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You know Christmas, it's my favorite time of the year

And you know I'm rushing home to see my man

on Christmas.

♪ I'm gonna be there for Christmas ♪

♪ Right next to you on Christmas ♪

♪ I'm gonna be there for Christmas ♪

♪ Just me and you on Christmas ♪

♪ And I'm never gonna let you go ♪

♪ Christmas only comes one time of the year ♪

♪ I'm gonna spend that time with you, my dear ♪

♪ I can't wait to whisper that I love you so ♪

♪ Underneath the mistletoe ♪

♪ Hey ♪

♪ I'm gonna be there for Christmas ♪

♪ Just me and you ♪ ♪ Just me and you ♪

♪ I'm gonna be there ♪ ♪ For Christmas ♪

♪ I'm gonna be there with you ♪

♪ I'm gonna be there for Christmas ♪

♪ Right next to you ♪

♪ Right next to you on Christmas ♪

♪ I'm gonna be ♪ ♪ I'm gonna be there ♪

♪ For Christmas ♪ ♪ Yeah ♪

♪ Just me and you ♪

♪ Just me and you for Christmas ♪

♪ I'm gonna be there ♪

♪ And I'm never gonna let you go ♪

♪ Hey ♪

♪ I'm never gonna let you go ♪

♪ I'm never gonna let you go ♪

♪ Oo ♪

Thank you.

- So, how you feeling? - Yeah. I'm feeling good Zac.

You know, just give it to me straight.

Tonight was good.

Yeah. But there's something else.

Look as your label rep, I probably shouldn't say.

But as my friend.

Okay, well the holiday tour projections were off.

- By? - 42%.

What the what?

Look, the tour could have been better managed.

Oh. But Cardon music is managing it.

Exactly. So I know.

Oh.

But it has to be something else.

Maybe it was tied up in the last album sales.

Probably. And those weren't exactly...

This isn't comforting, is it?

No, it's not. Not really.

Then you probably also don't want to hear

what I just heard.

Gia Cole, what are you doing here?

I'm a music biz journalist.

This is a concert.

You do the math.

No, I mean in the middle of my conversation with Zac.

Well, fine.

Don't hear what I just heard.

What did you just hear?

Your label CEO just changed the lineup

for Cardon Music's Christmas party.

You're not headlining Now.

A call did come in from Rocky while you were performing,

but no message.

So who's headlining?

Oshen.

She's a toddler. Rocky replaced me with her?

She hasn't even sold one 1/10 the number of albums I have.

No, but she's dating India Base

and he's got the number one movie out

and they're seen everywhere together.

That still doesn't make her a better singer.

True. But it does get her a lot of attention.

And you know how Rocky loves it

when Cardon Music gets attention.

Their hashtag is IndiaOshen.

That's terrible.

Yeah. Terribly popular.

Look, Lissette, the point is,

she's playing the game and you don't.

I shouldn't have to at this point in my career.

My Lissette Live album went double gold.

Earned two Grammys.

Yeah, but Matthew produced that one.

I'm sorry, did I say that name out loud?

What name?

No idea.

We good?

Always.

Good night.

♪ It's all Christmas with you, with you ♪

Matthew Miles.

I'm impressed.

- Yeah? - You still got it.

Ah, Teddy Glover's a legend.

He just needed someone to believe in him again.

How are we gonna get people to hear what you hear

and buy what we need them to buy?

The music, it's what's important.

Well, business is too.

We're not even nine months old

and we've already signed three artists.

As your friend, I hear you.

But as your primary investor, I worry.

You always worry, Pete.

Well now I worry with dollar signs.

No, good music brings the people.

PR helps them find a way.

Look, you got many talents,

but you're stubborn when it comes to doing what's needed

to get people to pay attention.

And the world's only getting louder.

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

You okay?

I'm good. I'm good.

Back's just acting up a little.

♪ We're still here ♪

♪ It's all Christmas with you ♪

♪ All the time, time, time ♪

Yeah? Yeah, yeah?

You feeling it? - I'm feeling it.

- Hey mama. - There's my baby.

How'd last night go?

- Good. - What's wrong?

Nothing. I just got a lot on my mind.

You're still coming home for Christmas, aren't you?

It's- - In a week. Yes, I know.

And yes, I'll be home in two days.

Just making sure.

Since you canceled at the last minute last year

and you didn't even try to come home the year before that.

I won't miss this year, Mama, I promise.

Good. Because your sister and your brother miss you

as as much as I do.

And your father does too.

Even though he hasn't said a word about it yet?

I know what he's thinking.

One of the many benefits of being married

for as long as we've been.

Well, I'll take your word on that.

You know, if you wanted to bring someone home, you could.

And have daddy tell me he's only after me

for my fame and fortune?

Nuh uh. Been there, done that.

And besides Mama, there's no one to bring.

Well, what about the man you hinted at last Christmas?

I never said there was someone last Christmas.

No, but I could tell.

A mother senses these things.

Yeah, well the only thing I'll be bringing home

will be myself and lots of presents for my family.

All right, Mom, I gotta go.

I'll call you later. Okay?

Love you. Bye.

Mwah.

Let me guess she's not coming.

Well, you guess wrong, my dear.

We're gonna have all our babies home this Christmas.

- Did you tell her? - Not yet.

Wait until she gets back here.

Hey, how you doing?

Sweet.

Oh yeah, these ones.

Hey, Lissette.

Oh no.

Where did that?

Ow.

Liz.

Matthew? What are you doing?

I thought I was returning a ring to a lady who dropped it,

but my back seized up.

Your back only seizes when you're stressed.

Funny how you remember that.

I also remember how it locked up

when you were breaking up with me.

And somehow this moment gets even more awkward.

I don't think it's awkward.

- Just me then? - Just you.

Don't suppose you want this.

Rings from you. Definitely lost their appeal.

Fair enough.

Oh, thank you.

Ow.

Hey, so what are you doing here?

It's a Christmas market.

Seven days before Christmas, I'm shopping.

Same.

Oh, let me guess.

Final albums of obscure jazz artists.

Not obscure, underappreciated.

Uh huh.

So who are you shopping for?

My family.

I'm finally going home for Christmas

since I haven't been there in the the past two years.

You didn't go back last year?

Well, I wasn't in the mood.

Well, I'd tell you to say hello for me,

but you didn't introduce us despite us dating for two years.

Good, huh?

'Cause you're not the sticking around kind of guy.

I think I stuck around longer than most guys,

given the fact that you basically kept me a secret.

Oh no.

I chose not to do the introductions.

Not really.

You know, Matthew,

I'm so glad the fates allowed us to come back together

to remind me of why we parted last December.

- Hey Liz, I- - And now

I have to get ready for Cardon Music's Christmas party

tomorrow and catch a flight.

I hope your back feels better.

Merry Christmas, Matthew.

Well, well.

♪ Hmm ♪

♪ It don't matter where you're coming from ♪

♪ It's that time of year to have someone ♪

♪ To hold you tight on Christmas night ♪

♪ Yeah, yeah ♪ - Thank you.

♪ Oo, when I look outside my window ♪

So you saw Matthew,

the Matthew I'm not supposed to remember, Matthew?

The very one.

Still cute?

So cute. But nothing's changed.

Of course. Who are we even talking about?

Rocky! Hi.

Did the CEO of my record label

just wave to me and talked to the toddler?

Zac, you're on the inside.

Tell me what it is.

Am I alright?

Well, next year's holiday tour is out.

I've done that tour for 15 years.

And I can't confirm whether or not

he's gonna renew the option for your next project.

It's the game she's playing.

The one I don't want to.

You again.

Now, why are you always so disappointed to see me?

Experience.

Is this about the Darren Fontano story?

Because that was ages ago.

We're both New Orleans girls.

You think you'd want me on your side.

Gia, I know you are an impressive musical journalist,

but can we please give Lissette a break for Christmas?

Okay, but how about a response to the story I just broke.

What story?

About your engagement!

- Oh no. - Lissette, did he propose?

No.

That looks like a proposal.

It wasn't.

- Are you sure? - Yes.

Oh. - You think she knows?

My sister is texting me and my brother.

And social is blowing up.

Over 50,000 likes in over an hour.

And it's not even on your page.

Liss-Mat?

It's your couple hashtag like Giz-Mat.

You are trending.

Seriously?

Is Oshen trending?

Nope.

This is good for you.

What do you think? Should we call Matthew?

Give him a heads up?

No, I'll text him tomorrow after the party.

When it comes to music, he's a wizard,

but when it comes to PR,

he makes me look like the Kardashians.

Let's milk this moment and mingle.

Yes.

Matthew Miles.

How does it feel to be marrying Lissette Toussaint?

What?

Are you gonna work together again?

Lissette Live is a Christmas classic.

Uh, I, I, I-

Are you joining her for Christmas?

No comment.

Alright. Happy holidays, Matthew.

Jazz great Abner Toussaint takes final bow

with Christmas Eve performance

featuring superstar daughter, Lissette?

Renowned music journalist Gia Cole to have

family interview exclusive for "New York Times"!

Mom, I have so many questions.

That makes two of us.

Dad's closing the club?

You're engaged!

And you're doing a major interview with Gia Cole?

Who's Matthew Miles?

Mom, I can't stand Gia Cole.

Why? She's a New Orleans success story,

just like you. - Don't compare us.

I've read quite a few of her articles in "Rolling Stone"

and "Pitch Four" and watched her interviews.

You know her mother Muriel, she goes to our church.

Can we refocus please, Mom?

Dad's closing the club?

After one last show.

All his friends will be there.

I mentioned it to Gia when she called.

She called? Gia called?

When? - Last night.

She wanted a quote about your engagement.

I tried your phone but you didn't pick up.

Oh, I'm sorry.

So I made a decision.

As the one who was your father's publicist

for over 30 years,

I know an opportunity when I see one.

And this interview will be a wonderful testament

to the music of Abner Toussaint and our club.

With a concert on Christmas Eve

that I'm apparently a part of.

Don't you wanna be?

Well, of course, Mom, I wanna be there.

I'm just shocked by it all.

I mean, I'm shocked by a lot of things.

Oh, so was I when I found out you were engaged.

Hey mom, that might be Zac.

Hold on.

Coming.

Hi honey.

Thought I'd bring morning coffee for my lovely fiance.

Hello, Matthew?

Oh, you're on the phone.

With my mother.

Oh, hello ma'am.

What a curious way to meet my daughter's fiance.

Oh no.

I'm so sorry.

Well, you can ask Lis,

I've always wanted to meet her family.

We need to go, Mom.

It didn't stop you from proposing.

I'm confident there's a longer story to be told here.

One I'll explain later.

Alright- - But first, Matthew,

I expect to see you at our house for Christmas.

Mama!

- You will? - Good.

Abner and I will be pleased to finally meet you in person.

Okay, love you Mom. Bye.

What? What just happened?

Well, basically you committed

to being my fake fiance for Christmas.

I did?

Does one have peppermint and green?

Thank you. Come on.

We have much to discuss.

Um... - Alright. Alright.

So we're gonna call your mother back

and explain everything, right?

You're gonna call your mom back

and explain everything, aren't you?

That seems like the logical thing to do.

I'm hearing a but.

But Gia Cole is doing a huge article

celebrating my dad in "New York Times"

with video featurettes.

That's great.

And she's gonna expect the whole family.

Okay.

Which expectation-wise now includes you.

What? But I'm not, we, we, we're not engaged.

Well, maybe next time don't tell my mother that we are.

I was just playing along.

I didn't know what was happening

and then she looked at me with such...

It was like a tractor beam.

I would've done anything she said.

Matthew, I'm sorry I didn't tell you

about the article earlier.

That probably would've helped.

- A little bit. - Yeah.

And what are we gonna do?

Well, knowing my mother,

she's told everyone in our family that you're coming

and they've told people who told people.

Look, we need to just tell 'em the truth.

They'll understand.

It's too late to close those barn doors.

The reindeer are out in the field.

I could not go, stay here in LA.

Do you have plans for Christmas?

Not really.

Parker invited me to Christmas dinner with his family.

So I'm not such an orphan over the holidays, you know.

Or you can come with me to New Orleans,

which we both know you've always wanted to go.

And I quote, "Do it right."

We ride this thing through and then Miss Fancy Gia Cole-

Makes you crazy.

Won't think that we did this for publicity.

You for your label and me with mine.

Are you having problems with Cardon Music?

Nothing you should worry about.

I'm not so sure about this, Lis.

Neither am I.

But in the 24 hours the story's been out,

my streams and my interactions have tripled.

I'm not gonna lie,

Bend Records' mentions gone up quite a bit too.

Parker's stoked.

Oh, I bet.

Listen, Matthew, I'm afraid too.

But if we tell people the truth,

they'll think we did this for attention.

Definitely don't want that.

I know. Authenticity's your brand.

Alright, so what are you suggesting?

Well, we keep it going through Christmas,

politely we separate and promise to always remain friends.

You think you can do that?

Listen, normally I would say, let's fix this now,

but it might impact my father's concert

and his interview that I'm now a part of.

And I don't wanna mess it all up and all attention's on me.

And it shouldn't be.

Alright, just through the holidays.

Then we break up, again.

Okay.

Thank you.

What?

I always did wanna meet your dad.

Careful what you wish for.

Wow, I underestimated this Liss-Mat hashtag.

It's everywhere and my streams are smoking.

Hey, we gotta get our story straight.

Okay.

One, we don't live together.

My father wouldn't go for that.

That's easy. 'Cause we never have.

Zac got us two rooms at the Winston Hotel.

You do your best not to talk too much.

Then we go back to our respective rooms.

Cool?

Don't worry,

I'm not gonna say or do anything that'll make you look bad.

Wait, wait, wait, wait.

I almost forgot something.

That's beautiful, Matthew.

Where did you get it from?

I'm gonna let you come up with that part of the story.

Now it's official.

Let the show begin.

I can't believe I'm listening to Abner Toussaint play.

That was perfect, Dad.

Perfection doesn't mean right.

It's all about the feel.

Chemistry is ev- - Everything!

Oh, she made it.

Abner, our baby is home.

She's here!

- Is this real? - Yes, it's real.

I like him already.

Keith! - Noted dear.

Pleasure to finally meet you in person, Mrs. Toussaint.

Indeed. Well you're taller than I expected.

Hold up, you got some explaining to do.

- Clay. - No, no, no, no, no, no.

My dad asked my grandfather for permission

before marrying my mom.

Bob did the same for Taborah.

Yet here's my sister with big old rock on her finger.

And we're just meeting you?

That was my doing.

You afraid it would scare him away?

If Bob can handle it and anybody can.

Don't be rude about my husband.

- Just saying. - But Clay does have a point.

Unless she's ashamed of him.

Mm.

They're just messing with you.

Gotta do a little hazing, man.

I'm an only child.

So this is gonna be a learning experience.

Hey, no, seriously though.

You did a great job producing Lissette's Live album.

Classic. - Thank you, man.

But wish you could have worked on her most recent one.

What?

Her last album had more writers than songs.

And none of 'em got her style.

Okay are we done talking about me

as if I'm not standing right here.

Hey Daddy.

So you did make it home after all.

I did.

Time is it?

I know I missed rehearsal, but it won't happen again.

Matthew Miles, sir.

I'm a huge fan.

Huge fan?

You managed to date my daughter and get engaged

without trying to meet any of us.

But we're here now, Dad.

Is this part of the hazing?

You are here now.

The rehearsal's over.

Well, let's go home and have some dinner.

Huh? Come on.

You remember the way?

I have a GPS.

Hi Bob.

- You okay? - I'm fine.

You?

I think it's gonna be a really interesting Christmas.

Amen.

Why didn't anyone tell me about the closing of the club?

It's not like we don't talk.

I personally still don't believe it's happening.

Mama was gonna tell you when you got back.

But then Gia Cole started calling, asking questions.

And then Mama sees the moment.

Well have either one of you

tried to talk Dad out of closing the club.

Have you ever tried to talk Dad outta doing anything?

Fair point.

But why aren't you taking it over?

- Over there? - Yeah, yeah.

Mark my words.

There's something fishy with those two.

I can sense it.

You are always paranoid about who our children date.

Have I ever been wrong?

No, but I don't think Lissette appreciates your insights

as much as you think she does.

Can't help what I see and right now something seems off.

Be nice to him and Lissette.

I'm nice to Lissette.

Except when it comes to men and music.

I'm honest about both.

Lissette is too talented to be singing these pop songs

about Lord knows what.

She's here to celebrate Christmas.

And you remember that.

Especially when Gia Cole is around.

Hey.

So what's the deal with the three trees?

Oh, our family has had many interesting traditions

over the holidays. - This is one of 'em.

And Mama's Christmas fruitcake is another.

Is someone talking about my fruitcake?

I thought we weren't doing this anymore.

What a treat. I love fruitcake.

I'm so glad to hear you say that.

My children don't quite appreciate my fruitcake.

Oh, it looks wonderful.

Matthew.

- What? - Nuh uh, uh-uh.

Amazing.

I'm so glad you like it.

Sometimes my children think I put a bit too much rum in it.

- And brandy. - And port.

And bitters.

But I know most of that just bakes right off.

So I always add a little extra.

So you get the full flavor.

And it's all just like right there.

Good, isn't it?

Would anyone else like a slice?

- Mm, no. - No, no, no.

Nuh uh, absolutely not.

This is good.

Whoa.

Hey, that's us!

Oh, my family is something else.

So, how are you feeling?

Whew, I'm okay.

Well this cool air will help.

- Mm. - Isn't that nice?

What?

You may have to drive us to the hotel.

It was that third slice

that got ya

Mama is an amazing cook.

But listen, when it comes to her fruitcake,

she has a blind spot.

When we were little, we would hide pieces in the plants

until they started to die off.

Oh. - Oh man.

Yeah, that sounds oddly endearing to me.

Oh yeah, that's the rum talking.

Probably.

Those are kind of stories I didn't get growing up.

Big family stories.

Now with just me and My grandma back there.

And she definitely kept her Christmas baking alcohol free.

Say cheese.

What are you doing here?

There's that greeting again.

Because there you are again.

I was at my momma's when your mom called,

asked if I wanted to come by for some of her fruitcake.

I figured we could talk about the interview too.

And bonus, I get Matthew Miles of Bend Records.

Hello, Ms. Cole.

Now that does not look like the same ring in the photo.

Oh, well that ring was just a, a spontaneous proposal.

And this is a family heirloom.

Well, well, it's all great stuff for the interview.

Matthew, would you mind going inside for a moment?

I would like to speak to Ms. Cole.

Oh, sure.

I would like to make one thing very clear.

This is a family interview. Okay?

You're here to interview my family

about my father's retirement and the closing of the club.

I already know all that.

You're not here for some negative scoop

or gotcha or painful revelation.

You hear me?

Is this about Darren?

No, we're talking about the nature of your presence

in my family's home over Christmas.

You can come after me all you want,

but leave them outta any of your shenanigans.

I did not come looking for a story.

It happened organically when I spoke with your mom.

The public loves the Toussaints, they always have.

I am just, I'm just following the story.

See Gia, when you speak like that,

I almost believe that you're not biased against me.

I'm just doing my job.

Now, can I go get some of your mom's fruitcake, hmm?

Oh, by all means, please.

Have two slices.

I do have one question though.

When did you and Matthew get back together?

Because rumor has it that the two of you

broke up right before last Christmas.

Now Gia, you know better than to believe rumors.

Actually, that's where most of my best tips come from.

Like rumor has it that Oshen is getting the resources

for her tour next year

because Cardon Music is canceling yours.

You care to comment?

No?

Maybe later.

Merry Christmas, Lissette.

Hey. Everything okay?

Peachy.

Uh, I hope you were okay with the hand holding

and kiss earlier.

We didn't clear that ahead of time.

Oh no, no, it was great.

We really sold it to our audience.

She always did get to you, but you'd never tell me why.

Don't ask me.

She's the one who always seems to have a problem with me.

I'm an angel.

Should we go check into our hotel rooms?

Hotel rooms?

You got more than one.

Lissette thinks she's all fancy.

Go herself more than one room at the Wilson Hotel.

A hotel?

Mm-hmm, they're not staying at the house.

We didn't wanna impose, Dad.

Taborah and Bob are staying here.

Because their house is being remodeled.

And Clay here is never gonna leave.

Hey, I pay rent.

Okay. Sort of.

Mind your business.

You and Matthew both are staying here and that's final.

But what about your rule that unmarried couples

can't stay together?

Oh it applies.

You'll stay in your room and you sir,

will stay in the guest room.

Fine.

But we need to swing by the hotel.

The airline lost our luggage and brought it there.

Well, don't forget, doors close at 11.

Sharp.

You don't wanna get caught outside.

The airline didn't lose our bags.

I know, but when we were dating,

how many times did you mention when you'd go to New Orleans

for business that you never really got to see the city?

- A lot. - A lot.

It's less than three days before the Christmas Eve concert.

And if I know my family, there won't be a moment to spare.

So if you wanna see Christmas in the Crescent City,

it's now or never.

Let's go.

Oh, look at that over there.

Isn't it great?

So beautiful.

So nice.

You know, city park's,

it's another one of my favorite places.

Especially at Christmas.

Huh. I can see why.

You know, some of the trees are over 800 years old

and this place was made into a park in the late 1800s.

It's practically the city's heart.

What?

Let's sit.

You, you get this glow about you

when you talk about New Orleans, you always did.

Well, it's my hometown.

There's no city in the world like it.

And why do you stay away so long?

And not just the two years we were together,

before that two year trips were always quick.

Well, New Orleans holds a lot of memories.

Good and bad.

Any of 'em have to do with Gia?

No.

She was mostly the person that revealed my misfortune.

Not the source.

That belonged to Darren.

Ah, Darren the ex that you never wanted to talk about.

I figured you'd Googled some of Gia's old articles

about he and I.

Thought about it.

But I'd rather you told me yourself.

You wanna tell me now?

Well, it's not that big of a deal.

And he's more of a lesson.

We all have those.

Well, I, I met him at the beginning of my career.

It really started to take off.

He was a record producer,

told me everything I wanted to hear,

and I ignored all the red flags.

Until one day Gia Cole wrote an article

about how all those red flags are real.

He used me for my connections.

Made me feel naive.

It made you cautious.

Cautious. Embarrassed.

Why embarrassed?

'Cause my father warned me about him.

He took one look at Darren and said "He's a user."

I see.

And I didn't, until it was too late.

I haven't trusted myself about relationships since.

Well, thank you for finally telling me the whole story.

Shall we? - Yeah.

Post Katrina this area became even more popular.

It's magical this time of the year.

One of my favorite places in the world.

I dig the energy.

Mm.

Oh, the um.

Sorry about that. Habit.

It's all good.

It's really nice, right?

What a gorgeous night.

Wow.

We should start heading back soon.

Thank you for showing me around your city.

Yeah, of course.

♪ We wish you were Merry Christmas ♪

♪ We wish you a Merry Christmas ♪

♪ We wish you a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year ♪

♪ Good tiding- ♪ - Go on.

No, no.

You know you want to.

My voice isn't even warmed up yet.

You're at your best when you sing what you love.

You do love Christmas.

Oh, you're good, Matthew.

So good.

Oh my gosh, look who it is.

- Wow. - Check it out.

Look, look, look.

- Hi. - Hey, hey.

Is she gonna sing?

- Hi. - I'm so excited.

Her voice is amazing.

I love her.

Dude, you have to record this to.

♪ Joy to the world ♪

♪ The Lord is come ♪

♪ Let Earth receive her king ♪

♪ Let every heart ♪

♪ Prepare him room ♪

♪ And heaven and nature sing ♪

♪ And heaven and nature sing ♪

♪ And heaven and heaven ♪

♪ And nature sing ♪

Yes!

Praise God.

So good.

Sounded great.

Amazing, thank you.

She's good, huh?

- Merry Christmas. - Merry Christmas to you.

Merry Christmas.

That was the best audience I've had in a long time.

Well, maybe next year's tour

should be all Christmas carols.

Hmm. Unlikely.

There won't be a tour of any kind.

I heard what Gia said about Oshen.

So it's true?

Unfortunately.

Then Cardon Music's crazy.

You're easily the best artist on their roster.

They should be bending over backwards to appreciate you

instead of sending producers who cover your voice up

with distractions and promote singers

with more followers and talent.

Goodness.

Oh man.

Oh Matthew, we gotta go.

We gotta go. - Okay. Okay.

Oh, let's try the mud room.

This 11:00 p.m. thing is serious.

Dad's rule about coming in after 11:00 p.m. is sacrosanct.

Why don't we just-

No shh.

Why don't we just go check into a hotel?

'Cause I canceled it when we agreed to stay.

Plus I promised.

I'm pretty sure that only works in the movies.

Will you...

What are you two doing?

- Sissy! - How did I time travel

back to your senior year in high school

when you got locked out after curfew?

Now what do we have here?

Uh, I got hungry.

And you decided to bake Christmas cookies

around midnight.

Mm hmm.

Isn't it your third dessert?

Yeah.

This looks good.

Are you?

Shh, shh, shh!

Don't you say anything, either of you.

I'm waiting 'til after the concert to share the news.

But, yes!

Sorry.

Why are you apologizing for hugging your fiance?

In case this is against

one of the Toussaint's house rules.

Oh.

Well I'm gonna head to bed

and let the sisters talk it out.

Congratulations.

Thank you.

Mom left you a blanket and pillow in the guest room.

Oh no.

Bob's staying in the guest room.

No, I love my husband,

but every time we come here to stay at Christmas,

it's like sharing a room with a chainsaw.

I'm sure it'll be fine.

Oh.

- Night. - Night.

Come on girl. Sit down.

Sit down.

I am so excited for the both of you.

Thank you.

That's actually part of the reason why the club is closing.

- Huh? - Not like that.

Dad doesn't know.

Even if he did, he wouldn't think

I can't run the club 'cause I'm a mom.

'Cause you're a great business woman

and you get it from Mom.

And Clay has dad's music gene,

but he doesn't like the business side.

I can't do it all by myself.

Well what about me?

Oh, you have your own career to think about,

as you should.

You know I love being Lissette's little sister.

Some things just end.

And that's okay.

With every ending there's a new beginning, right?

Right!

I'm so excited.

Rocky? Hey!

Yeah, you're gonna wanna see what I just sent you.

With Lissette and that many views.

I'm telling you boss, folks are invested.

That's Teddy Glover.

1994.

Live at the Saville.

I was there when he recorded this.

Now he's with Bend Records.

I do know how to use the internet.

Yes sir.

Teddy's one of the first artists I went after to sign.

Why?

Because he's a legend and his label's treating him

like yesterday's news.

I don't know, it's just, I feel like when an artist

doesn't have to worry about the business of making music

and they could just make the music, they're at their best.

I'll tell you,

I've shared the stage with several jazz legends.

I'll tell you, there's nothing like

going out in front of a crowd with your own flesh and blood.

I can only imagine.

I get goosebumps when I watch Lissette perform.

I mean last night when she was singing Christmas carols-

Lissette sang Christmas carols?

Oh, it was something.

I mean she is something.

I bet the two of you together, it's magic.

When was the last time you performed together?

It's been a long time.

Hey Matthew, I've brought.

Hey Dad, I brought your bag.

So, everything okay?

Fine.

Where are Taborah and Bob?

Oh, they went out earlier, Mom, to run an errand.

Why?

Well, Ida Smith over the community center just called,

the gentleman she had lined up to play Santa,

came down with the cold.

And they're desperately looking for someone

to get in before the kids arrive in an hour.

Do not look at me.

They need someone younger and stronger.

Can Clay step in?

They need someone responsible.

Matthew, what size coat do you wear?

46 tall.

Ho ho ho.

Oh.

We got ya.

Ah! It fits.

And surprisingly comfy.

You look great.

They asked me if I wanted to join and how can I refuse?

Alright, well just don't do go try and stealing

my Santa fun now.

- Okay! - Oh, ho ho.

Merry Christmas!

How you guys doing today?

Yeah?

Wake up sleepy Santa.

Ah, that sounds like the title to a new Christmas song.

Oh, you should write it.

Hey, how's your back?

Hmm! Surprisingly good considering I had

a thousand kids climbing all over me.

Well, he couldn't have been much better than you,

'cause you were outstanding.

Well, couldn't have done it without you, Mrs. Claus.

Well, I'm here to tell you,

you're officially off the Santa clock.

Whoo hoo!

So is every day being fake engaged to you

gonna be this exciting?

Shh.

Let's go. - Let's go.

Oh!

Merry Christmas.

And then you should have saw it.

He had the Santa suit on and the kids loved it.

Well, I am glad I wasn't around

for Mama to rope me into that.

Where were you?

I was out checking out bands, looking for drummers.

You know, gonna need a new gig soon.

Don't you wanna try to take over All Saints?

Be a great launching pad for your career.

I'm okay.

Nothing like Dad though.

Abner Toussaint has been the big draw these years.

Not me.

Clay, I think you're selling yourself too short.

Nah, sissy.

Besides, running a club isn't my thing.

Now making music, that's my thing.

I'm not good at all that business stuff.

Not like you or Taborah or Matthew.

Matthew?

Yeah, he produced your best album

and now he's running Bend Records?

I mean it's small, sure.

But the website's already showing

a bunch of crazy good artists have already signed on.

That's true.

Well, talent's gonna go where it feels valued.

And if I could do that,

maybe I can contribute to All Saints.

You're the talent, Clay.

You're the best drummer in the parish.

Now I know you've been eating more for Mama's fruitcake.

No, I'm serious.

Do you think Dad would let you play with him

if he thought you were just okay?

Or just because you're his kid?

You're there because you have real talent.

I'm going to the club.

I wanna go with you too, Dad.

Just gonna check on some things.

Oh, it's okay.

It's still early.

We still have time for rehearsal, right?

Yeah, alright.

- Yeah? - Yeah.

♪ Another year of many changes ♪

♪ Another new beginning ♪

♪ Great ♪

What are the rules?

So, sorry, I...

Might as well take it.

We'll break here. - Okay.

Sorry.

Hello?

So far so good, huh?

Ah, there's still some rust.

I do know how to sing.

I know.

Say it Dad.

Whatever it is you're not saying.

You're a wonderful singer.

And?

And I'm not sure about the direction

you've been going with it lately.

Hmm. Get in line.

What does that mean?

It was the label that wanted me to go pop.

They said it would have crossover appeal.

It didn't work.

Now I'm the one paying for it.

You have some say in your music.

Not as much as you think, Dad.

They're canceling my tour and maybe me.

Then they're fools.

You and Matthew sound so much alike.

What you gonna do?

I'm not sure.

There's so much more that comes with making music

than making the music,

now more than ever.

Sounds like you've got some changes on the horizon.

Like father, like daughter.

Dad, what made you wanna retire?

You remember Buddy Daniels?

Yeah, saxophonist.

He passed last year, 10 years younger than me.

Got me thinking, got your mother thinking.

I love this place.

But there's other things out there in the world.

Might be time to check 'em out.

Dad, I can't imagine this place belonging to anyone else.

I just can't imagine it.

Sorry. Sorry.

From the top again.

All good now.

Let's do this.

Alright, let's do it.

Now here we go.

Hello?

Sorry man. Thought you'd be up.

I went to bed really early yesterday.

I was playing Santa Claus with a bunch of kids.

- I saw. - You saw.

I've been following the hashtag

ever since the story broke.

You and Lissette are engaged?

That seems sudden being that you were single

the last time we spoke.

Do you wanna explain?

Like I said before, it's a longer story.

I'll explain later.

I'll hold you to that.

But that's quite the catch for you and for us.

For us?

Well you get an amazing woman

and Bend Records gets one of the best singers around.

Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa.

No way to break through the noise.

Parker, that's not what this is about.

I love Lissette.

I know, I know.

But a little bonus business doesn't exactly hurt.

Parker, listen you got...

Hey Parker, I'm gonna have to call you back, alright?

- Morning. - Good morning.

Interesting outfit you have on there, sir.

I'm going to cut down the fourth Christmas tree.

It's a family tradition.

As kids, we couldn't agree

on how our Christmas tree should be decorated.

So dad got us each a tree.

Ah, that explains the three trees.

Yeah, we decorate the fourth tree on Christmas Eve.

Yeah, but this year we're doing it a day early

because tomorrow's the concert.

Alright, so y'all just gonna relax

before this afternoon's rehearsal?

- No. - Relax? No.

I told you the Toussaints don't waste

any days before Christmas.

He said relax. - Who's gonna relax?

Like, who does that?

Ask him. That's your man.

Look, you know what?

No moss growing on the Toussaints, that's for sure.

There's no greater gift

than that of giving of one's time and energy

to help others without expecting anything in return.

Nelson Mandela.

Ah.

Yeah. I mean, he didn't mean that for Christmas,

but it's something I think about during this time of year.

You know, when we sort of put our differences aside

and give back.

That's what makes the holidays so special.

Amen.

Alright, I'll take this on out.

Thanks.

Merry Christmas Ora.

Oh, Merry Christmas, Muriel.

I just wanna thank you for helping bring my baby

home to New Orleans for the holidays.

She's always so busy with work.

My Lissette is the same way.

Well, you know,

that's not the only thing they have in common.

Mama!

What else do we have in common?

You both tried out for Cinderella

at the Magnolia Theater Company.

- We did? - I remember.

Gia was just a junior in high school.

You don't remember?

Oh, I was 18 when I got that role.

Yeah. I've been performing a lot, since and before.

Right, I mean, why would you remember something

so insignificant as who you beat out for a major part.

Gia, we went to different high schools.

We didn't know each other.

Heck, I didn't know you could sing at all.

Actually, I don't sing anymore.

I realized I was better at telling stories about music

than creating it.

But you still hold a little bit of resentment

for me for getting Cinderella.

- No. - Come on.

No.

So you're saying there's not a bit of extra,

in your articles about me?

Of course not.

Look me in my eye and say it.

Remember it's Christmas.

Okay, maybe there's a little resentment.

I knew it!

We're from the same place.

Everyone always knew who you were, even back then.

And of course you would turn out to be this big huge star

while I'm just a...

You're one of the most successful music journalists

in the country.

You really think that?

Why do you think you bug me

every time you put that in the articles about me.

I'm sorry.

Thank you.

We don't have to hug, do we?

Absolutely not.

Why don't we just pack?

You're something.

We got the tomatoes.

Where's Bob and Matthew?

I'm gonna need their help gettin' the tree in the house.

Oh, they're actually in the back loading the van.

Oh, why can't I help?

We have a performance tomorrow.

Can't risk getting you hurt.

I'm not complaining.

Wow. You did this whole thing on purpose, didn't you?

Whatever do you mean?

Admit it Mom, setting up the interview with Gia.

This wasn't only about Dad's PR, was it?

Honey, if I as your mother

and a woman with 30 years PR experience,

notice a pattern that Gia's articles about you were,

shall we say, harsher than average,

it might occur to me to seize the opportunity to fix things.

That's a whole lot of words to say yes.

Well, Muriel saw it too.

So we took advantage when the opportunity arose.

Well, thank you for having my back, Mom.

Always.

Speaking of PR.

Uh-oh.

Why aren't there any photos of you and Matthew

on the internet before the proposal?

We were being private.

Okay, but why didn't you ever tell us about him before?

You specifically said you didn't have anyone

you wanted to bring home.

I, I know, I just wanted to make sure

he wasn't another Darren.

Oh, honey, he's not.

We can tell.

Well, how though?

I was crazy about Darren and I missed the warnings.

I didn't want that with Matthew.

So you kept him a secret.

Well, I'm glad you decided to finally share him with us.

I think he'll be a fine addition to the family.

Hey, I know I keep quiet,

but I just wanted to say thank you for keeping quiet

about, you know.

Sure secret's a secret.

Secrets are hard to keep. You hear me.

Why do he say it like that?

Like what?

Like you're thinking about another secret.

What kind of other secret

would I be thinking about, Matthew?

See, there you go again.

What secret are you thinking about?

About uh, Taborah being pregnant?

Taborah's pregnant?

Now see, this is why I don't talk.

You and Lissette get the fourth Christmas tree

into the house.

Goodbye.

Bob and I are gonna have the father talk.

Bob.

Bob!

Robert.

Robert. - Yeah?

- You like Robert better? - Yeah.

The look on his face.

Oh, great job, blabber mouth.

Uh, technically I didn't blabber.

Technically?

It's all right, let's just go.

- I can't help it. - Wait, a little slower!

Sorry.

Wait a second.

What?

What's this? - A cheater!

- Hey hey! - Hey!

Dad, we got it. Hey Dad.

Oh yeah.

- So we got it? - We got it.

So that's why you're always tired.

Oh, he's quick.

We were just waiting until after the concert

to tell everybody.

Well, this only makes the concert

and Christmas more special.

Yes, indeed.

Let's decorate our family Christmas tree

before our rehearsal, which starts at?

30.

Thank you.

♪ Woo yeah ♪

♪ Yeah, yeah ♪

♪ Well there's something about Christmas ♪

♪ That makes me grin from ear to ear ♪

♪ Listen close and I'll tell you why ♪

♪ It's my favorite time of year ♪

♪ Oh yeah ♪

♪ Candy canes and mistletoe ♪

♪ Top with friends and all that snow ♪

♪ When it's done don't want it to go ♪

♪ It's my favorite of year ♪

♪ But no Christmas feels right ♪

♪ Without you by my side ♪

♪ Whoo hoo hoo ♪

♪ So baby, come home for Christmas ♪

♪ So baby, come home ♪

♪ Don't you know it's Christmas ♪

♪ A warm fire and candlelight ♪

♪ Now all need is you here tonight ♪

♪ So baby please come home ♪

♪ Can't spend the holidays alone ♪

♪ Baby come home ♪

How's that?

That's great.

Your back again?

It's my shoulder this time.

- Oh! - I'm getting old, Lis.

Well come with me.

Alright.

- Come on. - Okay.

- I got you. - Alright.

Bless you.

Mm.

I'm sorry for keeping you a secret from my family

the way that I did.

Why did you?

Matthew, I, I was scared.

Of me?

No, of me.

My judgment.

I got over Darren a long time ago, but if I can be honest,

I never fully got over the experience.

How guarded I let it make me.

Which wasn't fair to you or us.

After our second Christmas together

and you didn't tell 'em we were dating.

It was just too much for me.

That's why I broke things off.

Because I thought you didn't feel what I felt.

You know I didn't just come here

because of some PR for the label.

You didn't?

Oh, there you...

Oh. - What is it?

My bad.

You left your phone in the living room

and there's a guy named Zac who keeps blowing it up,

literally calling every minute

and left a billion voicemails.

Hey, I'm here.

Finally, there you are.

What's going on?

Haven't you read any of my emails

or listened to any of my texts?

No. I've been kind of busy.

Oh yeah, we all got that.

You sound off. And who's we all?

Cardon Music, your former label?

My former label?

Did you all officially fire me?

It looks like you fired Cardon Music first.

Why didn't you gimme a heads up, Lis?

What?

I've been sending Rocky updates on how your media profiles

skyrocket over the holidays and he's blown away.

And I was this close to getting your tour back.

But, but Zac, Zac, honestly,

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

Read the article I'm sending you.

Was it from Gia Cole?

Surprisingly, No.

It's from Charlie Lloyd at TPC.

I'm sending it now.

You care to explain this?

Explain what?

Lissette Toussaint to join

fiance Matthew Miles' new label, Bend Records.

Cardon Music has yet to confirm the move,

but inside sources say the move is inevitable.

And the two hope to make beautiful music

together for years to come.

I'm not the inside source.

Who else is?

I have no idea. This is news to me.

The only reason Cardon Music has not dropped me

is because they think I dropped them.

Is that such a bad thing?

They don't appreciate you.

That's not for you to decide, Matthew.

Oh this was a terrible idea.

Which part?

All of it.

Bringing you here, letting people I care about

think that we're a couple when we're not.

No.

No, we're not.

Where are you going?

I'm gonna try to figure out a way to fix this.

And I think maybe it's a good idea

if I stayed at a hotel after.

That sounds like a good idea.

I'll tell your parents.

No, I'll tell them.

So you're saying the whole time you've been faking it?

Yes ma'am.

Why?

I was afraid that if we canceled

our non-existent engagement before the Christmas concert,

it would cause too much of a stir.

That just happened.

And I'm so sorry, Mom, Dad.

And I'm sorry you felt you couldn't talk to us.

We're your parents honey.

We love you no matter what.

For the life and me, I'm trying to understand

why you wouldn't tell us about Matthew before,

when he was real.

Dad, you were so vocal about Darren.

I didn't wanna take the risk

of you saying the same things about Matthew.

I may have gone overboard.

You have to find the right balance, honey.

I know.

We gotta head over to the club for rehearsal.

Dad, I don't think I can make it.

I won't be able to focus.

I can't hide my heart for the music.

Not this time.

Lis, this is the last one before the concert tomorrow.

Abner, our daughter's upset.

I'll know what to do.

Trust me.

I do baby girl.

Thanks Dad.

I love you guys.

Thank you.

Thank you.

I spoke with Charlie Lloyd personally

and the inside source for his article was not Matthew.

So who was it?

Some guy named Parker.

Matthew's business partner.

And for what it's worth,

Charlie did not suggest

that Matthew was any part of the leak.

Deep down, I couldn't believe that.

Does that mean that you two will get back together?

I'm not asking as a journalist, I promise.

I don't know, you guys, you just, you seem to fit.

It's nice.

You think so?

Mm-hmm.

I think that's why the whole story took off the way it did.

You're a natural couple.

Well, I don't know what's gonna happen next.

What do you want to happen next?

Look, I swear they were supposed to hold that story

until after things were more concrete with Lissette.

Well, obviously they didn't.

And now the woman I love

who's also one of the best singers I know, hates me.

Look, I'll explain to her.

No, don't. What's done is done.

Look, I really am sorry, Matthew.

Look, I know you're worried about your investment,

but you gotta think about the people too.

And if there is a next time you'll talk to me first.

I will.

♪ Santa, please don't forget me ♪

♪ Santa ♪

Yeah, you know how it is.

Hey, easy, easy.

You gotta perform in less than two hours.

What's up sissy?

I may have thrown away the love of my life

because I'm too scared to believe he's real.

Why don't you call him?

But I feel like it's more than just a phone call.

I need to speak to him in person.

Besides, his phone is shut off.

He was near Jackson Square less than an hour ago.

How do you know that?

You bugging him?

No need.

That Liss-Mat hashtag has been updated regularly.

Actually, Beca1225 has a photo

with the caption Matt of hashtag Liss-Mat sighting.

Why does he look so sad?

No, he actually does.

Like Keanu Reeves with a sandwich sad.

How long ago was this?

Less than an hour ago.

I gotta go.

♪ Bring my baby back to me ♪

♪ 'Cause I know that I've been such a fool ♪

♪ And I'm know that I've been such a fool ♪

♪ Boughs of holly ♪

♪ Fa-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la ♪

♪ 'Tis the season to be jolly ♪

♪ Fa-la-la-la-la ♪

Matthew!

What are you doing here?

Looking for you.

Why?

To apologize.

Matthew, I know you didn't release the article.

I should have trusted you from the start.

But why would you?

Seeing that in print was always your big fear.

I get that now though.

But why?

Thank you. I appreciate that.

Now, Liz, you have to know you have my heart.

- Matthew- - No, it's true.

Sure I told myself

that I was doing this crazy fake engagement thing

to get more attention for Bend Records.

But I also couldn't resist

the chance of being around you again,

even if it was only temporary.

I got to meet your family and see the city that shaped you.

That's why I said yes.

I'll always say yes to you.

Will you come back to the club with me

and my family for real this time?

Yes.

Can you give us another try?

Yes.

And do you love me as much as I love you?

Yes, yes.

Yes.

Oh no, the concert!

I gotta change, I gotta change.

Come on, we gotta go.

She's cutting it a little close.

She'll be here.

Should we wait?

Jazz is all about improv.

Let's go.

Alright.

I gotta say, seeing this place packed out like this,

it's bitter sweet.

It's like a Christmas miracle.

But as much as I like the support,

I am wise enough to know

you didn't come in here to see me get mushy.

So I'd like to start the show

off with an old family favorite.

Hey, hey.

I'm here.

♪ Another year of many changes ♪

♪ Another new beginning ♪

♪ Grateful for this time of year ♪

♪ Where we share a time of giving ♪

♪ It's been too long, too far away ♪

♪ I'm glad that I can finally say ♪

♪ It feels good to be home ♪

♪ I know I'm never alone ♪

♪ My city bright lights and my family all around ♪

♪ It feels good to be home on Christmas ♪

♪ A kiss, a wish a mistletoe ♪

♪ A memory by the fire ♪

♪ A family filled with joy and laughter ♪

♪ The universal spice ♪

♪ And though I know I've been away ♪

♪ My heart is here where it will stay ♪

♪ It feels good to be home ♪

♪ I know I'm never alone. ♪

♪ My city bright lights and my family all around ♪

♪ It feels good to be home on Christmas ♪

♪ Home in New Orleans ♪

♪ There's no place I'd rather be ♪

♪ Here with you, you close to me ♪

♪ Here with us on Christmas ♪

♪ Here with you on Christmas ♪

♪ Home in New Orleans ♪

♪ There's no place I'd rather be ♪

♪ Here with you, you close to me ♪

♪ Here with us on Christmas ♪

♪ Here with us on Christmas ♪

Well, this has been quite an eventful Christmas.

You said it.

What's next for you, Abner,

as you head into your retirement

and the rest of the Toussaints?

A lot of change.

But as the song said, change is gonna do me good.

Do us all good.

And what about All Saints?

I understand that there may be a change

to the original decision.

There are.

All Saints won't be closing after all.

Though I will still be retired.

We both will.

Oh, that is a big change.

If you're not in charge of the club, who will be?

All three of our children.

This way they can share the responsibilities equally.

Taborah will handle business

and Clay will deal with the performers.

With help from Matthew.

And Lissette?

I'm going to be making All Saints my new home,

at least two times a week for the next year.

A singer in residence.

Um, something like that.

This way I can focus on the music itself and not the noise.

Other folks can have that.

So no tours?

Not in the near future.

Cardon Music and I have parted ways

and I appreciate everything they've done for me.

But it's time for me to figure out what I wanna do next.

And your new label?

I don't have one.

I'm just gonna take my time,

get back to writing songs I wrote,

maybe even collaborate on some new ones.

Then I'll decide what to do next, on my own terms.

- Hey. - Hey!

Are you sure about this?

Which part? Us?

Or working with All Saints to showcase Bend Records' talent?

Of course, I'm talking about the second part.

I already know about us.

Good!

Mwah.

And as far as the club goes, I think it's great.

And what better place?

We can always reassess next Christmas.

Hey, I'm meant to give you this earlier.

It's beautiful.

It actually belonged to my grandmother.

So it really was a family heirloom?

Wow.

And... I think it looked perfect, right where it was.

The first time I put this on your hand,

we were just pretending.

But there's no pretend about how much I love you.

Lissette Toussaint, will you marry me?

Yes!

Everybody look, it's snowing.

- Oh! - Oh my God.

And then there's snow.

That's great.

It's amazing. Look at that.

It's snowing.

- Merry Christmas. - Merry Christmas.