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Hi. My name is Abigale Seaver,

and I'm a dating coach and author.

I'm a dating coach on my way to being a published author.

This is my home, Tifton. It's also home to

the best book publisher this side of New York City--

C. McNeille Books,

which is more than just a happy coincidence for me.

I've developed my own rules for dating

that I share with my clients

and have now incorporated into my hopefully

soon-to-be-published "Holiday Dating Guide"

to help people fulfill their souls'

biggest desire.

They just have to get out of their own way.

That and a little push from me

to guide them in the right direction.

- Jim. - Oh! Hi.

You got this!

No, no, I don't got this.

Remember our sessions.

All you got to do is walk up to her and say hello.

71% of women in our age range

are just looking for the right match.

Yeah, they're looking for someone who can talk to them.

And I'm not that someone.

Chapter one.

-"You've got this. - Yeah.

I've got this.

What I don't got is what I'm going to say to her.

When in doubt, improvise.

Hi. Breakfast sandwich, please. Bacon on the side.

That'll be $3.99.

Mm.

Thank you.

- What are you doing? - Trust me.

Now walk over there slowly and get me a napkin.

Go.

Whoa!

Oh, my gosh! I am so sorry!

Are you okay?

She is so cute.

Um... What's her name?

- Ava. - Ah.

I am so embarrassed.

Can I make it up to you with a coffee?

Uh... Yeah! Yes, that would be great.

- Great. - Yeah.

You silly dog!

And that's how it's done.

Good morning.

Good morning.

'Sup, bro?

Hey, what's up?

You good?

Yes, I'm good. Yeah. Let's go.

- You sure? Okay. - Let's go.

After you. - Thank you.

Bro, did you know that some cats are actually allergic to humans?

What?

And apparently, green eggs and ham

was actually created on a bet.

Thank you.

Fred, why do you know all of these things?

And more important, why do I need to know them?

Well, when you've been a high school teacher

for well over a decade,

you learn a ton of random facts.

Plus, random facts are the best way of meeting beautiful women.

That's how I got Lydia to fall in love with me.

- Random facts, huh? - Mm-hmm. Just saying.

Peppermint mocha latte, please.

- All right. And for you? - Vanilla latte, please.

- All right. Perfect. - Your turn?

- Yeah, I got it. - Thank you. These?

Yeah, perfect.

Dad.

How long did he give you to decide?

- 12 days. - 12 days?

Wait, wait, wait--

that's Christmas Eve.

Last business day of the year.

Are you still upset that he killed the deal?

What deal?

Oh, do you mean the deal that I spent six months

working on that would have made us an international brand

and probably tripled our profits?

That deal?

Yeah, I'll take that as a yes.

You're still upset about the deal.

Yeah. Listen, Dad is stubborn,

and Mom was...

You know, it is too early to be talking about that.

Okay, well, look, I'll change the subject.

Come with me to the bar tonight.

I thought you had plans with Lydia tonight.

No, no. She has this mother-son thing with Cole.

Please, don't leave me hanging.

All right, fine.

- Yes! - I will come, but not for you.

It's for the other patrons.

All right, well, you won't be sorry.

- Cheers. - Cheers.

Oh, yeah.

Awfully chipper in the morning.

James?

Ew. That smells horrible. What is it?

Gwyneth Paltrow's $250 Holiday Ascension Smoothie.

- 250 bucks for a shake?! - Ascending's expensive.

Also, I couldn't find all the same ingredients,

so it's kind of a knock off, but it promises to keep me

young and beautiful. - You're so extra.

Extra for being your roommate for so long.

First of all, you would hate living without me!

Secondly, after I finish my meeting this afternoon,

you'll be looking at C. McNeille Books'

latest published author,

and I'll probably be moving into my own place.

And then how sad will you be.

Oh, so sad. Wait!

The meeting with the book guy's today?!

- Yep. It's finally happening. - Well, here's to you

getting a book deal, and me staying young and beautiful.

You know, this is why people get Botox.

I got to get going. Love you.

I know.

Really?!

Are going to wish me luck or what?

Being published is only a lifelong dream.

No, you don't need luck. You're the best dating coach.

And you're going to have these publishers

eating out of the palm of your hand.

I know!

I really want a doughnut.

You got this.

...in fact, we have a new coffee machine upstairs.

You obviously know how to get to John's office.

You go down the hallway up to the third floor.

But instead of hanging the left, go right.

And there's a-- there's a new set up there.

Yeah. You'll really enjoy it. - Thanks.

Take care.

Mm-hmm. Okay, that sounds great.

Perfect. We'll see you next week. Bye.

Hi, Abigale. - Hi.

My name is Sarah.

Would you like something to drink?

Oh, no, thank you.

By the way, I loved your manuscript.

You know, little secret, most materials

are usually read by the assistants.

I, for one, am so grateful I read yours.

I need all the help I can get in the dating department.

I'm tired of spending the holidays alone.

Are you nervous?

- Is it that obvious? - Chapter one, right?

You've got this.

- Come on in. - Jack will see you now.

- Thank you so much. - Wait!

Good luck.

- Hi! - Hi!

Abigale Seaver. It's great to meet you.

I really appreciate you taking the time to be with me, sir.

Especially so close to the holidays.

Well, your e-mails were incredibly persistent.

I'm grateful for the opportunity, Mr. McNeille.

Oh, please, call me Jack. Here.

Have a seat.

Wow.

Oh! Oh, yeah. Yeah.

Sometimes I can't believe it myself.

Uh, you want to know the secret?

Yes, definitely.

Well, I married the smartest woman in the world.

And she really loved helping people.

She's beautiful.

Yeah.

Listen, if I'm being honest,

I didn't really understand your manuscript.

Oh! I thought--

My assistant-- she loved it.

And she has her finger on the pulse of what's hip.

And I do know good writing when I see it.

And I'm with you on the importance of finding love,

Abigale, especially at this time of year.

And-- oh! By the way,

you are welcome to come to our Christmas Eve party.

We McNeille's go all out.

I'm in!

Wait, does that mean you're going to publish my book?

Uh... no.

I-it's about the dating rules? Um...

"Be a mystery," "don't be too independent,"

"never see someone two days in a row"?

I mean, it's just so different from how I met my wife.

Jack...

How long have you been married?

Oh, we were married 45 incredible years.

I met Carolyn and in high school, she--

she sat next to me in chemistry class.

I guess I should have known then, huh?

That's beautiful. Really!

But times have changed. People have changed.

Technology and social media have flipped the game,

especially when it comes to dating.

Well, yeah, but love hasn't changed.

I mean, for me, it's all about an authentic connection.

And then love just follows, it's simple.

Everybody arrives at it differently.

I mean, sometimes less really is more.

Jack, respectfully,

I've been using the advice

I share in this book with my clients for years,

and I have a 90% success rate-- with rates increasing

during the holidays to 93%.

I really believe now is the time

to share this with the world,

and it has always been my dream

to have my work published by your company.

Look, may I ask you a personal question?

Sure.

Are you in a relationship?

Well, no-- but that's only because my relationship

is with my work right now.

Okay, wait.

What if I can prove my book works?

Uh, well, I'm not sure what you mean.

What if I follow my own advice?

Um...

I'll use the book and find myself a relationship.

What better way to lead than by example?

Look, like I said, you are a great writer,

and I would love to read whatever you write next.

Think about it.

What better proof than the author falling in love

with a guy using the advice she shares in her book?

It's actually perfect!

H-how would I even know if you actually succeeded?

I'll bring him to the C. McNeille Christmas party.

Uh, you-- you do know Christmas Eve is 12 days away.

Uh-huh.

Plenty of time.

12 days to meet and make a perfect stranger

fall in love with you?

Totally doable.

And if I succeed, you'll publish my book?

Oh, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa.

Well, my wife always used to say, "You might be right."

Solved any difficulties we were having.

And... I can't believe I'm agreeing to this, but--

But, um...

You might be right.

And if you succeed...

...I will publish your book.

Thank you! Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Well, that was interesting.

I am horrible at wrapping presents,

and this tape dispenser's messed with my cuticles.

I need you to help me. - James!

I'm kidding! I want to know everything.

Okay. I might have told Jack McNeille that I could get

a guy to fall for me by Christmas Eve,

so basically, I have 12 days.

- Wait, what? - He was skeptical about my book,

so I told him I could prove it works.

Prove it works, as in, you have 12 days

to fall in love with someone.

Well, not necessarily.

I could at least get someone to fall in love with me in 12 days.

Ah, still immune to love, even now.

James, you know I love a great holiday romance movie.

Do I want the snow to fall on cue

as me and Mr. Right kiss for the first time?

Yes! Yes, I do!

But this is reality-- and my book is my priority,

and I'm going to do everything it takes to get it published.

Ooh, scandalous. I love it.

You know, I've got a guy that'll do it for 50 bucks.

No! I have to do this for real!

It can't be anyone I've ever met,

and he definitely can't know about this deal.

Do you want your book published or not?

You don't think I can do this?

Okay, fine. Have it your way. What does your book say

the first step is? - You haven't read it?!

Huh? No! Yes, I've read it!

I love it. I was reading it last night.

I love your use of words, and, um...

You are the worst!

Here. Early Christmas present.

-"The Holiday Dating Guide"? - Genius, right?

No one's written a holiday dating guide.

Okay, Get me up to speed with the CliffsNotes.

Okay, so, the book is pretty straightforward.

12 rules to get you out of your own way

and help you meet someone new without falling into

the normal pitfalls of dating.

- A rule book? - Yes, a rule book.

Out of context, it may sound silly,

but, for example,

one would never see someone two days in a row.

- People actually do that. - Mm-hmm!

Also, make sure your social media looks amazing, festive,

but there'll be a bit of a mystery.

- Obviously. - Don't be too vulnerable,

and don't trust anyone to soon.

And never meet the parents before the third date.

Oh, hindsight's 20/20.

Ooh, let's do happy hour and scope out potential suitors.

Well, one of the rules is don't include your friends too soon.

Well, we're breaking that one because I'm not missing this,

but I promise I'll be invisible, a fly on the wall.

Where are you going?

To find a guy, make him fall in love with me,

and get my book published.

Guess we're done with wrapping presents.

♪ Deck the halls with boughs of holly ♪

♪ Fa la la la la, la la la la ♪

♪ 'Tis the season to be jolly ♪

♪ Fa la la la la, la la la la ♪

♪ Don we now our rock apparel ♪

♪ Fa la la, la la la, la la la ♪

Oh.

Thank you.

- Wow. Cheers. - Cheers.

Mm! - Mm-hmm!

Oh, wow.

Yeah.

What, you're not gonna go over there?!

No, because it's guy's night.

- Oh! You love me! - Stop it.

Hey, wait. Whoa, whoa!

Oh!

Do we know her? - It's the girl from this morning

that was doing the adorable little happy dance.

Oh, well, she's gorgeous-- and lucky for you,

I'm taken.

Oh, please. You worship the ground Lydia walks on!

It's the other way around.

The secret is remaining mysterious.

Play hard to get.

It's Lydia. Think she heard me?

- Yeah. - Snookums!

Hey, I'm going to go use the bathroom.

Don't cheat while I'm gone.

So, this is the place that you recommend to your clients?

It's giving me farmersonly.com vibes.

It's where you meet real people, James.

Well, let's scan the bunkhouse again.

♪ Dashing through the snow

Ooh. What about the singer in the band?

Jimmy Fallon Doppelganger.

Adorable, and America's late night sweetheart.

Not to mention super talented. Hmm.

What if we start with that guy?

- Oh, go get him, tiger! - Roar!

I'll tell ya, this girl Puja is amazing.

So much fun. Way more fun than Kelsey.

'Cept Kelsey's your girlfriend, dude.

Don't remind me. I feel bad enough already.

Why don't you just break things off already, Barry?

Because we've been dating for years.

Because my family loves her.

'Cause I love her.

Hey, Barry, you may love her,

but you may not be in love with her anymore.

- What? - I'm not sure, but cheating

is usually just a symptom of a relationship in trouble.

And although I never condone cheating,

the fact that you feel bad

means you're probably not that bad a guy.

So, either let this Puja go and get to couples therapy,

or let Kelsey go so she can meet someone new.

Either way is the right thing to do

and it'll translate to the best chance of happiness for you.

Abigale Seaver, Professional Dating Coach.

Happy to serve!

♪...ride in a one-horse open sleigh ♪

♪ Hey! Jingle bells, jingle bells ♪

♪ Jingle all the way

♪ Oh, what fun--

Oh, my-- oh, geez!

- Oh! - Geez! I'm so sorry!

- It's okay. - Oh, my gosh! I'm so sorry.

Well!

Thank you.

Cocktail napkins aren't really absorbent. I'm so sorry.

- It's really okay. - Ugh...

You know, it's good to see you again.

- Motorcycle man? - Yeah!

Didn't think it was possible

to feel more embarrassed than I do now.

For the record, I thought that your little victory dance

was adorable.

I'm mortified.

- I'm Michael. - Nice to meet you.

Can I buy you a replacement drink, Miss Mortified?

Uh, sure. But I'm paying since I knocked into you.

- That's even better. - Hmm.

Excuse me!

Uh, sir?

He doesn't work here. I mean, he works here,

but he doesn't actually work here.

- Clearly. - Aspiring actor?

Frustrated poet.

Who is also a non-conformist.

Who hates Christmas.

And loves ignoring cool people like us.

I'm sorry-- I actually hate when people check their phones

during a conversation.

That's okay. Girlfriend?

No. Best friend, Brad, who apparently saw me

bump into a beautiful woman and is extremely excited for me.

Excuse me.

Hmm.

You know what? What are you drinking? Beer?

Beer works.

There we go.

Keep the change.

That was borderline trespassing--

but also impressive.

To non-conforming, frustrated poet bartenders

who hate Christmas

and love ignoring cool people like us.

- Cheers. - Cheers.

Mm.

Although I was supposed to pay.

Mm. Well, technically, I bumped into you,

caused you spilled the drinks, so I think we're even.

Okay.

Uh, you know, you never told me your name.

Be mysterious!

Well, if you can beat me at pool,

maybe you'll find out.

Random facts, bro! Random facts!

Ooh!

Okay... Nine ball, corner pocket.

Ugh!

Two ball, corner.

You know, even dolphins have names for each other.

They have a distinct whistle for every member of their pod.

One ball, side pocket.

There's no way that's true, and you better not whistle at me.

It is definitely true.

My, uh-- my buddy Brad has a wealth of knowledge.

Actually used to look up the things he would say

to try to prove him wrong,

but it turns out he knows everything.

Mm.

Four ball, corner.

What?! You're goin' behind the back?

Uh-huh.

You're really good at this game.

Thank you. All right. Three balls left.

I think your random facts are my good luck charm.

So, what you got?

Actually, yeah, I-- I do have another one.

Sea otters hold hands while they sleep-- can I?

So they don't drift apart in the water.

- Hmm. That's pretty cute. - Hmm.

Do you and Brad practice that one?

Every morning, yeah.

Your friend Brad seems to know a lot about sea animals.

Well, he is a high school science teacher

and one of the coolest dudes around.

Cute.

Do you want to take the next turn?

Oh, I'm not above charity.

Yes, I will take a turn. I'm going to do that

15 right there in that corner pocket.

Okay. Just so I can save face here,

why don't we just say whoever hits the eight ball in

next wins the game?

Deal-- go ahead.

No. No. I think we both know how this is going to go,

so why don't you just put me out of my misery?

Okay.

Eight ball, corner pocket.

Okay.

Better luck next time.

That was amazing.

It was nice to meet Michael.

Hey, wait a second!

What's your name?

Abigale.

Oh, excuse me.

And "keep the date short"-- pro!

Oh, gosh. I didn't know you were awake.

Awake? I haven't gone to sleep!

I can't keep my nose out of this book!

Well, that's quite the compliment--

considering you don't even like books.

Um, I love books, I just hate reading.

- Oh. - Can we talk about last night?

As we stream popcorn and watch "Love Actually."

You were incredible last night!

Who was that rock star mysterious girl?

Never seen her before.

Well... Only problem is,

I never felt like "you've got this."

And that's the first chapter of my book!

I just kind of, like, bumped into him,

and things went from there.

So, you skipped to chapter two-- improvise.

Ever since as far back as fifth grade,

you've always been so worried about following the rules.

Because rules are meant to be followed!

And so far, so good.

Amazing!

No!

Not amazing!

Okay. What am I missing?

If I go out with him tonight, I'll be breaking my

two-day rule!

Okay. Do you have a chapter about how you have 11 days

to make a gorgeous man fall in love with you

or your dream of having your book published

goes down the toilet? Hmm?

Actually, exceptions to the rule--

when the man is visiting from out of town,

or the second date is playful, not romantic,

because you can back-to-back, playful to playful,

but you can never back-to-back romance to romance.

And I know the perfect playful date.

Sent one of my clients there last Christmas,

worked like a charm.

Mm!

He said yes to my playful date.

♪ Yeah!

Aww! You look just like one of Santa's little helpers.

One that probably needs the most help.

Hey.

It's a good thing you're pretty.

You're mean.

Thank you.

Ax throwing? Should I be concerned?

Something I'm good at.

Okay, as long as you remember

tonight we're focusing on chapters three and four--

show your humor and get to know each other lightly.

I wrote it, James.

No, Dad, I hear you.

There he is. Got to go.

Yes, Dad, and I-- I promise I'm going to think about it,

but I got to go. Okay.

Sorry.

Was that Brad with more random facts?

Everybody loves random facts.

Best ice breakers going. Worked on me.

I'm glad it did. No, there was a--

It wasn't Brad. It was my dad.

Oh! Are you guys close?

Yeah! Just, lately, we haven't been seeing eye to eye.

But I think that happens, right?

- Yeah. - It's complicated right now.

Anyway!

Hi! - Hi.

Oh, wait, you don't have, like, any beverages

or anything you're going to throw on me, right?

- Ha-ha, so clever. - I have my moments.

Oh. She's beautiful.

- Thank you! -'59?

- It is. - Mm!

I'm kind of regretting having you meeting me here

instead of picking me up,

but I got to figure out if you're a murderer

before I let you know where I live.

Spoiler alert. I am definitely a murderer.

Well, did you know that a recent survey

revealed that the holiday season

is a murderer's favorite time of year?

- Random fact. - Random joke.

- Oh! - Come. Follow me.

Okay.

- Oh, look at this. - Yeah. Pretty, right?

Yeah.

All right. So I got to ask,

how do you know about old cars?

- My dad was a mechanic. - Ah.

Yeah, I used to sit with him in the garage all the time

and just hand him whatever tools he needed.

- I love that. - Yeah.

Told me it was very important

to know how to fix my cars.

"Because the two people you can't trust

in this world are mechanics and men."

Oh, wow. He's not entirely wrong.

- Wow! - You ready?

Yeah!

Thank you.

- Okay! - Let's do this.

- Oh! - Okay.

Have you ever done this before?

Uh, dated, or gone ax throwing?

No, I can't say ax throwing has ever really been my thing.

But how hard can it be?

Take that, Rudolph!

- Wow! - There you go.

Wow. Yeah. Let's give this thing a whirl.

Huh.

Okay.

Every action movie I've ever seen

makes this look a lot easier.

It's okay, just try again.

- Okay. - Mm-hmm, okay.

Uh, sorry, I'm just a little off my game.

Let me give you a few pointers.

- Okay. - All right, always keep

your eyes aimed at where you want to go.

- Okay. - Ready?

Wow! That was impressive.

- Thank you. - Okay.

- Okay. Next. - Yeah?

Visualize where you want to strike.

- Okay. - Okay? Visualize striking

the target, and then just release.

Okay.

- Ah! - Oh, my gosh! That was amazing!

Let's do it again. - Okay.

Oh, okay.

That's super dangerous.

How would you feel about a less adventurous adventure?

- Sure! - Okay. I know the perfect spot.

Okay.

Suck it, Santa!

I love it.

That lady is dangerous.

Welcome to my favorite place.

This is amazing. Oh!

Look at all these classics!

You're seeing it at a good time,

because usually when I'm working, it's--

it's really messy.

- So you refurbish cars? - I do. Yeah.

My dad and I always really loved classic cars.

So when I was a kid, he got this warehouse

so we could restore them together.

Wow. My dad would have loved this place.

He and I used to talk about building

a Shelby Cobra together.

Just driving it on a Sunday afternoon with no place to be

and just the wind in our hair.

Best feeling in the world.

Where is your dad now?

Uh, he lives in California. I don't get to see him

as often as I'd like, but we make it work.

I still have this little toy car collection that he gave me,

though, but pales in comparison to this.

Well, the next time he's in town,

you're welcome to borrow any of these.

I might take you up on that.

I'm going to insist that you do.

This one is actually the one I'm working on right now.

Oh, gosh! She's amazing.

She is a beaut.

Black beaut.

Yeah.

This one means something to you?

Yeah. This one is special.

I used to see it driving around town when I was a kid.

It was also my mom's favorite car,

so I knew we had to have one, one day.

- So, you grew up here, too? - Yeah. Born and raised.

And you never left. I mean, how have we never met before?

Well, I went away to college, but my dad's company's local,

so I came back here to work for him--

for a while, at least.

- And you're not there anymore? - No. No.

We had a disagreement about the company's future.

It was actually right after my mom passed away.

And I am completely spilling my guts on a first date.

I'm so sorry. - No, that's okay.

Getting to know each other is...

getting to know each other.

Nice little library you have over here.

Oh, yeah. They, uh--

they were actually my mom's collection.

She passed down to me some amazing first editions

and, you know, some of her favorites.

I just like having them here with me.

Okay. I have been talking way too much about myself.

What do you do?

- What do-- what do I do? - Yeah.

- For work? - Sure.

Kind of a work in progress.

Okay, what are you progressing toward?

A writer of sorts.

Ah.

Hmm.

Wait, what's that face?

What type of writing?

I'm kind of in the middle of my first book, so,

like I said, kind of a work in progress.

I just remembered, though, I promised my roommate

that I would decorate tonight, so kind of got to go.

Oh! Uh, okay.

Ooh, hey, actually, uh,

do you want to pick one of these for the ride home?

Um, as tempting as that sounds, can I get a rain check?

I live really close, and I'm actually in the mood for a walk.

Well, you know, this is one of the best nights

I've had in a really long time,

and, uh, I really hope I get to see you again.

- I think that could be arranged. - Good.

Good night, Michael.

Good night, Abigale.

I still understand why you didn't kiss him.

I know. Why do I feel like I totally could have?

'Cause you totally could have.

James, I have to follow my book!

I honestly wish I could give him a copy.

I mean, he's open and vulnerable,

and almost immediately.

Isn't afraid of looking ridiculous.

And asked to see me on the next day.

This guy is definitely not a rule follower.

So what is he?

Um, fun, real, normal.

Seriously, when are you going to see him next?

I got so caught up in the moment we didn't actually

set a date. - Abigale!

The Christmas party's in, like, 10 days.

You've got to start making some bold moves.

I know!

My Christmas tacos and eggnog!

Okay. I was thinking more along the lines of

chocolate covered strawberries and champagne,

but nothing screams bold like Christmas tacos and eggnog.

Chapter five, show off your skills.

- Bring out the big guns. - Taking no prisoners.

All right. Off to bed for your beauty sleep.

Okay. You can have the rest.

Love you.

Hi, Sarah.

Thank you so much for agreeing to work with me.

Of course! So are we starting from scratch,

or do you have someone in mind?

There's someone I've been interested in for way too long,

but he doesn't know I exist.

That won't be for long. Tell me more.

His name is Sam. He delivers mail to the office,

and every day I have to greet him.

But I can't get up the courage to actually say anything to him.

I know your first two chapters:

"You've got this," and, "Be bold."

But I don't know what would fall under that category.

I've never even said hello. I just wave.

Okay, let's start small then.

Tomorrow, when he comes in, ask him something very specific,

anything you want.

Like, what his favorite Christmas song is?

- Perfect. - It is?

Yes. And then be ready with follow ups,

like what you think of the song, perhaps.

Or ask him what his favorite holiday movie is,

what he's doing for the holidays.

63% of relationships begin with a minor interaction.

So let's give this a shot and then we can get together

in a couple of days and reevaluate.

Wow, I hope I can one day just learn to follow my heart

and be as bold and honest as you, Abigale.

Mm.

He's not here. What am I doing?

Chapter 11, Never show up unannounced.

- Abigale? - Yes! Hi. Sorry.

I was just in the neighborhood at the coffee shop.

Oh, yeah. The one where you did the little dance?

Yeah, that one.

Uh, I was just walking home,

and I was wondering if maybe you were available

for dinner tonight at my place.

Kind of an expert at tacos-- Christmas tacos, actually.

Christmas tacos? I'm in.

Great. I'll text you my address.

Actually, do you want to come in for a minute?

'Cause I'm making great progress on the black beaut.

Sure. I can come in just for a minute.

- Okay. - Only to see the black beaut.

Of course.

Oh, my gosh. I love her.

- Oh, yeah. - So what's left to finish?

Well, I was thinking about bumping up the stock engine,

maybe after market headers or supercharger.

After market?

You think it's bad idea?

I mean, it's up to you, but I like keeping it to the original.

Huh. I just really like to make them bigger and faster.

You know, take them to that next level.

But I guess I can get a little carried away sometimes.

I mean, making something the best version it can be,

I agree on, but I like keeping it authentic.

It's more valuable in every way.

And it's the reason we fell in love with them

in the first place. - Yeah.

Why do we always have to complicate things?

Hmm.

I don't know.

Uh, anyway, I got to go.

Um, don't forget, Christmas taco night, right?

- Can't wait. -'Kay.

- Hi! - Hi.

Wow! It's smells really good in here.

It's like tacos and pine needles.

Hmm.

Thank you.

- You're welcome. - They smell great.

I actually also brought you something else.

- You remembered. - Of course.

I have the perfect place for this.

Come on in. - Thank you.

Wow, I love your place.

Thank you.

Oh, wow. This is great.

That is quite the collection.

I especially love the 300 SL.

- Ooh, that's a special one. - Yeah.

- I'm gonna put these in water. - Okay.

You know, my mom used to make tacos for me

for my birthday every year.

Some of my favorite memories.

How can I help?

Everything's ready to go.

- Where-- am I over there? - Yes, right here.

- Okay. Thank you. - Sorry.

Okay, listen, you have to mix the meat and the beans together.

Oh, no, no, no! Usually keep it separate!

Oh, trust me. Separate, they have some flavor,

but together, it is going to blow your mind.

Okay. Uh, let's dig in!

Uh, sour cream.

Wait, you're starting with the sour cream?

Uh... - Yeah, I know,

it's way too much sour cream, but trust me, it is good.

No, it's just that I-- I set up the taco line

from right to left.

Are there really rules when it comes to making tacos?

Yeah! There are rules for everything!

Huh! Well, listen, I have this theory that,

in order to achieve true greatness,

you have to break the rules. What do you say?

Okay, I'm in.

Okay! So, just go with your heart, no rules.

- All right. - Yeah. Get a little of this.

- Meat and beans together. - Sometimes the process can be

a bit messy, but the results are worth it.

- Okay. - Yeah.

Nice! Oh, you're killing it.

- My sour cream. - Oh! Uh-huh.

Slap it on top.

Boy. All right.

Okay!

- Are you ready? - Cheers.

Cheers.

I have sour cream all over my face.

Yes.

But it is part...

of the process.

But what about the results?

Literally may be the best taco I ever had in my life.

You're like a crazy genius. - I know.

Actually, here, come on.

We got to document this.

To the moment... - Mm-hmm.

- That you learned-- - Tacos in.

To be messy...

and to break the rules.

Nice job. - Hmm.

I mean, that's--

Oh! Okay! - You need some, too.

I can't be the only one! - Touche.

- Let's document that. - Yeah, let's d--

Now I'm a disaster.

Oh, gosh! - All good.

Thanks.

I mean, we're pretty cute.

So cute.

Okay, I know this is going to sound cliche,

and I promise I don't mean in a backhanded way,

but how are you still single?

I could ask you the same question.

But I asked you first.

- Touché. - Mm-hmm.

Well, I've always loved the idea of love,

especially the kind you see in movies.

But after a few failed attempts,

I shifted my priorities to my career.

It is tough to fall in love when you're so focused on work.

I know that feeling all too well.

I like structure and predictability.

Work is way easier to control than love,

especially when you approach it in a similar way.

Yeah, if you approach it with all that structure,

it eliminates the possibility of anything...

wonderful happening.

So why are you still single?

Oh... Uh...

I was in a few long relationships,

but I just never really felt that spark.

I've always wanted to kind of love my parents had,

just don't want to settle.

How do you feel about taking a walk?

A walk?

Okay. When you think about your childhood,

what is your favorite memory?

Hmm.

Well, when I was five or six,

I remember making Christmas cookies

with my mom and dad in the kitchen.

I was about to put the flour in the bowl and I dropped it.

I remember being so sad and I was crying so hard,

and all of a sudden my dad scooped some up

and he threw it at my mom, and then my mom scooped some up

and threw it at me, and before I knew it,

we were in a full blown Christmas cookie fight.

It's one of the only times I remember being with them

when they weren't fighting.

If I'm honest, maybe that's part of the reason

why I'm still single.

I want to guarantee I find love

with the highest probability of success,

'cause I don't want to live with regrets.

And I've always wanted to have one of those

Hollywood fountain moments, like in "Roman Holiday."

Let's jump in.

I mean, that is probably going to be pretty cold,

but yeah, let's do it! - No, I was just kidding.

I didn't really mean for us to--

No, you just said that you don't want to live your life

with regrets. - I was referring to marriage,

not swimming in an urban body of water.

Hey, in 20 years, when you look back on your life,

do you think you're ever going to say,

"I wish I didn't jump in that fountain"?

You're not going to make me do this by myself, are you?

Chapter two, "Be bold without embarrassing yourself."

Shoes.

Ready? - I think so.

Okay. Three...

- Two... - One.

Aah!

Oh, it's cold!

Oh, my God! Oh, my God!

Oh, my God.

- I can't believe it. - Neither can I!

No, I mean, I'm actually not freezing anymore,

I'm kind of warm. - Same.

Hey!

What are you guys doing?

Uh... publicly humiliated.

I think we should go unless we want to spend the night in

security guard jail. - Yeah. Get the shoes.

Shoes!

- Sorry! - Sorry!

Good morning.

Someone's got a little more pep in her step today.

What's going on?

Okay, two things that never happen--

me not Photoshopping my photos,

and Abigale Seaver blushing.

Spill the tea, girl.

It was perfect.

But... - But what?!

James, I'm starting to feel a little bad.

A little bad or a little good?

It sounds like things are going great.

That's the thing. I didn't exactly start this

to have a future with someone.

Now, I'm starring in my own little rom-com,

going on ax throwing dates and jumping in fountains.

Wait, fountains. This is major.

Majorly complicated.

It sounds like the perfect holiday romance.

What would you tell one of your clients

if they were spiraling about the future?

Chapter nine--

"Don't worry about the past,

don't fret about the future."

It's like you wrote a book about it.

Hmm.

See?! You can't tell me this timing is just a coincidence.

Wait, are you planning on ending things

right after the holiday party?

Because there are only five days till Christmas Eve?

I don't know!

I just know that I don't want to be the type of person

that uses someone to get ahead in her career.

Too late for that.

Besides, all is fair in love and war, right?

What chapter is that?

Hmm. These rules!

Really starting to come back and haunt me.

You said it, not me.

Hi!

Hey. It's good to see you.

You okay?

Yeah, I was just laying here,

couldn't sleep.

I was gonna ask you something. - Yeah. Shoot.

Would you want to go to a Christmas Eve party with me?

Yeah. I actually have something that I'm doing with my dad

that night, but I-- I can definitely split my time.

Great.

Did you know that yawns are more contagious than the common cold?

What, have you been hanging out with Brad?

Ooh, actually, that reminds me,

I know it's a little early to be meeting the friends,

but I'm supposed to go over to his place tomorrow night

for dinner-- do you want to come?

I think you'd really like his wife, Lydia, and his son, Cole.

Sounds fun.

Look what you started.

Okay, we can't just sit here

watching each other yawn all night.

So I will, uh-- I'll text you the details tomorrow.

Good night, Abigale.

Good night, Michael.

So he said "White Christmas,"

which is crazy because that's also my favorite Christmas song,

which then got us talking about our favorite Christmas movie

of the same name.

Then he asked if I wanted to get coffee after work,

and I said yes, so we went to coffee.

Literally a legit coffee date.

This is amazing, Sarah. What's next?

Well, I kept it short, like you said.

And then he asked if I wanted to do dinner

the next night, but I said no.

Wait, why would you say no?

Because of your "two day in a row" rule.

I...don't... Huh.

I don't know if you have to follow that rule.

I thought you had to follow all the rules.

Yeah, but recently I broke the two day in a row rule,

and, you know, it wasn't bad.

It was actually kind of fun

and kept the momentum going.

- So did I do the wrong thing? - No! No, it's fine.

- Let's just text him right now. - Okay.

So say, "Hey, Sam, my other plans fell through,

if you still want to grab dinner."

Okay.

Okay!

Oh, my gosh! Dinner! We're back on for dinner.

Okay. Tonight, I'm just going to get to know him, but lightly,

just like you say.

And if he wants to open up, or, like,

if you feel like opening up, that's okay, too.

I'm getting confused.

Yeah, so am I, Sarah.

Listen, just go to dinner tonight and be yourself.

Okay.

And get to know each other, whatever that looks like.

Are you sure?

Yeah.

I think so.

Give it. Give it.

Oh, man.

So strong!

And the craziest thing is, she knows about her cars.

Wow, knows her classic cars and random facts?

I don't know, bro, sounds like a killer combo to me.

- It's pretty amazing. - So when do I get to meet her?

Well, I was actually going to ask you and Lydia

if she could come to our dinner thing tonight.

- Oh, come on. - Tell her 7:00 p.m. sharp,

and she doesn't need to bring a thing.

Which means we can skip the Christmas tradition?

Uh, there's no way that's going to happen.

And those decorations better look beautiful

if we're going to have a guest over tonight.

- Yes, ma'am. - Yes, ma'am.

Yes, ma'am.

- Smart kid. - My boy.

Chapter eight, "Dress to impress."

At least I know this rule is going to work.

- Hi. - Hi.

Am I overdressed? - No. You look amazing.

Um, I'm sorry, did you not get my text?

No, I didn't.

Uh, it's just a silly Christmas tradition that we have,

but come in.

Okay.

These are my best friends-- Brad, Lydia, and Cole.

- Hi! - Hello, Abigale.

- Hi, Abigale. - Who's Abigale?

We're so happy you could join us.

Did Michael not tell you about our little holiday tradition?

Uh, I missed a text.

I mean, I wish I had known.

I would have worn something different.

Unh-unh-uhn, don't even finish that thought, Abigale.

No respectable American family goes without an extra pair

of Christmas onesies.

- Facts. - Perfect.

You-- you really don't have to wear that if you don't want to.

Are you kidding me? Why wouldn't I want to?

Let me just go change.

The bathroom's down the hallway on the right.

Okay. Thank you.

I love her!

Another rule out the window.

You look ridiculous.

We all look ridiculous.

- Wait, wait, wait. - Whoa!

- Okay. - Oh, wow.

- Fits perfect! - Nice!

Hey!

How do I look?

You are the perfect combination of adorable and beautiful.

- Thank you. - You're welcome.

Oh, my gosh. Is this you and Brad?

- It is. - Aww.

I love that you guys have been friends from such a young age.

- That's so cute. - Uh...

Well, it feels like a lifetime ago.

It feels like life is going by faster

and faster as we get older.

I just wish I had a pause button so I can slow it down.

Pause. Now what?

Hey, dinner's ready.

I actually met Michael first. We were working together,

and I was reading some self-help love book.

Because relationship books are so helpful.

Exactly, so I told her to throw that book out

because I already had the perfect guy.

Enter Brad with a set of random facts.

Ooh-ooh-ooh-- did you know that over 50% of

single Americans have not been on a date in over two years?

Did you know that speed dating was invented

by a rabbi in L.A. in 1999?

Ooh, I'm not worthy.

So what do you do for work, Abigale?

Uh, I'm a coach.

Like a life coach.

Kind of hoping to have my work published soon.

- Wow. Michael's actually-- - Loves books,

I love-- love-- he was just going to say I love books.

She's already seen the garage library, so...

- I did. - Ho, ho, ho!

- Hey, buddy. I mean, Santa. - Hi.

Abigale, do you know what you want for Christmas?

Well, I'm hoping Santa will help me with a work thing.

What? You can't ask for a work thing to pan out from Santa.

You have to ask for something from the heart.

Uh, I guess I'll think about it and get back to Santa.

Hey, Santa, we can do books tonight

if Abigale can come with us. What do you think?

- I'd love to. - Good night, Cole. We love you.

All right, let's do this.

All right. We'll be right back.

"He cupped his hands around his mouth and said,

'Merry Christmas'."

Good night, buddy. Love you.

Thank you. Thank you so much.

He'd be a great husband.

Very subtle. Thank you, Lydia.

He may be a bit of a wild card, but us wild cards,

we live life on the edge, we may be risky,

maybe a little bit dangerous.

I'm not sure how dangerous

a guy who color coordinates his sock drawer is,

but I wouldn't change him for the world.

Thank you.

- Oh, here. - Oh, thank you.

You're welcome.

What is it?

Obstacles are just an opportunity for a new strategy.

- What? - Sorry.

Something my dad always says.

No, I like it. Uh, what are your obstacles?

I may be my only obstacle at this point.

So it's time for a new strategy?

- Yeah. - Yeah.

I wasn't expecting this.

- What? - All of this is.

Thank you for being you.

Actually, you know what?

I almost forgot something.

An...

...early Christmas present.

- Christmas taco night! - Oh, yeah!

Just the reminder that the process may be messy, but--

- The results are worth it? - Exactly.

Thank you.

You're welcome.

- Good night, Michael. - Good night, Abigale.

Hi, this is Jack McNeille, I can't talk right now,

and I think you know what you do.

Hey, Dad. Um...

I was hoping to catch you, I know I missed a few calls

from you, but I just want to let you know that I am still

thinking about everything you said.

And I am excited to see you at the Christmas Eve party.

Okay. I love you. Bye.

I can't do this.

It helps if you pretend you're in Cabo.

Seriously, James, I think he's falling for me.

I think I'm falling for him, too.

There's nothing wrong with that.

Yeah, but if Michael ever found out that this all started as

a play to get a book deal, it would crush him.

Listen, if you must get this off your conscience,

then tell him, but for goodness' sake, please do it

after the party. - Whole point of this arrangement

was to prove my book works.

Now I'm breaking all my own rules, and, worse off,

I'm about to break someone I love's heart.

Love?!

James, my book, my life's work,

my relationship with Michael, all of it--

a total fraud. - Hashtag imposter syndrome.

Welcome to the club.

Listen, you are anything but.

Remember, back in college,

you were always playing matchmaker.

So many of our friends that you connected are still together.

And you did that out of the genuine kindness of your heart.

You're an amazing dating coach and writer,

and your work speaks for itself.

Things were simpler then.

Suddenly everything's so...

Messy?

"The process may be messy, but the results are worth it."

I'm going to go to the party.

I'm going to tell Michael everything.

I'm gonna give Jack an offer he can't say no to.

Yes, that's my girl. What does that mean?

Just like my book says-- "When in doubt, improvise."

I really want a margarita.

♪ Joyful songs, rights and wrongs ♪

♪ And days by calmer seas ♪

♪ And as the children sing outside their sweet melodies ♪

♪ I remember them all

♪ See, this Christmas has a hold on me ♪

♪ And it keeps tugging hard on my heart strings ♪

♪ If I only had one wish this year ♪

♪ This Christmas would be full of cheer ♪

♪ And we'd make this one...

Wow.

You finished the black beaut. She looks amazing.

Thank you. She's running great.

I'm delivering her to my dad later tonight.

But he won't mind if we borrow it for a bit.

Did you end up modifying the engine?

No, I did not, because somebody really smart

taught me that bigger and faster is not always better.

Sometimes you have to enjoy the process

and appreciate a classic for what it is.

You look...

There are no words to describe how beautiful you look.

Thank you. You look pretty dashing yourself.

- Thank you. - You're welcome.

- Shall we? - Yes, we shall.

Thank you. - Watch your head.

It's a little low. - Okay.

I really need to talk to you about something.

It's hard to say, but I--

Oh!

You can't beat that sound! - Wow.

Listen, since this is her maiden voyage,

I feel like we got to savor this moment.

Right? - Yeah.

- Okay. - Yeah.

So this is where your party is.

Yeah, it's the C. McNeille holiday party.

Let's go in.

Uh, Michael, I really need to talk to you.

Uh, yeah, looks like I really need to talk to you, too.

How about I grab us a couple of drinks first?

- Oh! - Hi.

Abigale! Great to see you.

Oh, you look beautiful.

- Thank you. - So, did you bring a guest?

Actually, I want to talk to you about that.

About our arrangement.

Michael?!

Hey! Sarah!

Oh, it is really good to see you.

It's been too long.

Your dad said you were coming tonight.

Hoping that means we'll see more.

Ah, we'll see.

Do you, uh-- Do you know who that girl

in the red dress is over there?

Oh, Abigale? She actually met with your dad

a couple of weeks ago for her dating book.

- Dating book, huh? - And she's coaching me.

- Coaching you? - Yes! This is Sam!

Sam, come here.

As I was saying, I did bring a plus one,

but I also brought a revision of my book.

Oh, revised, huh?

Oh. And where is Mr. Right?

He is...

H-hold that thought. I really want you to meet someone.

Oh, uh, Jack, wait, um...

I'm so glad you came.

- Thanks, Dad. - Did you just say "Dad"?

Oh, I'm sorry, I didn't introduce you.

This is Abigale Seaver, the newest potential member

of the C. McNeille Publishing family.

Well, she wrote this book on dating, and she insisted

she could make a stranger fall in love with her

to prove that her book works.

So, um, where is he?

Can't wait to meet him and hear all about it.

Uh, based on the last 12 days,

I think you're looking at him, Dad.

Is this the guy you broke the rules over?!

Michael?

What-- broke the rules?

That's what I was just going to tell you, Jack, I--

This... Michael, it's not what it sounds like.

Yeah, it sounds messy. Uh...

Too messy.

So, Dad, your Christmas present is out at the valet.

And I know we need to talk, but it's going to have to wait.

Sarah, it was great to see you.

Sam, pleasure meeting you.

I mean, Abigale, uh...

Good luck with your book.

Michael, wait.

I'm not really sure what just happened.

What just happened is I fell in love with your son,

and it changed everything I ever believed in

about dating and love.

Here's the updated manuscript.

Merry Christmas.

Oh! Well, Merry Christmas, Michael.

- Merry Christmas, Dad. - Yeah.

Look, I got a couple of things to say

before you give me your answer, if you don't mind.

- Sure. - Well, first,

thank you for the car.

I mean, I-- I absolutely love it.

I wish I could've helped you restore it.

But, well, you know, you did a mighty fine job on your own.

No, really, You brought it back to its original classic beauty.

Thanks, Dad.

Um, secondly...

I'm sorry about the deal.

I know it was your intention to expand the company, and...

Well, maybe I'm stuck in my ways,

and need to get with the times.

But at the heart of this company is making sure

that good people and good books get published.

And I was afraid we might lose sight of that if we got too big.

Mm.

Well, like Mom always used to say,

you might be right.

It was smart to kill the deal.

I know that Mom always wanted to keep it smaller,

focus on helping people and make sure their stories were heard.

I lost sight of that somewhere, and I'm sorry.

Unfortunately, there are not a lot of people like her anymore.

Oh, no, that's not true, son.

I can't say that I agree.

And, uh...

I have decided that I am

not going to come back to the company.

I respect your decision.

But can you at least grant me one courtesy?

Sure.

You really should read this.

No, thank you.

Well, Abigale really knows what she's talking about.

Yeah, Dad, I'm sure she does.

Okay.

Well, there's always a place for you at C. McNeille's.

- Where are you going? - Ah, the office.

Year-end paperwork, you know, and...

Well, it's easier for me to be there than...

at home without her.

- Dad-- - You know,

this is quite different from the last version that I read.

Something tells me that that's all because of you.

Now, I haven't changed your office since you left.

And I know it's your favorite place to read new material,

so, uh...

Peppermint mocha latte for my favorite girl.

It was $12, so you better drink it.

I take it he still isn't returning your calls?

- Nope. - And C. McNeille Books?

Last thing on my mind.

But yeah, that ship has definitely sailed.

Listen, what's done is done.

But what would you tell your clients

if they were in your shoes?

Chapter 12!

"Focus on the solution, not the problem."

- I changed chapter 12. - To what?

To "Take a chance once in a while and follow your heart."

I did that.

Exactly.

And what if I told you that Jack and Michael

were at C. McNeille Books right now?

How do you know that?

Girl, I have my ways.

Take a chance, Abigale.

- Sarah. - I got your messages!

All five of them.

Thank you so much for doing this.

Of course. Sam wanted to help as much as I did.

- Hey. - Hi.

"White Christmas," my favorite Christmas song.

That's the reason Sarah are I are together, all thanks to you.

- Thank you. - Come on.

Be bold.

You got this.

Well, no, we had a great time.

I'm really sorry you couldn't make it.

Listen, Merry Christmas, John, and give my love to Ruth, okay?

Okay, bye-bye.

Merry Christmas, Abigale. It's good to see you.

Jack... I lost my way.

I selfishly put my dreams of having my work published

ahead of what matters most.

People and love.

And at Christmas of all times.

I really regret wasting your time.

But more than anything, I regret hurting Michael.

He's the most amazing man I've ever met.

And I need him to know that.

Well, you... You came here so I would give Michael a message?

I came to personally apologize to you.

And, yeah, he's not responding to any of my calls.

I may never be able to forgive myself,

but I'm hoping maybe you and he can forgive me.

Take a chance and follow your heart once in a while.

Chapter 12.

Yeah, I read the new version, and I finally get it.

And we especially-- oh, we love the dedication.

We?

"To Michael. My first and only true love.

Thank you for teaching me that when it comes to love...

Rules are meant to be broken."

Well, I think I'll leave you two for a few minutes.

Michael, what I did...

Was... messy. Like, seriously messy.

I know.

But... when it comes to making tacos

or rebuilding classic cars--

or falling in love...

The process may be messy,

but the results are worthwhile?

Michael, I'm so sorry. - Why?

Look, you did what you had to do to get your book published.

I mean, you weren't expecting to meet a ruggedly handsome

pool shark, ax throwing champion,

five-star taco chef, classic car whisperer

who happens to look really good

drenched in a freezing cold fountain.

No, I-- I wasn't expecting to find you, Michael.

The rules,

they don't apply to you.

No, the rules don't apply to us.

I want to show you something.

You know, there are a lot of people out there

that need your advice.

And as your publisher, I'm gonna make sure they get it.

What?

I decided to come back to the company full time.

And the first book that I'm going to publish

with C. McNeille is yours.

- Are you serious? - Mm-hmm.

I don't know what to say!

How about...

"I've got this."

I've got you.

Deal.

My name is Abigale Seaver,

and I'm a dating coach and a published author!

My advice? Follow the rules.

Follow them with all you got--

until your heart changes the rules.

Then just follow your heart.