All language subtitles for Christmas.For.Keeps.2021.720p.WEBRip.x264.AAC-[YTS.MX] eng

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[holiday music]
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♪

It's a party, full of boisterous
laughter, joy and life.

That's the explosive
magic we need.

When Fezziwig calls for everyone
to stop working,

I need the rest of the cast
to burst in from the wings.

I notated all of
the choreography.

Just in case anyone forgets.

Ben, you're Fezziwig
for a reason.

They need you to start
the Christmas Eve party.

So, be bold.

Ebenezer, it's time to forget
about work and have some fun.

Now, everyone, clear the floor.

Mr. Massey?

I'm worried we're
upstaging everyone.

Oh, you two are right where
you're meant to be.

Don't worry.

I learned your steps and mine.
Follow me.

Oh, why did Mr. Massey convince
me to join the play this year?

Because you didn't complete
your growth challenge.

I thought that was just like
a goal setting sheet

you wanted me to turn in.

I didn't know I actually had
to like, do...

Do something that actually
scares you?

Yes and you're doing it
superbly, I might add.

You've captured
Scrooge's authenticity

and you have Belle's radiant
spark in spades.

You know you're going to have to
pretend to have all eyes on me?

You'll look longingly at Belle
as you deliver your line.

But you'll address Mia.

Do you know this woman?

Oh uh, do I?

-Indeed, I do.
-I do.

Oh, Belle, so wonderful
to see you.

We have the fiddlers,
the food and the punch.

Tonight, we celebrate.

[laughing]

People, they'll be none of these
reindeer games on the night.

All right everyone, hands in.
Hands in.

On three, one, two, three.

All: Right here, right now!

♪

[contemplative music]
♪

[phone ringing]

Hey.

Hey! How are you?
You hanging in there?

Yeah, I'm hanging in there.
You?

I just said goodbye
to my students.

Feeling pretty nostalgic.

But, Mr. Massey reminded me that
stepping down from my position

as a TA was the right move.

Just still can't believe
he's gone.

My flight gets in first thing
tomorrow morning

and I'll head straight
to the memorial.

Ok.

Well, I, uh, I will see
you there.

Hey, I spoke to Mrs. Massey.

There's no way she can
possibly pull off

all the Christmas activities
Mr. Massey

used to do around town on her
own and we can't just let

his favorite Christmas
traditions disappear,

so, I'll be staying all week
to help.

That is very Avery of you.

I also told her you would help.

I... I can't.

You know, I'm, I'm, I'm up
to my neck in work here, um...

Sorry. You know what?

Why don't you call, uh,
call Mia?

Ok, I will.

Bye.

I'll see you soon.

Bye.

And suddenly I realized,
I saw, I know,

and the search light which had
been turned on the world

was suddenly turned off
and never for one moment

was there a light as bright
as this one.

As the kitchen candle.

[applause]

Wonderful!

[snoring]

Well, there's always one.

Thank you so much for coming,

you know this really has been
a labor of love.

Tell your friends,
thank you.

[phone vibrating]

Hi!

I am so sorry that I wasn't able
to text you back,

you know, I've been, you know,

trying to get my show
up and running.

Congratulations!

How's it going?

It's fantastic.

Mia: Everything's great.

I have a full house every night.

And hey, I'm really sorry that I
can't be there for Mrs. Massey.

I just have to come in
for the memorial,

you know, I have to get back.

Please just think of how much
fun it would be

to have all of us
together again.

Honestly, there is no way
that Sarah's even gonna

get the time off.

I'll just ask her
to get off call.

Yeah, let me know.

I can't just go off call.

People ask off for Christmas
months in advance.

Sarah, nobody organizes a candy
cane scavenger hunt like you do.

It's true.

I do still hold the record
for most unsolvable clues.

Exactly.

Come on, I need you.

The children of Culpepper
need you.

Ok, fine.

I'll ask, but please
don't get your hopes up.

It's a long shot.

Call Noah, he might have time.

You know I would do anything
for Mrs. Massey

but the kids are out of school

which means I'm on 24/7
parent duty for the week.

Avery: You're always on
24/7 parent duty.

Hey, can we slow down please?

Thank you.

You're in daddy's workshop here.

Ah!

I wanted rosy cheeks,
not sunburned skin.

Ok, how about this?

How many pieces of Santa's
workshop you think

you could each put together
before lunch is ready?

Mm.

Eight hundred and fifty.

Nice.

Technically impossible, but ok!

We want to see it, right?
Ready, set...

Build! Go!

You know how hard it is to find
a babysitter at Christmas?

Avery: No, I don't.

But can you try?

What about Sarah's mom?

Uh, they're away on a trip
this year.

Trust me, we're gonna need
friend time.

I'll see what I can do.

Ok, thank you.

I'll see you at the memorial.

Now go fix that cookie.

Bye.

Ok, I need testers.
Who wants to try, huh?

I do, I do!

[FaceTime call notification]

-Hey, Mom.
-Hey sweetie, how's it going?

I'm still here, just grading
some papers.

I'm so sorry about Mr. Massey,
honey.

I know you adored him.

Thanks, Mom.

But it's so great that
the school are putting on

this special service for the
students, faculty and alumni.

He deserves it.

And so, did you accept
the teaching appointment?

I decided to hold off on
the teaching position.

Really?

So does that mean that you
actually listened to what I said

and are considering
what we talked about?

I did consider it.

Uh-huh. And?

And I decided that I'm going to
open my own therapy practice.

What? What practice?

We didn't talk about a practice.

Mom, I was gonna get into all
this when I got home tomorrow.

With what clients?

Honey, this is a decision that
you should have shared with us.

Did you already
tell your father?

Luke!

Opening your own practice
is a huge undertaking.

I'm not sure that you have
thought this through.

I think everything through.

Too much, perhaps.

Mom, if I was going to teach
at any university

I would have accepted U of M's
offer and taught here.

I'm already looking
at rental spaces.

Did you find something
you like?

Agh!

You did tell him!

Sorry, Dad.

Anyway, I gotta get home
and pack.

I'll see you tomorrow.

Love you.

♪

♪

♪ Jolly old St. Nicholas ♪

♪ Lean your ear this way ♪

♪ Don't you tell
a single soul
♪

♪ What I'm going to say ♪

♪ Christmas Eve is coming soon ♪

♪ Now you dear old man ♪

♪ Whisper what you bring to me ♪

♪ Tell me if you can ♪

♪

Look, we gotta get
to the memorial

but I'll work through the night
as soon as we're back, ok?

Why would you promise
the Dixons their house

would be move in ready in a week
without consulting me first?

I will get it done.

It's Christmas, dude.

We promised our guys
the week off.

We can't take that away
from them.

We could lose business
over this.

Chris, I got it!

Now we're gonna be late.

♪

Ok, you two are gonna
have so much fun

with Fred and Leslie,
making snowmen.

-We need a carrot.
-And a hat.

Sarah, we're all ready.

Snowman accessory?
You got it.

Ok, are you guys warm enough?

-Yep.
-Yeah.

Oh, don't forget your gloves.

Ta da!

That hat's awesome!

You're the best, Dad!

Did you talk to your supervisor?

I brought her some of
your Christmas cookies

and a peppermint mocha.

And?

She loved them both,
but it's still a no.

At least I got Christmas day.

Ok, boys, race you to the car.
Come on.

♪

And then there were five.

For such a sad occasion, it
felt more like a celebration.

Y'all, come look
at these photos.

How are you, really?

Good.

Really.

Good.

-It's good to see you.
-You too.

Mia: I was so good
in this play.

Noah: I was so terrified
in that play.

All I ever wanted
to do was props.

Oh, right.
You wouldn't act.

So, he made you do
the growth challenge.

Well, he wanted me to do
something that scared me.

I had to put myself first
and disappoint my mother.

Yeah, and how'd that
work out for you?

Probably as well as it went
for you, giving up control.

And we're back.

Wasn't yours knowing when
to tell a joke

and when to take
things seriously?

Mine was to know when to have
fun and when to focus.

This place feels so different
without him.

Yeah, the place
is falling apart.

Everything needs to be replaced,
needs a new coat of paint.

Is that an offer to help?
'Cause we really could use it.

Had a feeling you'd all
still be here.

Who's directing the show
this year?

Our new English teacher.

Hoping for the best.

Actually, your timing is superb.

We were thinking of doing
a special dedication

for Mr. Massey before curtain
opening night.

That's wonderful.
Can we help?

Well, if only there was a former
class president in the house

with exceptional public
speaking skills

who could deliver the address.

I would be honored to speak on
Mr. Massey's behalf,

Principal Carter.

Please, call me Larry?
We're all adults now.

Well, Mr. Larry, I pretend
to be an adult,

but really, it's lightsabers
and Legos for me.

Well, I'm sure you're
all excited

to spend some time together.

So, I will leave you to do
just that.

Oh, mums the word
on the dedication.

We want to surprise Lillian.

I also have exceptional
public speaking skills.

Mia, you're welcome to speak

but you can't commit
to staying in town.

And you can't find a babysitter

even though you know everyone
in Culpepper.

And you're afraid to ask
your supervisor for time off

because you're scared
to surrender control.

And your brother has given
everyone the week off,

so I fully expect your help.

Unless you come up with
another excuse,

which I won't buy.

You've been texting my brother?

Not the point.

Come on, we haven't all been
together for Christmas in years.

When's the next time this is
gonna happen?

We are right here, right now.

And I know everyone has a lot
on their plates,

but I can't think of a better
way to honor our teacher.

Yeah, I do miss
Christmas karaoke.

I miss adults.

I miss creating lists...

writing clues and watching
kids compete.

Ok, I miss the scavenger hunt.

I promise this will be the best
Christmas karaoke party to date

and the best adulting ever.

And my parents can probably
watch the boys.

And I can also help watch
the boys

because I'll be staying
with you guys. Hm?

P.S. Is it cool if I stay
with you guys?

Mm-hm. Of course.

See? It's all happening.

Mr. Massey loved Christmas
more than anyone

and he put all that passion
into these events

and if we don't step in
and help,

none of this will happen.

So... who's in?

Honey?

Tillman!

As long as you promise to make
him wear the Santa suit.

[Mia gasps]

Done.

[laughs]

All right.

Mr. Massey on three.

All: One, two, three.
Mr. Massey!

♪

Looking good, kids.

I'm making Santa pancakes.

Hey, that's clever.

Thanks, I thought so too.

Yeah.

Oh, my gosh, this is hard.

Once they show they're hangry,

it's already too late.

Hold on.
Almost done.

Just wanna decorate them.

Not with those,
you are not.

They don't eat
strawberries anymore.

I don't like the seed looking
things on the outside.

If my brother isn't eating them,
I'm not either.

Since when?

Well, since they told me they
don't like strawberries anymore.

I don't even know what my kids
like and don't like anymore.

It's just strawberries, babe.

It's not just strawberries.

Hudson likes to wear
his clothes backwards now.

And what's with all the obstacle
courses of string everywhere?

They're... they're kids.

It's their job to change
every time the wind blows

and it's our job to go
with the flow.

Pun intended.

You know I don't like the flow.

If I'm this overwhelmed
in my residency,

what's gonna happen when I
take over my dad's practice

and then it all lands on me?

Hey, you're future tripping, ok?

Right now, they just need carbs.

We can figure out life with you
as a full-time doctor

when we get there. Ok?

Now, put the whipped cream down.

Ooh, I am the yarn grinch, here
to steal your Christmas cheer!

Num, num, num.

No, our yarn!

-Go away, Grinch!
-I'm gonna steal your cheer!

Noah: Oh, are you?

Hudson: Yeah.

-Morning.
-Morning.

Oh, hey, did those baseboards
or door casings come in yet?

No, they didn't.

Ben, sit down.

Look, I'm sorry I got
heated yesterday.

All right, I shouldn't have
promised what I did,

but I will get it done.

It's not just that,
not just the house.

The deliveries are late,
books are a mess.

I'm not trying to make you
feel worse.

Yeah, well, too late.

This isn't your business
partner talking,

this is your brother.

I want you to take a break.

It's the last thing I need
to do.

Look, I need to work.

Look, I'm not judging you,
I'm trying to help.

You've given up a lot.

You gave up baseball to help Dad
with the business,

to take care of Mom, and
then you took care of Dad.

You've been using this job
as a Band-Aid ever since.

The wound is not healing.

The wound is not healing?

What are you talking about?

Did Avery tell you that?

She's been very helpful.

Stop texting Avery.

You're gonna take the week off.

I already let the Dixons know

that their house won't be ready
until after the holidays.

All your friends are here, you
haven't seen them in forever.

Have some fun.

[phone chimes]

It's Avery, isn't it?

Tell her to relax, ok?
I will...

[sighs]
I will take the week off.

No, it's Trevor. I'm late
for pickle-ball.

But good.

Even though you didn't have
a choice.

♪

Hm.

Those all look very small.

That's the point.

I want it to feel intimate
and safe for my clients.

You also want it to
feel claustrophobic?

Ok, that's enough of that.

Honey, you left a job with a
potential for upward mobility

so that you could invite people
into a tiny box and counsel them

because you haven't saved
enough money

to properly make
this transition.

They don't care about
the space,

they're there for the help
I'm gonna provide.

Now you see, that's where
you're wrong.

It's like the difference
between a boxed fruit cake

and a homemade gingerbread
mousse trifle.

Now, which would you choose?

Why are we talking
about desserts?

I just don't think
you've thought this through.

Running your own practice
is a lot of work

and you won't see the fruits of
your labor for at least a year.

Now, teaching is stable
and rewarding.

That's why I did it.

Thank you for your thoughts,
I need to get ready.

I have to get ready too.

I am looking for a daybed
for the porch

so I can sit out there
and enjoy my tea.

You mean wine.

[laughs]
Yes.

I know exactly what I want
but I just can't find it.

Well, good luck.

Oh, and Noah and Sarah need some
help with the kids this week.

Would you and Dad
mind babysitting?

Mind?

We are itching to have grandkids
to watch.

I mean, who knows when
we'll ever have some of our own?

You can tell Noah and Sarah
that we would love to.

[upbeat holiday music]
♪

♪

Conductors one and two,
please report to the café car.

Treats await.

Are those for sale or
are you giving them away?

These are for the community
center, dry cleaners, washers,

everybody Sarah works for.

You really need to start selling
your cookies.

I just don't see
how we can both work.

Ok, but you held down the fort
so that she can live her dreams,

it's time that you start
living yours.

A start-up is a full-time job

and she's got one more year
of residency

and then she's transitioning
to her dad's clinic.

[phone chimes]

It's Uri, the stage manager.

Unfortunately due to lack
of sales,

we have to cancel the rest
of your shows.

Mia?

Is everything ok?

It's great.

You have more talent
in that pinky of yours

than like all of the bakers
in Virginia.

People need to experience
your talent,

and they can't experience it

if you're not given
the chance, so...

We're still talking
about cookies, right?

Yeah.

Aunt Mia, can we take this train
all the way to New York City?

Yeah, can we?

-Yes. Ask and you shall receive.
-Yay!

-Safe travels.
-Yeah.

Woah! Is that new?

-Mm-hm.
-Wow! Let me see.

♪

[phone chimes]

Sarah: Sorry. Stuck at work.

Noah: I'm at the house with Mia,
we totally forgot.

I'm making cookies,
come over.

So, have you decided?
Cavaliers, Wolverines?

It depends.

On what?

Whether I want to make myself
happy or make my mom happy.

Mmm.

Two words: Growth challenge.

It's not just about my mom.

Ben's playing baseball at Vandy,
Mia's going to NYU,

despite her constant doubt.

Noah and Sarah
are staying close,

so if I choose myself, not
only will I disappoint my mom,

I'll be separated
from all my friends.

Hm. Wolverines it is.
Go Michigan.

But, what if we get separated?

I don't ever want to lose
my friends.

They mean the whole world
to me.

How do I make sure
we stay together?

All right. Put your arms out
like this.

When my loved ones are going
through something hard,

I imagine I'm holding a giant
ball and I just hold space.

I let them bounce around inside
the protection of my arms

and open heart.

I remind them that life is short
and this not a dress rehearsal.

Mostly, I let them know
how much they're loved.

You guys will go through
rough patches,

and when you do, you will
open your arms wide

and you will remind them,
this love is worth fighting for.

Now, I can use your help.

Thank you, Mr. Massey.

[phone chimes]

Mia: Sorry, I know
I stood you up.

Can you quickly forgive me
and come over?

I need to talk.

Hey.

You ok?

What's going on?

What happened?

The theater dumped me.

Dumped you?

Like, a breakup?

Via text.

Can they do that?

Yeah, I mean when the big
show that you've envisioned,

written, created, doesn't
bring people into the seats,

yeah, I guess, guess they can.

I don't understand,

I thought things were going
great in the city.

I've been lying to everyone.
Including myself.

And I've been substitute
teaching high school,

just to pay my rent.

Is it pathetic that the best
part of my week

is teaching a bunch
of moody teenagers?

Not if it makes you happy.

I didn't text him back.

Who?

Mr. Massey.

The last time he reached out,

I didn't have it in me
to tell him that things

just weren't going my way
and that I let him down.

Absolutely not, he was
so proud of you.

We all are.

And he wouldn't want you
carrying that around.

But, if you stand me up again,
I'm calling the Culpepper Times.

Deal.

I'm gonna go inside.

You smell
the sugar cookies.

Yes, ma'am.

I'll be right in.

Ok.

I'm the past, the present
and the future.

I...

Stay in it.

You've got this.

The magic is just beyond
the words.

Magic?

I'm so freaked out
about the future

that I'm completely ruining
the present.

It's still early.

Avery, Ben and Sarah have all
received their early admissions.

And you'll get yours.

What if I just don't?

In life, especially in the biz,
failure is inevitable.

But, we don't live there.

And, at least, you're giving
it a shot.

The day that stops
being fun for you

is the day you move on
to what's next.

What's always next is
a perfectly imperfect

human ready to proclaim
her purpose.

If NYU says no,
oh, that's their loss.

That was convincing.

Ok.

Back to the top.

I hold Christmas in my heart and
I try to keep it all the year.

I am the past, I am the present,
I am the future.

Avery: I'm at Pammy's,
where are you?

Ben: Hey, sorry about
this morning.

I got to work on the flats
for the stage and forgot.

[phone chimes]

Avery: You can make it up to me
by helping me with the toy drive

and picking out a present
for my mom.

Impossible task.

Sorry again about this morning,
Ave.

It's actually better
that no one showed

because now, I can overtask you
and not feel guilty about it.

Also, I'll forgive you
for a cookie.

Your lists scare me.

Oh wow.

Mm. So good.

These are truly the best cookies
I've ever had in my life.

Oh, I know. He's starting
a business.

What?

Amazing!

No, I'm not starting a business.

Yes, he is.

I'm just making cookies
for people like I usually do,

and we'll see where it goes.

Noah, you have to do this.

I will, all right. I will.

Just, once my wife isn't working
100 hours a week

and the kids leave
for college.

We're working on him.

Ok, Noah, baking is clearly
in your skill set.

How about construction?

I built an entire Christmas
village with Legos once.

Why?

You're helping Ben
with the stage.

Oh, I don't think Ben
wants that.

You still haven't made up

from the "you're no fun
anymore" night?

Again, I was just trying
to make him feel better.

It was a joke.

We need to work
on your comedy.

If I could take it back,
I would.

I don't know what
I'm supposed to say.

Men just don't communicate.

I think that's why I date women.

Well, you'll have plenty of time
to talk

while you spruce up
that stage.

Oh, I also need you and Sarah
to play Mr. and Mrs. Claus

at our toy drive at the
community center on the 23rd.

I have waited my entire life
to be Santa Claus,

sign me up, please.

One last thing for now,
are you guys good

for our karaoke Christmas party
tomorrow night?

Oh, I'm free as a bird.

Uh...

My mom and dad can babysit.

Then that's a yes for me.

Do you ever wonder why Mr. Claus
has a first name

but Mrs. Claus is
first nameless?

I love your brain.

Thanks.

Avery: To teach is to touch
a life forever.

That's just lame.

Knock, knock.

-Oh, hey Dad.
-Hey.

Come on in.

Oh man, I'm sorry
I blew our secret.

But, I am so proud of you.

You are going to brighten up
any of those office spaces.

Thanks, Dad.

I needed to hear that.

It can be hard to feel hopeful
under Mom's watchful eye.

No, she's proud of you too.

She just shows it
in her own way.

Who shows what
in her own way?

Just catching Dad up
on some things.

Ok, well don't mind me.
As you were.

Good chat.

[giggles]

♪

[yawns]

Ho, ho, ho,
Merry Christmas.

Are you real?

Or am I so exhausted

you've become a figment of
my Christmas imagination?

Oh, no, I am real.

You and I are gonna be Mr. and
Mrs. Clause for the toy drive.

Just like Mr. and Mrs. Massey
used to do.

When?

The 23rd.

Can you believe it?

We get to hand out toys
to children

and I get to shake my belly
like a bowl full of jelly.

I can't do the 23rd.

We talked about this.

I have to work the late shift

so that I can be off
on Christmas Eve.

It'll only be an hour.

Don't make me feel bad.

So, you've asked every other
resident and no one can cover?

I can't help it
that I have a job.

You don't think what I do
is work?

I, I didn't mean it that way.

You're the only one who's not
making an effort to do this.

Even Ben is stepping up.

Don't you think I want to have
some fun with my friends?

I don't know.

Do you?

What do you want me to do?

I just don't want you
to wake up in 30 years

and realize that you have
missed everything.

[sighs]

♪

Mr. Massey, I am so sorry.

I was just trying
to lighten to mood.

Everyone was so stressed
and Mia was having a meltdown

and you couldn't get the chorus
to hit their marks,

which was their fault,
not yours.

You just described a perfect
first technical run-through.

Perfect?

That, that was a disaster.

Technical run-throughs are
supposed to be disastrous.

And they're also my favorite.

Seriously?

It's when we all find our
footing together

and see something we made
begin to come to life.

So you're not mad?

There's a time for work
and a time for play.

And a time to not take ourselves
too seriously.

You get that.

It's your superpower.

Never lose that playful spirit
of yours.

I mean, know how to rein it in,
but never abandon it.

Thank you, Mr. Massey.

Someone's happy.

Did you work through the night?

I saw the light on in here
before I hit the sack.

Don't worry, it's not
work-related.

It's for the toy drive.

Avery asked me to help out.

She did, did she?

All right, if you're gonna
rib me,

at least help me put these
in the back of the truck.

Ok, I am going shopping.

Oh, what kind of shopping?
Can I come?

Well, Ben and I are hitting up
Main Street

to see if they'll participate
in the toy drive.

You've been spending a lot
of time with Ben lately.

Oh, Mom, don't start.

I'm just saying, it's no
coincidence that Mr. Massey

has brought the two of you
back together again.

Even in his absence.

We're not together.

I think it's a great way
to honor Mr. Massey.

He was always so good about

making the holidays special
for the kids.

Mm-hm.

He even brought out the inner
child in us old folks.

Oh, speak for yourself.
Fine wine over here.

Ok, I gotta go.
I'll see you both later.

Ok, bye.

Patricia...

If she and Ben finally
get together,

she'll come back home.

-Good morning.
-Good morning.

How are you?

-Good, how are you?
-I'm good.

So, I have a surprise for you.

[magical music]
♪

Ben, they're amazing.

When did you even have time
to make them?

The upside of insomnia.

You ready to go?

Yeah.

Do you like 'em?

I love them.

I love my wife.

You know, I've loved her
since high school.

But, all this with Mr. Massey
just made me see

that we can't take time
for granted.

And you're worried
that she is?

She just... she doesn't know
any other way.

Oh, hmm.

-Here you go.
-Thanks.

You know, the truth is,

I've always had this benign envy

that she has something
for herself that she loves.

Now, Sarah gives everything
to her work,

but there's not a lot left
for us.

And you give everything
to the boys

and there's not a lot left
for you.

Ok, I know I promised Sarah
that I'd stay home with the boys

until she finished
her residency,

but I really want to do
this cookie thing.

Just can't seem to take
the first step.

Oh, I hate to break it to you,

but you're not a first step
kind of guy.

You're a need to be pushed
kind of guy,

but that's why you have me.

I'm happy to push you
off a mountain.

Oh, yeah, thanks friend.

And once you leap, I have
no doubt you'll fly.

Hudson: Aunt Mia! Help!

Yes, reinforcements coming.

Team work makes
the dream work.

Come on.

Woah, woah, woah.
Look at this.

Wow.

Huck: We want to put this up
on the tree.

Mia: You what?

PA: Reminder donation box
is at the nurse's station,
please give to the kids.

Friend, we only get 20 minutes.

Put those charts down,
let's eat.

I can't.

I gotta get these done.

I'm trying to meet my friends
for a Christmas party later.

It's the first time in years

the whole class has been
back together.

Oh, that's cool.

Or not.

They all want me to take this
week off

so we can spend time together
and I want that too.

But it's not like it's really
an option for you

to just take the week off.

Exactly.

So nice to be understood.

I started to feel like
the actual Grinch.

How many shifts
do you need covered?

Two.

Easy.

Joe is single with no kids
and you took his shift

so he could play in some video
game tournament.

What?!

He said he was going to his
parents' 50th anniversary.

So, we're gonna call Joe and
I'll take your second shift.

Who's gonna watch Ava?

That's for me to figure out.

You've helped the single mom
more than I can count.

I've got you.

Seriously, thank you so much.

Oh, and the toy drive for
the hospital is on the 23rd,

so make sure you have Joe
cover that shift

so you and Ava can come.

Done.

Now, eat.

Ok.

Just two, two more seconds.

♪

Thank you again for helping
with the toy drive.

It means the world.

Well, we all loved James
so much and we miss him.

Us too.

I was worried it wouldn't happen
this year.

How many toys are we looking
to donate?

As many as possible.

Chris and I'd like
to donate too.

Oh, look at her.

How cute is she?

The cutest.

We will find you a good home.

I remember when
you were toddlers,

and your parents would bring you
in here.

You know, you two were always
joined at the hip.

I'm not surprised
you ended up together.

Oh, no, we're still just
really good friends.

You sure about that?

Hey, you think the kids
would like these?

I think we're gonna need
a bigger donation box.

[laughing]

Kami: Rise and walk with me.

I said, rise and walk with me!

I am mortal, liable to fall.

Right, that's the line.

Thanks.

I am mortal, liable to fall.

Bear but a touch
of my hand there

and you shall be upheld
in more than this.

Ok, I know we can't actually fly
but you're gonna have to act

like you can or it's gonna
look ridiculous.

Yeah, I always wanted them
to rig the stage.

So, I could play Peter Pan.

I'm sorry, who are you?

I need a break.

Let's everyone take a five.
Or 15.

Hey, sorry to interrupt.

It's cool, you had the line.

Yeah.

Are you the ghost
of Christmas future?

Oh, I played SCP senior year.

Yeah, I went here like
a million years ago.

I'm Mia.

-I'm Kami.
-Hi.

I miss Mr. Massey so much.

And not just because this play
is a total disaster.

Yeah, he's the real deal.

Both: Irreplaceable.

[crashing]

Jane: I'm alright.
I'm ok. I'm ok.

She's clearly way
too over her head.

Are you here to help her?

Oh, no.

I'm just visiting my old
stomping grounds.

Yes, some of the best memories
of my life

have been on this stage.

So, I'm just here
to see the show.

Maintain very low expectations.

Funny.

Got any advice?

Um, I'm...

You can do anything
with your imagination.

So, if everything is falling
apart around you,

if you believe it, that's enough
for the audience to read it.

Thanks.

Yeah.

[crashing]

Oh!

Oh.

Uh, how often do you rehearse?

Everyday. From 10:00 to 2:00.

Everyday. Wow.
Ok, cool.

Bye.

♪

Those boxes were amazing.

Thanks again for making them.

Happy to help.

What am I going to do
about my mom?

I found nothing.

I just need something
that doesn't make her go:

"Hm. Thanks, sweetie."

At least, you have
a mother to shop for.

I am so sorry.

I wasn't thinking.
I feel terrible.

Don't. I'm sorry.

I know your mom is a handful.

So, was mine.

I always say it because, I just-
I wish I had one more Christmas.

One more gift.

What would you get her?

Hm.

The last Christmas
we had together,

I made her rocking chairs.

You know she used to love
to sit outside

with that big tea and watch
the birds and the sunrise.

She loved everything
I made her.

How would you feel about
making a daybed?

For a porch.

Daybed.

I think it's something
I could do for you.

And your mom.

Ok.

[singing off key]
♪ Fa, la, la, la,

♪ la, la, la, la, la

♪ Fa, la, la, la, la,
la, la, la, la ♪

[applause]

Yes, Mia!

Hey, is Sarah coming?

Unclear.

Do you want to talk about it?

No.

So, I was thinking you guys
could work on

fixing the stage up together.

I don't need any help, actually.

See? He doesn't need any help.

You both need help.

I think what she's trying to say
is that we all would like

for you to patch up
this misunderstanding.

I didn't misunderstand anything.

But you did.

I'm not going to do this
right now, Noah.

Ok, up next, we have
Noah Wong singing

"We Wish You
a Merry Christmas."

[applause]

No.

No, no, no.
No. That's ok.

No, no.

Yes. Yes.

I'm good.

Mia, no, I'm not gonna
do that.

Oh, Noah.

Ok, listen, I didn't like this
in high school

and I don't like this now.

Please don't make me do this.

Ok.

Ok?

Ok.

Ok.

Yeah, sorry, you can go ahead
with the next, next person.

[chanting]
Noah!

Noah! Noah!

Everyone: Noah! Noah! Noah!

Noah!

Noah! Noah!

Noah!

So, who's next?

How about Mr. Wong?

It's pretty straightforward.

All you have to do is exit
as yourself

and step back in
as someone else.

Are you gonna tell me
who I'm supposed to be

when I come back in?

Anyone else but you.

Don't second guess it,
that's why it's called improv.

There's only one rule,
leave your fear at the door

or you won't find
the opportunity

on the other side of it.

What opportunity?

The opportunity to become.

So, class, let's see
who Noah's going to become.

Hm?

[Mr. Massey chuckles]

The door is your threshold,
Noah.

Just like high
school graduation.

Just take the first step.

A whole world awaits
on the other side.

[chanting]
Noah!

Noah! Noah!

Noah! Noah! Noah!

Noah!

Noah! Noah!

Noah! Noah! Noah!

Noah!

Come on, you can do this.

I'm pushing you!

If you could do this,
you can do anything.

Do it for Mr. Massey.

[chanting]
Noah! Noah! Noah!

Noah! Noah! Noah! Noah!

[cheering]

Mr. Massey,
this one's for you.

Yeah!

Woo!

♪

♪ We wish you a merry
Christmas, ♪

♪ We wish you a merry
Christmas, ♪

♪ We wish you a merry
Christmas ♪

♪ and a happy...

♪ Good tidings to you,
wherever you are ♪

♪ Good tidings for Christmas

♪ and a happy New Year

Hey, I'm so glad
you could make it.

I gave away my shifts
so I can do the scavenger hunt

and be Mrs. Claus.

If Noah will still have me.

Sarah, Sarah. Come on.

Mia, everybody, I need a little
more help here, please.

No, no.

Let's go!

♪ Oh, bring us
some figgy pudding, ♪

♪ Oh, bring us
some figgy pudding, ♪

Ben, come on.

I'm good.

Come on, sing with us
for old times' sake.

Avery, I'm good.

♪ ...wherever you are,

♪ Good tidings for Christmas
and a happy New Year ♪

[lyrics get jumbled]

♪ We won't go until
we get some ♪

♪ We won't go until
we get some ♪

♪ so bring some right here.

♪ Good tidings for Christmas
and a happy New Year ♪

♪ We won't go until
we get some ♪

♪ We won't go until
we get some ♪

♪ We won't go until
we get some ♪

♪

Ben!

Ben, where are you going?

Home.

Please stop.

I'm sorry I tried
to pull you on stage.

I won't do it again,
just come back inside.

It's not about that, Avery.

I just want to take off,
that's it.

That's not it.

Is this about the Noah thing?

No.

Yes, but no.

No one ever got it
then and no one's gonna
get it now, Avery.

Try me.

Everyone in there lives their
lives like everything is fine.

Bad things don't happen
and for them that's the truth.

Yeah, Mr. Massey died, right,

and we're all living
in that hurt, but Avery...

I lost my parents.

And I knew a world
and now I have no clue

what that world looks like.

I am so sorry.

It's true, I don't understand.

I wish I could be in there
with you.

Laughing, and singing
and having fun.

You don't think I want
to have fun Ben back?

It's like someone...

It's like someone took a hammer
and knocked my body

into a million pieces

and I'm trying to put the pieces
back together again

and I can't find them.

I'm so scared that
it's gone forever.

♪

I cannot promise you that we can
put you back together again

the way you used to be.

You will never be the same,
and that's ok.

But I can promise you the person
we will find along the way

will be incredible.

Probably even more incredible
than he used to be.

We?

Yeah.

We.

I like the sound of that.

♪

♪

Good morning.

Hey, sweetheart.

Morning.

How'd you sleep?

I slept well.

How'd you sleep?

Good.

Need a refill, babe?

You must be parched
from all that singing.

[giggling]

Never happened, don't know
what you're talking about.

Mm-hm.

Whatcha working on?

Um, nothing, just, just trying
to buy some new cookie cutters.

Oh, let me see, so I know
what to buy you.

I know how particular you are
about your baking things.

I'll just send you a link.

Ok.

Well, I better get back upstairs

and finish up those
scavenger hunt clues.

Ok.

Hey.

Thanks for making
this week work.

It means a lot.

Of course.

Saying it out loud,
especially to her,

will help you start
your business.

I don't even know what it
all looks like yet.

She's so busy, she doesn't
notice anyway.

♪

[phone ringing]

Hello, this is Avery.

Ms. Taylor. Hello.

This is Susan from the
University of Virginia.

I'm calling in response
to your application

for the professorship.

I'm sorry, who, where did you
say you were calling from?

Susan from the University
of Virginia.

And you're calling me because?

We received your resume

and would love to talk to you
about the position.

As you know, it's a full-time
nine-month commitment, so...

I am so sorry to interrupt,
Susan,

but I'm a little confused.

I didn't submit a resume.

I did.

Cinnamon bun?

Hello?

Are you still there?

Susan, it appears there's been a
pretty massive miscommunication

on our end.

I'm gonna have to call you
right back.

Ok.

-Thank you so much.
-Bye-bye.

Oh, well that is wonderful that
they got back to you so soon.

Why would you do that
without consulting me?

I believe you made a decision

without consulting me
or your father.

I'm an adult.

I don't have to consult you.

Avery, this job is perfect
for you.

You'll be counseling
and teaching.

I want to start my own
counseling practice.

You know that.

Look, this is a bird
in the hand.

That happens to be
your alma mater.

Yes.

I don't know why I continue

to be shocked every time
this happens.

Every time what happens?

Every time you ask me to give up
something I want

in order to make you happy.

Well, that sounds very dramatic,
don't you think?

Look, you don't have to get back
to them right away.

It's a holiday, I'm sure that
Susan would understand

that you need a moment.

-I do need a moment.
-Mmmhmm.

You're right about that.

Now, excuse me, I have to go
dress up like an elf

and do a scavenger hunt.

♪

So, before we start,

I just want to say thank you all
for doing this.

I am so grateful.

My husband James is smiling
down on us.

Ok, kids. Come on over.

It is time for the annual
candy cane scavenger hunt.

Take it away, Sarah.

Ok, there are only two rules.

One, we can't help you
with the answers.

You gotta figure it
out yourself.

Two, have the most fun
you've ever had.

These are your elf friends.
They're here to help you today.

Everyone, go find your elves
and let the games begin.

[children cheering]

Santa loves milk and cookies.

This treat never gets old.

Go to where the cookies
are sweet

and all the kids love to meet.

[children cheering]

It's Christmastime,
strike a pose,

your next clue
can be found

where your parents buy
all your clothes.

[children cheer]

If you want to have Santa's
special powers,

you'll have to go to the place
that has all the flowers.

Flower shop!

You're right. Go!

He's here to fill all the
little ones Christmas joys,

where boys and girls
get their holiday toys.

Child: The toy store.

You better go check.

You're really doing it.

Making time for work and play.

I'm taking notes
for if I have kids.

Don't give me too much credit.

I don't know how to do this.

I don't think anybody does
until they're in it.

I spend every waking moment
with kids,

so I'm a little rusty
on adult conversations.

We don't have to talk.

Oh, great.

So, we'll just never talk again.
For the rest of our lives.

That's not what I meant,
Noah.

Grab your PJs and your best
Christmas socks,

you'll find the third clue
next to the clock.

Child: Wow, the clock!

The school is looking for
a replacement for James.

It's a hard call, I mean they're
impossible shoes to fill.

Who did you recommend?

Oh, someone with a background
in theater,

who's great with kids,
and a terrific leader.

I think it'll be a good fit
if this person takes the job.

Well yeah, they'd be crazy
not to say yes.

He's just so good, so effortless
with them.

He knows exactly what they need,
when they need it,

and how to give it to them.

Noah spends a lot of time
with them.

At least he will until he starts
his business

and then he can empathize
with what you're going through.

What business?

I keep putting my foot
in my mouth with you.

Ok, I'm trying here.

Can you please meet
me halfway?

Why would I meet you halfway?

Your idea of being there for me
when I needed you most

was making a joke about me
not being fun.

Yeah, that was a really
bad joke.

For weeks,

people dropped off casseroles,
hams, sodas, plants.

I mean, I got enough
pimento cheese

in my fridge to bathe in it.

You know, you know who didn't
stop by for me?

Was you, Noah.

I took you out to try to get
your mind off things.

Yeah, and you made me feel
that the only

way that you would show up for
me is if I was fun Ben again.

Here's the last clue.

Happy holidays, everyone!

[children cheering]

Ok, one by one.

And we go in a circle,
remember?

Where's Ben?

I may have accidentally
most likely upset him.

Please fix this.

We're trying to have
a great week together

and we can't because
of the two of you.

Come on, we're tired of it.

Ben is headed to the theater
to work on the set and I am too.

You should come and help.

You're starting
a cookie business?

Gotta go!

Ok, I promise that I will
talk about this later,

but right now, I have
to fix things with Ben.

Do that.

And then come home
and tell me why

I'm the only one who doesn't
know about this.

Today is not your day.

I feel like I'm in
high school again,

choosing my Mom's alma mater
over my top choice.

I mean, I eventually
got to Michigan,

but that's not the point.

It's hard not to fall back on
old habits when you get home.

Can I tell you
a little secret?

Please.

Our Michael wanted to go
to a music conservatory,

but we thought a liberal arts
education would be better.

In the end?

It wasn't our choice to make.

He went to the conservatory?

He loved every minute.

Listen, nothing will
knock you down quicker

than offering the best of
yourself to someone you love

and realizing it's still
not enough.

That is so true.

We parents, we want
the best for you.

But sometimes, it's hard
to distinguish

between your best
and our best.

And that's why you only
ever have to be responsible

for your best.

Thank you.

I used to go to Mr. Massey
with this stuff.

Now you can come to me.

♪

Ok, so the spirit has just taken
your hands, Scrooge,

and you've both just flown
through a window. Ok?

Go.

Go.

Here, let me help.

Come on, I got this.
All right? I got this.

Hey, no disrespect but it really
doesn't look like you got this.

Hey, guys, here's the deal, ok?

We have a play to put on and
these actors really need help.

All the help.

Ok, so if you could just go
back there,

work out your situation.

You love each other,

we have a set to finish
and it's Christmas.

Ok. Great.

Ok, so you guys will walk
hand-in-hand through

the window to the countryside
where Scrooge was a schoolboy.

So, we... we good?

No, we're not good.

I want an apology.

Well, I just thought,
'cause we, we did the nod thing.

Ok, yes, of course.
An apology.

I am so sorry.

Seriously. I'm sorry that
I said you were no fun.

It was a, it was a mean,
insensitive joke

and it's not true.

You are super fun.

Not lately.

Hey, come on, watching you
struggle under that flat,

that was really fun.

And, well, I'm sorry
that I wasn't there for you

when you needed me most.

I just had my second kid.

I was drowning in milk and poop
and I was so tired

and I couldn't even get one foot
in front of the other.

It's not an excuse,
but it's true.

And, I'm also sorry
for allowing there to be

so much distance between us
before I said I was sorry.

I appreciate that.

Love you, brother.

♪

[Noah singing to himself]
♪

Oh! You scared me.

Ah, I forgot.

That you started a cookie
business and didn't tell me?

Yes, but no.

Because I didn't even
start it yet.

But you want to?

I don't know.

Maybe.

You know, I mentioned it
to Mia and she had this
whole vision for it

and then I told Avery
and she loved it.

So, you talked to Mia, Avery

and I'm sure if you were on
speaking terms with Ben,

you would have told him too.
Just not your wife.

Just by the way,
Ben and I made up.

Besides the point.

Is this who we are now?

Two people slowly drifting
into separate lives?

No.

No, hey, Sarah.

That will never happen
to us.

I feel like it already has.

Glad you and Ben made up.

Sarah.

♪

-Morning.
-Morning.

Good morning, sweetie.

I've made your favorite,

breakfast casserole
with the grits in it.

Oh, I'm actually
not that hungry.

Plus, I have the toy drive
to get to.

Ok, well then let me just
get you a fresh cup of coffee.

I'll get one at Pammy's.

Thanks, Dad.

You're welcome.

What am I constantly missing?

Well, do you remember

what you told your mother
you didn't want at our wedding?

Yeah.

The one food I hate, shrimp.

Uh-huh.

And she had it anyway.

In fact, she had a lot of it.

I've never seen more shrimp
cocktail in one place ever.

I was so angry with her.

But it wasn't just about
the shrimp,

I just wanted her to trust me
enough to let me plan one thing,

at my own wedding.

In my own life.

To think that I was
capable enough,

smart enough, good enough.

Hm.

I just wish the apple fell a
little farther from the tree.

♪

[children laughing]

♪

-Merry Christmas.
-Merry Christmas.

Okay, go right there.

All right, who's next.

Hi.

Hi.

I know these cookies,
they are so good.

I know, I know they are.

Sarah always brings
Noah's cookies to the hospital

for the holidays

but I usually only get one
before they all disappear.

Oh! You can have it.

Shh.

Say thank you.

Thank you.

All right, little buddy.

I have heard, from several
of my elves,

that you have been one good
little brother this year.

Is that right?
Is that right?

So, I'm gonna see to it that you
get that scooter for Christmas.

And that helmet.
Safety first.

That's right, honey.

Ho, ho, ho. Merry Christmas.

Wow, Noah's cookies are getting
lots of action.

Good for him.

Yeah, I gotta say,
the man can bake.

Yeah. We uh, we patched
things up.

Good for you.

Hey, what are you doing later?

Avoiding my mother. Why?

Wanna come over?

Yeah.

We have four
different varieties,

and if you want more cookies,
I can always take your order.

Well, put me down
for five dozen.

Oh, my gosh. Ok.

Sixty cookies?

For gifts and me.

I didn't know you were
selling them.

I didn't know either.

Oh, you're gonna be baking
all week.

I've already got like
ten orders.

Mia, this isn't even
a business yet.

Don't worry about how
it's gonna happen.

Just leap.

Ok.

Great.

Who needs cookies?

Ok. Yeah, come on up.

So, what do you think

would make your sister
feel better, Teddy, hmm?

She's in the hospital

and I think she'll feel better
if she could color and draw.

She loves art.

Sounds like an art set to me.
Right, Santa?

Absolutely.

Santa has the perfect gift.

Oh my.

Thank you.

[chuckles]

Merry Christmas!
Ho, ho, ho, ho.

Did you feel that?

When I was a little girl,
I went with my dad

to the children's hospital to
check on one of his patients.

It was Christmas and the little
boy was so worried

that Santa wouldn't be able
to find him.

So, when you asked us what
we wanted to do to give back

to our community, I thought
of that little boy.

And all the other kids
that were in the hospital

over the holidays.

It just felt like something
I had to do.

That's called purpose

and I think you just found
one of yours.

Purpose brings meaning
and meaning brings happiness.

It's going to be a very
merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas!

Sarah?

Earth to Sarah.

Oh, sorry, I was just...

Never mind.

Were you saying something?

I was just saying
how great it is

that Noah's starting
his own business.

He is going to get half of my
paycheck with those cookies.

Anyway, Ava wanted
to go sledding.

Do you want to join
with the boys?

Yeah, sure.

Hey, kiddos. You want
to go sledding?

Yeah! Shannon Park!

All right!

See you in a minute.

Hey, where are you guys going?

I'm gonna take the boys
sledding with Chloe and Ava.

Sure, just give me five minutes,
I can come with.

No, you can't go.

Look at all your new customers.

Sell your cookies.
I'll take the boys.

It's ok, I promise.

Ok, I'll see you at home.

[laughs]

Ok, who's next?

All right.

[Upbeat holiday music]
♪

♪

[phone chimes]

Hey, great news. I saw
one of your shows

and I want you to audition
in New York ASAP.

Call me back to schedule.

Rehearsals start January 2nd.

-Oh my...
-What?

-What happened?
-Oh, no, nothing, nothing.

We're all done here

if you're ready to go avoid
your mother.

Let's do it.

You got the rest of this?

-Yeah.
-Ok.

-You can tell me later.
-Ok.

♪

When you asked me to come over

I didn't realize you'd be
putting me to work.

Hey, this is for your mom.

Who I'm still mad at,
by the way.

What'd Patricia do now?

Oh, you know, just applied for a
job on my behalf behind my back

because she doesn't like
my life choices.

You should have got her
into therapy sessions.

It seems like you've had
a good week.

Well, as mad as I was
at my brother

and I can't believe I'm gonna
say this, he was right.

I just, uh, just needed
to think.

Figure anything out?

Yeah, that I have been unhappy
for a long time.

When's the last time
you were happy?

Baseball.

But, that ship has sailed, so...

What about coaching?

I've thought about it.

I don't know, I just...
just need to keep thinking.

Thinking is good.

Hey, do you remember that time
we made that pinky promise?

You mean the one we made when
we were 12 that if neither of us

was married by the time
we turned 30,

we would marry each other?

That's the one.

[laughs]

You know there's only
three months left

on the clock until...

Don't say it.

30!

Don't, don't!

Avery's 30!

Don't say anything!

I have a confession
to make.

Thank you.

Thank you for not letting me
push you away again.

So you still have feelings too?

Promise me something.

Promise me you'll never
shut me out again. Ok?

♪

-Oh, oh man, it's heavy!
-I know, I know.

Shh! It's supposed to be
a surprise!

Ok.

What surprise?

Surprise!

It's gorgeous!

Where did you find it?

We didn't find it,
Ben made it.

Ben. Wow.

It's perfect.

Thank you so much.

I am happy to do it.

Well, I will let you enjoy
your new gift,

but merry Christmas
Mr. and Mrs. Taylor.

-Merry Christmas.
-Merry Christmas.

I will see you later.

Yes, certainly.

Luke: Why don't I make you guys
some tea?

Patricia: Well, thank you.

Luke: Absolutely.

Oh. It's so nice!

Yeah, you like it?

I feel like I don't really
deserve it though.

I owe you an apology.

I'm really sorry.

I should never have interfered
in your life the way that I did.

No, you shouldn't have,
but thank you for apologizing.

I just miss you.

You're my only daughter and I
just wish that you were closer.

And sometimes it feels like
you keep running away from me.

Am I really so awful

that you have to put so much
space between us?

No, Mom.

I just had to create distance

in order to find
my own way in life.

This is my life and
I'm doing a great job.

I'm sorry if my choice
disappoints you

but I can't disappoint myself.

You never met your grandmother.

She was a wonderful woman
and I miss her every day,

but, if it wasn't her way,
it was the highway.

And I suppose I learned
that love was control.

And I am learning now
that you can't have

both love and control.

You have to pick one.

And honey... I pick love.
Without condition.

Thank you.

You have no idea
what that means to me.

But you have to trust that
I know the next right step,

and for me, that means starting
my own practice in Michigan.

I love you so much.

Oh.

I love you too, Mom.

I love you too.

♪

-Did you get a lot of orders?
-How was sledding?

-Sorry.
-Sorry, you first.

I, I have more orders
than I can fulfill.

Seriously.

I don't know how I'm gonna
get it all done.

And, of course, it's the week
that the boys are home

for break and it's not like
I can ask them.

Hey, we'll figure out the boys.

And we'll figure out the orders.

Answer me this...
how did it feel?

It felt good.

I felt alive in a way
I haven't before.

I'm sorry, is that ok?

I don't even know what
this is yet

and who knows if I'll even get
orders after the holidays.

I'm so happy for you.

You've been our anchor,

and the reason I could
pursue my passion.

And I want to be part
of the reason

that you can do the same.

-Really?
-Really.

And not for nothing, what you
do with them is so hard.

I work 20-hour shifts
on my feet,

but our boys wiped me out
after only four.

[laughs]
Yeah.

Keeping them from running
into trees with their sleds

or each other.

The meltdowns, the questions.

[laughs]
Oh, the questions.

Why do they need
so many snacks?

Ok, ok, pro tip?
Mini cooler in the car.

Just trust me here.

I don't know how we're gonna
make it all work

but I do know that together,
we can do anything.

♪

She cannot hear you.

I love the childlike curiosity,
Mia.

This is older Scrooge's first
turning point of seeing

the distance between where he is
now and where he wants to be.

That's what Bill represents,
living life to the fullest,

because we are never
promised tomorrow.

But, you're here to relay
that it's also never too late

to let go, forgive,
and try again.

Forgive who?

He's the one who skipped out
on his peeps.

Forgive yourself.

So, when I say,
she cannot hear you,

what I'm thinking is I
desperately wish she could.

Yes.

[phone chimes]

Hey, I really need to talk.

Can we meet at Pammy's
for a late night hot cocoa?

Of course. I'll be
right there.

I've been sitting in
New York City for years

fighting for, you know, a break,
for a chance

and I think if I go tomorrow

that I'll actually have a chance
to be seen, a real shot.

And she said that I was dynamic.

I am so happy for you.
That is incredible.

But also...

No, no, Avery.
No buts, please.

What about the show,
and those kids?

But you're in your purpose.

You have no idea what it's like
to never know

if you're gonna reach your
dreams and not even get close.

I just don't know what to do.

But it's something I have
to figure out for myself.

♪

Are you almost ready?
We have to go.

Yep, two seconds.

Just trying to get the website
streamlined.

Let me help you.
Here we go.

And, I am all yours.

Both: Ew!

Yuck!

You are a great mom
and a great wife.

Even though I didn't know they
stopped eating strawberries?

Next week they'll
love strawberries

and be done with bananas.

But I want to know these things.

So, I've made a decision.

When I take over
my dad's practice,

instead of trying to do things
his way,

I want to do things my way.

So, I'm bringing in a partner.

That way I'll have some time
with the boys

and you'll have time to run
what's about to be

Culpepper's number
one cookie business.

That is the best Christmas gift
I could ever ask for.

And you two are the best
Christmas gifts

we could ever ask for.

P.S. Just don't tell my dad
about the plan.

At least not until
I buy the practice.

Oh yeah, I wouldn't dream of it.

Ok.

-Come on, let's go.
-Alright. Let's go.

You two are so silly.

How did your agent meeting go?

I hope they know
what a talent you are.

I'm starting to think
this isn't my path.

That I should just pack it up.

[knocking]

♪ Would you like to spend
Christmas with me...
♪

Merry Christmas Eve, Ben.

Merry Christmas Eve.

You look very handsome.

You look, you look beautiful.

So, I've been thinking.

Yes?

What if I took a little bit more
time off of the family business?

I'm listening.

So, I called an old friend
who works in the Minors,

and there happens to be a
coaching position available

and I'm gonna apply.

I'm so happy for you.

Thank you.

Get this.

And, it happens to be
in Michigan.

That's an interesting choice
of states.

And I've also been thinking...

I love how committed to
this thinking thing you are.

Would you like some company?

I would love some company.

The truth is...
I love you, Avery.

I've loved you my entire life

and look, you don't have
to feel the same, yet,

but, I mean, I couldn't go
another day without you

knowing how I felt.

Ben Tillman.

I love you so, so much.

I always have.

And I always will.

♪

[audience chattering]

Pretty good turnout.

Tonight, is a special night.

First, these kids have worked
so hard.

I didn't think you were coming.

I wouldn't miss your debut
for the world.

Break a leg.

After the show,

you're gonna need to explain why
we say that. It makes no sense.

Ok.

Tonight, we honor someone
who was so dear to us

and who transformed
many lives,

including Culpepper High's
very own, Avery Taylor.

[applause]

What is it about high school

that seems to stick
with us forever?

I think Mr. Massey would say
it's a time of firsts.

And if you're lucky,
like we were,

you had a Mr. Massey to guide
you through all those firsts.

And so much more.

Thank you to our teacher,
and mentor

for holding onto our dreams

and reminding us of
who we were born to be.

Thank you for showing us,
in how you lived,

that it's not a dress rehearsal.

And thank you for teaching us

that if you have the
courage to go through life
with an open heart,

magic and miracles abound.

If my friends would join me?

Now, before the main
event tonight,

we have a small surprise.

Mrs. Massey, Michael, would
you mind joining us as well?

We couldn't think of a better
gift for our mentor

than by dedicating his
life's work back to him

for years and years to come.

So, without further ado,
we present to you...

The James Massey Theater.

[applause]

-Oh, my goodness.
-That's amazing.

I would say give a round
of applause but that's
already happening,

so let's get this show
on the road.

Everyone, I present to you,

the annual production
of "A Christmas Carol".

[applause]

You were all so wonderful.

I mean, the way that you flew
through the air,

it was, I believed it.

And you, Kami, I mean,
you're a star.

We couldn't have done it
without you.

No offense, Ms. Bennett.

Oh, none taken.

It's true.

You really have a gift.

You made me become
a better actor.

I wish you could stay longer
for my senior year.

Maybe your wish
will come true?

Everybody is so impressed
by you.

So much so that...

well, we wanted to talk to you
about stepping in

full time as the new
drama teacher.

Now, I know you've got
your life in New York City,

but I couldn't think of anyone
better to recommend

to the school to take
my husband's place.

I'm honored.

I mean, to even be thought of in
the same light as Mr. Massey is,

is I can't believe
I'm gonna say this,

but yes, yes!

The answer is yes!

This is exciting.
Merry Christmas.

You have a nice holiday and
we'll talk in the new year.

Yes!

Oh my goodness, come on.

[clears throat]

Guess who's gonna be
the new drama teacher

at Culpepper High?

What?

-Congratulations!
-Way to go!

Oh, my gosh, amazing!

Thank you all so much for
everything you did this week

to make it so special.

When my heart was so sad,
you filled it up with joy.

I love every single
one of you.

Well, we have a Christmas dinner
to prep.

So, we're gonna go home.

Merry Christmas.

All: Merry Christmas.

-Merry Christmas.
-Merry Christmas.

[squealing]

Congratulations!

Bring it in.

[applause]

[applause]

[laughing]

The kids were asleep before
their heads hit the pillows.

Which is surprising, considering
how many cookies they ate.

So, how many orders
did we end up getting?

Oh, well, let's just say,

I am so glad to have beautiful
helpful friends like you.

Oh, you know what?

I actually have to get back
to Michigan.

Yeah, my supervisor won't give
me the time off.

I think I have some houses
that need building.

I can't get a sitter.

Ok, y'all are cute.
Real cute.

[laughing]

Of course we'll help you, babe.

Yeah.

Oh, but first, I'd like
to propose a toast.

Thank you for sharing
your family with us

and for hosting with the
mosting, as you both do.

Thank you for staying in town
and inspiring everyone

to always lead from the heart.

And thank you for playing along.

Trusting.

And letting us in.

This week was everything
we didn't know we needed.

And everything we won't
ever forget.

Thank you for being
chosen family.

All: Right here, right now!

♪

♪

♪

♪

♪

♪

♪

♪

♪