Original subtitles

Oh, sorry, that was a close one.

Hi, Dad.

I can't really talk right now, but I'll call you back, okay?

Love you.

Bye.

Hillary.

Hi.

Hi.

I thought I would stop in, but obviously there is no need, because this is a winter wonderland.

Which reminds me, did you talk to the rental company about the snow...

Snow machine already being set up.

And I heard that the parents of the bride will be sitting separately.

The seating arrangement has been adjusted.

Excellent.

Lottie Morgan, you are a superstar, which brings me to the real reason I am here.

The Warby family is looking for someone to take over their annual Christmas charity auction.

The Warbys?

As in the most philanthropic family in Boston?

The very same.

That's the most anticipated charity van of the season.

I thought Montero Events was handling the account.

Fired.

You're kidding.

Apparently, they weren't in sync with Mrs. Warby's vision, who is notoriously particular.

So I've heard.

Now, they're flying in a rare Nutcracker figure to raise money for a new wing at the Massachusetts

Pediatric Hospital.

And the entire event revolves around it.

Got it.

Nutcracker.

Important.

Oh, this is so exciting.

I'm picturing a mountain of sugar plums, a corridor of tiny soldiers, and put all of

that in your pitch.

My pitch?

Yeah.

We don't have the job yet.

You are flying to Boston to interview.

Erica Warby insists on meeting everyone in person before hiring.

Are you sure you want me to be the one doing the pitching?

Lottie, do not let your nerves get in the way, especially if you're going to head the

Boston branch.

We have a Boston branch.

We want to expand.

And I cannot think of a better person to lead our East Coast team.

Besides, you grew up there.

I mean, what better excuse to go home?

Yeah.

Home.

Come on.

Repeat after me.

I've got this.

I've got this.

I've got this.

I've got this.

I've got this.

I've got this.

Jules.

I've got this.

Tristan, your flight was supposed to land in an hour.

Flight change of plans?

I'm on a layover in Chicago.

What?

Yeah.

My original flight was overbooked, so that gave up my seat.

Why?

This really nice lady was trying to get home to her son for Christmas, so what was I supposed

to do?

Stand in the way of her one Christmas wish?

What about my Christmas wish, Tristan?

To have your favorite brother home for the holidays?

To have this charity auction go off without a hitch?

Mom just fired her event planner, and you know how she can get away with it.

I don't know.

I don't know.

I don't know.

I don't know.

I don't know.

I don't know.

I don't know.

I don't know.

I don't know.

I don't know.

I don't know.

to have this charity auction go off without a hitch?

Mom just fired her event planner, and you know how she can get...

And you're my only brother, so...

Well, I'll be home in no time.

And, I'm sorry that I did not get Mira's backup.

It's okay.

But if you missed this next flight, I swear.

Juliet, I will be there.

I'm just a little bit nervous.

You know that, uh, you'll disappear on me and I'll be left to deal with mom's stress

all by myself.

And here I thought you were just missing me.

Of course I miss you.

I'll be there.

I promise.

Oh, shoot. I'm being paged. I gotta run.

Love you.

Hello?

Ho, ho, ho!

Merry Christmas.

Hey, there. You look like you could use one of these.

Merry Christmas.

I think that one's yours.

That was a close one.

Classic bag swap. Just like in a rom-com.

You okay?

I get clumsy when I'm nervous.

Why so nervous?

I'm going home for the first time in a while to interview for the biggest opportunity in my career.

That, and I'm a terrible flyer.

I used to be a nervous flyer, too.

And I realized fear just holds you back from your potential.

You just need to trust in the universe and breathe.

And trust the pilot. Hopefully.

Thank you.

So what's this opportunity of a lifetime?

Oh, I'm interviewing to be the event planner for the Warby Christmas Charity Foundation.

You don't say.

Apparently, the head of the foundation is extremely particular.

They're auctioning off this priceless nutcracker.

Anyway, I only found out about it yesterday, so I'm scrambling to come up with a pitch impressive enough to land me the job.

If I may make a suggestion.

Why not lean into the nutcracker angle?

You know, the whole theme of the ballet is about the power of dreams and imagination.

Seems appropriate for a children's hospital gala.

Yeah, so that was my first instinct, but I was worried it would be too on the nose.

No, trust your gut. I say the more nutcracker, the better.

Wait, I didn't say it was for a children's hospital. How did you know that?

That was a lucky guess. You know, these events are usually for something like that. Right?

Oh, no, no, no, no, no. That's, uh...

I promise not to let this bag out of my sight.

So, uh, it's got something very, very valuable in it.

If you could just make this one exception, please.

Uh, I'm sorry, sir. The flight is overboard.

Sir, please.

Okay.

Thank you. Have a nice day.

Excuse me.

Excuse me! Miss! Wait!

Miss!

Hey, wait.

Uh, Lottie, right?

Yeah.

Yeah, I think we had a little, uh, bag mix-up. Again.

Oh, gosh. Thank you so much.

We have to stop meat-cutting this way.

Pretend I didn't say that.

Sorry. No can do.

Uh, Miss?

Miss?

Uh...

Walk you out?

Sure. Yeah.

I hope your big pitch goes well.

Me too. And thanks again for calming me down.

It really helps.

My pleasure.

Here.

Thank you.

So, I guess this is goodbye.

You know, I have a feeling we'll be seeing each other sooner than we think.

Dad?

Dad?

I'm home.

Dad?

Welcome home, Elle.

Someone called in sick at the diner and I had to cover.

See you soon, Dad.

Bye.

Welcome home, stranger.

Oh, I miss you so much.

Okay, a little scruffy.

Um, it's okay. You'll shave it off for the big event, though, right?

I wasn't planning on it.

Mom is going to love that.

Tristan, I hear.

Hi, Mom.

How wonderful to have you home.

Oh, I want to hear all about your travels.

You're still so handsome.

But the beard, it's going to go before the night of the auction, yes?

I've got this.

Morning, sweetie.

Hey, Dad. So good to see you.

You weren't working all night again, were you?

Well, somebody's got to pick up the graveyard shift.

I was, um, thinking of making some pancakes for us.

Well, that sounds good, but I've got this big job interview I've got to get to.

Maybe dinner tonight?

Frank is going to be another late one for me.

Isn't there someone else who can take on some of your workload?

You deserve a break.

Look, I appreciate your concern, but we're short-staffed for Christmas.

I've got to pick up the slack.

And none of my employees are ever going to be as detail-oriented as you were.

All right. Whatever you say, boss.

We'll try again tomorrow?

Love you.

Love you, too.

Good luck today.

Thanks.

Thank you.

Oh, no.

You must be Lottie Morgan, of Lexington Events.

You. What are you doing here?

Well, my mom was kind enough to let me stay with her over the holidays.

Your mom is Erica Warby.

Which makes you...

Tristan Warby. Pleased to meet you.

How could you not tell me who you are?

You just let me ramble on like that?

Well, I couldn't exactly...

I am so humiliated!

No, you shouldn't be.

Wait. Does this make you my boss?

No. That would be my mom.

Well, now I'm completely thrown off.

You are mean.

Deep breaths.

No, they have some great ideas.

And I know people who've been very pleased with their work, but...

But, look, I like tip-top events, but they are missing heart.

I agree. Absolutely.

Hey, Mom.

Let me introduce Lottie Morgan of Lexington Events.

Hello, Lottie. Pleased to meet you.

Oh, here.

Thanks.

So nice to meet you, Mrs. Warby.

Is it okay if I call you Mrs. Warby?

I don't know what else I would call you.

Sorry.

I'm a bit nervous.

Oh, don't be, sweetie.

This is my daughter, Julia.

She's a surgeon at the Children's Hospital that we'll be raising money for, as was my husband.

So, needless to say, this is a cause that is very near and dear to our hearts.

And this is my son, Tristan.

Yes. Yes. We've met.

He's been traveling for the past year, expanding our foundation's efforts and developing communities.

It is my hope that he will take over the foundation someday.

Lottie was just telling me some of her ideas, and I think you'll be very impressed.

Well, I can't wait to hear them.

So, why don't you two skedaddle?

Of course.

Sit, please.

Let me just start off by saying what an honor it is to be even considered for a position like this.

We at Lexington Events believe that it's the little details that make an evening special, but the true heart of the event lies in the cause.

I remember the first time I saw the Nutcracker.

I left that theater brimming with Christmas magic.

I would escape to that world in my imagination whenever times were tough.

To me, the Nutcracker symbolizes hope and resilience.

Something I think the children at the hospital are in dire need of.

I want your guests so immersed in this experience that by the time that Nutcracker is up for auction, there will be no price too high.

I know how much this new wing at the hospital must mean to you and your family.

And I promise you that with my help, you will raise the money for it.

Hi.

Hillary, I think it went well.

No, I didn't talk too fast.

No? Okay. I'll talk to you later.

Okay, bye.

Why are you always here when I do stuff like this?

You only do this when I'm around, huh?

You're making me feel bad about myself.

So, how'd the meeting go?

Um, okay, I think. You know, once the shock of seeing you wore off.

Sorry, again.

Your mom is sort of hard to read.

So am I here.

Well, anyway, I should go. It was nice seeing you again.

You don't want to see where you'll be working for the next week?

What do you mean where I'll be working for the next week?

Tell me.

My mom loved your pitch. You got the job.

What? Are you serious? Why didn't you lead with that?

I like to have a little fun.

I jump, but I don't want to break anything.

My mom's been looking for someone who understands the heart of this event for ages.

Well, hey, it was your insight that inspired me. I never would have got this job without you.

I'm sure you would have got there on your own, but I'm happy to help.

So, does that mean you forgive me?

Consider it water under the bridge.

I'll show you to your office.

So, any questions?

Can I see it?

See what?

This infamous nutcracker. Considering this whole event is centered around it, I should probably take a look.

I'll go grab it.

Now, it's extremely valuable, so if you don't mind, I'll be the one handling it to avoid any potential disaster.

Fair enough.

Huh.

Well, that's not really what I was picturing.

Where is it?

What happened to it?

This isn't my stuff.

Well, you gave me my suitcase back at the airport, so...

Someone else has my luggage with the nutcracker in it.

My mother's house.

My mother's going to disown me.

It was an honest mistake. I'm sure she'll understand.

Oh, she can't find out.

What do you mean?

You have to tell her.

Do I?

Yes.

Or, we can just find the nutcracker and she'll be none the wiser.

Explain this logic to me.

That nutcracker is irreplaceable, and you just pitched an event which entirely revolves around it.

We have to find it.

Yeah, I don't think I'm comfortable with this.

Please, we both have a lot to lose if this event doesn't go perfectly.

I'm just on my way. I'll...

Lottie?

Hi.

I just wanted to say how thrilled I am to have you on board.

And, Tristan, I'm glad you're here, because I was thinking,

because we're in such a time crunch, it would be splendid if you gave Lottie a hand.

I think that's a great idea.

Oh, with all due respect, I'm more of a one-woman operation.

Oh, nonsense.

If Tristan is going to take over the Foundation someday,

he has to learn what it takes to throw an event.

So, it's settled.

Off you go. Get to work.

Oh, before I go, I would really love to see this precious nutcracker.

Oh.

Um...

You can't.

Oh, why not?

It's actually a crazy story.

I accidentally swapped luggage with Lottie at the airport.

Yeah. Yeah, we were on the same flight with virtually the same luggage.

Isn't that unbelievable?

Yeah, it certainly is.

We'll get it from Lottie's.

I look forward to it.

Sooner rather than later.

Absolutely.

Of course. We're on it.

There. Are you happy?

Now I'm all wrapped up in your mess.

Of course I'm not happy, but at least this buys us some time so we can find it.

Okay, Lottie, think.

If event planning has taught me anything, it's that there's a solution to every problem.

I'm sorry.

I'm sorry.

I'm sorry.

I'm sorry.

What?

Well, the contents of this suitcase could tell us a lot about the owner's whereabouts,

but is it wrong to go through someone's stuff without their permission?

I mean, if it's any consolation, this guy probably wants his stuff back too.

Good enough.

Oh, here we go.

An agenda.

An agenda.

I just flipped the contact page and he didn't fill it out.

Great.

Oh, someone did.

We know his name is Dave and he's a dad.

I'm pretty sure the handwriting belongs to this little one right here.

Okay.

So we know his name is Dave.

He's a fan of festive knitwear and he has a daughter.

And...

Where he'll be every day this week.

We can just track him down.

It'll be like a scavenger hunt.

We'll call it Operation Nutcracker.

I'll draw up a map.

Um, while you do that, I'll call the airport.

Hmm.

Dad, the reindeer need to go at the top.

Like they're flying.

All right.

All aboard the Dad Express.

Dad, I'm too big for that now.

No way. You are still my little girl.

Now hop on. Let's go.

All right.

Oh, God.

Okay. No.

Okay. You're right. You are too big.

Come on.

Okay, okay, okay. Coco's ready.

Here you go, sweets.

You know, Joey, why don't you go upstairs and get ready?

Thanks, sweets.

Hey.

Hmm.

I think Joey was looking forward to having your undivided attention.

You're right. I'm sorry. No more phones.

No more phones.

Speaking of work, I got a booth at the Christmas market this year.

Pam, that's amazing.

Which means I'm going to have my hands full the next few days.

Don't worry. I've got you covered this Christmas.

I'm going to be Super Dad.

Oh, I even managed to snag one of those collectible Bella Ballerina dolls.

What? They're sold out everywhere.

Look at you. Super Dad.

Well, it was the only thing on her list.

Now I better go wrap it before she finds it.

What?

Are you still on hold with the airline?

Are you telling me you can't hear the stimulating conversation?

Ha ha.

Well, why do you wait? Why don't you check his bag for more clues?

Thank you for continuing to hold.

How can you really decipher from a bunch of suit jackets and a novelty doll?

Les. I mean, he's obviously a working dad who's trying to make up for lost time with his daughter over the holidays.

Well, sure. I'll catch up with that together.

Well, he only packed suits, which means he's a business traveler.

His personals are meticulously organized in air porter-proof bags, which means he travels often.

Every activity in his agenda centers around his kid,

and let's not forget the Brenna Ballerina doll with the limited edition tutu.

I'd say he's trying to make up for something.

Maybe he's just a great father.

Trust me.

I know a workaholic dad when I see one.

Done.

That's incredible. You did that while you were also...

I'm a multitasker.

So these are the spots we need to hit.

First, the Christmas market.

Then, Santa's workshop.

Followed by Millie's bakery.

Then, the Maryland Christmas tree lot.

And finally, Santa forbid if we haven't found it by then,

the West Boston Ballet's production of The Nutcracker.

Wow. You are...

This is very good.

Thank you for continuing to hold.

Your call is very important to us.

An agent will be with you shortly.

Dad, where are you?

Ah, you ready to hit the road?

You know, I actually need to make a quick phone call.

Do you mind taking her?

But you said you were going to take me to rehearsal.

I know.

I said you were going to take me to rehearsal.

I know, sweetie, but this is really important.

I promise, after this, I am done.

And then, I'll pick you up from ballet,

and we can go straight to the...

Christmas market. Right.

Come on, Joey.

Hello? Anybody there?

Hi. Yes, I'm here. I'm sorry.

I need to report a lost bag.

Has anyone called in about a

forest green hard carry-on case?

Oh, forest green. How festive.

Yeah, I'll have to keep an eye out for it.

Yes. Please.

That's what I was hoping you could help me with

right now.

Uh, listen, you sound like a nice guy,

so I'm going to level with you.

I don't think you're going to get your bag back before Christmas.

My daughter's printed ballerina doll is in there.

I hear those have been sold out for weeks.

Yes. Which is why

I need your help with this.

Your best bet is to go on our website,

fill out the FP21 form,

and hope for a Christmas miracle.

Good luck.

But if you could just please help...

Lost luggage. This is Rhonda speaking.

How may I help you?

Hi.

Yes, I was on flight 373 to Boston,

and I seem to have found myself

in a bit of a suitcase swap situation.

Classic.

Is it?

Yeah. We have a record number of lost bags

this holiday season.

Oh. Great.

Well, I'll tell you what I told our last guy.

Go online, fill out our form FP21,

and hope for a Christmas miracle.

Okay. Thanks for your help.

Merry Christmas.

Where are these coming from?

Well, looks like Operation Nutcracker

might be our only hope.

Only five days till Christmas Eve.

You better get a move on.

Don't wait up.

Yeah.

Better take the bag.

Yep.

I'm just trying to come up

with the most efficient route

so that each stop on Operation Nutcracker

lines up with my vendors

for the fun resort.

I grew up here.

Right.

I'm sure your family must be happy

to have you home for the holidays.

It's actually just my dad and I,

and we've barely seen each other.

We both work a lot.

It's kind of our thing.

We're like two ships in the night.

That's a shame.

It is what it is.

Okay. Keep your eyes peeled

for any matching scarves.

Might help if you looked up

from your phone.

I'm just putting out feelers

for some alternative auction items

just in case we don't find it.

Hey, have a little faith.

Incredible things happen around

this time of year.

Potential day at 12 o'clock.

Oh no, I've got him over here.

No, find him.

Hey!

Flight Ensemble!

Sorry.

I thought you were someone else.

Merry Christmas.

Oh wow.

These look great.

This is some really nice stuff.

Thank you so much.

It's relatively new.

May as well do it.

It makes you happy.

Exactly.

I'm really hoping this market

gives me the exposure I need

to help get my business

off the ground.

Do you have a website?

I do. Just right here.

Right in front of me.

I was wondering if you have seen...

Ma'am, I'm so sorry

to keep you waiting.

Do you mind?

Of course not.

I lost sight of the target.

This might be harder than we thought.

We should just tell your mom

before it's too late.

We still have time

and Christmas magic on our side.

You don't believe what they say

about the nutcracker, do you?

That it leads you to your fate?

Of course I do.

Okay.

So I'm paragliding

in a remote corner of the Swiss Alps

to rescue him.

Very impressive.

But what does this have to do

with the nutcracker?

Get patience, Lottie.

I'm getting there.

While visiting Petrov in the hospital,

he tells me he's the great-grandson

of the Desta von Eck.

Tchaikovsky's patroness?

Anyway.

He inherits a fortune

and the nutcracker,

which completely turns his life around.

So Petrov's fate

is his fate.

And your fate

was to immediately lose said nutcracker?

What are the chances

you and I have virtually the same bag,

are on the same flight,

and both of our futures

rely on that nutcracker?

I wasn't even meant to be on that flight.

Pace it, Lottie.

You weren't meant to be.

Huh. So this ulcer forming in my stomach

is happening for a reason.

Look.

This looks just like the real one.

I'm pretty sure trying to auction off

a $50 nutcracker

to pass as the real thing

would be considered fraud.

We'll just use it as a placeholder

until we find the real one.

Fine.

I hope it works.

How do you expect to pull off this big event

if you can't tap into your inner child

and believe that anything's possible?

Especially this time of year.

Not everyone's Christmas

looks like something out of a movie.

For some people,

it's just a reminder of what you don't have.

I get that.

But Christmas is about so much more

than just stopping.

It's about helping the less fortunate.

I guess Christmas spirit

just doesn't come naturally to me.

Maybe it's time we change that.

I can't wait to see all of Mommy's flowers.

Yeah.

And I can't wait to see you

dancing the nutcracker ballet

in front of everybody.

So we didn't find Dave.

At least we accomplished something.

Did you end up rapping?

Stop.

Justin!

Oh, it's been so long.

Great to see you.

How's Harvard?

Graduated.

Starting up the firm in the new year.

Congrats.

This is Lottie Morgan,

event planner extraordinaire.

Nice to meet you, Lottie.

Well, we have a lot to do

before the big event,

so we better get back to it.

Well, don't forget about

the annual Christmas tree decorating party

with Vanessa's family.

My family is planning on making

a significant bid on this famous nutcracker.

So I'm sure we'd love a sneak peek.

Okay, you got it.

Bye.

Good thing we got that decoy.

Yeah, I'm starting to think

it's not going to cut it.

What? You said it was identical.

Well, except for one detail.

The red emblem on its hat.

Oh.

That's easy. I got it.

That should do it.

Do you travel everywhere

with a Mary Poppins bag

or do you just never know

when you're going to have an emergency?

You know, when we met,

you were all nerves.

I'll look at you.

This? This is easy.

This I can control.

So?

What do you think?

How did you...

I don't think anyone's going

to be able to tell the difference.

Like I said,

it's all in the details.

See you tomorrow.

See you tomorrow.

So, what are you going to ask Santa for?

Are you sure I'm not too old

to sit on Santa's lap?

Nah. I mean, look at these other kids.

They're giants.

But if you want,

you can just sit on the arm of his chair.

It just feels silly.

Christmas wishes don't come true.

What?

What do you mean?

Last year I asked for you to get a new job

so you could stay home more

and that didn't come true.

Well, I'm here now, aren't I?

And we're having fun, right?

I guess it couldn't hurt

Yeah.

But maybe you can come up with a couple

of, you know, back-ups or...

Why?

You know what? Never mind.

Santa has plenty of helpers

working overtime to help

special kids' Christmas wishes come true

and that includes you.

Daddy?

I really don't think I should meet Santa today.

I'm not feeling so well.

Hey, let's, um,

let's get you home, okay?

Yeah.

Ugh, my florist double booked me.

So much for your fate theory.

Okay, not so fast.

I actually met a florist at the Christmas market.

I think we should give her a chance.

I don't know.

Does she have enough experience?

We have an opportunity to help

a children's hospital and a small business owner.

Come on, Lottie. Take a chance.

I don't take chances.

Why not?

When you're as accident-prone as I am,

you can't leave anything to chance.

I can't afford to just blindly trust in fate.

Sometimes it's the things you least expect

that have the biggest impact on your life.

And sometimes it's the things you least expect

that disappoint you the most.

Well, that's rather pessimistic.

I'm a realist.

Not all of us got to grow up in a fairy tale.

Trust me.

My life hasn't always been a fairy tale.

Come on, just look at your stuff.

Fine.

But if I see one wilted poinsettia...

You won't.

Besides, it's not going to affect how much money

we raise for the children.

But you know what will affect how much money we raise?

Not finding the nutcracker.

Which reminds me...

I made these posters.

Seriously, do you have a team of elves working for you?

No time for questions, okay?

You take half.

Oh! Oh no!

Okay.

That's unfortunate.

But what if Dave's walking along

and one of those flyers happens to hit him in the face?

Let's just have faith in...

You say Christmas magic, I swear.

We'll just post these everywhere.

Eventually he's bound to see them.

That's it!

What's it?

The Russian dance from the nutcracker.

You have to incorporate these.

We could use them for our centerpiece game.

They could be our version of Pass the Parcel.

That's perfect!

But what's Pass the Parcel?

It's a classic Christmas game.

You pass around a wrapped gift

and whoever unwraps the final layer wins the prize.

You've really never played Pass the Parcel?

No.

We didn't play too many Christmas activities growing up.

What kind of stuff did you do?

Just, you know...

stuff.

Someone so detail-oriented,

you sure leave some out.

Come on, Lottie.

Open up.

Okay, if you must know,

my dad owns a 24-7 diner.

So instead of hanging stockings by the fireplace,

I was usually working on Christmas.

I'm sorry.

It's what gave me such a strong work ethic.

Maybe this year you can change all that.

It's like you said,

Christmas is about spending time with family

and my dad and I are as busy as ever,

so I've made my peace with it.

Have you?

Start filling that basket.

You're gonna have to pay for that.

Deny it all you want,

but everything seems to be happening

for no reason.

Oh, Tristan!

What are you two doing here?

I run a reading circle

for inner-city youth, so...

I'm just picking up some extra books.

It's great that you still do that.

Yeah, it's been going on eight years.

I just love how literature can change a life.

It's amazing.

We should make sure to catch up later.

Yeah.

Yeah, well,

good luck with your adventures.

Okay.

You okay?

Vanessa's really something.

Our parents go way back.

I think it was always their hope

that we'd end up together one day.

She definitely seems like your type.

She's great, but

it never felt

quite right

with us.

Like, it wasn't natural.

I'd like to think that fate would

lead me to my person one of these days.

So what exactly do you think my type is?

You know, she's

beautiful,

philanthropic,

well-educated, poised,

perfect.

I think it's people's imperfections

that make them special.

Ah!

Hmm.

I thought it would be heavier.

What are you doing?

I just wanted to see it in the flesh,

or glittery wood, as it turns out.

Okay, okay, that's enough.

Why?

That's enough. Here, give it back.

I don't think so.

Can you please be careful? Can I please have it?

No, you cannot. What are you, five?

What are you doing? Stop!

Well, I see what you guys

were like as kids.

Mom is going to kill me.

No, she's not.

This nutcracker is all she talks about,

and I just broke it.

I'll be cursed for all eternity.

It's not real.

What, the curse?

No, the nutcracker.

That's just a decoy.

I may have lost the real one.

I'm sorry. I must have misunderstood.

I thought you just said

you lost the nutcracker?

Tristan!

How could you?

We'll find it. We've got a plan.

It's a long story,

but you're just going to have to trust us.

Trust you?

Yeah.

How am I supposed to trust either of you?

Lottie, this is a fireball offense.

If my mom was to find out...

Don't blame Lottie, okay?

She's put her career at risk

because of you.

Fine. Sorry, Lottie.

You, on the other hand,

have until the 23rd to find it.

Otherwise, I will have no choice

but to tell Mom about this.

Understood.

Thanks for standing up for me.

You don't have to thank me.

You've been helping me fix my stupid mistake.

I don't think I properly thanked you.

I couldn't do this without you.

Well, you're welcome.

I should go.

It's getting late and I still have a lot of stuff to do.

Hey.

Maybe work a little less tonight

and make some time for your dad.

Yeah.

Hi, Hillary.

Oh, how's it going over there?

Is everything out of control?

As much as it can be.

Good, because I'm hoping to sign a lease

on an amazing office space downtown.

Oh, so it's really happening.

Oh, yeah. Yeah.

This is all really happening.

So, have you seen this legendary nutcracker yet?

Not yet, but hopefully really soon.

There's a lot of buzz about this event.

I'm counting on you, Lottie.

I won't let you down, Hillary.

Dad, I'm home.

I brought Chinese.

Oh, I would have loved to, hon,

but I'm hosting a private holiday dinner

at the diner tonight.

Maybe tomorrow?

Hmm, tomorrow might be tricky.

But at least we have Christmas together.

Absolutely.

I will definitely be home in time for Christmas dinner.

You're working Christmas Day?

Yeah.

Well, it's just the early shift.

Sorry, sweetie, it's a 24-hour diner.

You know how it is.

Of course.

I love you, hon.

Love you, too.

Looks like you've been busy.

You know, despite not actually having the nutcracker,

I think the event's in pretty good shape.

I thought of this adorable idea for the name cards.

These frosted pinecones.

Lottie, hard at work, I see.

I take it everything is going well.

Yes.

Why don't I walk you through some of our ideas

that we've come up with?

I was thinking a candy cane arch for the entryway.

Charming.

And our table game,

is pass the parcel with these gorgeous Russian dolls.

You know, like the Russian dance.

Oh, I get it.

Yeah, oh, cute.

And finally, I came up with these little

frosted pinecones for the name cards.

Hmm.

Not exactly on theme.

You're right.

There's no dance of the pinecones,

back to the drawing board.

But, it seems to be coming along nicely, overall.

Huh?

Let's just not forget

what the meaning of this event is, okay?

You know that I hired you

because I felt that you had heart.

Let's just be sure that we see that, all right?

Of course.

Oh, Tristan,

before I go, I really would

finally like to see the nutcracker.

Oh, shoot.

We brought it to the auctioneers yesterday

to have it appraised.

But you knew that I wanted to see it.

Well, though, I suppose it's in safer hands.

Yeah.

We certainly wouldn't want anything happening to it.

No, we wouldn't.

Well, carry on.

This is a disaster!

We should have just come clean from the start

so I could have spent more time on the event

and less time chasing down some lost antique.

And what did she mean,

don't lose sight of what the event's about?

I know it's about raising money for the kids.

It's more personal than that for her.

Um...

When Jules was seven,

she had a dream.

When Jules was seven,

she was diagnosed with leukemia,

and she spent years in and out of the hospital.

And when she was finally cancer-free,

my parents made it their life's mission

to support the incredible staff

who help families going through

some of the toughest times of their lives.

Tristan,

I had no idea.

Um...

I feel like I owe you an apology.

For what?

Well, I sort of assumed

that life was somehow easy on you.

But it turns out,

we all have our own struggles.

Thanks.

Now, we just need to breathe,

regroup.

You need a seven-second hug.

I do.

Yeah.

Studies show

that a seven-second hug releases serotonin,

which has a calming effect on the brain.

Oh, okay.

One,

two...

Is the counting necessary?

Sorry.

Okay, on my head.

And seven.

So?

Feeling any better?

Yeah.

Actually,

thanks.

Now, a wise woman once told me

that there is a solution to every problem.

We'll find new place-guard holders

and a nutcracker.

Everything will be fine.

Well,

I guess it's time for

step three of Operation Nutcracker.

Okay.

Well, uh...

Yeah.

Excuse me.

Uh, Willie?

I was wondering if you've seen this man.

Yep.

When did you see him?

Two hours ago.

Ordered a dozen marzipan mice.

Okay.

Okay, do you happen to know where he went?

Um, his address?

Maybe even his last name?

It would be on his order.

Well, can we take a look?

He has something very important

that we need to get back, so...

You'll have to ask my manager.

Great. Can we speak to them?

He left this morning to go see his family for Christmas.

Okay, well,

thanks anyway.

Wait, did you say marzipan mice?

Yeah, here.

Take a look at these little guys.

This is like the mice from the marzipan dance

with the Mouse King.

We should use these as the name card holders.

I mean, they're on theme

and they're edible, so

this magic is real.

I'm sorry, I couldn't quite hear that.

Could you say that just a bit louder?

Willie, I'm going to need you to make

at least 200 more of these mice.

Just fill this form out

with your name and your address.

While she's doing that,

how about you give me that cell phone number

for your manager?

Okay, Tiny Tim,

I am back from Millie's bakery.

Marzipan mice!

They're perfect.

There's an extra one in there for you,

but don't tell Mom, okay?

What are you two up to?

Nothing.

Nothing?

We're just playing.

We're playing.

We're playing.

Nothing?

Listen, Joey,

I was just speaking with your dance teacher,

and with you being sick,

she unfortunately has to pull you

from the show.

Oh, sweetie, don't cry.

I'll never get to be Clara.

Oh, that's not true, honey.

You know what?

Sit tight.

I will be right back.

I'm so sorry.

Now,

with your very own nutcracker,

you can be Clara right here,

and I'll even dress up as the mouse game.

This is awesome.

He is very fancy.

Very fancy.

Do I even want to know

who you are?

I don't want to know.

I don't want to know.

I don't want to know.

Do I even want to know

where you got that from?

I don't even know where I got it from.

Okay.

There you go.

Nice and tight.

There it is.

Well,

now that you're done helping

everyone else in the world,

shall we get back to finding Dave?

Sure.

And finding the most breathtaking tree

for the ballroom.

It's just my dad.

I'm starting to think

you're trying to avoid him.

Why would I avoid him?

I don't know. You tell me.

Okay.

I guess I'm worried

that once we do make time

for each other,

we won't connect.

After my mom passed away,

he buried himself in his work

to distract from the heartache,

and I guess I just

followed suit.

So, yeah.

I guess I am avoiding him.

A little.

Work brought you all the way out here

at Christmas.

Kind of feels like the universe

is trying to tell you something.

You wouldn't understand.

I'm sorry about your mom.

I can actually relate.

I come from this

very respected family.

My mother's the head

of the Warby Foundation.

My father.

Me?

I chose to spend my time

traveling the world.

Running away.

But in doing so,

I missed out on what little time

I had left with my dad.

I'm sorry about your dad.

I appreciate you being so open.

I know it's not easy.

No.

Vulnerability has never

come naturally to me.

You make it feel easy.

I think this is it.

A perfect tree.

What do you know?

Another Christmas miracle.

You know, I had my doubts,

but it seems like we always

find what we're looking for.

Yeah.

You do.

I should

hopefully he can put them up

everywhere and then if Dave comes by,

he'll see them and tell us.

Don't worry, he's already come and gone.

I mean, if he were here doing anything,

he would've seen them by now.

I'm sorry, what happened to Mr. Optimistic?

Well, I'm optimistic about something.

Pam, these arrangements

are beautiful.

I don't know how I'm going to choose.

Tristan is going to be in

the Nutcracker this year,

so I am well acquainted with the theme.

Was?

Yeah, she got sick,

and we had to pull her from the show.

Aw, she must be devastated.

You have no idea.

Tristan, can I steal you for one sec?

Mm-hmm.

So, have you found it?

No, I'll be still on time.

I cannot keep this from Mom forever.

She will find out.

Give us one more day,

and if I can't find it,

I will tell Mom myself.

I'm sorry, Jules.

Last thing I want to do

is let you and Mom down.

You could never let me down.

I only want you to succeed

and take over this foundation

for selfish reasons.

I missed you, I want you home.

I missed you too.

I promise, I will make this right.

This is tricky,

but let's go with the sugarplum arrangement.

Oh, uh, I have to take this.

Sure.

Hi.

Okay.

Okay.

Yeah.

Sure, I will be right there.

Everything okay?

I'm so sorry,

but my daughter's fever spiked

and we have to take her to the hospital.

Sorry.

Go, go, go.

Everything will be done in two days.

You can trust me with this.

Thank you so much for the opportunity.

Poor girl.

I hope everything's okay.

So do I.

We're not going to find this nutcracker,

are we?

We have one more opportunity

to find Dave tonight at the ballet.

If we don't,

I'll tell my mom first thing in the morning

and I'll make sure she knows

that I'm here.

Just hate to let her down.

Me too.

I was just starting to look forward

to moving back home to Boston.

That'd be nice.

Geez, what happened to me?

Pardon me.

Huh.

Looks like we're seeing Claire's

understudy tonight.

These seats are great.

You and your family do this every year?

We used to when we were kids.

It's the one time a year

we could all slow down.

I saw the nutcracker runs with my family.

It was one of my happiest memories.

Maybe this year's an opportunity

to make some new ones with your dad.

Sometimes I feel like

he's the one avoiding me.

Like,

seeing me just reminds him of my mom

and just makes him sadder.

She was the glue that held us together.

I'm sure she'd want you to try.

Ah, seriously.

If we're looking for Dave.

Come on, Tristan, look.

I'd rather be looking at you.

Come on.

Well, no Dave.

I might as well call my boss right now

and resign.

Don't do that.

Oh, I have a missed call from the airline.

What?

They think they found your bag.

You're kidding.

No.

Let's go.

Well, they're closed right now,

but I'll call first thing tomorrow.

I can't believe it.

Just when we were about to throw in the towel.

I can't believe I'm about to say this,

but maybe the nutcracker is fated.

Well, thank you for this.

This was fun.

You're welcome.

I guess I'll see you tomorrow

when all of our problems have magically gone away.

Last Luggage Department.

This is Rhonda speaking.

How can I help you?

Hi, hello.

I got a call last night about my missing luggage.

It's a forest green...

It's on Taranon.

Yes, a very sweet man dropped this off last night.

Can you describe some of the items in it?

Namely, a one-of-a-kind, priceless antique nutcracker

with a red emblem on its hat.

Sorry, sugarplum.

All I've got here is a collection

of very questionable sweaters.

No nutcracker, then?

Unless you're talking about this one on the sweater.

No, terribly sorry.

Good luck!

Thanks.

Yeah, those sweaters definitely aren't mine.

Thanks anyway.

Merry Christmas.

How's she doing?

She's hanging in.

How are you?

Not great.

Listen, I have to come clean about something.

My luggage got swapped at the airport

and I don't have Brenna Ballerina.

Okay.

You're not upset?

Our daughter's Christmas is ruined.

She couldn't play Clara,

then she's in the hospital,

and now she's not even going to get

what she wanted most for Christmas.

Dave, all she wants is time with you.

You're right.

I'm sorry.

My, my.

What's all this?

Just some samples from the caterer

to serve your guests tonight.

Well, if this is a preview of tomorrow's gala,

Lottie, color me impressed.

You really do go above and beyond.

Thank you, Mrs. Warby.

Call me Erica.

Erica.

I'm curious.

What drew you to event planning in the first place?

Well, I...

I've always loved bringing people's dreams to life,

one tiny detail at a time.

You remind me of myself.

I know that I have a reputation

for being a stickler for details,

but, uh,

you know, when my daughter got sick,

it really shifted my perspective.

It helped me to see the big picture.

You know that I hired you

because your vision has heart.

Mrs. Warby,

Erica,

you have no idea how much that means to me.

Hey, Mom.

Oh, I actually have to take this.

Excuse me.

I just had a moment with your mom there.

It's kind of a breakthrough.

Did you get the bag back?

It was the wrong one.

Oh, no.

The event's tomorrow.

I know.

We have to tell her.

I know we do.

Well,

maybe we'll still raise enough money without the Nutcracker.

Uh-huh.

Would that even be enough?

Way ahead of you.

I reached out to your sister,

and she put me in touch with the head nurse at the hospital.

I'm going to arrange to have the kids write thank you cards to the donors

to remind them just how much the funds mean to them.

We'll put the cards in the tree at the event

for everyone to read.

By the way, I was hoping you could pick up the cards

from the hospital tomorrow.

You're incredible.

It's just part of the job.

Right.

Well, I should go.

You have guests coming.

But more importantly,

you have to tell her.

I will.

I promise, after the guests leave,

I don't want to ruin this night for her.

It'll be fine.

Will it?

Yeah.

I'll walk you out.

Yes, we're very excited for tomorrow.

You need to pick up the Nutcracker for appraisal.

No, Tristan already dropped it off

at the auction house that he said.

Is that so?

Well, there must be some misunderstanding.

Lottie.

Tristan.

I'd like a word.

Mom, I can explain.

No need.

I think I've got the idea.

We were hoping that

we would find it in time.

I'm so sorry.

We couldn't find it.

I'm sorry.

We would find it in time.

I'm so sorry we kept this from you.

Blind hope is a risky thing

to hang your hat on,

especially when you're dealing

with a priceless antique.

I'm sorry, Lottie,

but this is grounds for dismissal.

Wait, Mom.

Don't put this on Lottie, okay?

This had nothing to do with her.

It was all my fault.

I'll deal with you later, Tristan.

Thank you, again,

for the opportunity, Mrs. Warby.

Bye.

Lottie, don't leave.

Please, don't leave.

Why?

I don't have a job here anymore.

I'll explain everything to her.

And what?

You'll get a slap on the wrist

and still have a million opportunities at your feet.

So will you.

I've seen it.

You think it's so easy.

I worked my whole life

to get to where I am,

and here I have this huge opportunity

and I blow it to protect you.

Please don't give up.

You can move back to Boston.

This was make or break for me.

I can't believe I fell for your,

your, you.

What do you mean?

Your whole Christmas magic,

fate, nice guy act.

I went against all my instincts

to get someone who made me feel confident enough

to blindly trust.

Like I didn't have to control everything.

Well, lesson learned.

It wasn't an act.

Don't stand there and tell me

that letting go and believing

didn't feel good.

You can't just shut yourself off

because you're scared of getting hurt, Lottie.

I'm not listening to you anymore.

Fate brought us together for a reason,

and you know it.

Tristan, I think this whole situation

is just proof that fate isn't real.

But my feelings for you are.

Please, just give me a chance.

I will talk to my mother.

I will make her understand.

Goodbye, Tristan.

Nurse said she'll be good to go

as soon as she wakes up.

Oh, thank goodness.

No one should spend Christmas in the hospital.

I'm sorry.

I know you had a whole week planned with her.

It's all right.

We've got the rest of our lives.

Like I said, I am not going anywhere.

Don't make promises you can't keep.

No, I mean it this time, Pam.

I'm gonna take that new position at the firm.

No more life on the road.

And what's it all worth

if I can't be with my family?

This is going to turn Joey's Christmas right around.

I hope so.

He's been a ballerina.

Honestly, I think she's more excited

about her new nutcracker.

You think so?

Nutcrackers are all the rage this year.

The event I'm doing centers around one

that looks exactly like it.

Who knows?

Maybe you found one in your suitcase for a reason.

Maybe.

Oh, morning, hon.

I was just making some eggs.

For you?

I'll make time.

After all that,

I doubt I'll ever be hired in this industry again,

never mind be head of the Boston branch.

This was more than just a job, Dad.

This was about helping people.

Making a difference.

Well, focus your energy on that.

Dedicate yourself to what's important

and the rest will fall into place.

That's what your mother would say.

You're right.

Yeah.

Personally,

I wouldn't mind having my daughter back in town.

I guess I just

didn't realize how much I needed my dad.

Yeah.

I feel like that's my fault.

I haven't always been the most present father.

Well, you're busy.

You run a business.

No, that's no excuse.

A father should be there for his daughter,

especially after everything we went through.

You know,

when we lost your mom,

I didn't handle it too well.

I see a lot of her in you

and sometimes the memory's got to be too much.

But now,

I realize what a gift it is

to have a piece of her still with me.

I miss her every day.

So do I.

But we still have each other.

I think she'd want us to be closer.

Well, you better go find that nutcracker

so you can pull off the event of the season

and move back home.

You're right.

Thanks, Dad.

Hi there.

I was wondering if you could help me with something.

I'm trying to track down a man named Dave.

Does he look familiar?

No?

Well, thanks so much.

Happy holidays.

Does this man look familiar to you?

You haven't seen him?

Well, thanks anyway.

Happy holidays.

No?

No.

Happy holidays.

Please, it's really important.

Could I just take a look at your sales record?

I really can't do that, ma'am.

Could I get one of your candy cane shortbreads?

That'll be $3.50.

Just gonna get my wallet.

Oh!

It's her!

Merry Christmas.

Keep the change.

Tristan, we need to talk.

So?

How'd it go with Mom?

Not great.

Maybe I should just stick with what I know and hit the road again.

I don't think you should run away.

It was here for me.

I mean, I came back to prove I could contribute to this family,

and look how that turned out.

No, you do contribute.

I mean, I came back to prove I could contribute to this family,

and look how that turned out.

No, you do contribute.

You got me through some of my hardest times when I was sick.

This family needs you.

The Foundation needs you.

Mom knows that.

It's her dream, and your fate,

for you to take over someday.

She will come around, I know it.

It's a done deal, finished.

It's gonna happen.

Thanks, Jules.

But what about the fundraiser?

We'll make do with what we've got.

You know, people will donate anyway.

It is about the kids, after all.

Hi.

Kids?

I've gotta go.

I'll see you at the event.

Oh, yeah.

Oh.

Thank you.

Always.

Airport lost and found, how can I help you?

Hi, I'm hoping for a Christmas miracle here.

Has anyone named Dave Lemoyne reported a lost greensmiths and carry-on?

I would absolutely love to look into that for you on this fine Christmas Eve.

Oh, yeah.

David Lemoyne, Boston, Massachusetts.

Are you serious?

I have his bag!

Hallelujah!

Finally, a Christmas miracle.

Well, I have his contact info.

Do you have a pen?

Oh, hi.

Are you looking for Dave?

Yes, I am.

Do you happen to know where he is?

Oh, yes.

Poor Dave is at the children's hospital with his daughter.

Bless her heart.

He's at the children's hospital?

Mm-hmm.

Thank you so much for collecting these letters.

I know hearing from the kids is gonna go a long way with our donors.

Aren't you glad to be out?

Dave?

Tristan?

Lottie?

Dave!

Lottie?

Pam?

Joey!

What is happening?

Lottie, how did you know where to find me?

Is everything okay with the flowers?

Yeah, everything's great with the flowers.

You know Dave?

How do you know me?

What is happening?

Well...

There was a bit of a baggage mix up at the airport.

We think you might have her nutcracker.

Oh.

You mean this nutcracker?

Yeah.

But I don't want to give him back.

Yeah, I know, kiddo.

But this nutcracker has to help other sick kids,

just like he helped you.

Really?

Yeah, just like the ballet, right?

The nutcracker saves the day.

Thank you.

We really appreciate your help with this.

And if you're feeling better,

we might have a way to make it up to you.

It's perfect.

It really is.

Tristan, any developments?

Before you say anything more, Mom,

I think there's someone you might like to meet.

Oh.

Is that...

It's perfect.

But how did you...

It's a long story.

Well, no time for that now.

I should get this somewhere safe.

Oh, I knew I could count on you.

It was all Lottie, really.

Oh, Lottie, I think I owe you an apology.

Tristan explained everything,

and while I do value honesty,

I'm very grateful for your loyalty.

You've done just a wonderful job,

and I would highly recommend your services to anyone.

Mm-hmm.

Thanks, Mrs. Warby.

Wonderful.

So...

looks like we might actually pull this off.

Yeah.

Just one more thing left to do.

I'm sorry for yelling at you last night.

You got fired for something I did.

I kind of had it coming.

Yeah, but...

you were right.

I do need to trust my feelings,

and instincts more.

So...

I saw my dad this morning,

and we're going to try to make more time for each other.

I'm really happy to hear that.

So...

I know you're going to be super busy tonight,

throwing the biggest event of your career and all,

but I was wondering if...

maybe you could save me a dance?

I'd love that.

Tristan, I'd like you to give everyone the good news.

Okay. I got this.

I got this.

Good evening, everyone.

If I could have your attention, please.

I'm thrilled to announce

that we've managed to secure an anonymous bid

on Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker so substantial

that all together,

we've exceeded our fundraising goal.

Thank you all so much.

You'll find thank you cards

hanging on the tree over there.

Please,

take a moment to read these special notes

from the children you're helping with your generous donations.

And I'd also like to thank my mother,

Erica Warby,

who's dedicated her life to helping those in need.

And thank you to our event planner,

Lottie Morgan,

who's shown true Christmas spirit,

helping in more ways than she even knows.

Thank you.

Now, without further ado,

allow me to introduce the future

prima ballerina

of the West Boston Ballet,

Josephine Lemoyne.

applause

orchestral music

Darling, it's absolutely perfect.

And I just want you to know

that when you are ready

to really come home

and I'm actually ready to step down,

nobody could do a better job than you.

Nobody could do a better job than you.

Thank you, Mom.

I don't know what to say.

Don't say anything.

Just watch the performance.

applause

orchestral music

Dad!

What are you doing here?

Oh, your friend Tristan invited me.

Is that so?

But what about the diner?

Well, I wanted to see the payoff

on all your hard work.

I can't believe you did all this.

Your mom,

she's so proud.

I'm really glad you came, Dad.

It means a lot to me.

And, uh,

I thought maybe I'd close the diner tomorrow

so we could have all Christmas Day together.

But I thought you said...

I changed my mind.

And none of the staff are complaining.

Who wouldn't want to spend Christmas

with their families?

There you are.

I wanted to thank you again

for pulling all this off.

Thank you.

It was my pleasure.

Uh,

Dad, this is

Erica Warby.

This is my dad, Jerry.

Nice to meet you.

You too, Jerry.

Quite the event.

Yes.

You should be very proud of your daughter.

Why don't I show you around?

That would be lovely.

orchestral music

telephone rings

Lottie, the buzz about your event

is circulating like wildfire!

I cannot wait to see you

take foster by storm.

Does that mean I got the...

Yeah, you got the job!

Of course, congratulations!

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas, Hilary.

May I have this dance?

You realize you're taking your life

into your own hands,

dancing with me.

You're worth the risk.

Thanks for inviting my dad.

I thought I should see

what a roaring success this is.

That's the word on the street.

I just got the call.

You're looking at

Boston's East Coast branch.

That's amazing, Lottie.

Boston's lucky to have you back.

Hey.

Feeling dangerous?

Maybe.

I was going to attempt a twirl.

Oh.

Well, I have a feeling luck's

on my side today.

Look at that.

No twisted ankles,

didn't break a boss.

You know, sometimes you just have to

breathe and trust the universe.

Having a good dance partner

doesn't hurt either.

Hey, who ended up winning

the Nutcracker?

That guy.

She kind of looks like...

I know.

Sweetie, I don't think

those gifts are for you.

Then why does this one

have my name on it?

What?

Do Jo and Lemoine love Santa?

Well, I guess open it.

Whoa.

Oh, my gosh.

Best Christmas ever.

Yes!

Day, please tell me

you spent your life savings

on a very expensive toy

that belongs in a museum.

I swear I had nothing to do with this.

Thank you so much.

Merry Christmas, sweetie.

Thank you.

Well,

I hope the Nutcracker leads

its next owner to something

as special as it did me.

And what would that be?

Isn't it obvious?

No, it's not.

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