Don't pick up, don't pick up.
Why does it have to be so hard?
Hello baby sister.
How old do we have to be
before you're gonna
stop calling me that?
We'll be wrinkled and
toothless and then, maybe.
Okay.
Can I take this?
Yeah thanks.
I saw your face on the side
of a bus again the other day.
Even after four bestsellers
it never gets old.
How was your drive?
It's been a while
since you made it.
Beautiful as always.
Lights from all the farm houses.
I wish you'd tell me why
you stayed away for so long.
We really missed
you at Christmastime
at home all these years.
You know how it is.
Work gets in the way.
Anyway, I was
practically just here.
24 hours from moms
funeral doesn't count.
It was just too
hard, that's all.
I want you to enjoy
your time at Oliver's Well.
Hey, no working
over the holiday.
I promise.
But I do have to head home
the day after Christmas.
No!
I thought you had more time?
Well that was
before the promotion.
You are looking
at Emma Reynolds,
Huntley and Morrison's
newest Junior Partner.
Congratulations.
That's wonderful.
Oh dad would be so...
They would both be so proud.
Whatever the reasons, I'm glad
you came home this Christmas.
Andie, if I'd had any idea
last year that both mom
and dad would be gone...
I know, I know.
Hey, no regrets alright?
They only spoil our present.
Thereby multiplying
themselves 10 fold.
That's pretty good,
you should write that.
I did.
In my last book,
Mindful Passion.
Mindfulness For
The Busy Creative.
Mrs. Jacobs still
has her old popup store.
Yup.
Every year.
Keeping the old traditions
that she started with Bobby.
Why don't you go take a look?
I'll get us some
hot chocolate okay?
- That sounds delicious.
- Meet back here in 10?
Okay.
Alright.
Emma Reynolds.
Hello!
Good morning.
You might wanna
consider one of our
blue ribbon wreaths.
They're a town favorite.
They were first made by one
of our most beloved residents.
Caroline Reynolds.
I think it was the
first item we sold
in this shop actually.
Yeah, blue's not
really a Christmas color.
Not a Christmas color?
No.
Not like red, or green, or gold.
They are beautiful, unique.
Yes, but not traditional.
They've been a tradition
in my family for 40 years.
Am I bothering you?
Have we met?
Did I steal your parking spot?
I think you'd remember me.
Mrs. Jacobs,
I will take this one.
Wonderful dear.
It's so nice to see you.
You too.
When your brother
told me you were finally
coming home I about
danced in cheer.
That house deserves a
big proper Christmas.
Well, it'll be
our last one there,
so we're gonna make it count.
Well you make sure
to savor every moment.
I will.
I miss her so much you know.
How much do I owe you?
Nothing.
It's an early Christmas present.
Thank you.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas sweetheart.
Bye.
What are all these
cars doing here?
Did you know we were
having people over?
No.
Andie.
Daniel.
Emma.
Why are you sneaking
through the kitchen?
You didn't tell me
there was gonna
be a party here tonight.
I must have.
I'm sure I did.
I'm sure you didn't.
Rumi!
Hi mom!
Oh I missed you so much.
Rumi!
Hi.
Oh you look so beautiful.
Oh thank you.
Your uncle was just
trying to convince us
he told us about this
little shindig here.
Well I mean, grandma and grandpa
did have it every
year at the same time.
So it's not exactly new.
It doesn't matter.
The point is we are
all here together.
Hey where's Ian?
Oh he's coming for
Christmas Eve isn't he?
You're looking a little relaxed.
Relaxed?
Come on, throw on a
Christmas sweater or something.
All dad's clients are here.
Last Reynolds Christmas
party in Honeysuckle house.
He wanted us to
make it a good one.
There we go Emmy!
It's been waiting
for you all year!
I wish I could make
Christmas forever.
Us too sweetie.
Well at least we know it
will come no matter what.
Auntie Emma!
Hi Sophie!
Welcome back Emma.
Thank you Emory!
Marco, is that even you?
You are so tall I
barely recognized you.
Sophie, what did we do?
Color coordinate here?
Here we go.
Come on.
Everyone,
can I have your attention.
Boring speech,
we'll need fortification.
On behalf of my and my sisters,
I want to thank you all
for coming.
We really are touched
that you joined us
in celebrating what was mom
and dads favorite time of year.
Mom and dad married
on Christmas day.
They passed out candy
canes as party favors
and served a full
Christmas dinner.
It was a town event.
It was love at first sight.
But they turned a
world wind romance
into a 53 year marriage.
Our parents instilled us,
my sisters and me,
a love of family,
of celebration.
Andie, Emma, they
were so proud of you.
And so, I ask you
all to raise a glass
for a toast.
Yes.
To mom and dad.
To mom and dad.
To Cliff and Carol.
Goodness, I hope Emma
doesn't find her secret
present this year.
But she's so smart,
she'll probably
look under my desk.
Emma!
You are ever so clever.
Would you like
some chocolate mommy?
Apologies for the intrusion.
That's all right.
How are you Mrs. Bernadette?
I'm sorry to hear
you're selling the house.
Oh, well, we are too
but it's not really
fair to ask Daniel
to keep looking after
it all by himself.
Andie's got her house and I'm...
A New Yorker.
Daniel's catering my
Christmas Ball Fundraiser
for the Historical Society.
Did he tell you?
Yes he did.
It's a great choice.
He inherited my moms
talent for cooking
and dads business sense.
He won't tell me
what you're doing
with Carol's Victorian desk.
Well that's because
we haven't decided yet.
It should go to the
Historical Society.
We can offer you
a healthy tax receipt.
Thank you for that.
I will discuss it
with Andie and Dan.
Excuse me, my goddaughter
owes me a bear of a hug!
Joe!
Hello sweet pea.
Can I have a word with you?
Yes!
Okay.
Excuse us.
Cliff left the firm
in good shape.
Yeah?
We didn't lose a single client.
That must keep you on your toes.
Keep me at my desk more like.
Thinking of hiring someone soon.
Now we do everything
now you know.
From parking tickets
to land titles.
Dad knew every
single name didn't he?
Gosh, I can't
remember the last time
my clients were actual people.
So tell me about life
as a Junior Partner.
News travels fast.
Andie mentioned it.
I guess that means you're
happy at Huntley and Morrison?
I never expected to
make partner so quickly.
It's an incredible opportunity.
I'm throwing my
usual New Year's party.
You'll be there right?
I leave the day after Christmas.
That'll be it huh?
I'll come back
and visit Oliver's Well
from time to time.
If you say so.
Now I think some gingerbread
with my name on it.
Look what I just found.
Moms old cookie tins.
Man she stashed stuff
everywhere.
She always knew exactly
where to find stuff.
How lucky are we to have
had mom and dad as examples?
You know Daniel,
you're gonna need to talk
to Ian about what's
taking him so long
to put a ring on our
awesome sisters finger.
He's way too busy right now
getting ready for Mary
Bernadette's Christmas Ball.
Which by the way,
congratulations on that gig.
Thanks.
It's big.
Could really open doors for us.
Rumi's been a
lifesaver by the way.
Serving and helping Anne Marie.
She decide whether
she's switching majors?
Switching majors?
She was thinking about
dropping the fine arts
and doing something else.
But Rumi loves her program.
When'd she last tell you that?
Oh boy.
I don't pry Daniel.
Sure, you know her best.
Hey, you guys.
At her birthday dinner though,
she said she needed to change.
Well I would of
liked to be there.
You know I was just...
I broke up with Ian.
What?
Was that one of your jokes
to break the tension or?
No.
I mean yes.
No.
So he's not coming
for Christmas.
You've been together forever.
Mom and dad loved Ian.
So did I, but it
just wasn't working.
So sorry sweetie.
There's no better time to
start over than Christmas.
True.
We all know mom and
dad would not want us
to be sad during Christmas.
Agreed.
So, I'm determined we stay true
to our Reynold's
family traditions.
The Snowman Festival is a first,
and the town tree lighting,
then we will be decorating
our tree on the weekend.
And Mary Bernadette's Christmas
Ball is on Christmas Eve.
And somewhere in there
we eat and sleep right?
We will all participate.
I need you two to handle
getting the house and
the contents appraised.
Anne Marie and I have
prep to do for the ball.
It has to go perfectly.
Daniel we got this.
Just leave it to us.
We have to make
this last Christmas
on Honeysuckle Lane
perfect.
How was I supposed
to know the old
Antique Emporium had shut down?
What?
You don't go antiquing every
other weekend like mom did?
I missed that gene.
Anyway, if there's anyone
who will know an alternative,
it's Maureen.
She bought this
place two years ago.
It's amazing how much
everything changes
and yet everything
stays exactly the same.
Hey, merry almost Christmas.
Hi.
Hey Emma, you probably don't
remember me, Maureen Cutter.
My family left halfway
through high school.
Oh yes, of course I
remember you Maureen.
Your dad came in every
Saturday to read his paper
and he always left a tip
with a note on the receipt.
The sweetest.
This is where he brought
mom on their first date
when it wasn't Crumpets.
No way!
I had no idea.
Do you happen to know someone
who could help us appraise
our parents estate?
I can think of someone alright.
The best man for the job
is Morgan Shelby.
He's a former history professor.
Harvard.
Now he owns
Memory Lane Antiques.
- Sounds good.
- Thanks.
Well, do you want me
to go scope that out
and see if it's something?
Okay.
Hello again.
It's you.
I don't think we've been
properly introduced.
Morgan Shelby.
I think I must be
in the wrong place.
Oh no, we're the only
antique shop in town.
You're Cliff and
Carol's daughter.
Emma the New Yorker.
My secret identity
has been unmasked.
- Mrs. Jacobs.
- I can't reveal my sources.
Well, I'm looking to have
my parents estate appraised.
Art and antiques.
I can do a walkthrough for you.
Let you know if
anything's worth more than
sentimental value.
Not that sentimental items
aren't worth anything.
Just,
I find most peoples
expectations are too high.
Are we talking
about antiques still
or just life in general?
Thank you for your
time Mr. Shelby.
I'll go over it with
my brother and sister.
Going through a
loved ones estate
can be difficult
at any time.
At Christmas,
must be very very hard.
And I'm sorry.
When are you free?
The taste is very good.
Maybe even exceptional.
Except in wreaths obviously.
Oh I'll forgive
her that as long as I
don't see any Rudolph
the Red Nose Reindeers
or angels in hot pink.
Well I only wear hot
pink Christmas day.
This guy used to have a partner.
What happened?
I broke it last time
I was home for Christmas
and I haven't found
a replacement.
A lot of Christmases here.
A lot of memories.
Well thankfully
those don't go away.
You know, I usually
advise people to
choose something special.
And make it represent
everything they have to let go of.
Thank you, that's really
good advice professor.
Please don't call me professor.
Dr. Shelby's fine.
When I was a little kid,
my mom used to hide
all these little gifts
around the house in December.
Like a scavenger advent hunt.
Exactly.
Her favorite place to
hide things is in her desk.
Or under it.
This is special.
But only of sentimental
value I'm sure.
No.
I admit it, I stand corrected.
This...
Did your mother ever show
you the hidden compartments?
What hidden compartments?
I had no idea!
They're letters
written to my mom.
"Dearest Caroline, I miss you
more than you can imagine.
"But my heart is buoyed with
thoughts of our engagement."
Your father was
quite the wordsmith.
This is from before
my parents met.
Signed RJ.
These aren't from my father.
My mother was engaged
to someone else.
Well the earliest
is from January 1964.
And the last one?
June 1965.
- When was it your parents met?
- June 1965.
Well that's not strange.
I mean most people have
multiple relationships.
I know, but we always
thought my father
was my mothers first love.
Their story's kind of
famous in Oliver's Well.
They married in this very
house on Christmas day,
six months after they met.
My mother was on a bus
on her way to Richmond.
My father sat in the
seat across from her.
She looked up, caught his eye,
and they noticed each other
staring at each other.
Then he knew.
Yeah.
Apparently my mother
knew even though
she was engaged to
someone else at the time.
And I'm assuming you have
no idea who this RJ is?
Not a clue.
Okay.
Hello hello!
Anybody home?
That's my brother. He cannot
know anything about this.
- Why?
- Because it would crush him.
He puts my parents
marriage on a pedestal.
So you're gonna keep
it a secret from him
even though you're
angry at your mother
for keeping a secret from you?
Please don't judge me.
If my brother found out it would
ruin his perfect Christmas.
I will tell him about RJ,
I just wanna find
out who he is first.
If that's what you want
he won't hear it from me.
Thank you.
- Hello.
- Hi.
Hey.
Morgan Shelby, antiques.
If I may, absolute beautiful
home you have here.
Emma, you feel free to call me
if you decide you need my help.
I will show myself out.
Oh don't be silly,
I'll walk you out.
RJ Dublin.
You were a writer born in
Oliver's Well, Virginia.
That narrows it down.
Hello?
Hello?
Anybody in?
Hey Joe!
Hi Joe.
Daniel mentioned you were all
going to the Snowman Festival.
I thought I'd come
give you a lift.
He thought I was
gonna forget, didn't he?
I can neither confirm nor deny.
I actually have a
question to ask you.
- Well that makes two of us.
- Really?
Now I'm intrigued.
Emma,
the truth is,
I've decided it's time to let
someone else take over the firm.
Well, I can't say that's
entirely unexpected.
I know dad wouldn't of
wanted you to wreck your
health keeping it afloat.
And, I think he would have
wanted me to pass the torch.
To you.
- Joe...
- You know the town, the people.
It's important Emma,
they can trust you.
Your parents were so much a part
of the fabric of Oliver's Well.
I have a job.
I was just given the
opportunity of a lifetime.
Well you say it's
an opportunity,
but is it the one
that makes you happy?
I'm not unhappy.
I'm nervous.
It's a whole lot of change.
But I left Oliver's Well
for a reason.
I made my decision
a long time ago.
I can't just uproot my life.
Life goes with you Emma.
You're so much like your mother.
So sure of yourself.
Really? I thought I
was more like my dad.
No, you're her.
More than you know.
Now what were you going to ask?
I was just gonna ask,
do you have any recommendations
for a good real estate agent?
Darling have you seen these?
The ones you make
are just as pretty.
You could probably
earn just as much
starting a jewelry
business as you do
working for Uncle Daniel.
Why are you so worried
about me making money?
I'm barely 20-years-old,
can't I just enjoy college?
You're enjoying
your classes then?
Yeah, they're all good.
You can talk to me you know.
About anything, anything at all.
It's been a slow few weeks mom.
Not really much to
write home about.
I should go.
I have to meet the choir
for rehearsal.
We have two teams.
Myself and the kids and...
Emma and Ian.
No, no, no...
Oh lovely, I haven't
met your gentleman Emma.
No, I'm actually
not participating.
But you're on the list.
Daniel, you signed us up?
Yeah, it was too late to cancel.
Hold on one minute if you will.
I'll be right back.
Excuse me sir.
What's this?
Well Emma's snowman making partner
is absent so you'll have to do.
No.
I'm more of an observer,
not so much a doer.
I tend to avoid things that
involve snow and people.
Well, too bad Mr. Shelby.
Today is the day that
you are going to live a little.
Here's your partner Emma.
Oh no, no, no, no.
If I'm gonna have a partner,
it can't be somebody with zero
snowman making ability.
I didn't say I have zero
snowman making ability.
You didn't have to.
I could tell that about you.
It's something of a
gift I have actually.
Ms. Reynolds,
we're going to make
the greatest
snowman of all time.
I certainly hope so
'cause I'm in it to win it.
Absolutely.
We don't do things by half.
However, small thing.
No gloves.
Game face on.
My brother got me into this
and now I'm gonna make him pay.
You're really scary.
I mean cute, but scary.
Alright, snowman makers, ready!
Go!
There's only one stick.
It's okay.
Well this is a
very nice snowman.
One more minute!
So hang on.
You've actually never done
any of these town events?
Nope.
Snowman Festival, tree lighting?
No way.
Christmas Ball?
Tell me you've been
to the Christmas Ball.
You're coming right?
No.
I prefer to observe
at a distance.
You mean hide in the background.
Okay everybody!
Times up!
Stop making your snowman!
I think we might
actually win this thing.
I thought you said you had no
snowman making abilities?
I think we've unleashed
a hidden talent.
Why do you sound sad?
A cowboy here.
Look how hard Sophie and
Marco worked on theirs.
Sophie and Marco?
I worked for 20 minutes
on Ernest's chin.
It's a masterpiece!
And how about you?
Look at this.
A little baby snowman
with a top hat.
Whoops.
Dear.
He seems to have met with
something of an accident.
No head means disqualification.
It was very clumsy of me.
Probably the gloves.
Well I'm so sorry.
Thank you.
Now can I take these off and
buy you some hot chocolate?
Yeah.
Okay.
Every year the kids make
these wooden ornaments
and write a wish on the back
before they hang
them on the tree.
What'd you wish for as a kid?
I don't remember.
Probably puppies.
Plural.
It all seemed so easy then.
Now I don't even know
what I'd write.
So no Christmas wish
for this year?
Clarity.
I don't think
that comes in a box.
My Christmas Ball is the
most important fundraiser.
So speaking of chickening out,
what were you saying about
hiding in the background again?
It's Mary Bernadette.
Did you forget to get
her a Christmas card?
No, she keeps asking me about
my moms Victorian desk,
she really wants it.
I just don't feel like
talking to her right now.
That's why I live in New York.
Small towns you're always
running into people.
I should probably go.
What about that hot chocolate?
No, I have to meet someone about
one of their market finds. I forgot.
So how about coffee tomorrow?
I can come by the house,
maybe take some pictures?
Okay, yeah.
Okay, alright.
Excuse me.
Hello.
There you are.
Thank you.
- Cheers.
- Cheers.
So, Morgan Shelby.
He's cute.
Well, he might be cute,
but he's terrible
at building snowman.
Still calling.
Even worse, I keep finding
myself wanting to answer.
You might need to.
For closure.
Did you know?
I didn't know she had the song.
I so wish mom and dad
were here to see this.
Psst.
Wake up!
Oh my goodness!
I've been invaded by tiny elves!
Good morning.
We're gonna put up the Christmas
tree Auntie Emma!
That's right we are.
Three days until Christmas!
Race ya!
Three days until Christmas.
You're already here.
I thought I'd
get an early start.
Your sister let me in.
You already have that coffee?
Emma.
Anne Marie made eggnog muffins.
I'm in heaven.
I can't find it anywhere.
Find what?
The key to the
attic storage room.
I can't get the tree down...
The key that dad
kept by the back door.
It's not there.
I've looked all over for it.
I don't know what
he's done with it.
What he did with it.
It's fine.
Emma and I can
knock down the door.
Yeah.
I can take a look at it.
I happen to pick more
locks than I can count.
My clients are always
losing their keys
to their antique cabinets,
desks, carriage trunks.
I break 'em open.
This is the good part about
being in a small town.
There's always someone around
to lend a helping hand.
Touche.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
This is gonna be quite
something when it gets put up.
What if I fall?
Oh I wouldn't let
my Christmas angel fall.
I can reach now.
Oh here we are.
You got it.
Yes, it is.
So who do you spend
Christmas with?
Oh it's just me and my mom.
Yeah.
Before we moved to Oliver's Well
Christmas dinner
was pretty quiet.
Now we have a table
of family and friends.
That sounds lovely.
It is.
Mom makes the turkey
and mashed potatoes.
Friends bring the trimmings
and I make the mince
pies and plum pudding.
You do?
Now, are we talking from scratch
or store bought canned tin?
Bite your tongue.
From scratch,
my father taught me.
Really?
Well you are just full
of surprises aren't you?
Yes I am.
Would you lend
me a hand with these?
Sure?
You love this don't ya?
Being here, celebrating
with your family.
Yeah, I really do.
I mean I wish my
parents were here but
I feel like they still are.
If you don't mind me asking,
why'd you stay away for so long?
I mean you said you
hadn't been back
for Christmas since law school.
Yeah.
It was just life I guess.
How come you moved
to Oliver's Well?
My grandparents lived
here for 30 years.
Yeah, my dad moved us
around a lot as kids,
but we always came
here for Christmas.
It was the one
constant in my life.
When I was younger, I...
What?
When I was younger,
I actually thought I was
visiting Santa's village.
I thought the same thing!
Yeah?
Yeah, because it was so...
Magical.
Yeah.
So jump a bunch
of years forward,
I decide to take a
break from academia
and start my own business.
I thought, why not have
the magic every day?
Funny thing is, I think for me,
my mom and dad were the magic.
Ooh, what's this from?
The camera!
I'd forgotten about this.
What is it?
Every year at
Christmas my family takes
a picture in front of the tree.
Look, this is from
when my mom and dad
first got married.
Auntie Emma has been
here to decorate the tree
for forever.
I was always thinking
about you Sophie.
This is it.
The last one.
Daniel.
This year will be no different.
Come on family.
You want me to?
Yes please.
Alright.
Alright.
Three, two, one!
Merry Christmas!
Let's see.
Let's see how it turns out.
It's developing.
It's gonna take a little while.
That is the third
time in an hour.
Maybe you should
just hit accept.
Go ahead.
Maybe you're right.
Excuse me.
Gotta be patient.
I think it's gonna
be a good one.
Hey.
Hey, you haven't been answering.
Yeah I know, I'm sorry.
But I needed you to
put in this much effort
when we actually were together.
Well now
you're just gonna give up
when it gets hard?
Or run away to Oliver's Well
like you ran away to New York?
Sorry, but I can't give
up on you that easy.
Not Emma Reynolds.
Phone calls are easy.
That's not enough.
And I'm not running
away, not this time.
Sorry about that.
Everything okay?
Yeah, recent breakup.
We're still sorting
through some stuff.
It's Morgan isn't it?
Yes sir!
I come bearing news.
Saint Joe.
Thank you.
It's tough to get a cup
of coffee around here.
Yeah.
It seems you may not need a
real estate agent after all.
Oh yeah?
Is someone interested in
buying the house privately?
Young couple.
Edith and Mason's son and
his wife from Pennsylvania,
they've got a baby on the way
and they decided
to move out here.
They'd like to come take
a look at Honeysuckle.
When?
Day after tomorrow.
You're kidding?
Before Christmas?
They're staying with
family for only a week.
The baby is due in February.
They want to move fast.
I thought you'd
be happy with the timeline
given your schedule.
Yeah.
I was expecting to have
a little bit more time
to figure out what to keep.
It's all hitting
home now I suppose.
Sorry.
It's gotta be tough.
It's the natural
order of things.
I'm just surprised
it's moving so fast.
Half the time I
came through the door
your mother was
sitting at that desk.
Reading, writing letters.
Joe, since you're here,
do you happen to remember
an old friend of moms by
the name of RJ Dublin?
Morgan found a whole
bunch of letters
from him in the desk.
Yeah, he was a writer
from Oliver's Well.
No, don't recall anyone
by that name.
If he lived there,
Georgina at the library
might now who he is.
RJ Dublin?
Yes of course I know him.
RJ Dublin was a pseudonym
used by Gaston Waddleburg.
A bit of a celebrity really.
Because of the scandal.
What scandals that?
Town paper went
wild with the story.
His mother took her children
in the dead of night
and ran away to Ireland.
Which was quite a feat in 1915.
Wait, 1915?
Yes dear.
That would make him way too old
if he was born before 1915.
So, guess
we have hit a dead end.
That was definitely
not the right RJ.
What do you mean?
I mean, we're gonna have to look
somewhere else for answers.
Initials are definitely
not gonna be enough.
Seriously, am I crazy?
Why do I care so much
about letters from
some random man?
So he was some ex-fiance.
So what right?
I think this is
about finding out
who your mother was.
Or who I thought she was.
You don't keep letters like this
unless they really
meant something to you.
And you certainly don't
keep them a secret.
I don't think she even
told my dad about this.
I think your mother wanted
you to find those letters.
What makes you think that?
I mean you said she used to hide
presents for you in
the desk drawers.
The Christmas scavenger hunt.
I think maybe
this was one final
gift just for you.
I don't know.
It doesn't feel very
much like a gift.
It feels like a burden.
We don't know how
the story ends yet.
You know,
when I first moved
to Oliver's Well,
I was seeing someone
and I realized pretty
quickly she wasn't the one.
She knew it too.
But letting go
was so hard.
I think I've kept to myself
because...
Because it's scary.
Caring about someone.
Yeah.
I think I was waiting
for someone to remind me
that it was worth it.
Oh no!
Oh no.
They're okay.
I think they're okay.
You do?
Yes.
See, no damage.
Wait.
I don't think I ever saw
this postscript before.
"PS, the only photograph I
have where I do not look dour."
There's a photograph.
He gave her a photo!
That's more than initials!
Yeah.
Aunt Em.
Hey!
What are you guys up to?
We are looking for
grandma's angels.
It's not Christmas without
those beautiful gold angels.
What are you doing?
Just looking through
some of moms old things.
I swear, that woman
kept everything.
Ooh!
Check this out.
I love that she kept that.
What is it?
Wait til you see.
Is that grandma's wedding dress?
My god, she was so tiny.
I know.
You know, grandma
was studying fine arts.
Just like you when
she met grandpa.
Actually not
staying in fine arts.
I'm switching to pre-med.
When did you decide that?
Well I've been taking the
science courses as electives
and acing all of them, so...
That's fantastic Rumi.
Congratulations.
I'm sorry.
I'm so proud.
I'm just surprised.
Apparently not a good surprise.
Rumi, hold on.
So much for being able
to tell you anything.
Andie.
Going to medical
school isn't exactly
the worst form of rebellion.
Of course not, it's just...
She didn't tell me.
She didn't discuss it with me.
And now she might be
going to med school.
She's gonna be
across the country.
Yeah.
You're gonna be alright.
You both are.
It's just,
New York was only
a few hours away
and you lost touch
with mom and dad.
You were so close
before you left.
Rumi doesn't have to move away
to know how much
she loves it here
if she already does.
What do you mean?
I've been thinking
about it lately.
I really wish I hadn't
stayed away so long.
I missed out on a lot.
I know that.
I should probably go downstairs.
I think Morgan's
maybe here by now.
Yeah, I'm just...
You go.
I'm gonna stay up here
and spend some more
time with moms things.
- Bye.
- Bye.
Why are you here Mr. Morgan?
Well, I'm helping Aunt
Emma with her house.
Why?
Because I have a special
knowledge of old things.
Why?
Because I think it's
important to learn
and remember from the past.
Like for example,
what you're making?
I'm making a star to
put on top of the tree.
Do you guys know what they
used to decorate trees with?
Did they put paper snowflakes?
No.
Popcorn!
Close, close, warmer.
You know what it was?
Food.
What!
Yes!
They used to put candy canes,
gingerbread shapes,
like apples painted with gold.
Yum.
Delicious right?
Hey kids.
What exactly have you roped
Mr. Shelby into?
I found out that the
Reynold's Christmases
are very hands on.
Look, what I found.
This was in the attic.
In my moms hope chest.
This is RJ.
Yeah.
Do you recognize it.
Unfortunately no.
I haven't shown 'em
to anybody else yet.
Anyway.
Oh yeah, yeah.
I broke the other one of these.
We had a fight.
My mom and me.
It was before I moved
to New York.
Right after law school.
That's the reason
why I never came back
for Christmas after that.
My dad offered me the
opportunity to work with him
at the Reynolds firm.
But I said no.
I wanted to move to New York.
My mother made me feel like
I was breaking my fathers heart.
I said some horrible,
awful things to her.
Our relationship was never
the same after that.
She just wanted you
to come home.
I know that now.
And I know she regretted it
just as much as I did.
Neither one of us ever
apologized to the other.
We were just too stubborn.
It was easier I guess
to just stay away.
I wasted so much time.
And now she's gone.
Parents and children,
they fight.
It happens.
It's funny, I've never told
anybody about that fight.
That's okay.
Another secret
that's safe with me.
Thanks.
Ian, hi.
Hey, how are you?
I'm good.
I didn't know you were coming.
- Good to see you.
- Good to see you.
- Hey!
- Uncle Ian!
Oh merry Christmas!
Ian, your Ian?
Yeah.
No, I mean no.
I mean yes,
but he's not my Ian anymore.
Don't open them okay?
- Hey!
- Hey!
It's a Christmas miracle.
He's driven all this way.
We broke up.
I didn't invite him.
Don't look at me,
I didn't either.
Well I told him I didn't...
Oh no.
What?
I told him I didn't want
more phone calls.
Well this certainly
isn't a phone call.
No it's not.
Ian Tillman, cardiologist.
Morgan Shelby, antiques.
So how do you know
the family Morgan?
I'm helping Emma.
You know, with the house.
What are you talking about?
No, of course
it doesn't have anything
to do with Morgan Shelby.
I only just met him.
Morgan loves Oliver's Well.
He's not gonna chase you
to New York.
Clearly Ian's not giving up
so easily.
Doesn't that say something?
A lot of money in antiques?
Not in it for the paycheck.
Right, right.
Emma tells me you two broke up.
We're just going through
a little rough patch.
But I think
that her Christmas present
might change things.
For the better.
Ian, were we expecting you?
I was hoping it would be
a Christmas surprise.
So many of those this year.
I'll give you guys some space.
It was nice to meet you.
Emma, why don't I show
Ian where the guestroom is.
Good idea, thank you.
Okay.
Alright.
Hey Morgan.
Wait, you don't have to go.
Well, you might have
some catching up to do.
No, I didn't invite him here.
He came after me.
I know but he's not giving up.
And I can't fault him.
Get inside.
Before you freeze.
Okay.
It's good to see you Em.
You look good.
Chilled.
Ian, what are you doing here?
Look, if you want
me to go, I'll split.
But I had to try.
Now come on Em.
It's practically Christmas Eve.
I mean okay, fine Ian.
You can stay for one night.
Good.
Thank you.
This is a great house.
I always forget how great it is.
So my ex-boyfriend is downstairs
basically saying he is
here to win me back.
It's quite romantic.
But it doesn't make
a lick of difference
if you don't love him.
I do love him.
I did.
I don't know.
I just wanted a sign,
I wanted some clarity.
Now I feel more confused.
Well I would just
like to point out there
are zero men after me right now.
Zero.
Who is this handsome fellow?
Mom was gonna leave
Oliver's Well?
Did you read this?
Yeah.
Move to Chicago.
I had no idea she'd
ever even consider
something like that.
We're not gonna share
this with Daniel are we?
No.
Not at Christmastime.
Anyway, I've hit a dead end now.
Photo or not.
Why wouldn't she
tell us about him?
Well, Morgan thinks
maybe she left the
letters in her desk on
purpose for me to find.
Like...
Like your Christmas
scavenger hunts.
Mom always tried to help us
avoid mistakes she made.
Maybe RJ was a mistake.
Wait, does that mean you think I
should go back to Ian?
It means you should
stop worrying about
what other people think.
Trust yourself.
If it's a mistake,
you learn from it.
Maybe you should trust Rumi too.
Being a mother
is ridiculously hard.
I wish mom were here.
Me too.
With all my heart.
Alright.
Who is hungry?
Me!
Those look good, right Sophie?
Here ya go buddy.
The Christmas tree!
Me next, me next, me next!
Here.
I told them I'm usually
king of the kitchen,
but he insisted.
Oh you need a
break sometimes man.
Plus, these are a
bit of a specialty.
Thank you.
Oh no thanks.
Alright family,
eat 'em while they're hot.
These taste funny.
Like play-doh.
Kids, don't be rude.
They're gluten-free.
I think they're delicious.
Well, they're your
Auntie Emma's favorite.
Actually no.
I never wanted to
hurt your feelings
but I prefer pancakes
made the old fashion way.
Good to know.
So what time is that
couple coming over
to see the house?
Around 11.
Anne Marie and I have to be at
the Bernadette house at noon.
And we need Andie
to watch the kids.
Well, Emma and I
can show them around.
No problem.
Right?
Yeah, yeah.
Absolutely.
You'll notice the
excellent detailing here.
There's lots of room in this
house for a family to grow.
The dining room.
Yes, the dining room.
You alright?
A little hard watching
a family in the house.
Yeah.
It is, unexpectedly so.
Well it is a beautiful house.
And if I was living
in the country
I couldn't imagine a
better place to call home.
It's funny, lately
I've been wondering
what if I did live
in the country?
No, Oliver's Well was
suffocating for you remember?
Yeah, it was.
I don't know, dreams change.
I've been realizing maybe I need
to be flexible enough
to change with them.
Emma.
It was my fault.
Us breaking up.
I got scared.
Scared?
Of what?
Of commitment.
Of tradition.
Of settling down.
I'm not scared anymore though.
Now I was gonna wait 'til
tomorrow to do this but
I've waited long enough already.
Ian.
Emma Reynolds,
will you marry me?
You said you always needed
commitment and romance,
and you're right.
I can do that.
Ian this is...
You don't have to answer now.
Think about it.
It's a shock, I
know, I'm not stupid.
But love isn't always as easy
as your folks made it seem.
Plus, this is always
kind of how you
imagined it isn't it?
Christmastime, mistletoe.
I mean yes, it is.
Ian!
What are you...
- What do you mean?
- I didn't say yes.
It's stuck!
The ring is stuck.
It won't come off.
Emma?
Emma?
Ian?
Yeah?
It's practically a blizzard
out there.
Daniel just called.
He's nearly incoherent.
Something happened
with the servers.
We need to get there.
- Okay.
- Okay.
I haven't been here in so long
I don't even remember
where the kitchen is.
Ian, would you take our coats?
Yes.
Find some place to put them.
Yeah, whatever you need.
Thank you.
Welcome.
Thanks.
Something happened
during that house tour.
Thank goodness you're here.
Uncle Daniel is losing
his mind about the waiters.
- What about the waiters?
- Just, we just need to go.
They're stuck, in Charlotte.
All my catering
staff are snowed in.
Take a breath Daniel.
Take a breath?
This is the historical societies
biggest event of the year.
It needs to be flawless.
Since when is
anything ever flawless?
And Anne Marie and the
kids are at her parents.
They're snowed in too.
If we ruin this...
It won't be ruined Daniel.
What are you doing?
Andie and I both
waitressed in high school.
Rumi, you just need to give
me a little refresher course.
Don't spill.
And don't eat all the food.
Okay.
No, Mary Bernadette will know.
So pretend it was planned.
People are gonna love seeing
the Reynolds sister serving.
Come on Daniel.
Isn't this exactly what our
parents would have done?
When things don't
go exactly as planned,
that's when the magic happens.
Emma,
what is that on your finger?
No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no.
No, no, no.
That's, this is stuck.
This is not.
Fresh from the oven.
Hey, so what happened?
He proposed but
I didn't say yes.
Does Ian know that?
Yes, he said I
could think about it
but then the ring got stuck
and then you came in.
Sweetie, if you have
to think about it,
isn't that an answer?
Excuse me.
You came.
You look beautiful.
Thank you.
You do realize this is
a Christmas party right?
Dancing, people, socializing.
Not really your thing right?
Somebody once told me I need
to stop hiding in the background
and get out of my comfort zone.
Morgan.
I found him.
I found RJ.
You're kidding?
Where? Here?
Yeah.
Where?
The photo of him.
Saint Nicks Christmas Shop.
Bobby and Rachel Jacobs.
Bobby, Robert.
Robert Jacobs.
That is one of my
favorite photos of us.
It was the first Christmas
we opened the shop.
RJ, RJ was your husband.
RJ, I haven't
heard that in years.
You know, he started
going by Bobby
after we were married.
Rachel and RJ, just
sounded too cute for him.
So how did you two meet?
Your mother introduced us.
It's one of the reasons
why we kept making
those blue ribbon wreaths.
She started it all.
Mrs. Jacobs, Emma and
I found some letters.
Love letters from an old
fiance we never knew about.
Well, it is the true beginning
that always gets left out
of their famous love story.
But, it doesn't seem like
now's the time to tell it.
Would you like to come
over to the house later?
I have to leave right
after Christmas.
I would love that.
I have seen 32 Honeysuckle
Lane in a long while.
But now I think I'm
gonna go track down
one of those delicious quiche.
Okay.
I'll see you later.
Yes.
Well that's not where I thought
the evening was going.
I've made a pretty big decision.
About?
Morgan!
Hi.
- I thought I lost ya.
- Never.
Emma, do you know Maureen?
Of course.
Emma you look gorgeous.
Oh, well.
The apron wasn't really
part of the outfit,
but we Reynolds never do
anything according to plan.
Is that?
Oh my gosh, that
ring is stunning.
Congratulations.
So, who's the lucky man?
Well it just happened.
I haven't actually...
A Christmas proposal
is almost as romantic
as a Christmas wedding.
Congratulations Emma.
I'm very happy for you and Ian.
I should probably get back
out to Andie and Daniel.
They probably
think I've run off.
Enjoy your evening you two.
Christmas miracle.
Hey are you
hiding back here?
Yeah.
Ian we need to talk.
You made your decision.
I'm sorry, I can't marry you.
You deserve to be with somebody
who is completely, crazy,
madly in love with you.
Who doesn't have to think twice
about whether they
want to marry you.
And I deserve...
Someone who actually knows you.
Yeah.
I just want you to be happy.
Hey, will you
stay for Christmas?
If not for me, for Daniel.
That's nice Em but
I think it's best if I leave.
I don't regret one second.
Not one.
Me neither.
You alright Em?
Alright and better.
Guess who I found a photograph
of on Mary's wall?
What's going on?
They met in college.
Your mother planned
to leave home for good,
join Bobby, RJ she called him
in Chicago after graduation.
I can't even imagine
mom living anywhere else.
No.
Once upon a time she
wanted to be a city girl.
Then that summer changed
everything though.
Bobby arrived in Oliver's
Well to find Carol
in love with the town
and with another man.
So she left him,
broke off the engagement
to be with dad?
She told Bobby right
away, there were no lies.
No secrets.
And Bobby stayed?
Why?
The magic of Oliver's Well.
He felt at home here.
He must've been so angry.
Hurt.
At first, certainly.
But darling,
it takes guts to leave
someone who is wrong for you.
To admit you made a mistake.
And in this tale it was
the absolute best decision.
Mom allowed not just one
but two love stories to begin.
She gave me the best
gift I could ever ask for.
I owe her so much.
Oh we loved both of them
more than words can say.
I gotta tuck the kids into bed.
Merry Christmas Mrs. Jacobs.
Merry Christmas Daniel.
Emma.
Emma.
Emma wake up.
It's Christmas.
Merry Christmas sweetie.
Daniel's up.
Okay.
We thought we heard something.
Taking after dad?
Doing a little last
minute present wrapping?
Couldn't sleep.
That was not the Christmas
Eve that I had planned.
It was a success.
You and Anne Marie
were a triumph.
Yet, in the middle of it,
my sister managed to get
engaged and unengaged.
Then I find out our parents
fairytale love story
has a serious twist.
A secret they kept from me.
Us.
I don't think it was
intentional deception.
Memories get foggy.
What else don't we know?
I have so many questions.
Questions I was too busy to ask.
There's so much
more I want to say.
I know.
Me too.
I hate that we
can't talk to them.
I can't believe we lost them.
We haven't really
lost them you know.
They are everywhere.
They are in every
corner of this house.
They're in the lives
of so many people.
In us.
Hey.
You don't have to hold this
family together you know.
Not all by yourself.
We are all here for each other.
I was just trying
to make her proud.
Keep Christmas the way
they would of wanted.
I thought it might keep
it from hurting so much.
Well you did it.
You did it.
This is exactly the Christmas
they would have wanted.
Full of surprises.
Speaking of surprises,
I have one more for you both.
I've decided to buy this house.
What?
Yeah.
I'm moving back here.
And I'm gonna take
over the firm from Joe.
Daniel, this is a good thing.
I didn't know.
I didn't even think you...
Emma the Davis' made an
offer yesterday morning
after they saw the house.
And I accepted on our behalf.
Okay.
Hey it's fine, it's no big deal.
That just means it wasn't
meant to be, that's all.
Oh no.
Before breakfast even.
Hey, I make my own rules.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas baby sister.
I am gonna head back.
Oliver's Well
will still be here.
Morgan Shelby might not be.
Morgan thinks of me as a friend.
He also thinks you're engaged.
You guys better get in there.
The kids are gonna
mutiny if we don't
start opening presents.
Hey you two, talk.
So,
I'm sorry I didn't tell
you about med school.
And I'm sorry I made
you feel like I was
too busy to listen.
You have everything it takes
to be an excellent doctor.
You mean that?
I do.
I just feel like
I'm disappointing you.
Rumi,
do you have any
idea how proud I am
that even I wasn't
even able to sway you?
If there's one thing I
learned from my mother
it's that you have
to let your children
follow their dreams.
And trust that they'll
come home to you.
Grandma had a hard
time with that
and now, I am too.
Promise me one thing okay.
That you will tell
me when you're making
these big life decisions?
So I can just pretend
you still need me.
I don't have to pretend mom.
I do need you.
At least...
A present here for you Emma.
Wait there's no tag.
Not from me.
Or us.
Don't look at me.
Okay.
It's just like the one mom had.
I broke the other one
years ago by accident.
When I had that fight with mom.
"Dear Emma, Merry Christmas."
This gentleman journeyed
to my shop two years ago.
Kept him hidden because I
couldn't bear to sell him.
I think he'd be better
off with you though.
I hope he'll bring you joy,
because I certainly
have found joy
in your company this Christmas.
It's from Morgan.
Emma.
What was the moral
of our parents love story?
To be brave.
I have to go.
Go where?
I left things all wrong
with Morgan.
But I have a turkey cooking.
But I'm leaving tomorrow.
It's Christmas Daniel.
You know anything is
possible at Christmas.
Emma hi, Merry Christmas.
Hey, Merry Christmas Maureen.
I'm so sorry to interrupt.
May I have a quick word...
I've got it Maureen.
Hey.
Hi.
I take it you got my gift?
I did.
I can't believe
you had him here.
Thank you so much.
Did you drive all the way
out just to say thank you?
You didn't have to do that.
Well I'm leaving first thing
tomorrow morning
so it's now or never.
I heard the house sold.
Maureen knows the
couple who bought it
so I guess it all
worked out in the end.
I'm glad.
I want you to know,
this Christmas would
have been a lot harder
for me without you.
That's what friends are for.
I don't wanna leave
without giving you your gift.
Give it a chance.
Maybe it'll grow on you.
Thank you.
Anyway.
Emma.
Yeah.
Don't stay away so long.
Next time.
Okay.
I won't.
If you and Maureen end up
coming to New York,
look me up.
Bye.
Really? You should
of told her there was
nothing going on between us.
I didn't realize
that's what she meant.
But what's the point?
She's engaged and she's...
She wasn't wearing
the ring today.
You think a woman
like Emma Reynolds
comes around every Christmas?
No.
I think it's been years
since she's been here
and it's gonna be
even more years before
she comes back to Oliver's Well.
She didn't come over
here just to say thank you.
Now's the part when
you run after her
and you tell her
that you love her.
Because you do.
I know because you've
never bought one before.
What are you doing here?
I think I owe you
a hot chocolate.
Emma.
Yeah.
I need to know.
What happened with Ian?
Ian left.
He went home for Christmas.
Without you?
I told him no.
I couldn't marry him.
I realized that my mother
was really brave about
speaking the truth
about how she felt
and what was in her heart.
And I decided I have
to be the same way.
So I told him no, we weren't
right for each other.
But the ring.
The ring was stuck.
I couldn't get it off.
That's terrible.
I know, you're telling me.
But you should be home
with Maureen right now.
Maureen's my cousin.
You're kidding.
No.
I should tell you
when I was buying
tickets for the ball.
I was planning on
asking you when we
were decorating the tree.
But then when Ian came,
I just thought...
Getting to spend part of
your Christmas with you
has taught me that I've
been playing it safe.
Sticking to what I know
instead of being open to...
To taking chances.
I've learned that
I don't care if I
have to drive six
hours to see you.
I don't care what I have to do
as long as I get to see
you at the end of it.
And I've learned that
I never should of
let you off my front step
and I'm not gonna
let you go now.
Emma.
I am
gratefully, happily,
and deeply in love with you.
I'm in love with you too.
Merry Christmas!
Hey Joe!
Hey, I come bearing
tidings of great joy.
What is this?
A little present
from your brother.
This is paperwork for the sale
of Honeysuckle house.
But Daniel...
I called the Davis',
told them everything,
and they released us
from the contract.
They totally understood
the change of heart.
The house is yours Emma.
Provided your siblings agree.
Of course, it's wonderful.
What?
Oh Joe!
Well in that case,
is the offer to take over
for you still on the table?
I thought you'd never ask.
I'll write up your
resignation letter
to Huntley and Morrison myself.
Welcome home Emma.
Everybody, here's to
another wonderful Christmas
on Honeysuckle Lane.
May there be many more.
This one's gonna be
pretty hard to top.
I'll try my best.
I hope you're hungry.
Oh yeah, of course.
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Christmas on Honeysuckle Lane (2018)
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