still think we can make
it work with Taiwan and Mr. Lee,

even if I don't live there.

And I'm still open to going
to Taiwan after the holidays.

Uh-huh.

But I understand if you wanna
replace me as liaison.

Max, one of the first things
you gotta keep in mind

when we're negotiating
is who has the leverage.

And right now you do.

- I do?
- You do.

Mr. Lee asked for you.
I'm not gonna get in the way.

Especially when the reason you
want to delay the trip

is 'cause you wanna be
with the kids over Christmas.

How about next time
you just tell me?

We can work it out.

So, we'll leave in January?

- January sounds great.
- But not for too long.

[LAUGHS]

MAX:
And Charles, one more thing.

I don't think the children
should go to Paden.

They should be here with us.

It's what's best for them,
and I-- [STUTTERS]

Charles, I think you know that.

I do.

Which is why I agreed
with Jessica

that they'll go to Riverside
down the street.

Oh.[ALL LAUGH]

- It was a good speech, though.
- It was.

So, we're not leaving?

Nope. The three of you
are gonna be staying

- right here at Darlington.
- Yes!

This is your home.

[JESSICA CHUCKLES]

[LAUGHS][LAUGHS]

I want my own room.

Oh! [LAUGHS]
What about your nightmares?

- I'm not worried.
- I wanna stay in Dad's old room.

Absolutely.

Then I'll get a room of my own.
[CHUCKLES]

[CHUCKLES] Shall we come inside
and get ready for Christmas?

- Yeah.
- Yeah.

Great idea. Come on, kids.[CHILDREN LAUGHING]

I knew you could do it.

You really
are the amazing Jessica.

- And don't you forget it.
- Never.

["JINGLE BELLS" PLAYING]

♪ Jingle bells jingle bells
Jingle all the way ♪

[ALL CHEER, APPLAUD]

EMMA: Finally!

CHARLES: Hot chocolate!

Who would like some
hot chocolate?

- J. HENRY: Me!
- ABBY: Me!

- You would? Really?J.
- HENRY: Thanks.

♪ Jingle all the way ♪

All right. Here you go, Max.

♪ Oh, what fun it is to ride
In a one-horse open sleigh ♪

I'd like to propose a toast.

♪ Dashing through the snow♪

To family.

And Christmas.

And the Darlingtons.

- And the Darlingtons!
- And the Darlingtons!

EMMA: And Mrs. Brooks![MRS. BROOKS LAUGHING]

[ALL CHEERING]

And everyone here.

♪ Making spirits bright

♪ What fun it is
To ride and sing ♪

♪ A sleighing song tonight ♪