(air wooshing)
(cheerful music)
(dog whimpering)
- Mmm, Dash, I am not getting up
till the alarm clock goes off.
- [Radio Announcer] Good morning.
Can you believe it's alreadyDecember?
Wow, how the holiday's sneak upon you.
I could have sworn, last week it was just Thanksgiving.
Here's a Christmas song that you are gonna love.
k Smile and come, Christmastime is here
- All right, all right, I'm up.
(bright music)
The raindrops falling on myface
Invite my soul to take a taste
As thunder spreads its wings
Into the space of me
I tilt my head toward the sky
And laugh out loud as cars go by
It's been so long sinceI have felt alive inside
Now I'm free to jump, I'm free to fall
Free to let it roll away when I drop the ball
I'm not ashamed to break down and cry
So come on precaution, take astep aside
'Cause you see it's boring
It's teaching me to fly
There's a breeze that's blowing past my door
And it's bringing change like I have never known before
It used to be that when it rained it poured
Not any more so give me more
'Cause I'm free to jump
I'm free to fall
Free to let it roll away
When I drop the ball
I'm not ashamed to break down and cry
So come on precaution, take a step aside
Because you see it's boring
- Hi, this message is for Ms.Hendrix.
It's Ashley and my water went out again.
Do you know when it will be back on?
Maybe Mr. Hendrix could help?
Please give me a call, thanks.
(whimpers)
Dash, I'm sorry, I'll bring you home
some bottled water, OK?
I got to go.
Morning, Nick.
- Morning, Ashley.
Get your Christmas tree yet?
- (laughs) It's barely December.
- Yeah well, nothing wrong with getting a jump-start,
only comes once a year.
- So does hurricane season.
Where you off to?
- Oh, I got to go toa friends across town.
Bus takes an hour and a half.
You?
- Job interview at 8:30.
- Well, you better hustle.
- [Ashley] Meet you at the diner?
- Count on it.
(car engine sputtering)
- Come on.
Oh, come on.
The bus.
(cheerful Christmas music)
- Who cares what Forslink is saying.
Look, I know what I heard.
I've got the tapes to prove it.
Claire did the fact checking,everything came back clean.
All right.
I'm right around the corner.
Oh, my gosh.
I am sorry.- I'm sorry.
- Are you OK?- Yeah, are you?
- Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah no.
(both laughing)
Sorry, again.
- It's OK.
With the day I'm having,a train will hit me next.
- Ashley Matthews.
Job hunting?
- Yeah.
I gotta catch the bus.
- Nice to meet you.
(phone ringing)
Oh!
Hey you!
Hello?
No, she's not here right now.
I'll make sure she gets that message.
Morning.
(exhales sharply)
- You selfish conniving, jerk.
- Francine, good morning.
I see we're picking upright where we left off.
- You just can't resist the chance to slander someone.
- Oh, fancy lawyer talk.
Actually, counselor, slander is verbal, libel is written.
Fine, libel, don't get me sidetracked.
Too easy.- Forslink is not happy.
- So?
- You know, I don't know why Bob continues
to print your stories.
- Because they're good and they sell more magazines,
which I believe is the point,don't you?
- Pat yourself on the back all you want.
You screwed up.
- Screwed up?
- Please, you act so innocent.
Could you just be a man for once
and own up to what you did?
- I write what I want.
- That's for sure.- If you have a problem
with that, because it makes you do your job, deal with it.
- Have you even heard one wordI've said?
- Not really, I've gotten very good at tuning you out.
(sighs)Francy.
If you have a problem with the story, take it up with Bob.
He obviously felt it was fine enough to print.
- You need to stop hiding behind him.
- You're just ticked he's got my back.
- Bob wants to see you.
- (gasps) Excuse me.
Bob wants to see me.
- Yeah, that makes complete sense--
(knocks)
Look, I'll call you back.
William Price, have a seat.
- What's going on?
You only call me by my full name
when you've had too much caffeine.
Is Forslink crying?
- Do they have a reason to?
- Well, every time I write an article, somebody cries.
- Yes, and I'm beginning to wonder
if that's a bad thing now.
- What are you talking about?
- I know Claire fact checked your story
and it panned out at first,
but she went back when we got the screaming complaints
and threatened legal action.
- Legal? No.
They don't have a leg to stand on.
- Francine agrees, lucky you.
But Claire found something interesting
when she went through the tapes of your interview.
Your source said the company was lagging behind,
but he meant lagging behind in the so-called green areas.
You, however, implied the entire company
is on the verge of going under.
- It is.
- And how about you?
You took the facts out of context.
You spun the story to slamForslink.
- Are you firing me?
- [Bob] No, but you owe me.
- What do you want me to do?
- Claire, who feels like this whole thing is her fault,
bless her heart, is going to be taking maternity leave,
so we're down one fact checker.
You'll do her job, just so you can find out
what the truth really looks like.
- You're benching me.
- Benching implies that this is temporary.
When Claire gets back we'll re-evaluate it then.
- Don't do this.
I mean, is this Francine's idea?
I am a writer.
- Fine, write all you want in your spare time,
but I'm not gonna publish a word of it
until you can prove that you can report and not invent.
- Hello.
How may I help you?
- Hi, I'm Ashley Matthews.
I have an interview with, um.
- The position's been filled.
We called you this morning.
- Oh, I don't think you did, are you sure?
- We called.
- Because I have my cell phone right here
and I would have heard it ring.
- Do you think arguing about this
is gonna change the fact the job's already taken?
(scoffs)
- Oh, Ms. Hendrix.
- Hello, Ashley.
- Um, about the running water in my apartment.
- Oh, it's still giving you trouble then?
- This is like the fourth time it's gone out.
Should I talk to Mr. Hendrix?
- He's away.
- When will he be back?
- Very soon.
- Mrs. Hendrix, I don't have any running water
in my apartment and it seems to go out at the worst times.
- Oh, maybe it will come back on again then.
We'll get it fixed just as soon as we can.
(gentle music)
- OK, we got a tomato soup for Nick
and three-alarm chili for Ashley.
- Thanks, Dan.
- My pleasure.
How we doing today?
- [Nick] Eh, I manage.
- You guys, here you go.
- So, how's your friend?
- Everything's tasting fine?
- Friend?
Oh, yeah.
He's telling me things I don't wanna hear.
How's your interview?
- Don't ask.
- Well, I already asked, I can't un-ask.
- It did not go well.
Story of my life.
- So, what happened?
- Nick, I really, you know I just...
- Well you didn't say anything about follow up questions.
What happened?
- OK.
Fine.
Well, first, when I'm halfway through my shower,
the water goes out, again,
so I have to wash my hair out in Dash's water bowl.
So I'm running late andI smell like dog water.
I get to my car and of course it doesn't start,
so I have to run and catch the bus
and while I'm running I literally collide
with some random guy, lose my phone, so I don't get the call
that the position's already been taken
and I don't need to get on the bus
to the interview I'm already late for.
(laughs)
- Wait, you washed your hair in dog water?
- I'm so glad you focus on the important things.
- That's pretty funny.
- And to make it worse,it's the most depressing
time of the year.
- What do you mean, it'sChristmas?
- Yeah, Christmas.
It's this soulless commercial endeavor
that encourages overspending and overeating.
- Oh please.
Is that all?
- No.
I mean, the Christmas colors, red and green,
even I know those don't go together.
(Nick chuckles)
And what's with the Christmas carols?
The Little Drummer Boy?
Who's this boy?
And drums don't gopa-rum-pum-pum-pum.
- Well, there's more to it then that, don't you think?
- Yeah.
Christmas is a time to spend with your friends and family.
But when you don't have that,
Christmas isn't all it's cracked up to be.
- Well you have Dash.
- Yeah, Dash.
When he showed up on my doorstep last year
it was the best Christmas ever.
And before that it was, oh,never mind.
All I know is that if I don't find a job,
I'm going to have to move out of my cruddy apartment
and won't be able to fix my car and worse,
I'm gonna have to give up Dash.
I know in the big scheme of things I'm like, this big,
but is it too much to ask for a break?
- Things will turn around.
Listen, I got the perfect job for you.
- Really, what?
- Well, it's seasonal, but just because it's Christmassy
doesn't mean you won't like it.
- OK, beggars can't be choosers.
What kind of work is it?
- It's a personal assistant.
You run errands, odd jobs, things like that.
It gets a little busier the closer it gets to Christmas.
- Where'd you hear about it?
- I know the guy that's hiring.
- Who is he?
- You're looking at him.
- I can't work for you.
- Why not?
- Nick, you can't afford a personal assistant.
- I got money.
- I'm not gonna take your money.
- Well, it's not doing me any good
sitting in the cookie jar.
- Nick, I appreciate the gesture, but.
- So what's the problem?
(gentle Christmas music)
- Hey Will, what do you know?
- Mickey, how's it going man?
Long time, no see, have an apple.
- Christmas is coming, you know?
- I know, crazy isn't it?
- Santa's coming too, any day now.
- Course he is.
- Last year he gave me $100.
- Wow.
Didn't blow it all in one place did you?
- No, I might be homeless,but I ain't stupid.
I invested it.
- (laughs) In what?
- New set of wheels.
(laughs)
- See you around Mickey.
- Can you start work tomorrow?
- Are you sure about this?
- Yeah, come by around 8:00 AM.
- OK.
Oh, can I use your phone?
I need to call my cell and see if someone picked it up.
- Sure.
Come on.
Make yourself at home.
(cheerful music)
(ringing)
- Hello?
- Hi, um, this is my phone.
- Ashley, I am so glad you called.
- How do you know my name?
- [Will] Your resume.
- You must be the guy I ran into.
- Yep.
Well, hopefully the one and only for the day (laughs).
Oh, by the way, Tracy and Associates called
and they've already filled the position.
- Thanks, I got that.
- Well, better late then never.
- So, can I get my phone back?
- Your phone, right.
Um, can you meet me sometime tomorrow?
- Yeah, earlier the better.
- How about 8:00?
The diner on State and 11th.
You know where that is.
- Yeah, I eat there all the time.
- Great.
And we can get some breakfast or something.
- Thanks, I just want my phone back.
- And you will get it at eight o'clock.
- OK, what was your name?
- Will.
- Good night, Will.
- Good night.
- Uh, good news.
My phone is intact and I will be getting it tomorrow.
- Good.
- You know, I think the guy with my phone
tried to ask me out.
- Did you try to say yes?
- Are you kidding, I don't know him.
- Well, isn't that the point?
I mean, who do you know?
You know me and Dash.
You should make an effort to get to know people.
- Nick, it took me like six months to even say hi to you.
- Yeah, well, I'm not gonna be around forever.
You should try and get over your fear of people.
- I'm not afraid of people.
I just don't trust them, big difference.
- Yeah, well, a guy asks you out, I say you should go.
- And I say you shouldn't worry about me.
I'm gonna go grab my phone and I'll be fine.
- What time?
- Eight o'clock.
- Oh, you'll be late for your first day at work.
- I'm so sorry, I totally forgot.
- Well, I'll let it slide.
- I'll be quick, I'll run down to the diner,
meet him and I'll get back as soon as I can.
- [Nick] OK, good.
(cheerful music)
- [Ashley] Will?
- Ashley, good morning.
- [Ashley] Hi.
- How you doing?
- Fine, I guess.
- Good, good.
- So, can I get my phone back?
- Oh, yeah (laughs)
of course.
Right to the point.
- Thank you.- Yeah.
Hey, can I ask you a question?
- OK.
- It's less of a question,more of an invitation.
Do you want to go out some time?
- I don't think that's such a good idea.
- For you or for me?
Or for both of us?
- Both of us, yeah.
- Why, is there something wrong with you?
- What?- No...
That came out wrong.
- Is there something wrong with you?
- That's a very valid point.
(laughs)
Uh, in the interest of full disclosure,
I haven't had a girlfriend for six months
and I'm a little hostile towards women,
plus my x-girlfriend, she did a number
on my head and...
I'm over-sharing (laughs).
I sound a little pathetic here,don't I?
- Yeah, a little.
But, you know, I'm probably worse, so it's OK.
- Is that a yes?
- What?
No, no, I, I.
- No.
- What's your angle?
- Angle?
I don't have an angle,
I just want to take you out.
- Occupation?
- Journalist.
Modern Business Weekly.
- Oh, never heard of it.
- OK.
- How do you feel about Christmas?
- I love Christmas.
- OK.
How do you feel about The Little Drummer Boy?
- Person or song?
- Song, then person.
- Both needless.
- OK.
But if I'm gonna go out with you
it has to be sooner then later.
- Why?
- Because if not, I'll talk myself out of it.
- OK, how about some time next week?
- More like tomorrow?
- Oh, uh yeah, no, I can swing that.
How about around--- 7:00?
- 7:00, yeah, and we could goover to--
- Right here.
- Here.
- OK.- OK.
- Bye.
- I'll see you tomorrow.
Huh.
- Oh, 8:10.
He must have made an impression.
- Mm, I don't know.
So what do you want me to do?
- I want you to take a walk.
- OK, you're paying me to exercise?
- Yeah, well it's more then that,
here I've drawn out a route I want you to take.
- I'm not delivering drugs, amI?
- No.
- You never told me why you need an assistant, Nick.
- Well trust me it'll all make sense pretty soon.
Just need to take a walk.
- But I don't even--- Look no more questions.
The more time we spend here the less time we have.
First stop is the SacredHeart Homeless Shelter.
Talk to Harry Bingham.
Tell him Nick sent you.
(gentle music)
So far away
And long ago
My memories return
Of all the friends I know
Come this December
We'll gather around
- Hi, I'm picking something upfor Nick.
- Nick, how is he?
- Good, good.
- There you go.
- Thank you.
I pray for a happy holiday.
And good will to all.
I pray
That we'll be safe and sound
In this winter town
This place we found
And call our home
- Yes, I understand, I'll give her the message.
Thank you, goodbye.
Yes.
- Hi, I'm looking for FrancineMiller.
- Let me see if she's available.
Your name?
- Ashley Matthews.
- Hi Francine, yes there's an Ashley Matthew to see you.
Mm-hmm.
She's busy right now.
- Oh, tell her Nick sent me.
- Hey Francine, she says that Nick sent her.
OK.
She'll be out in a minute.
- OK, thank you.
(cheerful music)
- Ashley.
- Yeah.
- Hi, these are for Nick.
- Oh, thank you.
- Yep.- Hey.
- [Ashley] Will?
- [Both] What are you doing here?
- (laughs) Uh, I work here.
- Oh, I'm just picking something up.
- You guys know each other?
- Yeah.- No.
- [Will] We go way back.
- We met yesterday.
- If I were you, I'd run.
- I think Ashley can decide for herself who she sees.
- Oh, I'm not seeing anyone.
But it was nice to meet you.
I got to run, thanks.
- See you tomorrow.
- Hey, so how do you knowAshley?
- What's tomorrow?
- Dinner.
- Another victim already.
You have a thing for her don't you?
- I might be interested.
Hence dinner.
- You're always on the lookout for a future ex-girlfriend.
- I think she's a bit of challenge.
- Oh what, she doesn't worship the ground you float above.
- Not every girl I have a thing for leaves without looking.
You knew what you were getting into.
- Whatever.
- So seriously, how do you knowAshley?
- She picked up some stuff for a mutual friend
and before today I had not seen her.
Happy?- Sufficiently.
- So if you'll excuse me Bob's asked me
to go over your screw up again,
just to make sure the magazine's not exposed.
By the way, don't you have some fact checking to do?
- Yeah, thank you.
(knocking)
- Ah, you're back.
- It was quite some walk.
- Yeah.
You want a drink of water?
- Sure.
- Have a seat.
- Thanks.
Waters out again, huh?
- Yeah, I got some bottled.
So how'd it go?
- Fine.
So, what is all this anyway?
- It's your work.
- Mine.
- [Nick] Mm-hmm.
- What am I supposed to do with it?
- Read it.
- All of it?
- Well, I'll help.
- There's a lot in there
it's gonna take me all night to read.
- Yeah, well.
Thanks.- It'll go a lot faster
than you think.
I made you dinner.
- Thank you.
(heartfelt music)
Julianne Ryan age seven.
Mother is in Iraq with the marines.
Lives with grandmother Rose.
Rose has Diabetes and needs medication
and a new hearing aid.
Julianne needs new shoes.
She loves Barbie, anythingBarbie.
So who are all these people?
- They're people that need help.
- There's a lot of them.
- [Nick] Yeah, there always are.
- [Ashley] So what do you do?
- We help them.
- We?
- You're my assistant now aren't you?
- How do you help them?
This stuff costs money.
- Well (groans) I got a little tucked away.
- Have you seen this pile?
It would cost a fortune to help all these people.
- Yeah.
- Where do you get the money?
You are dealing drugs.
- I'll let you in on a secret.
But you mustn't tell anybody.
- OK.
- I'm rich.
- How rich?
- Filthy.
- If you're so rich, why do you still live here?
- Well a roof's a roof.
I'm warm I'm dry.
I'm good.
- How did you make your money?
- Well I was a good businessman,
really good at finances.
I'm well enough off.
- Well enough off.
- If I wanted to I could own a couple of city blocks.
- Then why don't you?
- I don't believe in real estate.
I think people are a better investment.
Which reminds me.
Here's what we're going to do tomorrow.
- So is this what you do?
You find people to help.
- Well things are especially hectic
during the Christmas season.
I mean people need help all year round.
But, during Christmas things that they don't have and need
are much more on their minds.
- So you're like a philanthropist?
- Well I don't like that label.
This time of year it's sort of a secret Santa.
- Have you ever done anything for me?
Last year.
You gave me Dash.
- Minute I laid eyes on him
I thought he was perfect for you.
- How did you know?
- Well when you first moved in you had that little pendant.
You know that doggy.
- [Ashley] Yeah.
- But no dog.
Thought it was a good match.
- Why didn't you tell me?
- Well that would sort of defeat the purpose
of a secret Santa.
Listen to me.
These people need your help.
And I need your help.
Now this is the perfect season for us
to stop thinking about ourselves
and start thinking about others.
- You're asking me to abandon human nature.
- It's a requirement of the job.
- I don't know if I can.
- Well Christmas is three weeks away.
We'll worry about the can and the can't when we're done.
(gentle music)
- All right Dash, time to go to bed.
We've got a lot to do tomorrow.
Come on.
OK what are we doing here?
- [Nick] People watching.
- [Ashley] What are we looking for?
- [Nick] Well, who are we looking for?
- People in need.
- Yeah.
- But we already have a stack of names
of people who need your, our help.
- Well that's just a small portion.
- There's more?
(Nick chuckles)
- Yep, yep.
Look around you here.
Who do you see that needs help?
- Him?
- Mickey.
Well he's a pretty obvious choice.
But not a bad place to start.
Who else do you see?
- I don't know.
- Well look around.
Who do you see?
(gentle music)
- Everyone.
- Exactly.
See everyone carries around a hurt of some kind.
It may not be as obvious asMickey here.
But everybody needs to know that somebody cares.
- So you just find them by watching?
- Mm-hmm.
So who should we help?
Hmm?
- [Mom] Come on honey,hurry up, it's so cold.
- [Boy] But I'm hungry.
- [Mom] I know.
- Can help them both you know.
(cheerful music)
(knocks on door)
(quietly chuckles)
- Mom!
Isn't this great?
- It's wonderful.
Come on help me get this inside.
- So how much money do you spend doing this?
- Oh I don't keep track.
- You don't keep track?
- No, that would defeat the purpose.
- So all those people I met yesterday
they're like your spies, your informants?
- Well, over the years I've developed a relationship
with a number of trustworthy people.
They are my eyes and ears.
- And they can keep a secret?
- Yeah.
- You know I'm still not sold on this whole,
I love Christmas, aspect of my job
but I got to admit it's pretty cool.
- Pretty satisfying huh?
Yeah, well it's been said that if you help someone
you're the one that benefits the most.
- Is that why you do it?
- It's one of the perks.
- But it's so much money.
- Well a good deed doesn't have to involve money.
I mean you just have to open your eyes.
Be aware of others.
Take Stan for example.
Do you notice that, something different about him?
- [Ashley] I don't know.
- Something's off.
He's not as chipper.
- Like what?
- Bye.
- [Woman] Thanks Stan.
- His son died just about this time last year.
- I didn't even know he had a son.
- Yeah, Tom was his name.
He drowned helping someone in an accident.
- [Will] Ashley?
- [Ashley] Will.
- I'm sorry am I late.
- I am so sorry.
I am so sorry.
I completely forgot.
- Well, I guess he really made an impression on you.
(Will laughs)
- Our first date and you're already seeing other men.
- Oh this is hardly a date.
- I'm Will.
- Nick, Will, nice to meet you.
- Good to meet you.
- Is it OK if we reschedule?
- No, no nonsense.
No, I'm gonna order mine to go.
Besides I gotta talk to Stan here.
Nice to meet you.
- Good to meet you.
- [Ashley] Sorry.
- It's OK.
So how late am I?
Have you eaten yet?
- No.
- Is that Nick Anderson?
- Yeah, how'd you know?
- I've just seen him in some photos.
- Really?
- Yeah, at my magazine.
I mean he used to be the king of the corporate world.
And then one day he just up and left.
I'd love to know what he's doing now.
- Hey, how you doing.- Good.
- I got a little water for your here.
I'm going to take this back.
What can I get you?
- Oh, um...
You know I'll have whatever she's having.
- Are you sure?
(laughs)
- Yeah.
- OK I'll get that right out to you.
I'll be right back.
- Thanks.
- What are we having?
- Stan's three-alarm chili.
- Great perfect.
So, what do you do?
- I'm a personal assistant.
- Where?
- Just for neighbor.
- That's cool.
- You're a journalist?
- Yeah.
No, not really.
I'm a fact checker at the magazine.
- Oh.
- OK here we go, nice and hot.
Enjoy.
- Thank you.- All right.
- This looks good.
- I live for this stuff.
- Mmm, it is good.
It's not really hot for three-alarm chili.
- Give it some time.
- So how do you know Nick?
- Do you want me to see if he can have dinner with you?
(laughs)
- No, I'm sorry.
It's just I get curious.
And, it's just that.
(coughing)
Holy cow this is hot.
(coughing)
- You OK?
- It's just.
How is your mouth not burning?
(coughing)- You all right?
- Yeah, no I'm good.
It's good chili though.
I'm gonna be honest with you,
next time I'm totally ordering something different.
- Three-alarm chili, you didn't think it would be hot?
- Good you thought you'd object to a next time.
Maybe do something later this week?
- Sure.
- Good I'd like that.
- Oh excuse me, didn't mean to interrupt.
- Hi Nick.
- [Will] You guys are neighbors?
- [Nick] Yeah.
- Ashley, you work for Nick.
- Well just some odd jobs.
It's harder for me to get around these days.
- OK.- Excuse me.
- [Will] Mm-hmm.
- Good night.
- [Nick] Good night.
- Well thank you again, goodnight.
- Night Ashley.
- OK so yeah I think that looks really good.
If we could just work on this one part.
- Hey.
- OK, thanks.
- Ashley and Nick fit together,really?
- You know what?
I'm busy.
- I'm not going to give up on this.
- Why do you need to know?
- It's Nick Anderson.
He's a legend in my book and at this magazine.
Him and Ashley are onto something.
- It's none of your business.
- Francine.
- No, Will, please just back off.
- Oh you never told me how your date went.
- What's to tell?
We met at the dinner, both had the chili.
He nearly burned his face off.
We went our separate ways.
- Yeah you going out again?
- We don't have anything actually set up
but probably won't happen.
- And you want it to?
- Maybe.
- Seems it was easier to find someone special
when I was your age.
- I'm sure it was always hard.
- Well that's true.
But with all the distractions
it's easy to forget what's really important.
- Heya Nick.
- Merry Christmas, Harry.
Hope this will hold you for awhile.
- Oh sure will.
Hey, you stay put, it gets icy out here.
We'll get it.- All right.
- How are you?
(soft music)
(knocking)
- The GE Story check out?
- Yeah.
That's not why I'm here.
- Apologizing?
- Well if apologizing, you mean giving you a great story.
- A great story we'll be sued over?
- It's inspirational.
I ran into Nick Anderson.
- The CEO of...
- [Will] Yeah.
- OK.
- He's getting into the holiday spirit
by doing some charity work.
- OK not groundbreaking but.
- Secret charity work.
- Let me see the story.
- I haven't written it yet.
I wanted to make sure that if I did, you'd consider it.
And possibly get me off fact checking duty?
- No promises.
- Good.
- Francine.
- Yes.
- Will's onto a story about Nick Anderson now.
I know he's retired or whatever
but make sure Will doesn't step on any toes, legally.
- Will do.
- I can't believe how many people need help.
- [Nick] Yeah.
- Sacred Heart was almost out of food.
- Yeah, well it's not good news for a shelter,
especially this time of year.
- Does it happen a lot?
- More then you think.
But they're never completely out of food.
- You wouldn't let it happen?
- No.
(beeps)
- [Francine] Nick it's Francine,
look, I think we may have a problem.
Nothing legal, everything's set for your trust,
but one of the reporter's here, Will Price,
is writing something about you.
And I think he has inkling about your little project.
I know you're particular about this,
so give me a call, I'll see whatI can do.
- Oh goody.
Nick, I'm so sorry.
- Don't worry.
- You used me.
- Ashley.
- You used me to get to Nick
and now you're gonna ruin what he's doing.
- Ruin?
This is a great story it deserves to be seen.
- That's not what he wants.
- Why not?
- I don't know.
But Nick has a right to keep it quiet if he wants to.
- I just put the pieces together.
It's not as if I sought this out.
But I'm not gonna ignore it either.
- You didn't look for it, you sure?
Then why did you tell me you were a fact checker?
You lied to me.
- I kept things to myself.
So did you.
- To protect what he's doing.
- You're acting like this is a bad thing.
This is a great story.
It's Christmas.
I mean what better story canI write during Christmastime?
- It's not about Christmas.
It's about him.
Nick is the most selfless person I have ever met
and he trusted me with his secret.
And now through some sick twisted fate
you get a hold of my cell phone.
And everything's gonna be exposed because of me.
- Ashley wait.
- You're a real jerk you know that?
- Yeah I get that a lot.
Listen if you would just let me talk to Nick
he will understand.
- I can't believe I started liking you.
I really thought you were interested in me.
- I am interested in you.
- You are more interested in the story.
- Can I not be interested in both?
- No.
Because if you were interested in me,
you'd see why you shouldn't write this story.
(sighs)
(knocking)
Nick.
(knocking)
Nick.
Nick.
Nick!
(solemn music)
- Ms. Matthews.
- Yeah?
- You're here with NickAnderson?
- Yes, yeah.
- He's stable and he asked me to come talk to you
about his condition.
Why don't we have a seat?
- OK.
- His condition has become a little bit more grave
since last time he was here.
The cancer which has been in remission at this point
has returned and is starting to progress.
And it's holding up through some of his vital systems.
(solemn music)
(heart monitor beeping)
- Hey I know you.
- Nick you scared me.
- I scared me too.
You talk to my friend?
- Yeah, you can beat cancer,Nick,
people do it all the time.
- Well I beat it twice already.
Somehow I don't think the third times a charm.
- No, you can afford the best treatment.
- I've had the best treatment.
Cancer's back, I don't think my body's
gonna fight it this time.
- Why didn't you tell me?
- I didn't want to worry you.
- What about secret Santa?
- It's yours.
- What?
- Yeah, you're gonna take over.
- No, no, no, I can't.
- Yeah you can.
Francine has drawn up all the documents
that you'll need to manage it.
- Francine, from the magazine?
- She's my attorney too.
- You've been planning this.
- Well, I knew I had to pass it onto someone.
You're it.
- I don't even know where I would start.
- Start.
You're doing it.
Huh?
By the way there's a guy in the next room
who's having trouble with his hospital bills
I want you to check it out for me.
OK?
- OK.
(soft music)
(heart monitor beeping)
- I ever tell you whyI started doing this?
You know, several years agoI was a different person.
I was, I was real good with money.
Great with finances.
I had a beautiful wife who loved me very much.
I guess I didn't know how to love her.
My true love was chasing the dollar.
And I gave her everything she desired,
I thought, or she wanted or needed.
Wasn't enough to keep us happy.
And then she left.
And I was angry.
I made sure she didn't geta dime in the settlement.
I figured I didn't need her.
A few years went by andI was still the same.
Then I got a letter that said that she passed away.
She was the one person who loved me in spite of who I was.
I mean I felt empty for years
but after my wife diedI felt useless, alone.
So, I quit my job
and gave away all the stuffI didn't think I needed,
which was practically everything.
Eventually I decided that this what I should be doing.
And that's why I want you to continue the work.
Because I don't want you to ever feel empty or useless.
And I certainly don't want you to feel alone.
- Stop talking like you're dying.
- Denial doesn't help, honey.
I just wanna make sure that you're gonna be all right.
- Nick promise me you'll still fight.
- Don't be afraid.
Why don't you go get some sleep?
(knocks)
- Francine.
- What?
- You think Nick would do an interview.
- No.
- Not even a one-on-one interview.
Could be good PR.
- He doesn't do it for the PR.
Besides with him being in the hospital right now.
He's got other things on his mind.
- Hospital?
- I thought you knew.
Well just don't skew around with whatever you're writing.
He's a good man.
(gentle music)
(Dash whining)
(knocking)
- I heard about Nick.
I'm sorry.
- Thanks.
- So what are you up to?
- Just working, which I should probably get back to.
- So, being Nick's assistant
does that mean you have to do
all the Christmas cheer by yourself.
- Trying not to think about that.
- Want some help?
- Why, so you can spy on Nick?
- Just help.
- OK.
- Can I help you?- Hi.
- So are we getting an early lunch
before we start santa-ing?
- Nope, eat on your own dime.
- What are you we doing here?
- I'm just making this up as Igo.
So, you'll have to wait and see.
- [Employee] All right your number is 34
I'll call you when it's ready.
- Thank you.
- [Employee] Hi, may I take your order?
- Yes, can I get 50 burgers to go please?
- 50!
- [Employee] 50?
- Five zero, to go.
- [Employee] OK, 50 burgers.
Your total is $149.52.
- OK.
- [Employee] Here's your change,
and I'll let you know when that's ready.
- Thank you.
(cheerful music)
Here you go.- Thanks.
- Oh I see.
Here you go.
- Thank you.- You bet.
There you go.
Of course.
- Thank you.- Uh-huh.
- Thank you.- Uh-huh.
Merry Christmas.
- Thanks hun.
- [Will] Mickey.- How you doing?
- [Ashley] Merry Christmas.
- [Will] Good, how are you sir?
This is for you.
- Thanks.- Later.
Ran out of burgers quicker thenI thought.
- Don't worry there's more to do.
- Can I go get some more?
- No.
Next stop.
- Toy store.
I forgot the big red Santa bag.
- Discretion is important remember?
That's why what you're writing
is so opposite of what Nick wants.
- Well, let me talk to Nick myself.
See what he really wants.
- Nice try.
- Yes, yes, I know, I'm evil.
That Santa's list?
- Uh yeah, and you're not on it.
- Oh, neither are you.
- Grow up.
- We are in a toy store.
Cute.
All right, level with me.
Where did you get the list?
- I wrote it based on some helpful hints.
- From who, I mean is there like
a whole network of secretSantas?
- Are you asking because you're curious
or because you wanna write about it?
- We have way more toys then are on that list.
- So?
- So what happens to all the extra toys?
(Christmas music)
(cheerful music)
Being a do-gooder takes a lot of energy, huh?
- Yeah.
- Hey can I get you guys any dessert?
- No thanks, I've gotta getto the hospital to visit Nick.
- Well listen I want you to tellNick
that I'm thinking about him
and that he's in my prayers OK.
You guys have a great night.
- Thanks, you too.
What?
- Oh, just something Nick said.
- About Stan?
- Yeah he said his son died last year
around Christmas in an accident.
I just can't stop thinking about it.
- It's gotta be tough.
- I wanna do something but I don't know what.
- Yeah, what do you buy that makes that pain go away right?
Something I can do?
- Depends.
What do you have in mind?
- I could do some digging,see what I find out.
- OK.
(happy music)
So, what do you really do for the magazine?
- [Will] Really do?
- [Ashley] Yeah, I know you lied about being a reporter.
- OK I'm a writer.
I wrote a story recently about a company.
My boss didn't like it.
Said I took some stuff out of context.
- Did you?
- Not enough to get me into any legal trouble.
- Oh, you must be so proud.
- If it makes you feel any better
I am fact checking stories now,
part of my punishment, whatever.
So why did Nick pick you?
- I don't know.
- Liar.
- You're the one to talk.
- Ouch.
- He wants me to be happy I guess.
Especially this time of year.
- You're not normally?
- Let's just say Christmas isn't my favorite.
- Because?
- OK I don't hate Christmas perse;
it's just a really hard time of year for people like me.
- People like you.
- OK, I'm going to stop there
because I'm opening up to someone
I definitely shouldn't be opening up to.
- And the wall goes up.
- Excuse me?
- We haven't known each other very long
but I think it's safe to say you avoid people.
- No I don't.
- Really?
You only interact with Nick and your dog.
- That's not true.
- It is OK to talk to people about your feelings.
- You don't care about my feelings.
You just want a background for your story.
- You think I'm asking about a story?
- Aren't you?
Mr. I got in trouble at work.
- Maybe I'm asking because we're friends.
- (scoffs) We're not friends.
- We're not?
- No.
- (exhales) Ouch again.
Ashley wait a second.
Look, I mean I know women are supposed to be temperamental
but I think you're taking this to the extreme.
- What?
- I got you to stop, didn't I?
- OK, I appreciate your helpWill.
I really do.
But I just can't seem to shake this feeling
that this whole friendship thing is a complete sham.
- I volunteered to help you remember?
I passed out burgers.
I helped you buy toys.
Plus I put up with your lovely personality.
And when I ask you a simple question
why Christmas is such a big deal,
you accuse me of working an angle.
- Because you are, why else would you be here?
- Because I care about you.
- No you don't.- Yes I do.
- No, you don't.
- Huh.
Left you speechless.
You OK?
Did I leave you breathless too?(chuckles)
- Oh, get over yourself.
- Well this isn't going to change anything, right?
I'll see you tomorrow.
(gentle music)
- I spoke to Mrs. Hendrix earlier today.
- Is she ever gonna get a plumber to our apartment?
- I just found out that Mr.Hendrix
had a stroke about a month ago
and she's hardly been to the apartment
because he's at a care facility.
- Really?
- Mm-hmm.
- You never quit do you?
- I ain't dead yet.
So how'd it go today?
- Um...
You know, it went pretty good.
- Pretty good?
- Mm-hmm.
I don't know how to tell you this
so I'm just gonna say it.
That reporter you got a phone call about?
The one who wants to write a story on you
and who I accidentally went out with?
- [Nick] Mm-hmm.
- He's helping me.
- Well that's interesting.
- I couldn't do it alone.
And he knows how it works now.
He wants to interview you.
(sighs)
I'm sorry.
Nick say something.
- You like him don't you?
- I do not.
(chuckles)
- Indeed the couple certainly would have died
if it had not been for the heroic efforts
of Tom Manning.
And in the end it proved fatal for Manning.
(gentle music)
- Hey Dash, I'll take you out in one second
but I've gotta make a call.
(gentle music)
- Mrs. Hendrix.
- Yes.
- [Worker] I'll put this in the truck.
- So we did everything you asked.
We fixed the problem with the pipes
and we replaced all the hot water heaters.
All the plumbing seems to be in perfect working order now.
Is there anything else that we can do for you?
- What?
I can't pay for this.
- Oh, everything's already been taking care of.
(gentle music)
(playful music)
- So do you wanna talk about last night?
- Mm, no.
- OK. (clears throat)
So who's house is this anyways?
- Oh, it's a little girl and her grandmother's.
I'll be right back.
- OK.
(doorbell rings)
- Grandma.
What's it say?
- Dear Rose, I'm awfully busy this year
and I wanted to make sure
I didn't forget you andJulianne.
Toys for your granddaughter and money for your medicines.
Merry Christmas, love Santa.
(playful music)
- You're smooth.
- Of course I am.
- You know, you're better at this secret Santa thing
than you think.
Nick, he's taught you well.
- Thanks.
- How's he doing anyway?
- He said you could go see him.
- That's not what I was getting at.
- Sure it wasn't.
- He said he'd talk with me?
By the way, how long are you going to avoid eye contact?
- I am not avoiding eye contact.
- You're avoiding eye contact.
- I am not.
- OK.
Look me in the eye and tell me you're not avoiding me.
- Fine.
All right, when do you want to go see Nick?
(gentle music)
- I found some stuff out about Tom, Stan's son.
- Please tell me it's not dirt.
- Want to hear this or not?
- OK.
- Last Christmas a car lost control on an icy road.
Crashed into a lake.
A young married couple was trapped inside.
Tom was driving by jumped into the water.
He got the couple out but he didn't make it back to shore.
They found him a few days later.
- Oh Stan.
How awful for him.
- I made a copy of the article if you wanna check it out.
I thought it would help withStan.
- Thanks.
- Yeah.
(cheerful music)
- Hey, it's Will isn't it?
- Yes, yes.
- Hey girl.
- How you feeling?
- Oh great.
Ashley, would you give us a few minutes?
- Are you sure?
- I can handle him.
- OK.
- Have a seat will you, Will?
- Thank you.
Um, I'm going to record this if you don't mind.
- How did you find out about me?
- I'm a reporter.
I notice things.
- Oh really?
- Can I ask you a few questions?
- I wanna ask you a few questions.
- OK.
- Where are you from?
- [Will] Michigan.
- Where did you go to school?
- Northwestern.
- You like writing?
- I love it.
- You like Ashley.
(chuckles)
- She's a very nice girl.
- Nice girl?
She's terrific.
- She's a little hard-headed.
- Who isn't?
- Yeah.
I like her.
- Let me tell you something,Will.
She's had a very different life from you and me.
She's had to fight tooth and nail
for everything she's ever achieved.
She didn't tell you about her childhood did she?
When she was a baby she was dropped off
in one of those places.
She passed around foster care homes
from one to another like a dish rag.
She didn't have a normal childhood.
Hey, all she's ever wanted was to be loved unconditionally.
- That's not easy to come by.
- It's not impossible.
See people have let her down.
It's hard for her to open up.
- Yeah.
I picked up on that.
- Yeah.
But she likes you.
Otherwise she wouldn't have let you in as far as she has.
- You think so?
- Oh yeah.
Yeah.
- To be honest with you,
sometimes she won't even look at me.
- You're not very intuitive for a reporter are you?
The reason she won't look at you
is she's afraid that if she does she'll melt.
(gentle music)
- It's about time.
- Yeah, sorry.
- Did you get everything you wanted?
- Yeah.
- I'm gonna go check on Nick.
- Hey, what are you doing?
- I just wanna stretch my legs here.
- Oh, can I help?
- No, no, don't keep Will waiting.
- He can wait.
- How long are you gonna keep him away?
- As long as possible.
- Yeah.
Well, you keep waiting, you're gonna miss something special.
Now you go.
If I need anything I'll call the nurse.
- OK.
(phone ringing)
- Yeah.
- [Bob] Hey Will, we have a cover story
that we're waiting for you check.
Preferably before we go to press.
- Yeah, working on it.
- [Bob] Still writing the Nick
Anderson philanthropist story?
- Yeah.
- [Bob] Let me see a draft when you're ready.
Before we finalize the Christmas issue.
- OK, will do.
- [Bob] And get that story checked.
(sighs)
(soft music)
(ringing)
- [Operator] City information.
- Yes, hi, can I get the number
for Nina and Aaron Walker please?
- [Operator] One moment please.
- Thanks.
- Nick Anderson bears a similarity to Santa himself.
He's old.
He's jolly.
And if it wasn't for the fact that he doesn't have a beard.
So he's the real deal.
(sighs)
(groans)
That's worse.
(gentle music)
(phone ringing)
- Hello.
Uh huh.
(solemn music)
(sighs)
When?
OK.
Thank you.
(knocking)
Um, that's my apartment.
- Ashley Matthews?
- Mm-hmm.
- I have a letter for you.
Sign here.
Have a nice day.
- Thanks.
- [Nick] Dear Ashley, I had a hunch things were going south
so I thought I'd write something
before my bucket's been kicked.
First I want no flashy funeral or any hoopla.
I'm dead.
I won't be around to enjoy the party
so don't bother throwing one.
Second, my attorney will contact you about my will.
Since you're the closest thing I've had to a family
I want you to have it all.
I hope you'll use it to bless others.
And lastly, get over yourself
and tell Will you love him.
Remember the heart is a resilient muscle.
Don't worry about the news story.
If he prints it no biggy.
It's not like I'm going to write
an angry letter to the editor.
I'll miss you terribly while we're apart
but I'm not going to lie, I hope I see my ex-wife Holly
and offer her the biggest apology I can.
I love you.
Nick.
(sniffles)
(soft music)
- Hey.
It's OK.
(sniffling)
- How is it OK?
- It's not.
Just something people say.
(sniffling)
I think I can guess how you're holding up.
- Why are you here?
- Thought I could bring you some Christmas cheer.
- I've never hated Christmas more.
- Well I think it's time we change that.
- Sledding?
- Yup.
- Why?
- Well Nick said you didn't have a very normal childhood so.
- So you thought sledding?
- Have you ever been?
- No.
- Stop complaining and hop on.
I hope there's someone listening
- Is this thing safe?
- Of course.
You ready?- No.
- Good.(screaming)
And even screams can sound like whispers
(laughing)
- Are you OK?
- Yeah.
Can we do that again?
- Well if you're up to it.
I'm gonna make this thing go faster.
Everyone is talking louder
About material things that don't matter
At least not to me
If I could have just one thing for this year
It would be to cry a lot less tears
From all the pain
That we've endured in our past
'Cause its the future we can change
If we just try to rearrange
The way we live
And maybe give
A little more
I hope there's someone listening
'Cause I can only scream so loud
- [Ashley] Great now I'm all cold.
(Will laughs)
- [Will] You're welcome.
- [Ashley] Thank you.
(gentle music)
- [Will] Warm yet?
- Yeah, much better.
- OK, how about a little pie on the house?
There you go.
You and one for you.
- Stan you don't need to do that.
- Oh, please.
- Thank you.
- So how are you?
- Oh, good enough.
It's a little lonely around this time of the year
without Nick now and my son Tom.
Did you ever get a chance to meet my son Tom?
- No, but Nick said some really great things about him.
- Nick's pretty good about that.
Yeah Tom had a lot of potential.
Got a chance to go toHarvard business school
on a scholarship.
He graduated.
Had a job lined up.
Hey listen, I'm going on down the road.
You guys enjoy your pie, OK?
Have a nice night.
- Thank you.
- I found the Walkers.
- The couple Tom saved?
- Yeah, they sent me a letter to give to Stan.
- Really?
- Mm-hmm.
- Why?
Well.
What did it say?
- Well I didn't read it.
But I bet thank you was in there somewhere.
- Yeah, but what do you say to the father of the guy
who died saving your life.
- Yeah.
I think it was really hard for them.
- So where's the letter?
- Right over there by the register.
They had a baby and they named him Tom.
- Santa'd like that.
Sit by the fire
Watch the embers glow
- Thank you for finding the article in the first place.
- It was nothing.
- So when does your story come out?
- Christmas week with any luck.
- Just so you know Nick was OK
with you writing something.
- He was?
- Yeah.
I mean in the big scheme of things its just words
and he had a lot on his mind.
- He was a good man.
- Yeah.
- So, any plans for Christmas?
- No.
- Wanna do something?
- No, it's OK I don't want to take you away from Christmas.
Besides I've got some last minute things to do.
- (scoffs) It's not even my birthday.
- These aren't for you.
- I'm shocked.
You have that story ready?
- Sort of.
- Deadline's coming up.
I thought you wanted to prove
you deserve to write again.
- I just had to make a few last minute changes.
- You at least got a draft I can look at?
Well, it's not what I expected.
I'll let you know.
- Thanks.
- [Bob] Oh.
And try to make sure this one won't give Francine
any more headaches.
- Yeah.
- Oh, flowers.
Who are they from?
- I don't know.
Let's see.
(heartfelt music)
(cheerful music)
- All right, Dash, I know it's Christmas Eve
but I won't be long.
- Aw, you shouldn't have.
- What are you doing here?
- I thought I'd spendChristmas Eve with you
if that's all right.
- OK, well I'm on my way out.
- Where to?
- I will show you.
- Who does this go to?
I thought you guys already covered everyone I gave you.
- It's for you.
Merry Christmas.
- Merry Christmas.
- Thank you.
You didn't have to.
- We couldn't have done it without you.
- Merry Christmas.
- Well thank you, MerryChristmas to you.
- Merry Christmas.
- Thanks for coming by.
(gentle music)
- I have to admit that was pretty cool.
I never really thought about it before
but I mean Elves deserve presents too.
- Yeah Nick taught me that everyone needs something.
- Including you.
(laughs)
- What's this?
- Oh.
Christmas presents.
I can't wrap.
But it's what's inside that counts.
- Thank you.
- You survived your firstChristmas as secret Santa.
- Yeah first and last for the secret part.
- Yeah, about that.
I wanted to apologize.
- No don't.
I should apologize actually.
- For what?
- For how I've been treating you.
You've helped me so much
and no matter what you've done
even writing that story.
Thank you.
- You're welcome.
Open it.
- OK.
- Merry Christmas.
- (laughs) What's this?
- It's all my secretSanta tapes and notes.
I didn't submit the article.
- What?
- I knew it was gonna be harder for you.
And you were right.
Nick wouldn't have wanted that.
As we've been doing this project of his,
I realized that Nick wasn't just a secret Santa,
he was...
he was more of an angel.
Christmas Angel.
And being an angel isn't about the recognition
or getting the glory.
It's about helping others.
- But, I thought you were writing something?
(gentle music)
(sniffles)
- [Will] One Christmas down.
- [Ashley] Yeah and who knows how many to go huh?
- [Will] You ever think you'll get bored of it?
- [Ashley] Nah, it'll keep me too busy.
- [Will] You know I was an elf once?
- What?
- Yeah when I was 16,I was short for my age
and the mall needed help with their Santa display.
So.
- You were not an elf.
- All right, I might have stretched the truth there a bit.
The point is, I can help, you know next year.
- [Ashley] How do you know what you'll be doing?
I mean you might be covering some big breaking news story.
- I can make myself available if you want me to.
- Just Christmas?
I don't get to see you till then?
- No, that is not going to work either.
I mean the way I see it Christmas, crucial.
But people need help the rest of the year too.
- You know I think I can handle it.
Then again those presents get really heavy.
(cheerful music)
- [Will] Merry Christmas.
- [Ashley] Merry Christmas.
(cheerful music)
(whines)
- [Both] It's your turn.
- I took him for a walk yesterday.
- [Ashley] Mm-hmm.
(sighs)
- Then why are you getting up?
- Guilt.
- OK, I'll go with you.
- You know we both don't have to take him.
- Oh I know.
But I wanna see the Christmas decorations.
They're going up early this year.
- I thought you hated that stuff.
- Not anymore.
- [Will] Come on, come on, come on.
- Come on, dash.
We have a lot to do today.
I'm ready.
- All right, let's get going.
- [Ashley] Come on, come.
(dramatic music)
("Everybody Needs a LittleChristmas")
It's finally come
Christmastime is here
I can hardly wait
Been countin' down the whole year
I got the presents wrapped
Underneath the tree
The mistletoe hung in every room you can see
Everybody needs a little Christmas
Something that'll make you happy
Everybody needs a little starlight
In your eyes
Everybody needs a little hope
Maybe something that you can dream of
Everybody needs love at Christmas time
We all need a little Christmas cheer
Wipe away your troubles
Don't worry about 'em till next year
It's a time for love for everyone you know
So give a Christmas smile
To everyone wherever you go
Everybody needs a littleChristmas
Something that'll make you happy
Everybody needs a little starlight
In your eyes
Everybody needs a little hope
Maybe something that you can dream of
Everybody needs love atChristmastime
Everybody needs a littleChristmas
Everybody needs a little starlight
Everybody needs a little hope
And don't you know it
Everybody needs love atChristmastime
Everybody needs a littleChristmas
Something that'll make you happy
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