["Deck the Halls" plays]
I can't believe
tonight's the night.
It's finally happening, Brit.
You deserve this, Liv.
Your art displayed at the
Christmas Wonderland exhibit,
this is huge.
- Can you hold this?
- Sure.
My last piece
of the collection.
I've been dreaming about this
my whole life.
I'm so proud of you, Liv.
You need help with that?
Nope. I am good.
You, uh, you sure about that?
You're making it look
real awkward.
Nope, I'm good.
It's not me.
It's these clothes.
How do you
even function in these?
You're the one
who asked to borrow them.
I did, didn't I?
[sighs]
It's okay.
I got this.
[sighs]
I got my first art show.
I got my best friend with me
and a fresh cup of coffee.
Today's gonna be the perfect sta
to a perfect day
to a perfect future.
Absolutely.
You okay?
Oh, I'm sorry, ma'am,
you have to
throw away your coffee.
Still gonna be perfect.
Just a little less caffeine.
You got this.
Yeah.
Merry Christmas.
- Hey!
- No, no, no.
You, you got to stop
living in the past, man.
I'm not living in the past.
I just don't want you to set me
on another terrible blind date.
Now, why do you automatically
think it's gonna be terrible?
Fool me once, shame on you.
Fool me twice...
- Third time's the charm.
- Reggie, no.
When was the last time you did
something new for yourself?
Hm? Look, you...
you are way too young to be
officially stuck in your ways.
Tell that to my knees.
And I am doing something new
for myself tonight,
as a matter of fact.
Changing your pizza order
does not count.
- I'm going to the city.
- Really?
- A date?
- No.
- Santa Claus parade?
- No.
- That's all I got.
- Art show.
I'm going to support
Mrs. Jenkins' friend.
[laughs]
You're going to that?
You're not?
Of course not.
It's an art show.
- She's our boss.
- No.
She's not our boss.
She's retired.
See?
Stuck in the past.
You're stuck in the past.
Let's go, guys, one more time.
[rink buzzer blares]
There.
Perfect.
You sure are.
Bradley. Hi.
Hey.
For you.
Oh, thank you.
You got me
my lucky beet smoothie.
How did you smuggle this in?
I had to surrender my coffee
to the very intimidating
security guard out there.
He was wearing a Santa hat.
To the mildly intimidating
security guard out there.
Well, I suppose being the son
of a gallery owner
has its perks.
Um, how exactly
is a beet smoothie lucky?
Well, it means that I will be
"unbeetable" tonight.
Get it?
'Cuz of the beets.
- [Bradley] Mm-hm.
- Oh, I get it.
- You're a good man, Bradley.
- I try.
If he did not laugh
at my fruit jokes,
I would have to
let that "mango."
A very good man.
Oh, come on,
you love my punnies.
- I'm hilarious.
- What you are
is talented.
- I'll take that.
- [phone typing clicks]
So...
what do you think?
I think it's nice.
Nice?
Anything else?
Well, I think
it'll be a hit tonight.
I heard the senator will be here
and
politicians always like
nice art.
Any celebrities coming?
- Probably.
- Sweet.
Um, does it make you
feel anything?
Sure.
Yeah.
Well, what does it
make you feel?
Good.
Yeah, it makes me feel good.
Oh, sorry, Liv.
I gotta go.
So soon?
Yeah, my father's counting
on me to make tonight successful
while he is out of the country.
Enjoy your smoothie
- and I'll see you tonight, okay.
- Yeah.
Brittany, take care
of my special artist.
You got it.
It makes him feel...
good.
Okay.
Okay, So your boyfriend
doesn't have his father's
knowledge of art, but
he does laugh at your lame jokes
and he did get you
your lucky smoothie
so points for that?
How does it make you feel?
Good.
Really, really good.
Like really.
[laughing]
You know Christmas is still
four weeks away, right?
Yeah, well, Jake likes to
suffocate me
with holiday spirit.
- [laughs]
- Yeah, how was hockey practice?
- Fun.
- Embarrassing.
You can't compare yourself
to Jake, Reggie.
I mean professional athletes
are in the league of their own.
I've never been
a professional athlete, Gramps.
Yeah, well you could have been
if it wasn't for that guy.
That was a long time ago.
Well, you're still tops
in my book.
Thanks, Gramps.
Did you get your walk in today?
Yes, sir.
You lying?
Reggie, will you, uh,
tell my grandson
to get off my case
about that whole walking thing?
I've been walking for 85 years.
I've done more steps than
both of you guys combined.
Besides,
it's freezing out there.
I mean, he's got a point.
It's really cold out...
- Don't encourage him.
- Sorry.
Gramps, you got to
get your steps in.
I didn't buy you that
expensive watch
so you could tell the time.
Doctor says,
"use it or lose it."
Happy to lose it.
Hey, Reggie.
- Yep?
- You want an expense watch?
- Sure.
- Don't even think it.
[joyous score]
- So?
- Oh.
What do you think?
- You look stunning.
- Are you sure?
This dress is so not me.
But at least
I can breathe in this one.
[bark]
[whine]
Well, Cheesers approves.
Aw, thanks, Cheesers.
Well, hopefully, after this show
I can stop
borrowing your dresses
- and buy a few of my own.
- For the record,
there's nothing wrong
with your current wardrobe.
There is if I wanna
fit into this art crowd.
Bradley's T-shirts
are worth more than my rent.
- [knocking]
- Hello.
- Ah, Mary!
- Come in. Come in.
Hi.
Oh, so nice to see you.
Thank you so much for coming.
I wouldn't miss it.
Your first big art exhibit.
I can't tell you
how proud I am of you.
Wait 'til you see
the collection.
Stunning.
I couldn't have
done it without you.
You did this all on your own.
I just cheered you on.
Mary, if it wasn't for you,
I would've never left
my teaching job
for an art career.
It's not easy leaving
a comfortable life behind
to follow a dream, but you did.
Yeah, I just hope
it works out.
Two years of art school
and no full-time job
really put a damper
on my savings.
I'm not exactly where
I thought I would be at my age.
You're where
you're supposed to be.
You know, I'm not exactly
where I thought I'd be
at this age,
but like I always say,
life is about the journey.
- Not the destination.
- destination.
We all need to
take chances in life.
Agreed.
I'm taking a chance
on this four-day old Thai food.
Any takers?
- I think we'll pass.
- Okay, more for me.
Liv, now that
you've graduated,
you can always
come back and teach
while doing art part time.
Balancing both
worked beautifully for me.
And I happen to know
that they're looking for someone
to fill in for Mrs. Mattel
until Christmas.
I could pull some strings.
Thanks, Mary.
But hopefully,
if tonight goes well,
I can do my art full time.
Oh, I hope people show up.
I have a feeling you'll have
your own little fan club tonight
I might have invited
a few colleagues.
Oh.
This evening will be perfect.
- Yeah.
- [phone rings]
Oh.
- Hello?
- This evening's a disaster.
- Bradley, what's wrong?
- The caterer isn't here yet.
People are gonna start arriving
in under two hours
and I don't have
anything to serve them.
It's okay.
Just take a breath.
I'm sure they're on their way.
Traffic in the city right now
is terrible.
- They'll be there.
- Yeah, well, they better be.
Do you want me to come in early
and help you figure things out?
That would be great.
Okay. On my way.
I need to leave early.
I'm just gonna grab a cab.
You guys take your time
and I will see you
in a couple of hours.
- Is everything okay?
- Yeah.
Yeah, I think
Bradley's just a little nervous.
Okay, dear, see you soon.
Good luck.
- Thank you.
- See you in a bit.
- Bye, Cheesers.
- [yip]
[whine]
It's actually really good.
Four days.
[exciting holiday score]
- Ah, oh!
- Ahh.
I am so sorry.
It's perfectly okay.
Is that a beet smoothie?
It is.
- It was.
- Oh, no.
Did I get any on my dress?
Uh, nope. I think my shirt
took the "beeting."
[Laughs]
- You're safe.
- You're funny.
- Thanks.
- Guess it is a lucky smoothie.
Um, how do you figure?
Oh, yeah, not for you.
Definitely not for you,
but for me because
I didn't get any on my dress
and it's a rental.
I don't own this dress, so...
- Yay.
- Mm.
Can I offer you anything
for your dry cleaning?
No, that's okay.
I never really
liked this shirt anyway.
You actually did me a favor.
Well, then I guess
it was lucky for both of us.
I guess it was.
Thanks for being so kind
about this.
It's nice
to meet somebody so "upbeet".
- Good one.
- Thanks.
Look, I, I'm sorry
to ruin your shirt and run,
but I actually, I have to go.
It was great meeting you.
Yeah.
You too.
Huh.
I need these hors d'oeuvres
to be ready in an hour.
Guests are gonna
start arriving soon.
Apologies,
Mr. Johnson.
We will be ready on time.
Traffic was horrible.
Traffic is always
horrible in the city.
You should have
taken that into account.
- Hi.
- Hi.
Security told me
where I could find you.
Are you okay?
How did they not
take traffic into account?
Just breathe.
They're here now.
I'm here now.
Tonight needs to be perfect.
You're putting
so much pressure on yourself.
Just... give yourself
some grace.
You are doing amazing.
You know, I'm nervous too.
- [phone rings]
- I have to take this.
Could you go take a look
at the gallery,
make sure that
everything looks perfect?
- Yeah, of course.
- Great.
Hey, what do you think
of my new...
Dress...
[gloomy score]
I'm sorry,
You can't be in here yet.
The show doesn't start
for another hour.
- Hi.
- Hi.
What are you doing here?
Oh, um,
security guard
let me in early to change.
I didn't exactly look my best
with a beet smoothie
spilled all over my shirt, so...
[both] It was lucky.
- Nice jersey.
- Thanks.
I know it's not exactly
appropriate attire
for tonight's event,
but it's all I had in my truck.
Well, at least
you picked a good team.
It is my dad's favorite
so I have a soft spot
for the Blue Knights.
You follow hockey?
A little?
Are you a big fan?
I was.
I-I mean, I am.
I was recruited by the Knights
back in the day...
Dream come true.
But, um, I got injured
during training
so I never really
got a chance to play.
This jersey is the closest
I'll ever come
to the big leagues.
That's closer than most.
I suppose.
So you are a hockey player
and an art connoisseur?
Not really, no.
I mean,
I love art
but I'm far from a connoisseur.
Yeah, I came here tonight
to support my boss.
Ex-boss.
But I was really
drawn to this painting.
- You were?
- Yes.
Yeah, it makes me feel
like there's
still possibilities
in this world.
I mean, I imagine
all of the different people
that have sat on this bench
in the middle of this
busy city.
You know, older couples,
first dates, tourists.
All with their own
unique dreams and
hopes and possibilities.
It's hopeful.
I think you're more of an art
connoisseur than you thought.
Really?
Well, what do you think
the artist was trying to express
when they painted this?
I think I know a thing or two
about what she was thinking
and I would say that
you had a very insightful guess.
Wait...
Did you paint this?
[alarm]
What's going on?
We need to evacuate.
There's a fire in the kitchen.
- But what about my paintings?
- No time. Come on. Come on.
[sirens in distance]
[radio squelches]
Hey, we're all done in there.
Liv?
What happened?
Caterers burnt
the hors d'oeuvres.
Lots of smoke.
Why are you wet?
Sprinkler system got me
on the way out.
Oh, honey, I am so sorry.
It's ruined.
All my hard work is gone.
Things will work out, darling.
This is just
a temporary setback.
What am I supposed to do?
I put everything I had
into this show.
Mary's right, Liv.
Everything's gonna work out.
Oh, my gosh.
Your dress.
I ruined it.
Liv, don't even
worry about that.
This night is a disaster.
I lost everything.
Not everything.
Excuse me, miss.
Is this yours?
Yes. Thank you.
Thank you so much
for saving this.
- It's my favorite piece.
- It wasn't me, ma'am.
A gentleman in a hockey jersey
brought it down.
Asked me to find the owner.
Described a woman
in a long green dress.
Thank you.
[tender score]
A man in a hockey jersey?
Yeah.
Well, who is he?
I didn't catch his name.
Come on, darling.
Let's get you home.
Thank you.
So, a stranger
in a hockey jersey
saves your painting
and disappears.
Yeah. And when he was
talking about my painting,
it was like
he was reading my soul.
Well, that's intense.
No, it's...
[scoffs]
It's not like that.
I just meant
he really got it, you know?
It was...
It was nice.
And you ran into him
twice today.
Mm-hm.
Okay, if I believed in fate
which I don't, but if I did,
I kind of feel like this
isn't the last time
you're gonna bump into
this mystery man.
Yeah, it was weird.
[chuckles]
Have you talked to Bradley?
No.
I left him a message,
but he was
pretty upset about tonight.
- Meant a lot to him.
- Liv...
This night meant a lot
to you too.
He's your boyfriend.
He should have called
to make sure you're okay.
I'm okay.
So what are you gonna do?
I don't know.
You hiring?
That all depends.
Did you happen to go back to
law school and graduate?
- I did not.
- Then we are not.
Mm.
What about what Mary said?
Go back and teach.
It's a short contract.
You could do it until Christmas
just to get back on your feet.
Why does it feel like
I'm giving up on my dreams?
You are not
giving up on your dreams.
You're just doing what
you need to do to succeed.
Look, Liv, nothing ever
works out the way we plan.
You just have to keep your
head up and keep plugging away.
Plus you love working with kids.
Maybe this is the perfect way
to spend the holiday season
just to get your mind off
of things and
so you're not crying
on my couch.
It's a good couch.
It's a good couch.
Just think about it, okay?
Okay.
- Love you.
- Love you.
Oh, Mary left
this card for you.
It's from some of
her work colleagues.
I guess she invited
the entire staff
to come to your show tonight.
They seem like a pretty
good bunch of people
to work with.
Think about it.
Goodnight.
Goodnight.
[tender score]
[school bell rings]
[festive score]
I can do this.
Today's gonna be
the perfect start
to a perfect day,
to a perfect holiday season.
Ah!
Oh!
I'm so sorry.
I didn't mean to...
It's okay.
[gasp]
[gentle holiday score]
Can I sit?
Are you gonna make me
go back in there.
Eventually
but not right this minute.
I'm Ms. James.
I'm new here.
- What's your name?
- Trisha.
It's nice to meet you, Trisha.
I'm new here too.
Oh, I see.
[excited chatter in distance]
I want to go home.
Where is home?
Chicago.
When did you move here?
Last week.
It's my first day.
Do you think that maybe
it's a little early
to make that decision?
I mean, it's your first day
and school hasn't started yet.
Some girls on the bus
were making fun of me.
Then...
everyone laughed.
Sorry to hear that.
The worst part is
is that these girls
are in my class.
When Principal Rainer brought me
to meet my new teacher,
Mr. Hartley,
my assigned desk
was right next to them.
This day could not
get any worse.
Well, if it can't
get any worse,
you know what that means?
What?
It can only get better.
Look, I know we're not
in the exact same position,
but I do understand how difficul
it is to start somewhere new.
It takes a lot of courage.
What if I don't have any?
We all have courage
inside of us.
We just need to look.
I'm scared too.
You are?
Absolutely.
It's my first day too.
I don't wanna go in there
any more than you do.
- Really?
- Really.
But, I also happen to know
that once I do,
I'll be glad I did.
And in a couple weeks from now,
we'll both have new friends
and we'll fit right in.
What are we gonna do about
those girls in the meantime?
Why don't we go in together
and I will talk to Mr. Hartley
for you.
- Really?
- What do you say?
- Deal?
- Deal.
Oh, and I'm really sorry
about your shirt.
Mm.
It's okay.
Maybe no one will notice.
[score fades out]
Olivia, welcome.
Welcome.
We are so happy
to have you here.
Mary has said so many
wonderful things about you.
Well, I'm very happy
to be here.
Oh, is this for me?
- This?
- Yeah.
Oh. Yeah, yeah,
of course.
- Oh-ho.
- Yeah, it's for you.
Well, oops.
[laughs]
Looks like your day's off
to a wonderful start already.
It certainly appears that way,
doesn't it?
- Speaking of which...
- Mm-hm.
I happened to bump into
one of your students today
Wondering if you could
introduce me to Mr. Hartley.
I'd like to discuss
something with him.
Principal Rainer?
Ah, sorry to interrupt, but...
Hi.
Hi.
Uh...
[gentle score]
Oh, well, it seems
no introductions
are necessary here after all.
Mr. Hartley,
Ms. James
has something she wanted
to discuss with you.
Perhaps you could, um,
show her around?
- Happy to.
- Great.
- I'm Jake, by the way.
- Liv.
It's nice to
officially meet you.
Although, I have to say
this is another
strange coincidence.
You know what they say:
third time's a charm.
Well, first time we met
my shirt was "beeten."
The second time
we b*rned down an art gallery.
Can't wait to see what life
has in store for us today.
When you put it that way,
I'm slightly terrified.
Although I did spill coffee
on myself this morning.
Does that count?
First day is always
such a grind.
Oh. Good one.
But, since it happened
before I saw you,
you might have to
take extra precautions.
I am definitely sensing
some end of the world vibes.
On a more serious note...
More serious
than human annihilation?
Yes.
I have a favor to ask.
How can I help?
I happened to bump into one of
your students this morning.
- Trisha.
- Our new student.
She seems to be having
a hard time this morning.
She is.
Any chance you can reconsider
her seating arrangement?
She's getting teased
by a couple girls
and it would be easier on her
if she wasn't sitting
right next to them.
Hm.
I suppose I could consider it
since the world will probably
end before noon anyway.
Perfect.
Oh, I have one more
favor to ask.
No good deed...
You don't happen to have
that jersey in your truck still,
do you?
[upbeat holiday score]
Remember with art,
complementary colours
are very important.
[school bell]
Uh, remember to finish
your color wheels tonight
and I will see you all tomorrow.
Bye.
[sigh]
[line trilling]
- Hi, Liv.
- Bradley.
Hi.
How's your day?
Uh, not terrible.
Yours?
Not terrible.
I forgot how hard it is to
entertain kids all day.
[chuckles]
It was exhausting, but...
good.
Well, lucky for you
it's temporary.
Yeah, how did it go
with the gallery?
- Any word on the damage?
- Actually, yes.
Um, it turns out it isn't as bad
as we originally thought.
We may need to
redo the floors but, um,
we should be up and
running before Christmas.
- That's great.
- It is.
Hey, um, what are you doing
Friday night?
Nothing.
Why?
Well, my father's
coming back to town
and I'd really love it
if you'd join us for dinner.
Are you sure?
I mean, aren't you guys
gonna be busy with the gallery?
Yes, but having one of his
chosen artists join us
might help soften
the blow of this disaster.
If you think so,
then of course I will be there.
I owe your dad a lot.
If it wasn't for him choosing
my art to be in his show,
I would've never met you.
Well, we both
owe him for that.
Okay, I gotta run
but we'll talk later?
Sure thing.
- We made it.
- We did. No apocalypse.
The sun is still shining.
I guess it's been
a pretty good day.
How was your first day?
Honestly, [sighs]
a lot harder than I remember.
- It'll get easier.
- Yeah, I'm sure it will.
Oh, how did it go with Trisha?
I put her in a nice quiet place
far away from those girls.
- Thank you.
- She'll be okay.
She just needs some time
to adapt.
There's some good kids
in that class.
- She'll make friends quickly.
- I hope so.
I know what it's like
to be the new kid in school.
And look how quickly
you made a friend.
[laughs]
On that note,
thank you
for lending me the jersey.
It was a big hit.
My pleasure.
Unfortunately,
it came with a price.
I'm afraid
you're out of luck, buddy.
I am completely broke
until my first paycheck.
Not that kind of price.
Come on.
It'll be fun.
Yeah, hi.
Hey, there's our star player
and you brought a friend.
Yeah, Reggie meet Liv.
Liv, this is Reggie
History, room 209,
meet art, room 102.
Oh, you're taking over
from Mrs. Mattel 'til Christmas.
Yeah. And, apparently,
her spot on this team.
- Wonderful. Uh, can you play?
- I can skate.
Well, that's 50%
of the battle right there.
Yeah, it's the other 50%
that I'm concerned with.
I do not have that
figured out myself.
Good, then there's
no pressure.
So what brings you
to our humble little abode?
It's a long story.
Got an abbreviated version?
That's our Reggie.
Always looking for a shortcut.
Time is precious, my friend.
I'd love to hear
the long version sometime
if you'd be willing to share.
I'd like that.
Okay, well I'm gonna go
take some laps
'cause I definitely
need the practice.
Okay, let's rock and roll.
Oh, hey,
thanks for doing this.
I realize it's probably
outside your comfort zone.
Well, you know,
life's about the journey,
[both] Not the destination.
- [Liv] Mary.
- [Jake] Mrs. Jenkins.
You still call Mary
Mrs. Jenkins?
I guess I do.
[laughs]
All right, try to keep up.
Oh, I'll be all right.
["Dashing Through the Snow"
plays]
Whoo!
- Yeah!
- Whoo!
Did you see her out there?
That girl's a keeper.
She sure is.
Well, I mean for our team.
Obviously, she's a keeper
for our team.
Uh-huh.
[laughs]
Hey.
That's a lot of fun.
Thank you for lending me
your jersey.
How can I repay you
for making my first day great?
I made your first day great?
Yeah, you did.
Any chance that you
want to help me out
with the Christmas concert?
Uh, I was put in charge of it
when Mrs. Mattel went on leave.
Auditions are tomorrow.
Oh, wow, that sounds
like a lot of fun
but I was thinking of
a shorter commitment.
Something like bringing
you coffee in the morning.
Oh, I'll take the coffee
in the morning.
I believe she was
talking to me.
I was talking to him.
I do like coffee, though.
Should I bring an extra jersey
just in case?
Better safe than sorry.
Is that a no on the coffee?
Is there any way
I can convince you
to give me all of your
extra time
to help me out
with this talent show?
I would love to but...
I need to paint.
Bummer.
How about you, Reg?
Oh, hi. I'm back
in the conversation?
- [laughs]
- Thanks, that's great.
No, unfortunately,
I have to paint too.
It's a fresh coat
in the living room
that I'd much rather do.
And I thought you two
were my friends.
- [laughs]
- I will see you both tomorrow.
- And Reggie?
- Yeah?
That is a yes on the coffee
for you too.
Definitely a keeper.
["O Tanenbaum" plays]
Not tonight.
[laughs]
- Hi, Reggie.
- Hi.
One cream, two sugar, right?
Sweet Christmas.
You're a mind reader.
[laughing]
That is impressive.
Yeah, well, I texted Jake
this morning so...
- Ah, that makes more sense.
- Mm.
Less impressive
but, still, thank you.
Oh, um, can you actually
give this to Jake for me?
- Yeah, no problemo.
- Thanks.
- Hi.
- Hi.
Can I join?
So, I heard
that Mr. Hartley
gave you
a new seating arrangement.
He did.
Thanks for that.
No problem.
Are you okay?
When will it get easier?
Uh, it's gonna take some time,
but I promise you it will.
I miss my old school.
[sigh]
What do you miss most
about it?
My friends.
[gentle score]
Anything else?
I don't know.
Music class, I guess.
I was taking singing lessons
back home and I loved it.
It was
more of an artistic school.
Everything here
feels so structured,
so plain.
Well, maybe, we just need to
bring a little of ourselves
to this place.
How are we gonna do that?
Hmm...
I have some ideas.
Good morning, everyone.
Who wants to do art class
outside today?
Great. Grab some supplies
and follow me.
Good.
Very good.
Looking good there.
Ah, this is beautiful.
Hm.
Okay, close your books.
Pop quiz.
["Hark the Herald Angels Sing"
plays]
Ms. James,
how's this look?
It looks beautiful, Heath.
Ah. Mary.
I see you're bringing
a little holiday spirit
to the school.
[laughs]
Hi.
Mm.
What are you doing here?
You know, retirement means that
you don't have to work anymore.
I know. Who knew
I'd miss this place already?
I volunteered to help out
at the Christmas concert.
Mr. Hartley
needed a hand.
Oh, yeah.
You know,
I was thinking about
doing that too.
And, fun fact,
Jake is the mystery man
who saved my painting
the night of the art show.
Really?
Small world.
Yeah.
Small world.
He's a sweet man.
Takes care of his grandfather
and does a lot of work
for the community.
I can tell
he's got a good heart.
So, any word on the gallery?
Well, Bradley seems to think
it'll be up and running
- before Christmas.
- That's fast.
Can you come up with
a new collection
in less than four weeks?
I hope so.
To be honest, I've been having
a really hard time
being inspired
since I lost my pieces.
I am creatively stuck.
Well, you know
what I always say,
whenever you get stuck...
Paint the places and the faces
that you love.
[laughing]
All right.
Excellent work today.
I will see you all tomorrow.
Thank you for your effort.
It's truly appreciated.
[stirring score]
So, what do you think?
I think Ms. James
brightened this place up.
She sure did.
- Hey.
- Hey.
We were just
admiring your work.
It's beautiful,
Ms. James.
Thanks, Trisha.
I have you to thank for it.
- Now, you ready for your part?
- My part?
Yeah, I brought a little
of myself to this place,
now it's time that you
bring a little of yourself.
Mr. Hartley,
do you still need help
- with that Christmas concert?
- I sure do.
Great. Then I'm gonna volunteer
and Trisha here
is going to audition.
- She's gonna sing.
- I am?
It's your turn
to brighten this place up.
Come on.
[score fades out]
Thank you, Bobby.
That was wonderful.
Next up, we have Trisha.
Looks like you really
got through to her.
I'm trying.
And you're sure
she can sing, right?
No idea.
Silent night
Holy night
All is calm
All is bright
Round yon Virgin
Mother
and child
Holy infant
so tender and mild
Sleep in heavenly...
We have some
very talented kids.
Yeah, we do.
You are really good with them.
Thanks.
Was teaching always your
second passion after hockey?
I guess it was,
although I didn't know it.
Yeah, after my injury,
I spent a lot of time and money
on physical therapy.
I ended up going broke.
Feeling pretty hopeless.
I needed somewhere to go
so I moved in
with my grandfather.
Mary told me
that you take care of him now.
Uh, I'm just
repaying the favor.
Yeah, he put my life
back on track
after my hockey career
fell apart.
All I knew was hockey.
He taught me that, uh...
life moves on
after huge disappointments
and you have a choice.
You can either
wallow in that self-pity
or you can move forward.
And how did you figure out
that teaching
was your path forward?
- Summer holidays.
- Ooh, solid reason.
Just kidding.
No, I ended up
coaching the hockey team and
I realized the impact
that I could make
on these young people's lives.
So, I went back to school
and got my teaching degree.
How about you?
Do I finally get to hear
the long version now?
Well, I guess
it's not that long, but
I always loved to paint,
you know?
And my grandmother, Henrietta,
she was an artist.
And every year on my birthday,
we would go through her closet
and find the most
beautiful dresses.
We would find these
extravagant costumes
and go from art gallery
to art gallery in the city.
Some years I would be a princess
and other years
I'd dress up as an actress
from a movie I loved.
[laughs]
She was the one
that made me
fall in love with art.
I loved those birthdays.
Henrietta sounds like
an amazing woman.
I always wanted to just follow
in her footsteps, but
my parents were
a lot more practical.
So you went into teaching.
Taught for ten years.
Loved it but I left my dreams
of being an artist aside
until one weekend,
I went to a teacher's conference
and met Mary.
Mrs. Jenkins.
She was absolutely inspiring.
You know, she was both
a teacher and an artist.
And the following weekend
I went to go see her art
and she had that same spark
that my grandmother had.
- Vibrant, you know?
- Hm.
And she convinced me
to go back to art school
and follow my dreams.
Dreams are important.
And you seem like
you're getting there.
I thought I was,
but I'm not so sure anymore.
Because of what happened
at the art exhibit?
Kind of took the wind
outta my sails.
I am feeling a little lost.
I'm not sure
which direction to go in.
Well, lucky for you,
these kids tend
to help give us purpose.
Maybe you're exactly
where you need to be.
Maybe.
For what it's worth,
I'm really glad
that you're here.
Me too.
[gentle piano score]
Surprise.
I hope you don't mind.
Your concierge let me in.
Bradley, hi.
Not at all.
This is beautiful.
Yeah, it might be a bit cold.
I thought you'd be home earlier.
Yeah, I volunteered to help
with the Christmas concert.
They needed an extra hand.
Do you have time for that?
I'll find time.
It'll be fun.
How was your day?
It was good.
We should have some news
about the new
gallery dates soon.
Oh, that's great.
Hey, thank you so much
for checking up on me.
I could really use the company
and this is so sweet.
Of course.
Why is there only one plate?
Dinner for one.
I can't stay.
I just wanted to come by
and say hi and make sure
that you're still good
for tomorrow.
- Tomorrow?
- Yes.
Dinner with my father, remember?
Right, yes.
I will be there.
Great. I'm sure that he'll
want to hear about
any of your new pieces.
My new pieces.
Right.
You know how big of a fan
he is of yours, hm?
Yeah, your dad's been amazing.
Hey, Bradley...
is there any chance
you could stay?
We haven't really talked lately
and, to be honest,
I've been having a hard time
with the new paintings.
I'm so sorry, Liv, I can't.
I've got so much work.
But we'll hang out tomorrow,
- I promise. Okay?
- Okay.
Enjoy the escargot.
[sigh]
So,
this girl is pretty, smart
and she's got
a wicked slap sh*t.
Hm.
What are you waiting for?
Well, I just met her, Gramps.
Mm-hm.
When I met your grandmother
I asked her out the first time
I had laid eyes on her.
- I know.
- Mm-hm.
Things are
more complicated now.
Hm.
I think you kids make them
more complicated.
Actually, they're very simple.
No, they are more complicated.
What if she has a boyfriend?
Did you ask her?
- No.
- Well,
it's simple, really.
You say,
"Have you got
a boyfriend?"
Checkmate.
How did you do that?
You just have to have
the right moves, boy.
Also, your mind was preoccupied.
["Joy to the World" plays]
I'm not sure how to do this.
You are doing great.
I'm so awkward.
I'm sorry.
It's okay.
Just...
Breathe.
[long breath]
And try to sit still.
Why am I doing this, exactly?
Because you are a good guy
and you got into a bad habit
of doing me big favors.
I'll have to work on that.
Yeah, I drew
that same conclusion.
- Ha-ha.
- Honestly...
[sighs]
I've just been having a hard
time getting inspired lately.
You know, and Mary always says,
when you get creatively blocked
to paint the places
and faces you love, so...
There's the smile
I was looking for.
Whatever you're thinking of
right now, just...
- keep thinking that.
- You got it.
Hey, Jake, did you
catch the score...
- [laughs]
- Hi.
You know, if you need a real
model, I'd be happy to oblige.
I mean, I'm much better looking
than this ugly mug.
- Hey!
- Thanks, Reggie, but...
yeah, I-I kind of like
his ugly mug.
- I'm not sure how to take this.
- Oh, okay, fine, your loss.
Hey, are you two up for the
annual Christmas karaoke night?
Christmas karaoke?
Yearly tradition, tonight,
eight o'clock at the Flame.
It's where I really
get to shine.
You definitely
don't wanna miss that.
What do you say, Liv?
Um,
I would love to,
but I have plans tonight.
Big date?
Yeah.
Actually
I am going to dinner with my
boyfriend and his father.
- Rain check.
- Yeah, sure thing.
Yeah. Uh, you are definitely
gonna be there, though.
- I will.
- Yes.
Lord help us.
Your loss.
Yeah.
[door opens]
[gentle score]
Early birthday present.
Mary. Aw, thank you.
You shouldn't have.
Oh, it's just
a little something.
You're too sweet.
- When's your birthday?
- It's Monday.
I'll have to remember that.
Liv, this mural
is looking beautiful.
Looks like you'll have an
art exhibit this Christmas
regardless of what happens
with the gallery.
I guess you're right.
Well, enjoy your weekend.
Looks like you two have
everything flowing nicely here.
You have a good weekend too,
Mrs. Jenkins.
Goodbye, Mary.
Thank you.
Is that seat taken?
Uh... No.
Listen, I heard
what those kids said earlier.
Don't worry about them.
Do you want to
practice with me today?
- Sure.
- Cool.
Great voice by the way.
You can really sing.
Thanks.
Looks like we do have
things flowing nicely.
See?
Just took a little time.
It's really nice to see
her making friends.
I, um,
I should actually get going too.
Oh, right.
You have a date.
Yeah.
Well, have fun on your...
date.
- Thanks.
- Oh, and Liv, thank you so much
for helping out with this.
The kids really appreciate it.
And I appreciate it too.
[laugh]
Can you, um,
finish the stars?
Oh, yep.
Thanks.
Just, uh, I'll get the star.
Goodnight, Jake.
Goodnight.
Hey.
- Can I borrow this dress?
- Yes, of course.
But you do know you own
plenty of nice dresses, right?
I told you,
they're not good enough.
- Not for this crowd.
- Liv, "this crowd"
is your boyfriend
and his father.
You don't need to change
your style to impress them.
I know, but...
can I borrow it anyway?
And these k*ller heels.
Can you even walk in those?
Well, there's a first time
for everything.
Liv,
you've been with Bradley
for six months now.
Don't you think it's time you
stop trying to be
someone you're not and let your
true self shine through?
I mean, does Bradley
even know the real you?
Bradley and his dad
took a huge risk on me.
I just...
I don't wanna let them down.
Objection, speculation.
Okay, Miss Lawyer,
what do you think?
I think they saw talent
and support it.
And I don't think you need to
try to be someone you're not.
Honestly, Liv...
I am sorry to say but I just
don't see a spark in your eyes
when you look at Bradley.
- Not even a little?
- No.
Yeah, I just,
every time I try to
be myself around him or
speak to him, things get...
busy.
Well, things have been busy
since you started dating him.
I'm just saying, I don't think
you need a fancy dress
to impress him.
Just be you.
Fine.
I will be me.
Great.
- Starting tomorrow.
- [sigh]
Okay, but I'm warning you,
good luck with those heels.
Right?
["Good King Wenceslas" plays]
- So, a fresh coat of paint...
- Thank you.
And just the floors...
The floors are
just about finished.
Great.
Hi.
There she is.
- Oh!
- Are you okay?
Yeah, just um, huh, new shoes.
- Well, you look stunning.
- Thank you.
Lovely as always, Olivia.
- Thank you.
- We ordered.
I hope you don't mind.
No, not at all.
The food here is delectable
and we are celebrating.
- We are?
- Yes.
Fortunately, the bind
my son put us in
is not as terrible
as we originally thought.
It was the caterer's, Father.
I don't really feel
like it was my fault.
You booked the caterer, Son.
You have to take responsibility
for your choices.
As I was saying,
it appears that your art exhibit
is back on in three weeks.
- Three weeks?
- Mm-hm.
Wow, that's great.
What day?
December 23rd.
Two days before Christmas.
Isn't that wonderful?
It'll be the biggest event
in the city this holiday.
That's fantastic.
Oh, um, that's the same day
as the school Christmas concert.
Well, lucky for you,
you can quit your teaching job
and you don't have to
worry about the concert.
I can't quit. I need my job
to pay the bills.
Not anymore.
The insurance company
sent checks.
This is yours.
It's to cover the art
you lost in the fire.
Are you serious?
This is a lot of money.
It replaces the, uh,
pieces that were damaged
at a fair market value.
Fair market value.
Right.
That should be enough money
for you to quit your job
and focus on those new pieces.
Thank you.
And I promise
I will focus
on the new pieces, but
Bradley, I told you,
I can't quit.
Those kids are counting on me.
They're 12-year-old children,
Liv.
Anyone can help them
with their Christmas show.
This is a
once in a lifetime opportunity.
I don't know what to say.
Well, you don't have to
say anything.
You just have to make sure
that your new collection
is as spectacular as your last.
[phone buzzes]
Excuse me.
I have to take this.
Aren't you excited?
Absolutely.
And a little overwhelmed.
Bradley, I was trying
to tell you yesterday
I'm having a really hard time
with my new paintings.
Well, it's probably just 'cause
you're tired from teaching.
- I don't think that's it.
- Sure it is.
Quit on Monday
and you'll be fine.
Bradley, I told you
I can't quit.
These kids are important to me
and Mary pulled a lot of strings
to get me this job.
You'll figure it out.
Speaking of Monday,
I have planned
a romantic night for us
for your birthday
at the best restaurant in town.
Bradley...
We need to talk.
We are talking.
I mean privately.
After dinner.
Apologies, uh, but I'm gonna
have to leave.
I've got an important meeting
that, uh, just came up
and I have to leave right away.
Of course.
I completely understand.
- Bradley, you coming?
- Uh, yes, Father.
I'll, I'll meet you in the car
in a couple minutes.
- Good night, Olivia.
- Goodnight, Mr. Johnson.
You're leaving?
Again?
I thought we were
gonna have dinner together.
Well, you can get a to-go box.
My father needs me.
Bradley, I need...
[sigh]
I don't think that this...
is working.
Can we talk about this later?
There's a lot
going on right now.
There is. And you've been so
tied up in your father's world
and I've been
focused on school...
This is a very busy time
at the gallery, Liv.
It is.
And I appreciate all the
hard work you've been doing
and the passion you have
for making your father proud
but, Bradley,
you and I...
It's over.
I'm sorry.
So, you guys broke up.
For real?
- For real.
- You okay?
Yeah.
I'll be fine.
You wanna drown your sorrows
in some of this yummy food
you brought back?
It's delicious.
I don't even recognize
anything in those containers.
Is it chicken, beef, octopus?
- Nobody knows.
- It's definitely octopus.
Gross.
Everything will work out.
You know what I think?
I think you need to
take this weekend
and just let everything go.
Let's have some fun.
Let's go out tonight.
Well...
I am all dressed up.
Anywhere you wanna go.
Hm...
- Anywhere.
- Name it.
How does
Christmas karaoke sound?
Fa-la-la, la-la-la-la la
Thank you.
Thanks.
Hail the new year
Lads and lasses
I, um, think we might be
slightly overdressed.
Yeah, I was not
privy to dress code.
Fa-la-la, la-la-la
Who's that?
That's Reggie.
He's a good guy.
And a great singer.
Yeah, I guess he is.
...la, laaa
- [Reggie] Yeah.
- Whoo!
I mean, I nailed that.
So, T-shirt by day and
rock star by night, huh, Reg.
What can I say?
I'm a man of many talents.
- I'm so happy you came.
- Me too.
- Me three.
- Hi.
Hi.
- Hi.
- Hi.
- That's a great dress.
- Thank you.
Oh, guys, this is
my best friend, Brit.
Brit, this is Reggie and Jake.
Uh, finally I get to meet
the Mystery Man.
Thank you. Thank you.
I mean, some do say I have
this dark brooding
quality about me.
[laughs]
I like to think of it as a
sparkly vampire kind of a thing.
Wow.
Funny and talented.
- I never get handsome.
- Right.
And humble. I mean,
I almost forgot that.
[laughs]
Oh.
Can I offer you some punch?
Maybe a mediocre appetizer.
Wow, you had me at
mediocre appetizer.
- Yeah?
- Mm-hm.
[Reggie gasps dramatically]
Spectacular.
[gentle score]
- Yeah.
- What about a warm beer?
- I'm not a big beer drinker.
- No?
What would you like?
A daiquiri, margarita, mojito?
So, uh, wh...
What happened to your plans
with your boyfriend?
Plans changed.
[chuckles]
Oh.
Well, it's great to see you.
You too.
Is it just me
or am I sensing
a bit of a love connection
happening with those two.
Oh, you sense that too, huh?
Mm-hm. Who knew
we were such great matchmakers?
Yeah, I would've never guessed
that those two would...
[laughs]
So, what happened
with the big date?
My big date?
Yeah.
It just, um,
it just didn't work out.
You know, he had to
take care of something and I was
there alone
with the-the food and...
We broke up.
Oh!
I'm sorry to hear that.
Yeah.
[laughs]
Thanks.
Can I get you a drink?
Please.
On it.
Cheers.
[soothing piano score]
- There you are.
- Thank you.
You're welcome.
So, what about you?
- What about me?
- Well...
my love life is in shambles.
Tell me a little bit
about yours.
Anyone special in your life?
Does Reggie count?
No, I was thinking
more of the romantic variety.
In that case, no.
Why not?
Age-old story.
Uh, girl broke my heart.
Slow to get over it.
How long?
Four years.
[laughs]
Wow, that's turtle pace.
[laughs]
Mm-hm.
She must have really hurt you.
She did.
And then Gramps got sick
so I was really focused on that.
I tried to patch things up,
but she moved on
at supersonic speed.
She left me for an entrepreneur
who sells
wrinkle-free men's shirts.
They got married,
blah, blah, blah.
You gotta watch out
for those entrepreneurs.
They are great salesmen.
You're telling me.
I bought five shirts
from that guy?
- You did not.
- I did too.
- Ah!
- I hate ironing.
Well, I hope you donated them
after she left.
No,
but my very last one
did recently get destroyed
by a beet smoothie, so...
That was the shirt.
It was.
Well, it was a sign.
It's time to move on.
Yeah.
Time to move on.
[mugs clink]
Hi, everyone.
You all know me.
I'm Reggie and I just wanted
to introduce my new friend...
Hi, I'm Brit.
And we are gonna sing
a very special duet for you.
- Hit it.
- [laughs]
Oh, well, that is something
that I did not expect
to see tonight.
They look like
they make a great team.
Yeah, it does.
The first Noel
The angel did say
Can I have this dance?
Uh...
Can we even dance to this?
You can dance to anything...
if you have the right partner.
Okay.
["Love Calls Me Home"
featuring Bryan Livaudais plays]
There's something about
this cozy hearth and night
A sparkle in
the firelight
There's something
in the calmness
Amidst the storm
Makes my soul feel
Safe and warm
That love
calls me home
That love
calls me home
The troubles of the day
fade away
As peace erodes
The fray of the day
And firelight
brightens the night
And for tonight...
[lively holiday score]
[Liv] Hi.
Hi.
Liv.
Oh!
Excuse me.
Ms. James.
Mr. Hartley.
- Hi.
- Happy birthday.
You remembered.
Of course.
How was the rest
of your weekend?
Good.
Good, yeah, it was...
It was great actually.
I painted all day and all night.
You did?
That's fantastic.
Yeah.
I guess I suddenly
felt inspired.
I'm really happy to hear that.
Hey, you two!
Reggie, hi.
Liv, by any chance, did Brit
happen to say anything about me?
Not that I'm prying.
I just, I'd just
really like to know if-if-if
she said anything
about me at all.
Um, I mean, if she didn't,
that's fine too.
I just, I just,
I, you know, I mean.
Did she?
She said
you were a great singer.
She did?
Huh.
That's something.
- It ain't nothing.
- Right?
[school bell rings]
Oh, I gotta get back to class.
Yep.
Yeah, I should...
I should get back to class.
Yeah, me too.
Oh, and, um, one other thing,
for the record,
um, I tend to overdo birthdays.
It's a thing.
So...
don't think anything
about anything
should anything happen to happen
today.
In regards to birthdays,
that is.
- Okay.
- Okay.
- Oh, okay.
- Okay.
I'm gonna...
You do that.
[lively holiday score]
This is a terrible idea.
This is awesome.
Why do I have to be a knight?
It's the only costume
in your size.
Plus you match
Ms. James.
I guess it's too late
to back out now.
Why would you?
I mean, Ms. James will love it.
It's a special thank you
for everything
that she's done for us.
Plus, this was your idea.
I know. You guys
are absolutely right.
And you look great.
Almost as good as me.
Thanks, Bobby.
Trisha, you ready?
- Sure am.
- Initiate phase two.
Hi, Ms. James.
You are cordially invited
to join us in the theater
in ten minutes.
What are you guys up to?
It's a dress.
You have to wear it.
What kind of dress?
[gentle score]
[inaudible conversations]
Mr. Hartley!
- She's on her way.
- Okay, great.
Everybody in positions.
Surprise.
We heard that your grandma
used to bring you
to fancy art galleries
for your birthday every year.
And you got dressed up
in beautiful costumes.
So, we got all dressed up and...
this is our fancy gallery.
I don't know what to say.
You guys are all too sweet.
Well, it was Mr. Hartley's idea
but we did most of the work.
Thank you.
This is spectacular.
Oh, and look at those paintings.
It's some of the most
beautiful art I've ever seen.
And we got cake.
[upbeat holiday score]
Mm.
This was delicious.
Not too bad, huh?
Did you make this?
I wish I could take credit
for it. It was all Gramps.
Is he the one
that made this outfit?
No, this was in my closet.
Yeah, I moonlight as a
knight in shining armor, so...
Of course you do.
[tender score]
- Hey, Jake.
- Yeah.
Thank you.
My pleasure.
I, uh...
I just wanted to see
if I could make you smile.
You did.
Oh, and um,
I have a gift for you and I...
forgot it in the classroom,
so I'll sneak out
and, um, bring it right back.
Oh, you shouldn't have.
You've already done
way too much.
I told you.
I go overboard with birthdays.
Ms. James.
Mr. Hartley.
Come on, we'll give you
a full tour of the gallery.
You guys go ahead.
I will just grab
something from the classroom...
[calming exhale]
[score fades out]
Uh, could I help you?
Yes, Principal Rainer
let me in.
Told me I could find
Liv James in room 102, but
I seemed to have gotten
a little turned around.
Um, I'm Bradley Johnson.
Uh, Jake Hartley.
Nice outfit.
Who you supposed to be,
the tin man?
A knight.
You don't find many of those
around anymore.
No, I suppose not.
So, do you know where
I can find my girlfriend?
Your girlfriend?
Yeah. Yeah, it's her birthday.
Big night out.
Yeah, the limo's outside waiting
and I don't wanna be late
for our reservation.
Yeah, uh, her class
is room 102.
It's downstairs to the left.
I can go get her for you.
Yeah, appreciate that.
And good luck on your quest.
Thanks.
You too.
Thanks.
Hey!
- Did she know about this?
- Of course.
I've been planning it for weeks.
[emotional score]
[Liv] I can't believe
you guys did this.
It's so nice.
Hey.
- Is everything okay?
- Yeah.
It's just...
your boyfriend's here
to see you.
- My boyfriend?
- Bradley Johnson.
Oh, um...
He's waiting
in your classroom.
Jake, it's not what it
looks like. He's just...
You should go to him.
I, I can clean up.
Here is your birthday gift.
You can open it later.
It's not a big deal.
It's just a little something.
Jake, I can explain.
You don't need to explain.
It's okay.
You should go.
Right.
I'll tell the kids
that you say goodbye.
Okay.
Bradley.
What are you doing here?
Happy birthday.
Here, these are for you.
Bradley, we broke up.
We said we would
talk on Monday.
It's Monday.
You said we would
talk about it on Monday.
I said it was over.
Liv,
look, I'm sorry
I've been so preoccupied.
Let's start over, okay?
Look, I want this night
to be perfect for you.
I've planned everything.
The limo,
the best restaurant in the city.
- A Broadway show.
- Bradley...
I appreciate what you're doing,
but...
it's not where
I want to spend my birthday.
Where do you wanna spend it?
Here.
You, you'd rather stay here
playing dress-up
than a night on the town?
Bradley...
The truth is that
I've been playing dress-up
for the last six months
with you.
What are you
talking about, Liv?
The limos and the fancy
restaurants and the dresses
That's, that's not me.
Where is this coming from?
I owe you an apology.
[tender score]
I haven't been my real self
around you.
I've been so caught up
in trying to fit into your world
that I haven't shown you
my true self.
Sure you have.
No,
I haven't.
Those dresses are borrowed
and I prefer pizza to escargot
and my wardrobe
consists of jeans and T-shirts.
And princess dresses.
On occasion.
Bradley,
love should inspire.
It should inspire us
to do amazing things.
It should inspire us to believe
that anything is possible.
And if you look inside yourself,
I think you'll realize that
we haven't really
been connecting.
Or...
inspiring each other.
And maybe it's because
we're both so caught up in work
or maybe we're just, um,
on different paths.
I don't know.
But I do know that your mind
has been somewhere else and...
And so has mine.
And that's not fair
to either one of us.
I thought we had something
really good starting here.
We did.
You are an incredible man,
we're just...
not the right fit.
And this isn't the right time
for either one of us.
I'm sorry to hear that.
But...
I suppose if I'm
being honest with myself,
you might be right.
We stay friends?
I think it'd be
very hard not to be.
I, um...
I hope this doesn't affect
our ability to work together
on the art exhibit.
Liv,
my father fell in love
with your art
before I fell in love with you.
Nothing will affect our ability
to work together.
Thank you.
Happy birthday, Liv.
And I like that dress.
I hope you find your knight
in shining armor one day.
[sigh]
[footsteps recede]
[stirring score]
Thank you.
For the gift.
It was...
extremely thoughtful of you.
Well, now you have
one of your own.
You can keep it in your trunk
just in case.
I love it.
I'm glad.
Jake,
I owe you an apology.
It's not what it looked like.
Bradley and I are not together
anymore. It's just...
complicated.
You don't owe me
an explanation.
Uh, your personal life
is none of my business.
And I-I know what all this
looks like, but honestly,
it was just a friend
doing something nice
for a friend for her birthday.
I told you I go overboard
with birthdays.
Yeah.
Yeah, of course.
I-I didn't mean to say
that this was
anything more than that
I just meant to say that...
I know.
It's complicated.
Friends?
Friends.
Good afternoon, everyone.
Before the bell rings,
I just wanted to say
Merry Christmas
to all of our students
and staff members.
We hope to see everyone
at tomorrow's Christmas concert.
Have a safe and happy holiday.
[school bell rings]
Merry Christmas, everyone.
Have a happy holiday.
Aww.
Merry Christmas.
Come in.
Hi, Ms. James.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas, Trisha.
I bought you
a little something
as a thank you.
For me?
Do you like it?
I love it.
And it even has a lid
so that you can't spill
your coffee anymore.
It's perfect.
Thank you.
I'm gonna really miss you,
Ms. James.
I'm gonna miss you too.
Hey, are you okay?
I'm just really nervous
about tomorrow.
You practiced so hard.
You have nothing to worry about.
Just... be yourself.
I wish you could
be there tomorrow.
I would feel
much better if you were.
I wish I could be there too.
But you will have
all your new friends around you.
I know and...
I have to thank you for that.
Thank you for helping me
fit in here.
You did that all on your own.
- Merry Christmas.
- Merry Christmas.
[tender score]
[sigh]
- Hello.
- Brit.
Thank goodness you're here.
I need your help.
I have no idea what to wear.
None of these are gonna work
and... what is that?
A gift.
Ah...
- It's beautiful.
- It is.
I thought you wanted me
to work on being me.
This dress...
Huh.
It's definitely not me.
I just didn't want you hiding.
And you're not hiding anymore.
These dresses are also you, Liv.
It's all you.
I don't understand.
You were afraid
to show Bradley parts of you.
You were only
showing him pieces.
You were hiding underneath
a sliver of who you really were.
But now you're shining.
The full you is shining.
The you in jeans,
T-shirts, jerseys...
And beautiful expensive dresses.
The full you.
I don't know what to say.
Just go out there
and shine tonight.
Do what you love.
- I love you, Brit.
- I love you too.
Oh.
[Jake] Aw, you made it.
She's going to be so happy.
Wow. I didn't know
you were gonna be here tonight.
And look how dapper you look.
- I'm impressed.
- Thank you.
Who knew you could
clean up so well.
- What?
- Looking sharp, Reggie.
Thank you.
I actually have a date tonight.
And you left her in the car?
What?
No. I...
No.
[laughs]
I'm not dressed for this.
Sorry, bud.
Um...
I'm meeting up with Brit.
We're going to the
gallery show tonight.
- You are?
- Yeah.
That's wonderful. Tell her
I wish I could be there.
- I will.
- I told this one
he should be there too.
- Mm?
- Gramps, I...
I can't leave.
I'm in charge of this event.
Ah, the kids will be fine.
No, Gramps,
they actually need
adult supervision.
Hah, we didn't need
adult supervision
when I was a kid.
Well, whatever the case
may have been,
I think we should,
we should get inside.
Mary, will you, uh,
help me get some extra steps in?
- I'd love to.
- [laughs]
So, did you come by
to wish me luck?
Uh, no.
Yes, of course.
But Liv wanted me
to give you this.
It's a Christmas present.
- Okay.
- Yeah.
Thanks.
Well, break a leg.
Enjoy.
- Thanks again.
- Yeah.
I am so nervous.
It's gonna be great.
I'm so proud of you.
Wow.
You look beautiful.
Hey, you look
pretty good yourself.
Oh, I try.
- Hi, Reggie.
- Hi.
It's packed out there.
It's gonna be a heck of a night.
- You excited?
- Yes, I am.
How is Jake?
He's good. He's good.
I gave him your gift.
Thanks.
I wish I could be there
for the kids tonight.
Listen, you made
a heck of a teacher.
Honestly, I loved being back.
I think Mary had it right
by doing both.
Maybe you should consider
staying on.
Mm-hm.
Maybe I should.
I mean, teaching and art
are both part of who I am.
Well, I definitely
know a teacher
who'd be happy to have you back.
Dear Jake.
Merry Christmas.
This one's for you.
Thanks for the inspiration.
I couldn't have
done this art show without you.
Good luck tonight.
[gentle score]
Did you open the gift?
I sure did.
I guess she listened to me.
I'm sorry?
Her creative block.
She got over it by painting
the people she loved.
["O Come Let Us Adore Him"
plays quietly]
Yes, it is my first
art exhibition
and I am so happy
that you're enjoying my pieces.
[phone dings]
Oh, um, excuse me.
Um, you were saying?
Can you tell us a bit
about your background?
I was a teacher.
I ama teacher.
Uh, and I've always loved art
so I pursued my dream,
went back to school
and got my degree.
And what inspired
your latest pieces?
They were inspired
by the places
and the faces that I love.
I'm sorry.
Please excuse me
but I need to leave.
Liv, Liv, where are you going?
I have to leave.
It's important.
What could possibly
be more important
than a room full of critics?
A room full of kids
counting on me.
Okay.
I'll cover for you here.
Go be there for the kids.
Thank you, Bradley.
And Merry Christmas.
You pulled off a great show.
Thanks, Liv.
Merry Christmas.
Hey, everything okay?
Yeah.
Hey, what do you guys think
about getting outta here
and going to see
a Christmas concert?
- I'm game.
- I thought you'd never ask.
Let's go!
[gentle piano score]
Oh. Um, I'll meet
you guys inside, okay?
- Okay.
- Thank you.
Ms. James?
What are you doing here?
I heard that my star performer
had cold feet.
You came back for me?
What are you doing out here
instead of in there?
I was scared.
It's okay to be scared.
But you need to
take that emotion
and turn it into courage,
remember?
It's harder than it sounds.
Yes.
It is.
But I promise you it's worth it.
And we can do it together.
You ready?
[calming exhale]
I'm ready.
Let's go.
[uplifting score]
until, uh...
Hey, everyone.
Trisha, you're back.
Uh, you guys can go prepare.
[tender score]
Just in time.
You came.
I did.
What are you doing here?
It sounded like
you needed my help.
I did.
I do.
I never expected you
to come back.
This is where I wanna be.
I thought the art exhibit
was your big dream.
It was.
Or at least I thought it was.
But when I looked around
the room at all the strangers,
I realized that
what I really wanted
was to be here
with our students.
And with you.
This is also my dream.
Being around you inspires me.
You make me feel this
spark of excitement
for life and for art, and...
And for love.
For love?
Jake, I uh...
Liv,
ever since you spilled
beet smoothie on my shirt,
you made my heart
skip a "beet."
Merry Christmas, everyone.
Please welcome to the stage
our first performers,
Trisha Jones and Bobby McMillan.
Oh, holy night
The stars
are brightly shining
It is the night
Of our dear Saviour's birth
Long lay the world
In sin and error pining
'Til he appear'd
and the soul
felt its worth
A thrill of hope
the weary soul rejoices
For yonder breaks
A new and glorious morn!
So, what do you think?
I think this is
the perfect start,
to the perfect night
to a perfect Christmas.
...to hear angel's voices
Oh, night
divine
Oh, night
When Christ was born
Oh night
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Oh night
Oh night divine
Oh, night divine
Oh, night
Oh, night divine
["Jingle Bells" plays]
Art of Christmas, The (2022)
Moderator: Maskath3