A Lot Like Christmas (2021)

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[podcast playing]
Success is a state of mind.

Every day is a chance
to take one step closer

to where you want to be
in your career.

Today is a gift.

-Make it happen!
-Make it happen.

We are not
in Manhattan anymore.

Huh.

Now, ain't that purty?

Excuse me.

There a Starbucks around here?

[laughing]

No, but there's a Dottie's
around the corner.

Only two stars on Yelp.

Oh, it's
the best place in town.

You gonna trust us

or you gonna trust your phone?

I guess I'll take

your word for it.

Can I get you guys anything?

I'll have a bear claw.

Make that two.

-And a cruller.
-Okay.

And I'll have
an orange juice...

no pulp?

[chuckling]

Okay. Sure. You got it.

Well, he did say "anything."

[both laughing]

There you go, hon'.

Hey, what can I get ya?

Um...

Do you have an Ethiopian roast?

No.

Sumatra?

I don't think so.

What do you have?

Coffee.

Sounds perfect.

[chuckles]

Oh, you wouldn't happen
to have soy...

Never mind.

Visiting family in the area?

I'm here on a job.

Till Christmas, probably.

Oh, before I forget,

um, could I get two bear claws,

a cruller,

and an OJ, no pulp, please.

You met Earl and Felix, huh?

Welcome to Hudson Springs.

And you are...?

Clay.

Well, Clay, I'll get you
a to-go box.

Thank you.

Hey.

Oh, she's a beauty, Delaney.

Thanks, Boss Lady.

All right, Scott,
you can smile.

The holiday season
has officially begun.

Hey, Halloween was my thing.

Christmas was always yours.

Oh, I guess I get that
from Dad.

Oh, he sure did
love this season.

This first Christmas
without him

is going to be a lot easier
with you two here.

I'm so glad we're together.

I know you're just itching
to get back at work.

Oh, no, Mom,
I wanted to be here.

I mean, we all know
how important this season is

for the farm's survival,

and... and I'd hate for us
to have to sell the place.

Oh, come on, Scott,
we'll be fine.

We always do well
during the holidays.

I know, all I'm saying

is the bottom line
is now my responsibility.

Well, people
don't just come here

to buy a tree.

They come for
the Christmas tradition,

the experience,

just like Dad used to say,

which is my speciality.

Art and commerce,

which is why
I am so proud of you both.

Now, get to work.

-Yep.
-Yes, ma'am.

Xavier Norris?

Clay Moore from Corporate.

Oh, no. What's wrong?

Nothing's wrong.

Oh. [laughing] Okay.

Here, have a coffee.

HQ sent me up here last-minute
to help with the launch.

Are you ready to help me

make this store
a hit by Christmas?

Yeah.

Yeah...

but I'm not sure
about anybody else.

People 'round here
aren't exactly thrilled

about HGS opening up
in Hudson Springs.

Another reason why I'm here.

I saw the market research.

There's some resistance
we'll need to overcome,

but if there's one thing
I know how to do,

it's get people in the door.

I hope so, because
we open in two hours, and...

Trust me,
the people of Hudson Springs

will come around
when they realize

"Our wide selection and
low, low prices can't be b*at."

You know, you sound
exactly like the commercials.

Yeah, that's what
I was going for.

Follow me, Xavier.

Uh, what's all this?

Our first sales promotion.

Christmas trees?

Mm-hmm, you know it.

Let's set up a tree pen
over here.

by should do it.

Hey, can you line up
the trees by size?

Small, medium, large, and jumbo?

Wow, those prices
are so... uh... low.

These trees
are a proven loss leader.

They bring in the customers,
sales go up,

Corporate's happy,
and we look like heroes.

Yeah, I don't think
that's gonna work.

Yeah, it works all the time.

The proof's
in the spreadsheets.

Let's put a dozen
inflatable trees out front,

the ones that light up.

Now, where can I
set up home base, Xavier?

Um...

Hi! So nice to see you.

I've got a cookie for you.

And some cider.

Hello there.

Got some hot cider.

Thank you very much.

Oh, my goodness gracious!

Oh, my goodness...

Jessica...

Jessica--

we can't pay the bills
with farm animals.

Nobody likes free hot dogs?

I like free hot dogs.

It's a tree.

Just pick one
and come on into the store.

Come on.

I don't get it.

Route 's flowing
with traffic.

Nobody shops for
Christmas trees around here?

We do,

but mostly from local farms

where you can
pick your own tree.

Like my friends,
the Roberts family.

They own a farm
three miles down the road

and grow the trees
right on the property.

You know, I've been going there
ever since I was a kid.

I can still remember
the first time I helped my dad

cut our very own Christmas tree.

Cut?

-Like with a saw?
-Yeah.

Because that sounds
incredibly old-fashioned.

Why didn't you tell me
about this before?

About my childhood? Well...

The farm, Xavier.

Oh, you didn't ask.

Huh.

This Roberts farm,

it's not in
the marketing research.

All right.

Where are you going?

Well, if people around here

would rather buy their trees
from some farm

than enjoy the low cost
and convenience

of a pre-cut tree,

I need to know why.

Brr.

Need a hand?

Love one. Thanks.

Nice-looking tree.

They all are here.

Whoa!

Nice comes with a price.

It's a once-a-year thing.

The kids love it.

I just wish I didn't have
to haul it home.

They don't deliver?

Small farm.

Guess they don't have
the manpower.

Thanks again for the help.

Have a happy holidays.

You too.

So, when you were born,

your mom and dad

planted a sapling
in our grove,

and guess what?

What?

Now that tree is all grown up,

just like you,

except it's grown into
a big, beautiful Christmas tree.

Isn't that cool?

Yeah.

[laughter]

Do you still have
the slip number?

I've been keeping it safe
for eight years!

Okay, so this one
is, uh, five rows across

and six rows back,

and if you have any trouble
finding it at all,

come find me.

Let's go!

Yay! Have fun!

There you go. Enjoy.

Oh, cider.

Let me know
if you need anything.

[whistling]

[sawing]

Oh, my gosh, I am so sorry!

Are you okay?

-I'm fine.
-Are you sure?

-I'm okay, really.
-Okay.

Aren't you supposed
to yell "timber!"

when you chop down a tree?

-Nobody really does that.
-Wish I'd known.

But at least I can take
"assaulted by a Christmas tree"

off my bucket list now.

Well, in that case,
you're welcome.

[laughing]

I'm Clay.

Oh, Jessica.

Oh, you have a little
pine needle in your hair.

Thanks.

So, I take it
you're not from around here.

Not even close.

New York.

This is New York.

Sorry, I mean the city.

Manhattan.

Just checking out
some local spots.

Well, you have come
to the right place,

because this farm is the place
in Hudson Springs

during the holidays.

I can see that.

-[phone ringing]
-Oh.

[phone ringing]

Excuse me. My boss.

Sure.

Clay, it's Marcia.

I'm watching the video feed
from the store,

and it's not exactly bustling,
would you agree?

A slow start, I know,

but Hudson Springs
is a bit old-fashioned.

I'll need a little more time
to win people over.

-Jessica?
-Oh!

We're having a little trouble
finding our tree.

Oh, sure, um,
let me, uh...

let me just see
your slip number here.

Okay.

Yeah. This way.

Maybe our market research
wasn't exactly accurate.

I need you to do your own
on-the-ground re-con.

Hang around supermarkets,

a barber shop,
a town hall meeting.

Find out
what's making them hesitate.

I'm already on it.

That's what I like to hear.

[phone ringing]

Hey.

Better than
free hot dogs, boss.

A little marketing research
goes a long way.

Add a couple of college kids
home for the holidays

working for tips,

and we have our army.

You are a marketing maestro.

I'm just getting warmed up.

Uh, what's this?

Second part of my plan.

They're here to interview you.

Uh... uh, me? I...

You're the face of Hudson
Springs' new HGS store, right?

A few talking points.

Make sure you mention
the free delivery, okay?

Don't be nervous.
You'll do great.

Yeah...

-Excuse me a sec.
-Yes.

Clay.

Yeah. How are ya?
Thank you for coming.

[reporter]
It's nice to meet you.

[Clay] Yeah.

Free delivery!

Free... delivery.

Mm.

Hey, how come
Xavier didn't show?

He never misses opening day.

I dunno.
He didn't text me back.

Is he still looking for a job?

We should just hire him, Scott.

No, our payroll's
stretched thin enough as it is.

Hi, I am proud to be part
of the Harvest team

here at the new location
on Route .

Xavier?

We are bringing
lots of local jobs,

and not to mention

a wide selection of
plants and gardening supplies...

You have got to be kidding me.

Oh, no, not kidding.

"Xavier Norris, manager,
Harvest Garden Supply."

Says it right there on the TV.

-Yes, thank you.
-Yeah, for pointing that out.

I can't believe
he didn't tell me this.

What a traitor!

Come on.
You can't blame the poor guy.

I mean, he's been looking
for a job for ages.

For our grand opening,

we are giving away
free hot dogs

and balloons for the kids,

and not to mention, um...

free deliveries
for all of our Christmas trees.

Okay, whoa.

I would've hired him

if I knew he was just
gonna s*ab us in the back

like this.

Maybe listen to your big sis
next time.

So come on down

and see for yourself

what Harvest Garden Supplies
is all about.

You heard the man.

Exciting stuff going on
down here at Route .

Why would City Hall
let a superstore like Harvest

set up in Hudson Springs?

It's the way of the world.

Big chain stores
are just popping up everywhere.

Yeah, and putting
Mom and Pop operations like ours

out of business.

Look, I'm sure there are plenty
of customers to go around.

How are you not more worried
about this?

A lot of our customers
have to drive past that atrocity

to get here.

Look, our farm is special
to people.

We make memories.
That matters.

Our customers are not going
to stop coming here

just to save a few bucks.

I hope you're right.

You know I'm right.

She's a beauty! Enjoy her!

Happy Holidays!

Are you, uh, noticing
anything different today?

Um... you shaved?

I'm talking about the farm.

It's not exactly bustling.

So? It's a weekday.

It's always slower
on the weekdays.

We had % more customers
on the same weekday last year.

Only difference now is

Harvest Garden Supply
is three miles down the road.

And they sell trees too.

I'm sure it is
just a coincidence.

Look, everybody knows
we have the best trees,

period.

Hey, let's go,
or we'll be late.

If I know anything,

it is Hudson Springs
and Christmas trees.

We'll be fine.

We'll be fine.

We'll now open the meeting up
to public comments.

Mayor Barnes,

I thought this new big box store

was supposed to fix everything,

and now we can't even afford
Santa's Village?

I mean, what am I supposed
to tell my kids?

Look, I am disappointed
about Santa's Village, too.

This is just going
to take time.

HGS will bring people
from all over our county,

and those tax dollars
are going to flow into the city.

This time next year

will see us with
an amazing Christmas spectacle

like this town has never seen.

We gotta say something.

What do you mean "we"?

Mayor Barnes,

Delaney...

Watson. Hey.

As... as you know, I work
over at the Roberts Farm.

Also, side note,
my band, "Later Alligator,"

plays every Tuesday night
at Reilly's.

Would love to see you all there.
Come check us out.

Now, many of you know
my best friend, Jessica.

Now, she has something to say

about this whole
Harvest Garden sitch.

-I do?
-Yes, you do.

-I do.
-Yeah.

I do.

Um...

Mayor Barnes,

I understand

why council approved
a superstore in Hudson Springs.

I do.

We need jobs,
especially now.

But I think what Bob
is trying to say

is how important
the spirit of Christmas is

to the folks of Hudson Springs.

People from our county
and beyond

visit us because of
how special our community is.

Our Mom and Pop businesses

go above and beyond
to make the holidays so magical.

So regardless
of the bottom line,

council has to support
our community's holiday efforts.

We have to ensure

that our Mom and Pop businesses,
our families and our neighbors,

survive to next year.

Yeah, and not superstores
like HGS!

Am I right?

Yes!

Oh, sorry.

Oh, it's you.

Clay, right?

Nice to see you again,
Jessica.

The last cookie's yours.

I couldn't.

I insist.

It's the least I can do

for almost taking you out
with a Christmas tree.

I have a crazy idea.

Timber...

Oh.

Uh? Uh?

[chuckling]

So, what brings you here?

Work.

I'm, uh, here for a while
on a project.

I meant the town hall.

Oh, I wanted to get a feel
for Hudson Springs,

see who its
movers and shakers are.

Are these meetings
always so... lively?

Almost never.

I run my family's business,

so I like to come
to stay informed.

Oh, yeah?
What business is that?

Jess! What do you think...

Oh... Hello there.

Hi. I'm Clay.

Delaney.

Am I, uh, interrupting?

Okay, what do you think

about a countywide
boycott of Harvest?

You know, power to the people,
stick it to the man?

Maybe if no one shops there,

they'll just shut down
and leave.

Do those things actually work?

Hell yeah, it does.

Unless Harvest
has enough funds to ride it out.

Well, we're not spending a dime

at that corporate atrocity,
am I right, you guys?

Right.

I should get going.

Um, it was nice
running into you...

again.

You too.

Something you want to tell me?

No.

You don't want
to share anything?

Nope.

-Nothing just happened just now?
-I didn't see anything happen.

Oh.

[Mayor] She's gorgeous.

This was one of
the first trees my dad planted

when he started this grove
years ago.

In a way, putting it
outside the train museum

will be like a tribute to him.

A wonderful idea.

Folks around here sure miss him.

Me too.

Send me over an estimate
that I can get approved.

It's just a formality.

Aw, that's a relief.

With all the budget cuts lately,
I was worried.

I am doing my best

to keep a few
of the town's traditions.

The bean-counters
at City Hall

know that it's just
not the holidays

without a tree
from the Roberts Farm

to light up our museum.

I couldn't agree more.

Thank you, Miss Mayor.

Thank you.

Oh, here, let me
help you with those.

Oh, thank you.

That's very nice.

-No problem at all.
-Got that?

Now, my car's right here.

So, I'm new in town.

Is this the best market
around here?

Oh, well, it should be.

I've been... I've been
coming here for years.

-Really?
-Yep.

Seems a little pricey

compared to the Big & Save
by the highway.

That store is huge.

I can't find a darn thing.

Plus, everybody knows me here.

Aw, must be nice.

The checkout clerk
at my local market back home

always acts like
he's never seen me before.

Where's home for you?

New York City.

I'm here till around Christmas
for work.

Alone in a new place
at the holidays?

That can't be easy.

That's the job.

Well, you seem too nice
to be from the city.

We're having
a little tree-trimming,

and I'd love for you to join us.

That's very kind of you
to offer,

but I wouldn't want to impose.

Oh, it's small-town
hospitality, honey.

You would not be imposing.

It would be fun to meet
a real Hudson Springs family.

Well, so come on over.

No, we just live down the road,

and you can follow me in my car.

Okay, sure. Yep.

Sounds good.

All right.

Hey, how come
Xavier didn't show?

Uh, 'cause I didn't invite him.

What? After what he did?

Scott, it's tradition.

Yeah.

[Annie] I'm home...

and I brought a new friend.

This young man was helping me
with my groceries,

and we just started
chatting, and...

Oh, I didn't even get your name.

It's Clay from Manhattan.

Oh, you two know each other?

We've met a couple times.

I think this makes
the third, right, Jess?

Oh, what an amazing
coincidence!

Okay, well,
just take these groceries,

and you just take them
into the kitchen...

I can't remember the last time

my whole family did
something together like this.

Even at the holidays?

We used to,

but over the years,

everyone got so busy
with work and travel,

it's become impossible
to get us all together.

Aw, that's a shame.

Yeah, it is.

How long have you
had the farm?

Uh, my grandfather
bought this land

years ago,

then my dad ran this place
until he passed this spring.

I'm sorry.

Thanks.

We are doing everything we can

to try to keep
this place running.

From what I saw the other day,
you're doing quite well.

We're getting by,

but, you know, family farms
are a dying breed,

and each year seems
to get harder than the last.

And now that horrible
Harvest superstore's

luring customers away

using gimmicks like cheap trees
and free delivery.

You don't offer free delivery?

Seems like something
people would want.

Yeah, but we'd have to hire
more people.

Maybe we should.

What, uh, what kind of business
are you in, Clay?

-Me?
-Yeah.

Oh, uh...

marketing.

Finding ways to attract
customers is my forte.

Sounds like
we should hire you.

That's an excellent idea,
right, Jess?

Mm.

I'm sure Clay has
more important things to do

than help us out
with our little farm.

Honestly, I wish I could,

but my plate's overloaded
as it is.

It sounds to me
like this is the first time

you've ever faced
some real competition.

Yeah.

The good news is

people around here
know and trust your brand,

so my advice would be

to up your game
and get creative.

Yeah, but how?

We don't have Harvest's
deep pockets.

Anyone can throw money
at a problem,

but if you're creative,

you don't need
to spend big bucks

to get people to shop here.

You could be right.

Feel free to bounce ideas
off me anytime.

Oh, well, isn't that
nice of you to offer?

Isn't it, Jess?

Yes. Yes, it is.

It's... it's very nice.

Thank you.

Clay, do you have
your Christmas tree yet?

Mm...

Uh, I do not.

Okay, let's go.

Please excuse my mom.

She is a little nosy,
but she means well.

[chuckling] She's so sweet,

and I envy the closeness
you all have.

I'd forgotten how nice

being around family
at the holidays can be.

Mm, well, in case
you hadn't noticed,

we love Christmas.

Me too!

But it's been a long time

since I've really felt
the holiday spirit.

Maybe this year'll
be different.

Maybe.

So, do you see a tree you like?

I probably shouldn't get one.

My hotel room's
pretty cramped as it is.

Oh, come on.

What better way to get into
the holiday spirit

than a Christmas tree
in your room?

I think the fire marshal
might disagree with you...

-Mm.
-...but, uh...

okay.

That one.

Ah, a fine choice.

Oh, no, no, no.
It's on the house.

I mean, farm.

Just consider it a thank you
for all the business advice...

and for almost taking you out
with that tree!

You sure?

Yes, just don't
tell my brother.

I'll have it
sent over tomorrow.

I thought you don't deliver.

As of tonight, we do.

Anything to compete, right?

Let me guess...

that'll be your delivery truck?

Most likely, yes.

My dad loved that truck.

He named it "Sheila"
after my Grandma Sheila.

I promised him
I would take care of it...

and the farm.

This place means a lot to you.

Yeah, well,

all of my favorite memories
growing up happened here,

especially the ones with my dad.

He taught me everything I know

about farming, and livestock,
and agriculture.

I am determined
to keep this farm going.

So, how're you liking
Hudson Springs?

I haven't really had a chance
to explore much yet,

but... I like it so far.

I'm glad.

Do you think maybe

you could give me a local's
tour of the town sometime?

I mean, if you're not too busy.

No, I suppose I could, yeah.

I mean, you're new to town.

You should see the town.

Yeah, uh... Friday night at ?

Works for me.

Perfect.

Great.

Thanks again for tonight.

Of course.

"Here's your tree,
delivered freely.

Thanks to you.

Till Friday. Jessica."

Jessica Roberts,
delivering a tree to a guy

and giving him a tour.

I must say, I'm impressed.

I'm just being welcoming.

He's new to town,
and he seemed kind.

And...?

And smart.

Oh.

Okay, okay, he's cute, too,

but I think it was sweet of him

to give us that advice
on how to compete with Harvest,

so I am just showing him
around town.

Sure.

-It's not a date or anything.
-It is so a date.

-Not a date.
-Huge date.

-Not a date.
-Yep.

Jessica Roberts?

Seriously? You do realize--

That her farm
is our main competition?

Of course I do.

Now.

I honestly had no idea
that was her farm

until I walked into their house,

and... there she was.

I mean, what are the odds?

Okay, so what did she say

when you told her
you work at HGS?

Oh no.

You didn't tell her.

I wanted to.

Really, I did.

But I was having
such a good time

getting to know her
and her family,

I just couldn't find
the right moment.

She's gonna be so mad.

Or maybe she'll have such
an amazing time on our date,

she'll see it's only business,
and not who I am.

[laughing]

Oh. You're serious.

Yeah, no.

You don't know
the Roberts family like I do.

You have to tell her soon.

I know. I will.

Soon.

[Delaney] If it isn't
Benedict Sherman.

Uh, okay...

Hi to you, too.

Would you be so kind, Sherman,

to explain exactly
why you would do a puff piece

on Harvest's grand opening

instead of our town's
local retailers?

Yeah, tipping the scales
for a national chain

is hardly fair.

We thought it would be a
good story.

A new retail business
comes to Hudson Springs,

creating jobs
at the holidays.

How many Harvest gift cards
did they bribe you with?

Be honest.

None.

I swear!

Well, then, that's great news,
right, Jess?

That is great news.

That means you can do
a piece on our farm for free.

And what is
the newsworthy angle?

A feel-good story
about a local establishment

that's been spreading
holiday cheer for decades

in the county,

unlike Harvest.

You need to make this right,
Sherman.

I doubt my producer
will go for it.

[laughing]

Sherman, Sherman, Sherman.

Have you forgotten
a certain favor I did

for a certain classmate

who couldn't get a date
to senior prom?

Well, I'm cashing in
that favor now.

Or I could share you story
on your social media page.

Okay, okay, okay.

We'll make it happen.

Today.

I will call my crew right now.

Just put your phone away.
Please.

Were you bluffing?

Did that look like a bluff?

I have no idea.

I am just glad
you're on my team.

Always.

There is no better way

to kick off the Hudson County
holiday season

than with a trip
to the Roberts Family Farm

for a home-grown Christmas tree.

This local treasure
off Route

sells beautiful Christmas trees,

and has been
providing the community

with plants and garden supplies

for three generations.

With me today
is Jessica Roberts,

who runs the farm.

Jessica, why is
this year's tree farm

especially meaningful to you?

Well, Sherman,
that is a great question.

My dad, Hal, ran this farm
for over years.

He loved that our family farm

was spreading holiday cheer
all across the county,

one tree at a time.

Christmas is a tradition
around here,

and we need that
in our community

now more than ever, right?

[Sherman] Right.

She's good.

Oh, Jessica's more than good,
she's great.

I loved their farm as a kid.

I'm getting my tree
there tomorrow.

What?

[Jessica]
My dad always use to say

we don't just sell trees,
we make memories,

and I feel the exact same way.

What a nice story.

Oh, oh, and one more thing.

I just think it's important
for your viewers to know

that small, local businesses
like our family farm

are the lifeblood
of our community.

We treat our customers
like friends and neighbors,

because they are.

That new HGS,

it can't make the same claim.

Do not fall
for their gimmicks, okay?

She just called you out.

It's okay.

All part of the game.

Oh, and mention Channel ,
and you'll get % off.

[anchor] In other news,

as the year
comes to a close,

the Mayor of Hudson Springs
announced today

her city
faces severe budget cuts.

It's our responsibility

to spend wisely on
our community's top priorities.

Unfortunately,
that means scaling back

on some of our holiday
traditions this year.

As you can see, Miss Mayor,

we've hired over
sales associates so far,

all from Hudson County.

Yeah, I mean,
I was looking for a job

for over four months.

I never thought I'd be
a manager in an HGS superstore.

Well, that's fantastic.

We could certainly use
more taxpayers and shoppers

around here.

I saw that news story
last night.

Sounds grim.

Well, everyone needs
to tighten their belts,

especially City Hall.

Which isn't always easy
at the holidays.

That's why we at Harvest
want to help.

Follow me.

Oh.

Looks like the news story
gave us the bump we needed

at the right time.

Ten days before Christmas.

Clay was right,

you can compete
without much money.

Jessica?

It's for you.

It's the Mayor's Office.

Oh.

Mayor Barnes,
I was just about to call you.

When would you like
the tree sent over?

Well, that's why I'm calling.

It's not going
to work out this year.

I'm sorry.

What do you mean?

If it's the price,
we can work something out.

Uh, well, another vendor
donated a tree.

But I thought
the tree we picked

was perfect.

I'm sorry, Jessica.

We're just too cash-strapped
to turn it down.

Please don't take it personally.

Hopefully, next year,

we'll have the funds to be able
to buy from you again.

I hope so, too.

Okay, bye-bye.

Don't look so glum.

It's Friday night,

and you've got a hot date
to get ready for.

It is not a date.

It's a tour. Sure.

Whatever.

With a cute guy who likes you.

Come on.

Jessica Roberts is going out.

Finally.

Hey, I date sometimes.

Just not as often as you.

Hey, at least I try.

[footsteps approaching]

Okay. What about this?

You look like a park ranger.

I don't even know
what that means.

Well, it's not a compliment.

Outta my way.

Okay... nope.

Nope. Definitely not.

Wow.

Uh, oh, wow.

This might just work.

Honestly, I know what
to get you for Christmas.

Really? That shirt?

Trust me.
Keep the jeans, swap the top.

Okay.

-Yeah.
-Okay.

You look beautiful.

I mean, you always do,

just in a different way tonight,

and, uh...
I'm gonna stop talking.

Thank you.

For the compliment, I mean.

Oh...

[opening car door]

Before we go,

there's something
you should know.

And the truth comes out.

You have a girlfriend.

What? No.

-A wife?
-No.

Four kids.

What I wanted
to tell you is...

I'm not a fan of egg nog.

I mean, some people love it,
you might be one of them,

nothing wrong with that,

I just... I wanted
to put it out there

from the start.

Thank you.
Thank you for your honesty.

Great.

Can we go now,
Clay from Manhattan?

Yeah. [door closing]

Every moment of every day
is an opportunity.

To convert.
To convince. To sell.

Oops. Ignore that.

One of my business podcasts.

No, no, leave it on.
I want to hear it.

Okay.

Every person you meet
is a possible buyer.

Maybe not today or tomorrow,
but someday.

Your contacts
are your currency.

This guy can't be serious.

Everyone's buying
or selling something,

even if they don't know it.

I don't know.

Reducing everything
to a transaction?

What about being a good person,
giving back to the community?

You can be
successful in business

and be a good person.

You're proof of that.

Thanks, I'd like to think so.

As for me,

I'm trying to make every day
a win for the company,

but I'm also trying

to contribute
to the community here

so that everybody benefits.

I can send you these podcasts
if you want to stream some.

I actually prefer
the Clay-cast.

-[laughing]
-Okay.

You love what you do.

It's cute.

Okay, so pick your tour.

You could have the "official"
Hudson Springs tour,

featuring historical landmarks,

takes all of about
three minutes,

or you can have the
official Jessica Roberts tour,

featuring Jessica Roberts
landmarks.

You pick.

Mm...

the latter. Definitely.

Excellent choice, sir.

Excellent choice.

My first date?

That was Brandon Marks.

He took me to the
Train Museum Christmas Light Up.

I was .

It was great,

except for the fact
that his parents came

and stood behind us
the entire time.

-Awkward.
-Yeah.

Your mom's not
following us, is she?

No, not likely.

It's a nice tradition.

A tradition, where for
the first time in decades,

we will not be using a tree
from the Roberts family farm.

Oh?

Yeah, someone donated a tree,

so the city doesn't need
to buy it from us.

You can't blame them
for taking a free tree.

Oh, I know.

I had just hoped
to use the first tree

my dad ever planted
in the grove.

Oh, it would have been
such a nice tribute to him,

seeing it all lit up

in the center
of the community

he loved so much.

I'm so sorry
that didn't work out.

Me too.

Evening, Clay!

Jess.

-How you doing, fellas?
-Hey.

You've been here a week,

and you already
know Earl and Felix?

Hard not to.

Their friendship's expensive,
but I like those guys.

Can I ask you something?

Yeah.

How is it you're still single?

I'd think every guy
in Hudson Springs

would be after you.

Oh, well, I don't know
about that.

Um...

I don't know, I guess
my family and the farm

have just always come first,

especially when my dad
needed help managing everything.

I was happy to be here for him.

Sounds like
you sacrificed a lot.

It didn't feel
like a sacrifice.

What about you?

No Big Apple lady's
snapped you up yet?

Not yet.

I come from a family
of workaholics.

When we were kids,
my dad sat us all down

and said,
"Kids, money isn't everything,

it's the only thing."

Mm.

Yeah, so, working hard

and climbing
the corporate ladder's

always been the priority.

Long hours,
traveling lots for work,

and an apartment I barely use
except to sleep.

You sound like a lot of fun.

It's the big city
way of life.

So I guess Hudson Springs

must feel like
such a culture shock to you.

At first,

but slowing down a little's
been good for me.

I'm seeing things I didn't
realize I was missing.

Fresh air, trees...

conversations with a strong,
smart, beautiful woman.

I bet you say that
to all the farm girls.

Are you hungry?

Yes.

-Let's eat.
-Okay.

Hi, Jessica.

How ya doing, Clay?

Wait. You're a regular already?

I seen him every morning
this week.

And most nights.

Wow, and here I was thinking

I was taking you someplace
you've never been.

Sorry, you just seemed
so excited to show me.

Truth is,
I'm hooked on her coffee.

I might even have to have it
shipped to New York...

I mean, Manhattan.

Why don't you two grab a seat?

I'll bring you
a couple glasses of wine,

on the house.

Wow, even Dottie likes you.

I'd like to make a toast.

To that tree
that almost knocked me down.

If it hadn't,
we may never have met.

Aw.

To the tree.

And my negligence.

By the way, I saw you
on TV the other night.

Oh, no. You did?

What?

You had a real screen presence.

Oh, really?

I was so nervous.

I mean, I did
get the message out,

and the free press
definitely helped,

but we still need
to up our game.

Now, there's a sight.

Sherman.

Hi! This is Clay.

-Clay...
-Oh, I know Clay.

In fact, we did
a story together just last week.

Oh.

Wait, is there anybody
in this town you don't know?

It's good to see you, Sherman.

Mm. This meatloaf is delicious.

Wow.

Yup.

Um, it is really good

to see you two rivals
in peace talks.

-Enjoy your dinner.
-Okay.

Thank you.

"Peace talks"?

I didn't know we were at w*r.

So, what was
the story he did?

Oh, it was nothing.

Oh, come on, tell me.

Maybe I saw it.

Clay?

Promise you won't get mad.

Why would I get mad?

Okay.

He did a story for me about...

Harvest Garden Supply.

What? Wait, why would he do...

I wanted to tell you before,

but...

it just didn't seem
like a good time,

and, um...

You work for Harvest?

I'm a regional
marketing director.

They send me in
to launch certain stores.

Ha.

You're funny.

That's a... really funny,
really bad joke.

I mean, you and Sherman
know each other somehow from...

Please tell me you're kidding.

I'm sorry.

You're sorry?

Why didn't you tell me?

I wanted to.

Really, I did,

but you, and Scott,

and especially
your friend, Delaney,

hate Harvest,

and I thought that
if I told you the truth,

that you would never even
give me a chance.

So... you just omitted

a pretty key part of yourself.

I just wanted
to get to know you.

What for?

What, so you could
size up your competition?

What, figure out
our weaknesses

so you could lure
our customers away

and b*at us?

Wow.

No. That... Of course not.

You seemed kind,

and funny, and smart.

Let me get dinner.

I knew it was too good
to be true.

[Scott]
I can't believe this guy.

I mean, in our own house,

acting so polite,

and... and giving us
business advice?

That guy's got some nerve.

I just wish
he would have told me.

Exactly.

Instead of going
on a date with you

when he knew
that it was our farm

that he was
stealing business from.

Mom and I...

we could tell that you
were excited about him.

We're always hoping

that you're going
to meet a great guy.

Thanks. Me too.

I swear, if I see Clay...

You will do nothing, Scott.

Let's just focus
on what we have to do.

Just like every year.

See? I told you she'd be mad.

It's not so much
what she said,

but how she looked at me.

Like I'd betrayed her.

I felt terrible keeping
the truth from her.

I still do.

So what're you gonna do?

I don't know.

I can't change
how she feels about Harvest...

but, hopefully, I can change
how she feels about me.

$ . ? How is that
even possible?

Not even a Northeastern fir.

It won't last two weeks.

Find what
you were looking for?

Uh, no, thank you,
I'm just browsing.

I'm sorry
about the other night.

You have every right
to be upset.

I should've told you
the truth sooner.

But I didn't...

because I wanted you
to like me for who I am

instead of pre-judging me
for who I work for.

The Death Star, you mean.

Did you know that Harvest
started out

as a small family farm
just like yours?

Wilbur Anderson, the founder,

opened a small produce stand
on a country road,

and it grew from there.

He had those same
small-town values

that people around share.

It's part of what appealed
to me about the job,

building on his underdog story

and turning new customers
into fans of the brand.

That is a fan club
I want no part of.

You have every right
to be cynical,

but the competition
between Harvest and your farm,

that's business.

This, between us, is personal.

Well, it all feels
the same to me.

I'm not trying
to put you out of business.

I'm just trying to get people
to shop at this store.

So we're competing.
Big deal.

Embrace the challenge,
and push yourself to win.

Hmm.

You sound like your podcasts,

and I don't need
your patronizing advice.

If you want to help us out,
stop selling trees.

I can't do that.

I put a lot of my budget
into that tree lot.

It brings people
into the store.

That's my job.

Selling low-grade trees

and foreign-made
gardening supplies.

How noble.

Our customers love
our wide selection

and low, low prices.

Look, I didn't come here

to debate the flimsy merits
of the HGS business model.

I'm here to see
what I'm up against.

So we can b*at HGS.

And you.

I'll have to warn you,
I'm not one to lose,

but I wish you
the best of luck anyway.

Well, you too.

That's a nice shirt.

Very... very good color on you.

Oh, I think it's lilac.

Manager?

Well, you've been working
so hard

to find a job,
being there for your family.

I'm so proud of you.

Thanks, Annie.

But, uh... Scott sure isn't.

Think he'll ever forgive me?

Oh...

Xavier, honey...

Scott is navigating
a whole new landscape

of responsibilities
at the farm

now that Dad is gone,

and you are doing
what is right for you

and your future.

We're family.

You and Scott, you're going
to find your way.

Just have a little patience.

Thanks.

A concert?

Yeah.

Delaney's band is playing

to raise money for sprucing up
the train museum.

Jessica thought
it would be good PR

for our farm.

Well, as part of this family,

I would love to hang some up
in the store.

Oh!

Oh, that's great, honey.

Thank you.

Thanks for the chat, Annie.

Oh, any time.

Say hello to your mother.

Oh, I will.

Who was that?

Your best friend, Xavier.

♪ Hark, the herald angels sing

♪ Glory to the newborn king

[applause and cheering]

All right, everyone,
let's hear it

for Hudson Springs' very own
"Senior Singers Society."

[cheering]

Now, I would like to thank
Clay Moore and Xavier Norris

from Harvest Garden Supply

for donating this tree

to the annual

Hudson Springs
tree-lighting ceremony...

...and for throwing in
the free delivery.

Christmas
just wouldn't be the same

without your
incredible generosity.

Thank you.

Thank you, Mayor.

It's our pleasure to help out
such a wonderful community

in a small way.

I know we at Harvest
are new to town,

but so many of you have already
stopped by the store,

and we just love
getting to know you

and seeing firsthand
what makes this place special.

Harvest was founded

on the same
small-town values

you good people share,

so we hope
you'll give us a chance

to earn your trust,

your friendship,

and your business.

Thank you.

[applause]

Yeah, right.

I'm not falling
for that corporate shill.

I don't know,
he seemed sincere.

What?

Let the countdown begin.

In ...

nine...

eight... seven...

six...

five... four...

three... two...

one!

[cheering]

Good morning.

Morning.

What's this?

So, I was right.

It was you and HGS

that kept the town
from buying my Dad's tree.

I'm sorry about that.

I was just trying to protect
the Hudson Springs' tradition.

I didn't know what it meant
to your family, or you.

Honest.

A benefit concert?

Yeah, we're raising money
to spruce up the train museum.

It's looking a little run-down.

Tree is nice, but...

we wanted to do
something lasting.

Concert's a smart idea.

He says sarcastically.

No, I mean it.

You get some new people
walking around the farm,

exposure
and doing good for the town.

It's a win-win.

So, am I allowed
to come to this?

It's a free country.

But if you do, bring cash.

Lots of it.

That tree donation
was a solid PR move.

Good job.

Tree sales are up,
and so is everything else.

It's an improvement,

but it's a week
before Christmas,

and the numbers still aren't
where they need to be.

Which is why I'm rolling out

new reasons
to come to HGS every day.

Good.

We're counting on you, Clay.

I won't let you down.

[♪♪♪]

You're going to have a blast,
I'm telling you.

I'm looking forward to it.

Hey, Scott.

Xavier.

I'm so sorry, guys,
but we're actually,

we're totally sold out
for the night, so...

What are you talking about?

There's tons of space in there.

No, no, not for Harvest guys,
there isn't.

We're just here
to support the town

-like everybody else.
-Are you?

And we thank you for that.

Thank you very, very much.

Here are your two tickets,
gentlemen,

and you enjoy yourselves.

-Thank you.
-Thanks, Annie.

I didn't raise you to be rude.

Xavier's your friend.

I mean, when are you going
to cut him some slack?

Simple.

When he stops working
for the enemy.

Not everybody
can go off to college

and choose their career.

Maybe you could be a little bit
more understanding.

Okay.

[cheering]

Thank you!

I just found out we raised
over a thousand dollars

to help spruce up
our train museum!

[cheering]

Yeah!

Now, none of this
would've been possible

without my BFF, Jessica Roberts,

and her farm,

so show your love and come back
and buy a Christmas tree!

-Yeah!
-[cheering]

We will match any price
you find over at Harvest.

That megastore
is stealing business

from Mom and Pop shops
like this one,

so if you really care
about Hudson Springs,

you'll boycott Harvest Garden

and shop local!

[cheering]

[♪♪♪]

♪ Jingle bells, jingle bells

♪ Jingle all the way

♪ Oh, what fun...

I had nothing to do with that.

It's okay.

I'm all for free speech.

So, sticking out
like a sore thumb

just comes naturally
to you, doesn't it?

No idea what you mean.

Someone should get you
some flannels for Christmas.

I'll let Santa know.

I doubt
you're on the "Nice" list.

Not yet...

but I'm trying.

♪ O'er the fields we go

♪ Laughing all the way

♪ Bells on bobtails ring

♪ Making spirits bright...

Great turnout.
I'm impressed.

I'm going all-in
on my home-turf advantage.

See, around here,

the holidays are about
people coming together,

not just buying stuff.

Hmm. You know your town.

Underestimate me
at your peril.

Do you, uh, want to dance?

With you?

That was the idea. You know?

I... I don't think so.

I just... I don't think
it would be a good look,

uh, you know, being seen dancing

with Harvest Garden Supply's
regional marketing director.

Yeah. Yeah, I guess not.

Yeah.

What if I'm dancing,

and you just happen
to be dancing

in my general proximity?

Would that be a better look?

I suppose that could be okay.

Well, I'm going
to go dance now.

Over there.

By myself...

Mm-hmm. Like that?

Okay. [chuckling]

Oh.

Too close?

Well, I guess this is okay.

So does this mean

you're a little closer
to forgiving me?

No.

We're just dancing.

Uh-huh.

Just dancing.

Sure.

Just dance.

♪ Jingle bells, jingle bells

♪ Jingle all the way...

[laughing]

Aw, look at those two.

♪ ...in a one-horse
open sleigh... ♪

He just better not
hurt her again.

Come on.

Let's dance.

All right. Come on.

♪ ...in a one-horse
open sleigh ♪

[cheering]

Well, uh, what's all this?

The difference between
selling a few trees

and selling an experience.

[cell phone ringing]

-What's up?
-I'm coming to pick you up.

There's something
you need to see.

Harvest?

What else? Be outside in five.

Merry Christmas, you guys!

Here's a coupon for % off!

Ho-Ho-Ho!

Happy holidays from HGS.

Oh... this is... grotesque.

Grotesquely awesome.

And free.

People love free Christmas.

What're we gonna do?

The only thing we can...

we are going to
out free-Christmas them.

You can do better than this?

Watch me.

You go, Business Jess.

Okay, sweethearts,
a little cider break?

Thank you!

-Enjoy.
-So good.

Thanks.

Hey, Jessica?

Ooh, I know that look.

You're worried about something.

Yeah, I'm... I'm worried

about how we're going
to pay for all this.

Well, sometimes,

you have to spend money
to make money.

I know, except I just
totaled up our expenses,

and we don't have the cash
to make payroll this week

and pay our mortgage.

We are going to sell more
this year than we ever have.

Of everything.

Yep, but it's the holidays.

People need to be paid,
like, today.

Christmas is right
around the corner.

Thank you.

Ah, don't look at me
like that, Sheila.

You look shell-shocked.

This, uh... well, this is...

Holiday-tacular?

Yeah.

I mean, look,
it's no Light Show Experience

in a parking lot,

but we do our best.

Extreme measures were taken
to pay for it,

but, you know,

it was all worth it
to see that look on your face.

What kind
of extreme measures?

I'd rather not say.

But I have to get back to work,

because as you can see,

I have a lot of customers
that I have to be with.

Yeah, I should
get back to work, too.

-Mm-hmm.
-Um, good luck with this.

Thanks.

I mean, I don't think
I'm going to need it,

but, you know, thanks.

Yeah, I can see that.

Yeah. Great.

All right.

Yeah, bye!

Bye.

Wow.

This is wonderful!

Wow. Christmas came
to Hudson Springs after all.

Mayor Barnes must've found
some pennies in the town budget.

Or her favorite benefactor
came through again.

It's a Harvest-palooza
in here.

Let's get out of here.

-Agreed.
-Yup.

Stop, you three.

This is very special
for our town.

I mean, who cares
who the sponsor is?

Besides, we've all
been working very hard.

We could use a break.

Oh, look! Free scarves!

Oh, thank you very much.

-Uh...
-Oh...

No, absolutely not.

I'm not wearing this.

It's very soft.

What? I'm cold.

Elderly exemption.

Fine.

But we're taking them
to the Salvation Army

the second we leave here.

Hey, guys.

Hot cocoa, anyone?

Um, actually, you can take

your free beverages
someplace else, Xavier.

Sorry.

I just thought since
it was so cold,

you might like one.

Thank you, Xavier.

That's very nice of you.

Don't mind him.

You sure, Scott?

It's real marshmallows on top.

Thank you.

Okay... cheers.

To marshmallows.

Let's go have some fun.

Whoa.

Merry Christmas.

I can't do that on my best day.

Hi. Thanks for coming.

Hey. Thank you.

[Scott] Not my forte, Mother.

Hey.

Hey. I'm glad
you could make it.

My mom insisted.

Your mom, huh?

Mm-hmm.

So, what do you think
of my event?

Oh, did Harvest
sponsor this show?

I hardly noticed.

Very funny.

I mean, if you wanted people

to see the Harvest logo
in their sleep tonight,

you probably succeeded.

That is my job.

It pains me to say it,
but you're very good at it.

I do have to ask,

uh, why didn't I see you
out on the ice?

Oh, I, uh...
I'm not much of a skater.

Really?

Hmm, well,

around here,

babies learn
how to skate first, then walk.

Skating toddlers!

I knew something
was missing from this event.

Maybe next year.

Anyway, see you on the,
uh, proverbial b*ttlefield.

Right.

[chuckling]

Well, thanks for coming out.

My mom insisted.

Need some help?

What're you doing here?

I heard you might need
some more volunteers.

Wow. Um, okay, sure.

Heard from whom?

Oh... the town grapevine.

I may have mentioned something
to Xavier at the rink.

I thought maybe we could
extend our truce

just a little bit longer.

For a good cause and all.

Okay, truce extension granted.

Now, get to work.

Uh, yeah, those are going to go
right over there.

-Okay.
-Yeah.

You said
you wanted to work, so...

All of those.

And those...

Okay.

...go over there.

So, who wants
to be interviewed first?

You called the press?

No.

I didn't, I swear.

What're you doing here,
Sherman?

Two rivals working together
for the common good.

Now, that is a newsworthy story.

I'll pass.

Not everything has to be
a PR moment.

-Are you sure?
-Mm-hmm.

I'm sure if he's sure.

Go away, Sherman.

Suit yourselves.

Come on, Sam.

[chuckling]

It's amazing
what people can do, though,

when they work together
to make things better...

for free, no less.

Do you have plans tonight?

You tell me.

Are you sure we're allowed
to be in here?

Yes, the owner's
an old friend.

One of the perks
of small-town life.

Now, quit stalling
and get out here.

You promise you won't laugh.

I promise.

[laughing]

Hey, you promised!

I'm sorry.

You are full of surprises,
Jessica Roberts.

Well, I figure

you want to try
to fit in around here,

you got to learn how to skate.

And you thought who better
to be my instructor than you.

Exactly.

And you're welcome.

I have to admit it,

Hudson Springs has
grown on me lately.

I can see why
you'd never want to leave.

I'm surprised
to hear you say that.

Sometimes, I surprise myself.

Ah, this is
the first chance I've had

to get out and skate all season.

I've just been working
non-stop...

so I guess
you're rubbing off on me, too.

Workaholism can be contagious.

It's okay.

Competing with you
has forced me to hustle,

which has been challenging,
but also fun.

Well, you're exceptional at it.

Well, being
supremely mad at you

is a great motivator.

So, you're, uh,
not mad anymore?

[sighing]

I guess I realized...

all that stuff between us...

it's just business.

But this is, uh...

personal.

Exactly.

Oh, my gosh!

Oh, my gosh, oh, my gosh,
oh, my gosh, oh, my gosh!

Are you okay?

No.

I think I shattered my, uh...

self-confidence.

[laughing]

I think I'm gonna need
a few more lessons.

Come on.

You got it. You got it.

[Mom] Hi, Honey!

So?

Well, you're in
a good mood today.

What makes you think that?

Well, for one thing,

you are glowing.

Am I?

Huh.

I guess I'm just really happy
about the sales,

and the fact that our fair
is such a big hit.

Uh-huh.

Yeah.

Well, I'm happy you're happy,

no matter what,
or who, is behind it.

[chuckling]

Let me guess,

you're picturing yourself
in your new corner office.

Hmm?

Oh, come on,

the new sales numbers
are through the roof!

Your tactics worked!

Yeah, we turned this around.

Looks like HGS is here to stay
in Hudson Springs.

Cheers to that.

Listen, sorry
if I doubted you, by the way.

I had no idea I was working
with a marketing genius.

Just doing my job,
but thank you.

Boom!

Hey.

Mom said you want
to talk to me.

Yeah, it's, um...
it's about the books.

Well, don't look so glum.

Our sales have
never been better.

But our expenses
have never been higher.

We had to hire more staff,

plus Santa,

plus all the materials
to build and paint everything,

overtime, it all adds up,

and, unfortunately,

no matter how well we do

in these next two days
before Christmas,

we're still going to be
in the red.

But I sold Dad's truck.

And that helped,

but it wasn't enough.

Well, we'll have a sale.

We'll put the wreaths
and poinsettias half-off.

People love that.

They'll... they'll
go crazy for it.

Jess, I think that we need
to talk about selling the farm.

Scott...

If we prepare it now,

we can have it on the market
in time for spring.

There has to be another way.

We could get another loan
from the bank,

Call Mrs. Steingart...

I... I called her already,

and she said no.

I'm sorry, I really am.

I've seen
what you've managed to do here,

we all have,

and it was an incredibly
valiant effort,

but at some point,
we have to face reality.

Look, I know that
this is home for you,

but maybe this is a chance
for something new.

Did you ever think
maybe the farm

was holding you back
from having your own life?

I like my life here.

I know...

but there's this whole world
out there to explore,

beyond this farm,

and beyond Hudson Springs.

What would Dad say

if he heard you
talking like that?

Dad is gone, Jess.

We have to do
what's right for us now.

Not him.

Sorry, Jess.

[Clay] Have a good night.

There he is!

Marcia? What're you doing here?

Waiting to celebrate with you.

I wanted to come up

and personally thank you

for k*lling it
with the launch here.

You had a slow start,

but after seeing
the new numbers this morning,

everyone from the home office
is over the moon.

What can I say?
I was inspired.

I'm recommending you
for a promotion.

VP of Marketing,
covering the entire southwest.

Congratulations.

I don't know what to say.

To your victory, then?

To my victory.

[laughing]

Can we help you?

Uh, excuse me.

I didn't mean to interrupt
your celebration.

Jessica.

No need to explain.

You won.

We're selling the farm.

What?

Enjoy your night, Clay.

What was that about?

I'd rather not talk about it.

Fair enough.

You must be dying
to get back to the city.

Actually, Marcia...

Hudson Springs has grown on me.

Especially the people.

Really?

Well, I'm sure I don't need
to remind you

that we answer
to the board at HGS

first and foremost.

Don't forget that.

What would Wilbur Anderson say
if he heard you right now?

Excuse me?

Wilbur Anderson was a lot
like the people around here.

He respected his customers.

I wonder if HGS
has forgotten that.

[laughing]

What's so funny?

Well, the way you were talking,

I actually started to believe
that Wilbur Anderson was real.

[laughing]

What do you mean?

Oh no.

You don't know?

Wilbur Anderson never existed.

He was created by Art Freiberg,

a brilliant ad copy guy
back in the ' s.

He made the whole thing up
as a sales tactic.

I thought you knew.

Well, that just
goes to show you.

You can sell ice to Alaskans

if you tell them
the right story.

[setting her glass down]

Be back at the office tomorrow.

On Christmas Eve?

Yes.

I want to get you up to speed
on your new role

before the new year.

A day ago,
I was on top of the world,

and in a flash,

I am losing the farm

and the first guy
I saw a future with.

Some Christmas Eve.

You don't know that for sure.

There's still time, right?

Are you talking
about the farm or the guy?

Maybe both?

[phone ringing]

Just talk to him.

No.

Hey, Jessica, it's me.

Clay. Uh...

I would really like
to talk to you.

I know you're upset,

but hopefully,
you'll call me back.

Bye.

Listen to his voicemail.

Maybe he's...

I don't get it.

You were the one who forbade me
from dating him.

I know,

and I didn't want
to like Clay,

but he clearly adores you,

and I doubt he'd ever want
to hurt you

or put your farm
out of business.

He baited me
into competing with him,

knowing he would win all along.

Oh, stop.

If you're gonna blame him,

blame yourself too,

because win or lose,

you loved playing the game,

and it could've gotten ugly
between you two,

but it didn't,

because you liked each other
too much...

and maybe
you'll lose the farm...

but are you really ready
to lose him, too?

Jessica Roberts,
you deserve someone exceptional.

I don't know if that's Clay,

but you owe it to yourself
to find out...

so talk to him one more time.

Then decide.

[knocking]

Hey!

You wanted to see me, boss?

I wanted to wish you
good luck with the store.

My time's up here.

Uh, wow. Already?

We've built up
local awareness.

Now it's up to you to maintain
the HGS brand in the area.

I've put together a checklist

of all the quarterly
marketing "must-do"s.

It's been great
working with you, Xavier.

Yeah, you too.

I mean, you've taught me
so much.

It's been an honor.

Merry Christmas.

You too.

[starting engine]

[podcast plays] The select few
who make it to the top

know that winning is everything.

Every day is a test
of your will to compete,

because if you aren't
willing to do

whatever it takes to win--
[turning podcast off]

[phone ringing]

You okay?

Not really.

I promised Dad
I would take care of this place.

If we sell, I'll always feel
like I let him down.

[laughing]

Not really
a comedy moment, Mom.

I know, it's just...

I heard the same thing
many times from your father.

Why?

He didn't want to let you down.

Me?

Yeah.

He knew how much
you cared about this place,

and so he put
his heart and soul into it

until his very last day,

bless his heart.

I miss him so much.

Yeah.

Me too.

And I know how proud he'd be

of what you've managed
to do here...

just like I am.

I mean, you've done
an incredible job.

Thanks, Mom.

Whatever happens to the farm,

I just want you to be happy

and to follow your heart,

wherever it takes you.

Call that boy.

See what's possible

in the next chapter
of your life,

because you know what?

Ready or not, it's coming.

I hate when you're right.

I know.

[laughing]

[dialing]

[line ringing]

It's Clay.
Leave a message.

Hi, Clay, it's Jessica.

I'm... sure you're
back at work already.

Congratulations
on your promotion.

I didn't mean
what I said yesterday.

I really am
happy for you, truly.

You deserve it.

Um...

Anyway, I was hoping
we could talk, so...

uh, please give me
a call when you have a chance?

Bye.

[car approaching]

Excuse me?

Oh, hi, sorry, we just closed.

Oh, it's okay.

We're not here for a tree.

Oh! Are you lost?

No, um, we're engaged.

Oh!

Well, um...

Congratulations!

We're headed upstate
to see some relatives

and, along the way,
we're looking at wedding venues.

Everything in the city
is so... typical.

And expensive.

Hmm, I'm sorry to hear that.

But why are you telling me
all of this?

We were here this morning,
and this farm, it's...

Exactly what we're looking for.

Do you think the owner
would ever rent that barn out

for a wedding?

I think they would.

If you can put us in touch,
that'd be awesome.

Great news.

You already are.

♪ O night

♪ Divine

♪ O night

♪ O night...

♪ Divine

Okay, okay, I'll talk to him.

Hey.

Hey!

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

about the whole
Harvest job thing.

I figured if I did,

you'd try
to talk me out of it.

I mean, you're right
about that,

but I know
that you needed a job,

so... it's cool.

Really?

Yeah. Really.

You okay?

Not yet.

But I did find a way
to save the farm.

Really?

Really.

Well, I'm not surprised,
my amazing Boss Lady.

I guess it's merry Christmas
after all.

First Christmas without Dad.

It's so good to have
all my kiddos together.

Aw, Mom...

Family is everything.

Thanks, Mom.

We love you too.

[kissing]

Good night.

Hello?

Is somebody here?

It's just me.

What're you doing here?

Waiting for you.

To be honest, I thought
you'd be home sooner.

It's freezing out here.

My dad's truck.

Merry Christmas.

Thank you...

but I don't understand.

That truck meant
so much to your dad,

and to you.

I was on my way out of town,

and I realized I couldn't go

without convincing you
not to sell this place.

Clay...

It means too much to you
and to your family

and to this community,

and if there's anything
I can do

to help get it back on track...

Clay...

We're not selling the farm.

Oh.

Okay... good.

Competing with you
made me realize

what I'm capable of.

This farm is going to be a venue

for so much more
than it's ever been.

We're gonna have
summer movie nights,

and Easter Egg hunts,

and th of July carnivals.

A Halloween pumpkin patch?

A Halloween pumpkin patch,

and the best part: weddings!

Brilliant.

Yeah.

I want to help.

I'm not taking that promotion.

In fact, I'm not going back
to Harvest.

I'm tired of peddling lies

just so I can climb to the top
of some corporate ladder.

Are you sure?

'Cause your podcasts would say
that's a huge mistake.

[laughing]

You know, they say

New York City
is the center of the world,

where anything is possible...

but in all my years
living there,

I never felt anything
but the need to hustle,

do whatever it takes to win.

Even though
it's only been a few weeks,

the only place I've ever felt
a sense of real possibility,

a life with family, and friends,
and a real home,

was right here,
Hudson Springs...

with you.

Are you sure you want
to live in Hudson Springs?

If that's where you are,

because from the moment we met,

I've been falling for you.

Timber.

[♪♪♪]