Christmas Cottage, The (2017)

[bunniefuu]

Your home should be your domain,

with a space devoted to work.

As I hope my design conveys,
at Quinn & Whistler

we aspire to advance
the concept of housing

from just home to whole life,
with a space for recreation,

and a space to rest in a room
that invites the outside in.

This is a concept house
that does away

with walls and limitations.

The occupant has
complete control

over their inside
and outside worlds.

Using virtual windows you can
gaze at whatever you desire.

That may be a sunny beach.

The New York skyline.

Or you can even have
Christmas 24/7.

How many rooms come equipped
with this feature?

All of them.

So each inhabitant can have
a personalized experience.

Very impressive.

That's not all.

The house is not only
designed to address

the inhabitant's need
but also intuit their needs.

The house knows when to
put itself and its occupants

into rest mode.

Sensors in the house acclimate
to your patterns

so it knows when you finish work
and go to bed,

and it knows when you wake.

The house wakes up, too.

I feel like I could
move in tomorrow.

I could move in today.

Very, very impressive.

Lacey.

You blew the clients away.

You mean prospective clients.

After your design
and presentation

we are on the verge of landing
the biggest clients

at Quinn & Whistler
has ever had.

It's time to celebrate.

What is this about?

Word travels fast.

So, as all of you have heard,
we are this close to cinching

the Pine Bay Development deal.

It's a housing development
of 20 houses and our design,

our model house is still among
the top choices.

So eat, drink, and be merry

because after the holidays
it's over.

Overtime for all of you.

- To you.
- Cheers.

Don't you think it's
a little premature?

Fortune favours the bold.

And workaholics?

To us.

Pine Bay emailed
over the specifications

for the revised renderings.

It looks doable.

Nothing that you can't handle.

I can't believe this is
happening now.

Could the timing be any worse
for the career shot

of a lifetime?

You mean the holidays?

We broke through
Christmas before.

I mean Ava's wedding.

Right.

- I fly out tonight.
- It's five days away.

- I'm maid of honour, remember?
- Cancel.

Walter.

You get the flu, it's bad.

Pine Bay Development flu.

It's contagious.

You don't wanna get
anybody sick.

I mean, you weren't that eager
to go in some winter lodge

and wear a big poofy dress,
were you?

I'm pretty sure backing out
of your best friend's wedding

is ground for friends divorce.

Right.

Besides, it's Christmas.

When miracles happen.

And I promise we will get
all of the work done

and we will land this deal.

Promise?

Have I ever let you down?

Never.

See you in a few days.

Thank you.

- Ava!
- Hi!

- You're here!
- Hi!

Isn't it all just the best?

Christmas, my wedding,
two of my favourite things.

Since you were six years old.

Five, actually.

Tell me this isn't a case of
last minute cold feet.

Hardly.

I just thought I'd take some
stuff up to the cottage today.

I know in all of
the wedding madness

Mason and I will forget things
that we need.

Come with me?

I mean, it's been forever
since we've both seen it

and we've spent so many
happy times there.

I would love to
but I was going to try

and get a little work in
before the welcome party.

We're on the verge of landing
this huge project.

I was kind of hoping
that this could be

a work-free zone for you.

I'm sure I can spare
a little time.

OK.

Let me put my suitcase upstairs.

OK, let's go.

So, how's Roger?

He's great.

Our design firm is doing
really well.

No, I wasn't asking about your
professional life with Roger,

I was asking
about your personal life.

Our relationship makes sense.

We're great partners,
we get each other.

Really?

He's smart and accomplished.

He's driven.

He's handsome and successful
and I never have

to worry about what
his priorities are.

Well, that's all great
but not exactly

"sweep you off your feet" great.

Don't you want that?

True love?

Passion?

Romance?

I did, probably, you know,
when I was a teenager.

Getting swept off your feet
isn't everything,

and with Roger
everything's clear.

He's reliable, stable,
predictable.

There's no...

Ean!

Hi!

Hi, little sis!

Surprises.

Lacey, dear.

Aunt Sarah.

Oh my gosh.

What a treat to have you here.

So, I hear you're quite
accomplished now.

I never doubted it.

You know, all that time you
spent drawing up in the cottage.

I knew it would mount
to something.

You were always encouraging
my creativity.

It meant a lot.

Especially when my mom
passed away

and my dad was trying to do
everything on his own.

It's terrible to lose a parent
when you're so young.

But I was honoured to be
your village.

You have to find me and
tell me all about your life

in San Francisco.

- OK.
- Promise?

I can't believe you made it.

You really kept us guessing up
until the last minute.

I know, my schedule's
a little erratic.

But even vagabond chef's can't
miss their sister's wedding.

And look, an early wedding gift.

Fresh mistletoe from an island
off the coast of Scandinavia.

I will hang this in
the Christmas Cottage.

I'm on my way there now
with Lacey.

Great.

That's... that's great.

I'm glad that she's here.

I'm surprised she's not working.

I'm kidding.

No, that's... that's good
that she's here.

And don't worry, everything
will be cool between us.

Solemn promise?

Ava, we dated a lifetime ago.

Two lifetimes ago.

At least that's what
it felt like.

Hi Lacey.

Hi Ean.

Well, you look just like
I would imagine

a big city designer to look.

And you're very backpacker chic.

This is kinda
the standard uniform

for us culinary explorers.

Of course.

I didn't know that was
an official career.

Official, no.

But you know better than most,

I've never been a fan of
official titles.

Yeah, I know that very well.

Hey all.

- Hi!
- Welcome.

Hey.

Hey, buddy.

Mason, honey, good timing.

Why don't you help Ean
get settled in

and Lacey and I will go
up to the cottage.

Great.

OK.

See you all later.

Have fun.

- Bye.
- See you all later.

It's been so long.

Yep, still looks the same.

Probably the same
when Ean's saw it too.

Can you believe
that we're back here?

You ready?
Alright, let's go.

Remember when we used
to pretend this place

was an enchanted castle?

Of course.

Forks and spoons were wands,

the glasses were
magical crystals.

I still think this place
is enchanted.

There's magic here at Christmas,
I can feel it.

You know, anyone
who's ever stayed here

during Christmas time
has found true love.

Don't you think that's a myth?

Well, it's been in my family
for generations

and it's been proven right
for generations.

My great-grandmother pretended
that she wasn't

absolutely in love
with my great-grandfather.

And so they spent the night
here one Christmas

and then they woke to find
that they were deeply in love

and they spent the rest
of their lives that way.

And then my grandparents
spent their wedding night here,

same thing.

And then you know how loving

and wonderful Aunt Sarah's
marriage was.

They were happy every day
they spent together.

Soon Mason and I will find
that same magical happiness.

Is that why you chose this place
for your honeymoon

instead of, say, Hawaii
or Greece or Tahiti?

You can tease me all you want.

I still believe it
and you used to, too.

Remember when we would
run around here with towels

on our heads pretending
we were brides?

Until Ean made fun of us.

That was so long ago.

It's great that you
still believe it.

And it's sweet of you to offer
to get it all set up for us.

Are you kidding?

Design is my speciality.

Still, thanks for stepping in.

With all of the wedding stuff
coming up

I don't even have time to think
about getting this place

spruced up and I want it
to look perfect.

I'm way ahead of you.

I ordered all the decorations
online

with overnight shipping,

it'll be here tomorrow and then
all I have to do is set it up.

I even got this super cool
mid-century modern tree.

OK, time out.

You ordered a tree?

Yeah.

It's very retro-chic.

Lacey, I don't want
a retro-chic tree.

I want a big pine tree.

You know, the kind
that you cut down?

You want me to cut down a tree.

That's... that's a little more
time consuming.

I want this place to just be
bursting with Christmas.

With a few designer flourishes,
right?

I mean, I do have
a theme picked out.

Just make sure it feels
like Christmas.

The ones we used to spend here.

OK.

Anyways, we should
get back to the hotel

so that you can get changed

into your party gear
for the welcome party.

This is my party gear.

But it's... it's so Grey.

And sleek and sophisticated.

This is all I own.

OK, you've become
one of your designs.

We need to get colour back
into your life asap.

- Hi.
- Hey.

How are the designs coming?

Great.

I blocked out 4 pm on tonight
to finish up.

That's fantastic.
I'm almost done with the budget.

How's everything at the wedding?

It's great.
It's really nice to see everyone.

Great.

Well, I'm working like crazy
over here.

I just wanna make sure that all the
materials are available so we can dive in.

If we get this we can line up
work for years.

- Fingers crossed.
- OK.

- What about...
- Have fun.

- Hi.
- Hi.

- So, how are you?
- Good. You?

Fantastic, yeah.

Ava tells me you're
seeing someone.

That's great.
What's his...

Awesome.

Great. Amazing.

I was gonna ask his name.

Roger.

Roger.

Didn't you have like a gerbil
or something named...

Robert.

It was a hamster.

That's right, I remember.

You used to build him
these little houses

with beds and cute windows.

You were designing even then.

So things are good
with this guy?

Close to perfect.
We work together so it's easy.

We know each other really well.
He's really focused on work.

Well, that's good.
You always made work a priority

so it's good you found someone
who does, too.

It's great.
Really great.

I guess it's a choice.

You know, some people choose
to prioritize work

and some people choose to
prioritize relationships.

I prioritize both.

Yeah, I'm just thinking
out loud.

You know, I just think that,
in general,

people who prioritize
relationships are happier.

Well, in general, it's hard
to prioritize a relationship

when people are so unreliable.

I totally agree.

By unreliable do you mean
not content to sit around

and wait for their
significant other

to pay attention to them?

By unreliable I mean someone
who, you know,

bolts halfway around the world
when he feels

he's not the sole focus
of your life.

I never asked to be the sole
focus of your life, Lacey.

I would have taken less.

But sometimes it felt like
you couldn't even give me that.

So I'm glad you found
someone who sees relationships

the way you do.

Oh, darling, you look radiant.

Awe, thanks, mom.

Well, hello.

Aunt Sarah, hi!

You look beautiful.

Thank you.

May I say a word or two?

Of course.

You are the hostess
of the welcome party.

First of all I want
to welcome you

and thank you all for traveling
here during Christmas.

It's a tradition in our family
to get married on Christmas Eve

and to spend their honeymoon
in the family cottage.

It brings happiness and good
fortune to the couple.

It's kind of like a family myth.

Some believe it, some don't.

I'm a believer.

I had a wonderful marriage
for 34 years

and, although George
is no longer with us,

I feel his love every day.

Like me, Ava has always believed
in the magic of Christmas.

Maybe it's because she watched
"It's a Wonderful Life"

too many times.

To Ava and Mason.

May the joy of
the Christmas season

live in your marriage forever
and in your hearts.

Cheers.

I'll send over the rough specs
for the lighting fixtures

in an hour, and I'll upload
a premium rendering

to DropBox and...

Lacey, dear, can we have
a little talk?

In some place a little
more quiet.

Sure.

- I'll call you back.
- Good.

Let's go in here.

You know how special
the cottage is.

Ava says that you're gonna
help decorate.

That is so sweet of you
to take that on

given your tight schedule.

Anything for Ava.

Well, just remember,
it's the traditions.

Traditions, yes.
I have it all figured out.

I ordered these online.

Fifteen strands of twinkle
lights and ornaments.

They're gonna be amazing.
They come in a pure white.

A bit minimalist.

They're different.
And bright.

But not very colourful.

Just remember,
Ava loves Christmas.

Of course.

Lacey.

Don't escape to your work
just yet.

I'm beginning to think
that might be impossible.

The key to the cottage.

Have fun decorating.

And think Christmas.

I'm going first thing
in the morning.

What're you doing here?

I'm here to help.

I don't need your help.

Ava asked me to...

Decorate, I know.

But Mason asked me to help

and I can't relinquish my best
man duties.

So where do we begin?

Alright.

So the best trees
are towards the back.

The trees in the barn
are pre-cut.

Let's just pick out one of those,
bring it back to the cottage,

decorate it, then I can get back
to the hotel

and have plenty of time to work.

I'm afraid I'm going
to have to pull

Callaghan family rank
on you here, Lacey.

It's tradition to cut down
our own tree.

I'm sure Ava would agree.

Fine.

I can handle the tree if you
need to return business calls.

I'm not returning calls.

I'm setting a timer
for when we need

to be finished at the cottage.

Very efficient of you.

And I'm looking up how to best
chop down a Christmas tree.

Seriously, Lacey, I got this.

No.

Why not?

Because you're gonna choose
some misshapen...

Original. Unique.

Asymmetrical.

Non-conformist.
A little on the wild side.

Shrub.

That's a low blow, you know.

I just want it to be perfect
for Ava.

Well, you know what they say.
If you want something done right...

You pick a tree
and I'll start sawing.

This one.
It's perfect.

And I'll do the sawing.

This e-how video got five stars.

Cutting down a tree
in two minutes flat.

You are nothing
if not efficient.

Are you sure you
don't want my help?

Positive.

Because I'm pretty good
at this kind of thing.

I'm on a schedule here, Ean.

What's your schedule
for this tree?

Well, it should be down
in a few seconds

and we'll take it home
and decorate it...

Lacey, the tree's about to fall.

I told you my method
was efficient.

No, it's about to fall on you.

Well, now that it's down
what do we do with it?

You sure you don't wanna
YouTube it?

OK, let's pick up some firewood
while we're here,

take it back and decorate it.

Let's get some food first.

We don't have time to eat, Ean.

It's not for us, it's for Ava
and Mason at the cottage.

Believe it or not, most
human beings can't survive

on ambition alone.

OK, let's dive in.

We have a lot of work to do.

Hey, we'll get it done
before the day of the wedding.

I was hoping we'd have it done
in a couple hours.

I have to work.

I'll put the food away if you
can put the Christmas tree up.

Deal.

What's that?

Christmas lights.

In pure white.

It's a clean, bright look.

It's supposed to suggest
a forest.

Kinda bland, don't you think?

Just plain white?

I have a vision of a brightly
lit winter wonderland.

No.

I vaguely recall you having a
vision of a toboggan one winter

that required me to duct tape
two cookie sheets

and a roasting pan together.

In other words, your vision
means my labour.

And this looks like
it's gonna require

a lot of extension cords.

Nope, no, I got it.

Please.
Spare me the e-how this time.

I'll get the cords.

Yeah.

This place could use
a freshening up.

It doesn't get used
as much as it used to.

Yeah.

And I don't think
you should start

a married life surrounded
by dust.

No, I'll tell you what.

I will turn on the water
to clear all the pipes

and then we should clean
the fireplace.

- OK.
- OK.

What...

I opened the flue.

I...

Oh, Lacey.

Don't you remember

that thing's been broken
for years.

I can't believe I did this.

Hey, it's OK.

I will handle this mess
while you clean up,

and then we'll decorate,
alright?

OK.

Thank you.

I can't reach.

It's perfect.

Not yet.

What are those?

Christmas ornaments.

Old family Christmas ornaments.

Ean, the tree's already done.

The colours are perfect.

There are no colours.

Well, technically there are.

There's eggshell and Chantilly
and solar.

That's so boring.

You say boring, I say sophisticated.

Lacey, these ornaments
mean something to my family.

We keep them up here
so we can put them

on the Christmas cottage tree
every year.

OK, can't you just cede to
my expertise this one time?

Honestly, Ean, people pay me
a lot of money

for my design sense.

For my vision.

OK. OK.

But this place
is about tradition.

It's about memories and family
and warmth and connection.

Besides, this is about Ava
and what she wants

and I'm pretty sure if she was
given the choice

between Christmas elegance

and Christmas expl*si*n
she would probably choose...

Christmas expl*si*n.

Fine, fine, we'll put up a few.

For Ava.

Great.

OK, let's start with...
this guy.

Well, there's snow
in the forecast.

Looks like you're gonna get
your white Christmas.

That's so great.

I should text Lacey though
and let her know.

Those roads can
get pretty slippery.

Good idea.

Look.

Our first Christmas
at the cottage.

Awe, that was so fun.

You should probably put it back
in the box.

It might be awkward having it
on the tree.

Yeah, I just thought
you might like to see it.

Well, design school sure
paid off for you.

Speaking of, I should
get back to the hotel.

I have some drawings
that are due tonight.

Looks like we're getting
out of here just in time.

Actually we're not.

What does that mean?

It means we're snowed in.

No.

Looks like we're spending
the night here tonight.

There's gotta be an open
road somewhere.

I need to get to my computer.

Lacey, there's only one road
up to the cottage.

Look, hopefully the roads
will be open in the morning

but there's nothing we can
do about it so let's just relax.

But I blocked out this time
to work.

So then work.

You used to draw amazing
designs freehand.

Roger's calling.

He is gonna stress if he knows

I can't get the blueprints
in tonight.

Kinda like you're stressing
right now?

Maybe you two are a good pair.

Please.
Just go be invisible, OK?

Roger.
How are you?

I'm great.
How are you?

Or, rather, where are you?

It looks like you're standing
in a closet.

I'm at the cottage.
The one I told you about?

- It's been in Ava's family for...
- Right. Right.

Hey, how are the designs coming?

They look good.

They should be done soon and...

Oh, no.

A call's coming in.

I have to take this.

Everyone's gone
for the holidays.

Can't wait to see you.

Now do you see why I need
to get to my laptop?

I have to have these designs
in before the wedding.

My whole firm's future
is riding on this.

Well, I can't help with
that but what I can say is

that freaking out about it
while you're snowed in

isn't gonna help.

Let's just try to relax.

I found these extra pajamas.

Go put those on.

We'll have a good night's sleep and
we'll be good to go in the morning.

Thank you.

I forgot how beautiful
it is here.

Yeah.

You know, Ava might be half
right about this cottage

and the family myth.

There's something magical
about this place.

To the Christmas cottage.

We're gonna eat through

all the gourmet snacks
you picked out.

We can always restock.

Besides, might as well make
the best of it.

So why didn't you tell Roger
the truth?

That we're stranded
in a blizzard

and you don't have
your computer?

This deal is everything.

We're getting work because
people anticipate us landing it.

Enough work to keep our staff
employed for years.

What's the project?

It's a new housing development.

I designed a concept house

that we were hoping
they'd buy and build.

The deal could be worth millions
for the firm.

What's the concept?

It's a live work space
but for the suburbs.

Taking down the walls
between professional space

and personal space.

Integration that kinda thing.

So basically you'll be at work
even when you're at home?

Precisely.

That sounds...

awful.

I don't think you are
our target customer.

Well...

Maybe we should turn in.

Yeah.

Why don't you take the bedroom
and I will take the couch?

No, I'm fine on the couch.

You...

Please.

I'm...

Well, no power means no heat.

Looks like we're both in front
of the fire tonight.

I'll get some blankets.

OK.

Alright, pick a couch.

Thanks.

This reminds me of camping.

You know, I was just thinking
the same thing.

I remember trying to light
a fire in the rain.

Do you also remember fishing
for our dinner

and only coming up with...

Two frogs and a branch?

Yeah.

Those were some of
the craziest, coldest,

most sleepless and best
vacations I ever took.

Yeah, me too.

I really wish we could have
taken that trip I planned for us

to the Caribbean.

I worked back-to-back weekends
for months to earn enough and...

I had to cancel because I got
a summer internship

in New York.

Yeah.

I was disappointed, but I
supported your decision.

If that's what you remember.

I'm sorry if I made you feel bad
about taking that internship.

No, it was a good thing.

We just weren't meant
to be together.

Lacey, it wasn't you.

I just wasn't ready to settle
down in one job

in one place for
the rest of my life.

I know.

It was pretty apparent
when you accepted a job

3,000 miles away without even
telling me you applied for it.

We just wanted
different things, Ean.

Good night.

Hey.

The power came back on.

Just in time for the most
important meal of the day.

I haven't had an Ean Callaghan
breakfast in a long time.

Well, then prepare to be amazed.

Yum.

Looks great.

You always knew the way
to a woman's heart

was through her taste buds.

Well, that is the real reason
I became a chef.

It was a shameless way
to impress the ladies.

Well, it worked.

I am amazed.

I'll never understand why you didn't
take the job at Les Bernadette.

It was a three-star restaurant.

I was young.
I had wanderlust.

I believed that any true chef
needed to go to these places

where various cuisines
were developed.

In order to understand the food
you need to understand

the culture.

I remember such grand
pronouncements.

But now making a meal
for one single appreciative...

Wildly appreciative.

...Person, feels pretty
great, too.

- Do you want some coffee?
- Yeah.

Consider it my Christmas blend.

No, no, no, no!

We should probably get going.

- We have our dress fittings.
- Right.

And Ava will freak
if we're late.

I thought I heard some
ploughs last night

so the roads should be clear.

Eat up.

We'll get you back to
the lodge in no time.

Oh my gosh!

You look so beautiful.

Doesn't she look great?

It looks great.

OK, are you ready?

Yeah.

I'm so sorry that happened
to you.

Was it horribly awkward?

Was what awkward?

Being stuck with Ean all night?

No, no.

It was fine.

It was fun, even.

OK, I know you've been dreading
this moment

and that bright colour
isn't your thing, but...

I like it.

Really?

Actually, I love it.

Good!

What is going on with you?

What do you mean?

You just seem so happy
and light.

It's Christmas.

It's your wedding.

What's not to be happy about?

OK, try it on.

- It looks really good.
- Yeah.

Yeah, it's perfect.

I'm so excited!
You look so handsome.

I'm so happy that they did
such a good job tailoring this.

Please tell me I don't look
silly in this dress.

Are you kidding me?

You look gorgeous.

I never did learn
how to tie these.

Neither could my dad.

Fortunately, I got
quite good at it.

I've been doing it for him
since I was ten.

Really?

Mason.

Do you see what I see?

Lacey and Ean.

They look so happy.

They do.

So, as you all know,

when Mason and I do our
first dance together

we'd like for all of you
to join us.

We'll dance in the centre
and then we'll first be joined

by the maid of honour
and our best man.

And then the rest of you
will circle around us.

Should we give it a try?

Yeah.

OK.

Ready, OK.

Good job, honey.

Thank you.

I'm sorry.

I still got two left feet.

It's OK, we all do, honey.
That's why we're rehearsing now.

OK.

I've never seen a more perfect
pair on the dance floor.

You guys are good.

Sorry to steal you away
from the fun.

I'm happy to be stolen.

I miss talking to you.

Me too.

You know, I don't get to travel
very much anymore

but I still love to hear about
life in San Francisco.

I think you might still have
some big city partying in you.

I realized a long time ago
where my home was.

It's a gift.

To know where you belong
and with whom.

You're talking about Roger?

So, is that where you belong?

With this new boyfriend,
in San Francisco?

Yeah, I think it is.

Well, that's wonderful, Lacey.

But, you know, coming back here
makes me think about different things.

Different paths I might
have taken.

There's something about
Christmas that always makes

people re-examine their lives.

Why is that?

Human nature, I guess.

We get to see the choices
other people made

and wonder if we're going down
the right path.

But I will tell you this.

When someone has a genuine
smile on her face

that's usually a good sign
that she's on the right path.

Ava.
What's up?

Nothing.
Can I come in?

Yes.

OK, I've known you too long.

What's going on in
that busy mind of yours?

OK, I don't want to interfere
or be insensitive

to your relationship
with Roger in any way.

You and Ean.

Don't deny it.

I was there when you guys
were together

and that's exactly what
it looked like today.

Look, it's really nice
to see him again

and we're actually having more
fun than I thought we would.

I guess the Christmas
cottage myth

isn't as loony as you thought.

You guys spent a night together
and now...

We're not having true love
forever more, OK?

We're just two exes that are
having a nice time together.

OK.

It's just, seeing you guys
so happy again,

especially when I thought you
weren't gonna get along at all,

was really nice.

It's like an early
Christmas present.

- Hey.
- Hi.

Look, I know you're busy working
but everyone needs sustenance.

Can I cook you lunch?

Sure.

- It smells incredible.
- Well, I went all out.

I almost felt like I owed you for being
my test subject through school.

We were broke students.

You were working
with oodles of noodles.

As I recall, you worked wonders.

You remember our first
Christmas together?

Yes, you made a Yorkshire
pudding in a toaster oven.

And I'm pretty sure we ate about

two pounds of ribbon candy
that night.

Tonight, however, I have
for you,

a miso-glazed turkey with roasted yams,
gochujang green beans,

and a five-spice gravy.

Now, I need your honest opinion.

Honestly, I would elope
with this plate if I could.

Can I let you in on
a little secret?

I haven't spent a Christmas
with my family in years.

Being back here where we spent
so many Christmases as kids...

Are you getting nostalgic?

Worse.

I've been thinking
about doing something

that I swore to myself
I never would.

Put down some roots back home.

Ean Callaghan.

"Put down roots" are three words
that I never thought

I would hear you say.

Seriously though?

Are you sure that's
what you wanna do?

No, I'm not sure at all.

But it's something
that I'm open to.

I've just been thinking about
what it would be like

to be closer to home.

To my family.
People I love.

And then I figured out
what it would be like to cook

the same ten dishes every day
for the rest of my life

and I do things like apply
for jobs in Finland

and start immediately
after Christmas.

Still, the thought of having my
own place is pretty appealing.

OK, what if...

you could have a different menu
every week?

Limited, but different.

A pop-up restaurant that's
always in the same place.

I can do pop-up Indian
or pop-up Brazilian.

Exactly.

It could be a small place,
manageable crowds,

warm, welcoming, adventurous.

Just like you.

People would love it.

That looks really cool.

Ean's Cafe.

We can work on the name.

We can?

Well, you can.

See? This is the Lacey
I remember.

Just drawing from her heart.

It's terrific to see.

Wait until it's finished.

OK.

What's that?

This is my very famous
Christmas dessert.

A Cranberry gingerbread souffle
with bourbon molasses sauce.

And to think I was expecting
a simple cobbler.

It smells heavenly.

Well, if I did it right
it should taste even better.

You did it right.

You should get a spoon so
I don't eat it all myself.

OK.

Do you think you could make
another one of these?

If you'll eat it, I'll make it.

I wish we could but we should
probably get back

to the cottage and finish up
for Ava.

And we need to restock.

Right. Right.

Maybe we could stop by and grab
a cider on the way.

I know this place that makes
a mean gingerbread cider.

Sounds amazing.

So, what's it like living in
so many places?

It was exhilarating.

A lot of time I'd show up
to a new place

and I wouldn't have
any kind of plan at all.

That would drive me crazy.

It's actually kinda great.

It would allow me to discover
all kinds of new things.

I would wander down random paths
or visit these remote towns

and that's always when
I would find something special.

Actually sounds kinda nice.

Nowhere you have to be,
nothing you have to do.

I can see the appeal of that.

- Well, you should try it sometime.
- What do you mean?

Something you've never done.

There's always something
to discover,

you just gotta be willing
to look.

Something you've never done?

Something I've never done.

These wreathes are amazing.

Thank you.

Well, I learned how to do
this from my mother.

Would you like to try?

I know you've got work to do.

No, no, let's build
some Christmas wreathes.

Hey.

Let's make some wreathes.

Come on.

I've never done this before.

That's why they call it
an adventure.

Start here, take a few boughs.

You know, you could put
that in your portfolio.

Very funny.

It's harder than it looks.

You did a lovely job.

See?
I did a lovely job.

It's perfect.

Really special.

Thank you.

That was amazing.

That's the most fun I've had
in a long time.

Well, you should let loose
more often.

You know what?

There's a tree-lighting tonight.

That's right.

I haven't been to one
of those in years.

Neither have I.

But, if my memory serves me correctly,
they put on quite a show.

Let's go.

OK, deal.

I should be able to have
my drawings finished by then.

We can drink hot chocolate
and sing carols.

I don't think I've seen you
this happy since I got here.

It feels like I'm looking
at the old Lacey again.

Say "cheese".

You know what?

You are just so full of
Christmas cheer right now

that I think it's time
you meet Santa.

I don't know if I'm ready
for Santa.

I think you are.

Come on.

Say "cheese".

Santa.

Hi, Santa.

Cheese.

Lacey.

Roger.

- You're here early.
- I know.

I had an idea about our
Pine Bay presentation.

Great.

You could have called.

You didn't have to come
a day early.

No, this is... this is big.

Roger Whistler.

Lacey's boyfriend.

Ean Callaghan.

I'm the bride's brother
and best man.

Right.

I've heard about you.

In the flesh.

So I'm gonna get checked in.

I pre-booked the study so
you can meet me in there.

Great.

You are gonna love
what I'm thinking.

Looks like I really do need
to work now.

Yeah.

Yeah, I get it.

Good luck.

Thanks.

Wait for me to finish
the cottage.

Sure.

So just go with me on this.

I was thinking about Pine Bay
and how we can make

Quinn & Whistler's presentation
really stand out.

OK.

We're gonna build a model
of your drawings.

Exactly like the ones that
we used to do in design school.

I love building models but...

And then we'll have it
at the presentation.

Lacey, come on.

You know how clients react
to actual tangible objects.

This is what could cinch it
for us.

We just... we have to dive in.

OK.

Let's get started.

There she is.

What's this?

It's a Christmas tree.

It makes it more homey.

Homey.

And a fireplace makes it
look more lived-in,

like there's actually life
inside these walls.

You do remember we're not
selling a home, right?

We're selling a live-work space.

Exactly.

And I think that that can be
enhanced by adding small details

to show more of the lived space.

How about a compromise?

A hint of Christmas,
a hint of home.

What's wrong?

I just don't know if this design
works anymore.

It feels so empty.

You're just getting cold feet.

On the home stretch.

Shake it off.

You're right.

I'm gonna do a coffee run.

Perfect.

I'll take a double espresso.

You left work behind.

Everyone needs
caffeine sometimes.

What're you doing
with those stockings?

I saw these at a kiosk over
there and I had to get them

for Ava and Mason.

I was gonna bring them up
to the cottage

when we go back in the morning.

There's nothing like a stocking
full of candy

on Christmas morning.

Unless, of course, the designer
has any objections.

No. No, not at all.
That's a great idea.

Maybe you could come help me.
I mean, if you're not too busy.

- The place looks beautiful right now.
- I would love to.

Well, I should get back.

Hey.

Don't forget about the
tree-lighting tonight.

It's the last big event
before Christmas.

Ean, I'm not sure
I'm gonna make it.

You can't miss it.

Come on, it signals that
Christmas is almost here.

Which, in this town,
is full-on Whoville.

I would love to, but...
duty calls.

Really, we have
so much work to do

if we're gonna get
this contract.

I understand.

Well, I don't.

Come on, Lacey.

Don't you remember
how much fun we had

at the tree-lighting
when we were little?

Yeah, come on.
It's gonna be a lot of fun.

Come on, Ava.
She has to work.

She also has to be
my maid of honour.

The whole wedding party
is going.

Come on, you can't miss it.

Please?

Ava, I'm sorry.

I wish I could.

Can't Roger work while you go
to the tree-lighting?

It's just that I never get
to see you anymore.

And if you can't, I understand.

But I would really like it if
my best friend was there, too.

I will try my best.

I'll keep my fingers crossed
that you do.

Bye.

It's supposed to be all white
on the inside walls.

No colour.

You're right.

I'm just... trying to find a way
to warm it up.

To make it more of a home.

Are you kidding?

This is the perfect home
for people like us.

That's who the customer is.

You know, the tree-lighting
is tonight.

Yeah, I never understood that.

Somebody plugs in a tree
and then everyone claps.

It's about community,
being together.

It's full-on Whoville.

It might be kinda fun.

Maybe for some people.

When I was a kid I used
to love it.

I felt like Christmas was
officially here as soon as

the tree downtown was lit.

Sounds like you really wanna
go to this tree-lighting thing.

No, it's just nostalgia.

I haven't been in years.

You know what?

I think I actually might go.

Lacey...

It won't take long, I can finish
this when I get back.

You know, I kinda forgot
how much I enjoy the holidays.

Do you wanna come?

It might be fun.

No thanks, I'm good.

I'll see you later.

You're being very weird.

Very, very weird.

- You're here!
- Yeah, I made it.

And it's Christmas.

Someone's getting
into the spirit of the season.

- Where's Roger?
- He's still working.

I'm gonna finish my end
when I get back.

I'm so glad you're here.

- You made it.
- Yeah, yeah.

It's been a long time since
I've been to something like this.

Well I'll have to get
another hot chocolate.

We can share.

OK.

Thank you.

Hey.

- I got whipped cream on my nose.
- Yes.

But for what it's worth you wear
dairy products very well.

You know, I've always had
a hard time saying no

to good desserts.

That's something I've always
admired about you.

So, do you still think
that I'm crazy

for believing the Christmas
cottage myth?

Yes.
I do. I do.

But only 'cause Lacey's
already told you

she's not in love
with Ean again.

I know, but they just look
so happy together.

Is it so wrong to hope?

Attention, everyone.

We're about to start
the tree-lighting.

Five. Four. Three. Two.

One.

So, should we go grab
a night cap?

Or we could go sit by the fire.

Or we could go for a spin around
the dance floor.

Come on, we need to practice
if we're not gonna get shown up

by Fred and Ginger here.

- Sure.
- Yeah. Sounds good.

OK.

I'm really glad you came
to the tree-lighting.

Ava would have been crushed.

I would have been crushed.

You know, it's funny.

In all the traveling I've done

it's always the things
I don't do,

the places I don't go to

that I end up regretting
the most.

Sounds like a good
life philosophy.

What's one of the best things
you've done?

Ooh, in the exciting world
of cooking?

Well, let's see.

OK, I have julienned vegetables
using a hand made hatchet.

I have sauteed sun chokes
using clay cooking pots

and I have even harvested my own
indigo milk cap mushrooms.

That is exciting.

Mostly it was just
a bunch of hiking.

This is your favourite
Christmas song.

You remembered.

How could I forget?

You played it on a loop for
24 hours every Thanksgiving.

I think the best Christmases I had
were the ones we had together.

When we were...

Yeah.
Yeah, me too.

You know what?

You know what was my favourite
of all time?

When you bought me my first
professional chef's knife.

I spent my whole bank account
on that.

But it was worth it.

Roger.
You're here.

I had no idea you were such
a good dancer.

That was hardly good dancing.

Well, I finished work
and thought

that we could grab some dinner.

Right, of course.

You finished up already?

That's great.

Yeah.

Roger.

So glad you could make it out.

Lacey's told us how hard
you guys have been working.

Even workaholics need
food sometimes.

And take a little time off work.

Well, Mason and I were just
gonna head out to the fire pit.

Yeah. We're making some s'mores.

Great. We should all go.

You know what?

I'm feeling kinda tired.

I might just head up to bed.

Really?

You're gonna pass up s'mores?

I am, yeah.

But you go enjoy.

I know how you are
about your desserts.

We'll see you guys
in the morning?

Good night.

OK.

Hi.

Hey.

What's up?

That was so great last night.

Yeah.

You know, I forgot how good
of a dancer you are.

Are we going to the cottage?

You still wanna come?

Because if you're busy with
work I can... I can handle it.

No, I'd love to go.

I want it to be perfect
for Ava and Mason.

Me too.

Well, your chariot awaits.

Thank you.

Now that is a glorious sight.

So, any great ideas
for finishing touches

before we leave?

It looks just
about perfect to me.

It is perfect.

Except for one thing.

I was hoping we could try
a little honesty.

What do you mean?

Do you mind?

I'm talking about us.

Whatever's going on between us.

Come on, I know
you're feeling it, too.

Maybe, a bit.

A bit?

Ean, I don't know what it is.

Maybe it's being back here
at the cottage.

It's so magical and filled
with warmth and good memories.

We had so many good times here.

Had so many good times?

What about are having
good times?

Ean, it's great to see you
again, really,

but that's all it is.

Well, I'm sorry.

I just... I thought things
were different between us,

or that maybe they were
going in that direction.

I have a life with Roger.

A life that we've built
over months of hard work.

I... I can't just give up
on that.

Lacey, are you talking
about Roger or your career?

Because they aren't
the same thing.

I'm sorry, Ean.

I think we just got caught up
in the feelings of the cottage.

That's all.

That's not all it is for me.

Being back here hasn't just
brought back memories,

it's brought back
feelings which,

if I'm being honest with myself,

have been there all along.

Don't.

I think maybe all the fun we've
been having has just...

it's just lead
to some confusion.

Confusion?

No.
No, not at all.

Right now I'm the opposite
of confused.

In fact I don't think I've been
so clear-headed in a long time.

You know, the last few years
that I've been country-hopping,

there's always been this...

this thing that I couldn't
get away from

no matter how far I went.

And that's you.

No matter where I was
I couldn't figure out why

I couldn't get rid of you
until I saw you back here again.

And that's when I knew.

It's because you'll always be
in my heart,

no matter where I am.

I guess it's just my luck that
you don't feel the same way.

Once again we want
different things.

- Ean, I...
- No. It's OK.

You have Roger and I'm sorry.

We should head back.

Hey.
What's up?

I just talked to Pine Bay.

I told them that we're bringing
in a model for our presentation

and they loved it.

They wanna see us
right after Christmas.

Lacey, this could be it.

Everything that we hoped for.

That's great.

Roger, I...

Open it.

A celebration gift to the best
partner a guy could ever have.

Let's go enjoy
the rehearsal dinner.

It'll be the first time
we've had dinner together

in a long time.

Well, I'm just so glad
you could make it.

No, I know, I know.

She really hasn't stopped
talking about it.

Isn't that right?

After dinner tonight let's go
somewhere we've never been,

do something we've never done.

Why?

I just wanna do something
together that isn't about work.

Maybe something
spontaneous and fun?

That sounds great.

I just don't think right now
is the time

for spontaneous and fun.

We are so close
to landing Pine Bay.

Roger, I just wanna talk
with you about something

other than clients and design
for the next year.

That's all we talk about.

That's the only thing
we connect over anymore.

Try not to get whiplash
before my wedding.

What do you mean?

Ean, I'm your sister.

And a woman raised on a steady
diet of romance novels.

I think I know what's going on.

I have no idea what's going on
in your mind.

The only thing I'm thinking about is
if I'm gonna take my next overseas job.

I might have to leave
pretty soon.

I was hoping to spend more time
back home.

I don't get here very often.

So stay.
Tell them no.

- It's not that simple.
- It is that simple.

You just have to be ready.

Ready for what?

Ready to stop running away
from your problems.

Ready to stay and fight for
what you want.

I don't know what you're
talking about.

Besides, if it's romance
you want

I don't think it gets much more
romantic than those two.

You know, for a smart guy,

you really say some seriously
dense things.

Wha...

I just want balance in my life.

And in our relationship.

I want work to end when
we leave the office

and not follow us through
the holidays and to weddings

- ... and family events and...
- OK. I hear you.

I just... I see it differently.

Lacey, right now we have
this opportunity

that might not happen again
for a really long time.

We can't take our foot off
the gas.

We can always scale back.

Later.

I promise.

Looks like those old sketches
you used to do in grad school.

That's because I drew it.

I drew it for Ean but I guess
he doesn't want it anymore.

Let's go.

We should probably head upstairs
and get packed.

I had to change our flights to
tomorrow night after the wedding.

A red-eye on Christmas Eve?

Plane will be empty.
We can do all our work on there.

Lacey, after Pine Bay is done

I promise you the best belated
Christmas ever.

Scout's honour.

I wasn't a scout.

Come on, let's go get packed.

I'm being called outside.
Maid of honour duties.

OK.

- I'll see you in a bit.
- Yeah.

Thank you.

Can I ply you
with hot chocolate?

Get in here.

We're flying out tomorrow.

Right after the wedding.

We're set to present our plans
the day after Christmas.

Congratulations?

We've worked so hard to get
this far and we should both

be so excited but I'm just...

I'm not.

It's like something changed
in me.

Do you think it has anything
to do with seeing Ean again?

Maybe.

I think seeing him
is like looking into

a window of the past.

I spent so much time
thinking about

what went wrong between us,

I kinda forgot how right things
were at one point, too.

Well, relationships change.

Maybe there's some version
of your old relationship

that you can have now,
like friends even.

Sure.

Friends.

But not really.

My life is so different
in San Francisco.

And he's still traveling.

I think our time together
is done.

Well, it sounds like that's hard
for you to say.

You can't get back what you had
with someone.

Yeah, but technically you get
back some version of it.

Technically I agree.

But I don't think that's gonna
happen with me and Ean.

He brought up the idea
of getting back together.

I said no.

But I think once Roger and I
get home and we get back

into our routine I'll realize
that I made the right decision.

Well, if that is your Christmas
wish then I hope

it happens for you.

You're still gonna be telling me fairy
tales when we're little old ladies.

Because I believe in
the magic of the season

and I don't think it's done
with this yet.

I'll see you later?

- Good night.
- Good night.

It gives me great joy
this holiday season

to join Ava and Mason
as husband and wife.

May they have many happy
holidays together.

By the power vested in me,

I have the honour this
Christmas season to pronounce...

Ava and Mason husband and wife.

You may kiss the bride.

The wedding was beautiful.

They both look so happy.

Yeah.

Did you get all your work done?

I did.

Congratulations.

Just one more meeting
when we get back.

You must be very happy.

Very.

What about the restaurant?

Have you thought more about it?

That was a pipe dream.

Nothing more.

Besides, I accepted
that job in Finland.

You did?

I leave first thing
in the morning.

And now we would like the rest
of the wedding party

to join us on the dance floor,
please.

Just be yourself.

I guess it's time
to start the toasts

and subject you all to
my very amateur thoughts

on life and love.

I hope he talks fast.

You still need to pack
for the flight tonight.

I've had a lot of time these
past few days to think

about what makes a
good relationship.

One that lasts, one that
can survive the hard times

and the inevitable
disagreements,

and for a moment there I thought

maybe it's just sheer
determination.

What makes a love that lasts?

I know you're probably thinking
if I had the answer

to that question I would be
a very rich man.

Well, get out your wallets
because I think I have

at least part of that answer.

Real love is about knowing
someone so well

they feel like an extension
of yourself.

You share each other's
hopes and dreams,

even if they aren't exactly
your own.

You love and accept each other
exactly as you are

without asking them to change,

and you always put each
other first,

naturally and effortlessly.

There's a part of us that
most people take for granted

but then there's a part of us
that only a few people

ever really get to know.

I believe that true love is
about loving that part, too.

So, to Ava and Mason, for loving
all sides of each other,

naturally and effortlessly.

First, Ava and Mason,
thank you for an amazing

few days and the best Christmas
that I've had in a while.

Your love and your relationship
are truly an inspiration.

I think at Christmas people
take a step back

and think about
what's really important,

and it always becomes clear.

Friends, family, and love.

But Ava and Mason have got
me doing a lot of thinking

about love and relationship
over the last few days.

I thought I knew.
I thought I had it all figured out.

When I got here I would have
said that a good relationship

is about having the same goals.

Striving for the same things,
syncing up your priorities.

It sounded so simple.

But I had forgotten that real love
is so much bigger than that.

Love isn't simple.

It's about disagreeing
and agreeing.

It's about loving someone enough
to care about

what they care about, to hope
for what they hope for.

It's about helping another
person live a life

that they've always dreamed of.

Real love, like Christmas,
is about giving.

To Ava and Mason.

May you always share in each
other's hopes and dreams.

Can I talk to you for a second?

Yeah.

I don't wanna sound paranoid but
am I just being an idiot here?

Roger, I'm sorry.

That's not the answer
I was expecting.

So you still have feelings
for Ean.

No.

At the same time, yes.

I didn't think that I did.

Lacey, ever since we got here
I have understood about

half the things you're saying.

What am I missing?

Me.

You've lost sight of me.

Or maybe we've lost sight
of each other.

At some point we both put
ambition in first place.

And that's worked.

Yeah, it has.

We're a great partnership.

A great design team.

But?

But that can't be all anymore.

That can't be all we are for
another year or another month.

I won't wait.

I can't wait for happiness
or love.

We both deserve that.

Well, I'd ask you
what you were gonna do

but I think I know
what you're gonna say.

Roger, I'm sorry.

Me too.

Let's do what we do best.

Let's be a design team.

That's where we're still strong.

That's what we have in common.

The other parts of
a relationship,

they just got away from us.

And Pine Bay?

We're still going forward
with that?

You think I put in 18 hours
a day to walk away

from my first multi-million
dollar contract?

Thank goodness.

But Roger, after this project,

I wanna bring balance
into the firm.

Meaning?

Meaning I don't only want
to design sleek spaces

for corporations.

I wanna work on
personal projects.

I wanna work with clients again,

get to know them as people.

Help them realize their visions.

There was a time in grad school

when we both wanted that.

There was also a time
in grad school

when we drank instant coffee
and ate cold pizza.

Sounds good to me.

You have really found a new part
of yourself here.

Push the meeting
until the new year.

- I don't know.
- Our design is worth waiting for.

OK.

I'll see you back at the office.

After I've celebrated Christmas.

Lacey dear, what a wonderful
toast you gave.

Thank you.

You and Ean both.

Have you seen him?

I think he left for
the airport already.

You know he took another
job abroad?

He told me, but he left so soon?

I think he's spending the night
at the airport hotel.

He leaves tomorrow first thing
in the morning.

You know, it's funny, just
yesterday he was talking about

coming home again and
putting down some real roots.

I guess he'll always be
a traveller at heart.

Would you like to join me?

Yes.

I wanted to take a break
from the noise of the party.

Why the long face, Lacey?

Well, let's see.

I'm about to land the biggest
client of my career

right at the point

where I wanna spend more time
outside the office.

More time for myself and
the people I care about.

And for the first time in years
I feel like I'm in love.

But it's too late.

It's not feeling like a very
merry Christmas.

And I can't help thinking that
maybe there is something

about the cottage that brought
Ean and me back together,

but I messed it up.

Well, I don't know about that.

But I do know that the only
magic at the cottage

is the magic of Christmas.

The magic of togetherness.

It's a special place.

And you were right.

It's the traditions, the memories
that make it that way.

It is.

I'm going to turn in.
I'll see you at the breakfast.

Oh, Lacey dear?
One more favour.

You need to take these presents
up to the cottage.

Presents for the bride and groom

must be under the Christmas tree
on Christmas morning.

Of course.

Hi.

What're you doing here?

Aunt Sarah asked me
for a favour.

She wanted the fire going
and the champagne chilling

for Ava and Mason.

They should be here
in about an hour.

But I guess I kinda wanted
to come back here one more time

to just be here and remember
all the good times we had.

Me too.

Ava tells me
you're flying out tonight?

I'm not.
Not anymore.

Don't you have some big
important meeting...

It can wait.

I... I broke up with Roger.

What?

I was listening to your toast
and I realized that Roger

doesn't know all the different
sides of me.

He only knows one.

But I realized that I need more
than work to be happy.

I want love and relationship
and family.

That sounds pretty doable to me.

And I know you say you don't
wanna open your own restaurant

and I know that you're traveling
and that you're gonna leave and...

- Lacey, I...
- I know that you're upset with me.

Why would you think that?

I saw the drawing
that you tossed.

And it's fine.

I just... I want you to know that
the person you've been with

for the last few days?

She's back for good.

And she'll be here when
you get back from Finland

or wherever it is you need
to travel to.

I want you back in my life.

I didn't toss it, I dropped it.

But then I went back for it.

This design, this vision,
is beautiful.

So is the woman who drew it.

And I'm never gonna leave
her behind again.

I've always loved you, Lacey.

I love you, too.

- You can answer that if you...
- No.

I don't want anything to come
between us right now.

You know, maybe this place
really is magic.

What about Finland?

I'm not going on
that trip anymore.

I've got another
adventure planned.

Maybe that old family myth
is true after all.