A Christmas Masquerade (2022)

[bunniefuu]

Hi, Nina.

What can I do for you?

Absolutely, yeah, I'm sending

it over right now.

Happy Holidays!

Hey, Lara.

Julianne, hi, thanks for

dealing with Nina,

but can you pick up my dry cleaning

before it closes?

Sure. I'll just grab Nora

and I'll be right over.

I'll mull you some apology wine.

- Hi, Nora!

- Hi, Mom!

Hi, sweetie!

You had a good day?

Yeah.

- Lara, we're here!

- Hey, I'll be right down!

Whoa!

Can we get one like that?

Are you going to help me carry

it up three flights of stairs?

- Sure.

- Come on, Lara's waiting.

Let's go, let's go, let's go!

- Here you go!

- Wow. Spoon, please.

I thought you were joking when

you said you were mulling wine.

Why would I joke about

something so serious?

Besides, you're finished

for the day and I made you

traipse all the way back here.

I'm your assistant, it's my job!

You don't have to go

to any trouble.

So what's in it?

It's a treasured

secret family recipe...

that I found online.

Wine, sugar and cinnamon!

Mm, what's not to love?

Cheers.

Oh, right. I need to finish getting ready.

Where am I going again?

The Hudson Benefit.

Oh, and then the Fitzgerald

festive drinks.

Mm-hmm and then a quick appearance

at the MADAM Christmas party,

if you can stand it.

Bringing this week's grand

total to eight holiday

events so far

and it's not even

the weekend yet.

You're a trooper.

So what are you gonna wear?

Mom, why don't you go?

Very funny.

You never go to Christmas

parties. You should go!

Then aunt Lara can stay home.

It's not that simple, bub.

People are expecting to see Lara.

Tonight, but you can definitely

go to another party for me.

- Really?

- I don't think so.

Hey, there's a big pile

of invites in my office.

Why don't you go choose one

for us to send your mom to!

Be right back!

Don't give me that look.

You know it would do you some

good to get out

and let your hair down.

My hair is perfectly fine how

it is, thank you!

Come on, you deserve a party

and it certainly wouldn't do

your career any harm

to make some new connections.

My career? What, are you

trying to get rid of me?

- No.

- Because you know I'm perfectly happy working for you.

And I'm perfectly happy

with you working for me too,

but I also want what's best

for my friend.

A job, with flexibility where I can pay

my bills on time and be there for Nora?

This is what's best.

Okay, forget I said anything.

- Found one!

- Mm!

All right. Let me see.

Ah...

The Carson Centre

Christmas Masquerade Ball?

Nice try, kid.

Lara said I could pick any.

Nora, it's a very important

event and Lara has to be there.

I absolutely do not

have to be there, but...

I did say I would

meet a potential client there.

You know what, he probably won't

even show. You should go.

What?

You're going in my place.

I've decided.

- What are you gonna wear?

- Yeah?

We're gonna go shopping!

- Hey, sis!

- You're late.

Ah, yes, but

I come bearing gifts.

Hmm, that better

be non-alcoholic.

Uh...

Of course not.

So, where is the dotting

father-to-be?

Vegas.

What's so funny?

I'm just picturing

John in Vegas.

- He's working, dummy.

- Ah.

Like most adult males,

he has a career.

Oh, I'm about to have a career.

Oh!

Sure.

Look, you are looking

at the future Vitanian

Ambassador to the United States.

- If the panel approves you.

- Oh, come on!

The Ambassador's been

a Karlsson since...

The...

1800s. Yes, whatever,

the 1800s, exactly!

You really think Dad'll retire

and they'd appoint somebody else?

Instead of you? Sure.

Ah, no, no way. Dad would

never let that happen.

It would be far too

damaging to his massive ego.

And besides, I'm the next

Karlsson in line.

Mm. And you're not

a popular appointment.

This might have passed you by,

Michael, but um...

you have something

of a reputation.

A reputation? Moi?

That's what you get

for dating American models

the last 20 years.

Oh, don't be ridiculous.

I mean, they haven't

all been American.

I'm serious. The appointment

committee is not a shoe in.

You need to work for it!

Ma'am, yes, ma'am!

Ten days, Michael, they are meeting

on the Eve of Christmas Eve!

- I know that.

- You need to up your game.

Consider it up!

Okay, then you can join me at the Carson

Centre Christmas Masquerade Ball tomorrow.

- Great, I love a Masquerade.

- Great!

And you can finally meet the PR

specialist that I've hired there.

Mm... Helena, on second

thoughts, tomorrow night...

Non-negotiable.

Come on, you know how

much I loathe PR people.

Not this time.

Hm. That was easy.

Oh, you're here already?

Dinner's gonna be 20 minutes.

That's perfect, Mom.

It could be on the table

now if you'd let me know

that you were on the way.

It's not good for Norushka

to be hungry.

- She's not hungry, so...

- We had a hot chocolate.

Yeah.

Why were you buying a hot

chocolate at this time?

It was at Aunt Lara's.

And Lara said that Mom can

go to the "Maquerade" Ball.

Masquerade, baby.

Masquerade,

at the Carson Centre.

Oh, my...

The Carson Centre

Christmas Masquerade ball?

You're going? Ah!

It's tomorrow night, no?

The third Saturday of December.

How does Babcia know when it is?

Well, we used to take your

mama when she was a little girl.

Every year.

- Mom, you went before?

- Not inside.

She used to sit with her

little pencil case,

making drawings of all the

guest presses as they arrived.

Oh, my, what are you gonna wear?

I don't know yet.

The red dress! The one you

made at fashion college.

Show all the guests

how talented you are!

No. No, no, no, it's too old and I haven't

even looked at my sewing machine in months.

I'll just borrow something from

Lara. It's not a big deal.

Not a big deal? Well, try

telling that to little Julianne.

She'd be thrilled.

Look, it'll be fun,

but I'm not gonna stress myself

out trying to be something I'm not.

I'm a guest. No one will even

notice I'm there.

Mm-hmm, now that, that could

never happen.

Ah, here we go.

One hour and I'm out of here.

Great.

The whole Ambassador thing

is probably overrated anyway.

Oh, sure.

Yeah, mmhmm.

Hi!

You shall go to the ball.

Excuse me!

Hi. Would you mind

taking a photo?

Uh, sure.

There you go.

But I... didn't have time

to pose.

Ah, no, I'm sure it's fine.

I'm sorry but...

would you call this

a good photo?

No.

Right, well, if you're gonna

say yes to the job,

you should at least try

to do it well.

Oh, well, you only asked me to

take a photo, not a good photo.

Oh, so it's your policy

to do the bare minimum?

What's that suppose to mean?

I don't even have

both my eyes open!

Well, that can't be blamed

on the photographer now, can it?

- I think it can.

- I don't think so.

All right, well,

agree to disagree.

But I'm willing to give

you a second chance.

What generosity.

Uh, okay, uh...

You're ready?

Um, yeah.

- Okay.

- Okay.

Yeah, yeah, this one is way

better, it's...

Rude.

Oh, Michael! Let me introduce

you to Isabella and Tomas Berg.

Isabella sits on the appointment

committee and Tomas is a trade envoy.

Ah! Well, a pleasure

to meet you.

Again. Tonight.

Uh, great masks!

Yeah, we have met before,

haven't we?

You dated our daughter.

Oh, yes, right!

And how is Liza doing?

- Lydia.

- Lydia!

Lydia!

Lydia, that's what I meant!

Mm-hmm.

- She got married.

- Ah!

To a very nice man, thankfully.

Good to see you, Helena.

Oh, yes.

Tomas.

You dated Lydia Berg?!

It was a long time ago.

- How long?

- Two, three years.

That is not long enough.

She's the daughter of an

appointment committee member!

Okay, I know that now.

Did you end it or did she?

What do you think?

Michael! You better

still be friends!

Let's just say I'm not at the

top of her Christmas card list.

This is not good for your

appointment campaign!

No kidding.

Hey!

Thank you.

There! There's Mom!

Mm, really?

Um...

no, that's somebody else.

Look, she's wearing pink,

remember.

What about her?

Oh, no, that's Helena

Karlsson, but...

Oh, is that... one sec.

Is that...

That's him!

Ah! Are you sure?

Yeah, look!

They have the same chin.

Oh no, no, no!

What's the matter?

Everything's fine,

I just need to catch your mom

on the phone.

- Hello?

- I need you to do something for me.

Nice to speak to you too.

Michael Karlsson is at the ball.

Should that name mean

something to me?

Yes!

Okay...

Kinda need a little

bit more information.

He's the diplomat

I've been trying

to sign as a client for months.

His sister said

he would be at the ball

but he's cancelled me every time

we were meant to meet so I

didn't think...

Okay! It's fine,

I will speak to him.

Okay, great. Great!

Okay, I love you. Thank you.

So...

What does he look like?

Oh, yeah, um...

Okay...

Okay, so he's about 5'10,

medium brown hair,

really blue eyes, a strong jaw!

Velvet jacket?

Yeah! And a black mask.

Wait.

How did you know

about the jacket?

I'm looking at him.

Go get him.

Oh, I, I don't... I just have

to go talk to a client.

I'm gonna need to see your ID if

you want to get to the VIP lounge.

Yeah.

Um... so that's my ID.

I recently...

well my hair grew very fast

since I took that photo,

but everything else is exactly

the same so, you know.

What are you looking at?

- I'll announce your arrival.

- Oh, no, no!

- It's part of the VIP service.

- Really, it's not necessary.

Lara Kaws, ladies and gentlemen!

Lara Kaws?

- Hello.

- Helena.

Oh...

Muah, muah!

It's a pleasure to finally

put a face to the name!

Great mask! This is my brother,

Michael Karlsson.

Michael, this is the illustrious

PR specialist Lara Kaws

of the Park Avenue Kaws'!

- You are?

- Yeah.

Ah...

I'm sorry,

do you two know each other?

We met briefly, just now.

And unfortunately, ladies,

it's gonna have to remain brief.

I'm gonna get out of here.

Michael...

Pleasure to meet you, again, Miss Kaws.

Enjoy the rest of the evening.

I'm sorry.

Oh, don't be, at least he

said goodbye this time.

He really does

want to work with you.

Well, you know how to reach

us if he changes his mind.

Oh, you're going? I mean, don't

leave on Michael's account.

No, I'm not,

I have a sitter waiting up.

You have children?

I had no idea.

Yeah. One... a girl.

Can't believe I didn't know

you were a mom!

You're so mysterious.

Great to meet you.

Merry Christmas!

Me... Merry Christmas.

Yeah, I'd like to go now,

please. Thank you.

- Hey...

- Oh, hey.

I'm sorry, she insisted

on sleeping out here.

Hmm, it's okay.

I'll carry her to her room

when I go to bed.

Do you wanna drink?

Won't we wake her?

No, no,

she's a very deep sleeper.

Just like her dad used to be.

I'll go get changed and then

I'll be right out.

Okay, Cinderella.

You look beautiful.

Thank you so much for watching

Nora, but there was really no need.

My mom would've been

more than happy.

Okay, nonsense, it's good to

give her a night off

and I love spending time with

your family, especially Nora.

She's an angel.

What?

Well, she's 10 going on 20,

I wouldn't exactly

call her an angel.

She is. She's perfect.

Although there must be

something wrong with me,

because tonight reminded me

how much I'm craving a little

more angel-free time.

You don't know

how lucky you are.

No, I do. Wait,

what is this about?

Nothing... I just...

Okay, 'cause it sounds

suspiciously like someone might

be changing their mind about

being child-free by choice.

Well, I... might be

reconsidering my position.

Are you sure this isn't just

a case of Stockholm Syndrome?

You did just spend

the whole evening with Nora.

More importantly, hello?

How did things go with

Michael Karlsson?

Right, uh... about that.

He might think I'm you?

What? How?

Well, there was a mix-up with

this security guard and your ID

and, well, it just seemed easier

to let it go.

Hey, if we land him as a client,

what do I care who he thinks I am?

Yeah, right...

Oh... he didn't sign

up as a client, did he?

No... I'm sorry.

He was thoroughly uninterested.

And rude.

Oh, sounds like classic

Michael Karlsson.

It does?

Well, yeah!

I think his playboy credentials

might just outstretch

his diplomatic ones.

Not ideal for a wannabe

Ambassador.

No! But hey, if he comes back,

we can switch lives,

you can take over

the account and be me.

- While you do what?

- Well, I can do you!

And Nora can help me decide

if this Mom thing is a go.

Deal.

But I think you might be

pulling the short straw there.

How dare you talk about

my goddaughter like that?

- Mom!

- Coming, honey!

Just think,

one phone call

from Michael Karlsson

and this could be you!

Sounds perfect!

Oh, it does?

Yes!

Mom!

Don't get your hopes up.

Coming!

Good morning.

Good morning.

There is coffee in the pot.

Decaf, for the pregnant lady.

Pancakes are on the way

and that's fresh squeeze orange juice.

What?

When you texted me to meet you, I thought

you'd fallen and bumped your head.

Am I in the Twilight Zone?

No, but, you are about to enjoy

a delicious breakfast in the apology zone.

Please.

Thank you.

Look, I'm sorry about

the way I left yesterday.

- And about being rude.

- And yes, about that too.

But, look, I'm ready to take

this whole Ambassador thing seriously.

From... now.

And you know what?

No need for a PR person,

I've got this covered myself.

- You got it covered?

- Mm-hmm.

It's you, yeah?

Oh... they startled me.

Look, that was a set-up!

Exactly.

And now, it's time to be set up

with some positive press.

I'm calling in the troops.

Is there bacon?

It will never cease to amaze

me that someone so talented

would insist on being

an assistant.

Did you want me for something?

Did we hear from

Michael Karlsson?

Hm, unfortunately no.

The rudest man alive has failed

to reach out so far.

Well, there's still time.

I'm sorry, I, but we're more likely to

get a visit from Santa than one from him.

Lara Kaws PR,

how can we help you today?

Lara, is that you?

It's Helena Karlsson.

Helena, hi!

Look, I'm sorry about last

night...

Don't, no, no, no!

There's nothing

to apologize for!

I know my

brother can be a little...

gruff.

But...

he really does want

to work with you.

Could you meet tonight

to start strategizing?

- No!

- Yes!

- Tonight?

- Tonight's perfect!

Oh, great!

Sorry,

who am I talking to?

This is... Lara's assistant.

Julianne.

- Oh!

- She's free from seven.

Lovely,

I'll email the details over.

I'm free from seven, am I?

We did have a deal!

That was a joke!

Not for me.

I really wanna spend some more

one-on-one time with Nora.

Oh you could spend time with

Nora whenever you want.

It's not the same.

I wanna see

if I can do it on my own.

And you can do that!

Without me having to spend

the run up to Christmas

with the world's rudest man.

You don't have to like the

man! You just...

need to work with him for...

two weeks! Less.

Look, he normally

hates PR people.

Wow, you're really selling this.

I am! And he hates them!

And he's arranged

to see you again.

His sister has.

It's the same thing.

Come on, this could

be a big deal for us.

You secure Michael Karlsson

as a client and that would mean

a lot more interest

in the company.

And... a big Christmas bonus.

I don't know.

Plus... you could use this.

For whatever you want!

And... you can stay in my place!

'Till Christmas!

You... you don't have

to do that.

If you're gonna be me,

you should at least

get some of the perks.

Okay!

Okay.

Don't worry.

It's gonna be perfect.

Come in, come in.

So lovely to see you.

Wow! Your place is gorgeous!

Ah, well, it'll do for now.

But, not for long.

I thought Michael could take it

over, when he's appointed.

If he's appointed.

Well that's what I'm here for.

Where is he?

Uh, he's...

He's... not here, is he?

I'm sorry.

He will be here.

Can I order us some

food while we wait?

- Sure.

- Okay, follow me.

Just through this way.

Mmhmm.

So, I think you were school friends

at Trinity with my friend Madeleine?

- Um...

- Oh, Wittington?

No...

Yeah, she said you were close

with a scholarship girl?

I can't think of her name...

Don't be... it's fine-

- Jul, Jules...

something polish.

It was so long ago, I don't...

Michael, Michael!

We're in here.

Ah, miss... Kaws?

Mr. Karlsson.

What are you doing here

in my sister's apartment?

I'm here for our meeting,

which you are late for.

Oh, that's funny because I didn't schedule

any meeting with you.

Well, then there appears to be some

miscommunication here.

- Michael...

- Oh!

Please don't go.

He really does need you,

he just...

He just doesn't know it yet.

I'm afraid I only stick around for people

who understand when they're in trouble.

Oh, he does!

No, I don't think he has a clue.

Good luck with the appointment

committee, Mr. Karlsson.

- Thank you.

- Yeah, you're certainly gonna need it.

I'll see myself out.

Go after her.

I can hire my own PR person,

thank you very much.

Okay, well, it's five days

before Christmas and anyone

worth speaking to

is already booked.

Exactly! I don't even know

who this woman is!

That's the point!

She's notorious

for not being in the press,

but her clients always are!

I mean, she's the best

in the game!

It is a miracle that she said yes and that

she stuck around this long.

Look, Helena, I...

Don't worry! If you'd rather

hire some 20-something

inexperienced intern from

Long Island, have at it!

Lara, it's me, um...

That did not go well.

Can you give me a call

when you get this?

Can I help you?

Well, that depends,

can I apologize?

- Sure.

- Great.

Are you gonna apologize or...?

I'm sorry, I'm an idiot.

Will you give me another shot?

I really don't wanna

let my sister down.

Let me, let me! Let me get that.

He'll get a cup for himself too.

Oh, no, no, I'm fine, thanks.

No, he could definitely

use a little more sweetness.

Thanks.

Jules...?

Yeah, I...

I don't like

to give out my real name.

- Ah...

- Yeah.

Well, this will be the first

hot chocolate I've had since childhood.

Oh...

- Woah!

- It's good, right?

That is incredible.

See what can happen

if you just listen to me?

Okay, good point. Well made.

- So, should we talk...

- Do you wanna walk?

Yeah. A walk sounds good.

Great, um...

So, why don't you tell me

a little bit about life in Vitania?

Oh, Vitania?

Wouldn't really know,

I haven't lived there since I was 18.

- And now you live in LA?

- Yeah.

But you wanna be

the Vitanian Ambassador?

- That's the plan.

- Okay.

Well then, we just need to focus on

reconnecting you to Vitanian life.

And how do you suggest

we do that?

Well, we could have you spending time with

the Vitanian community here in New York.

Oh, well that's gonna be tough,

'cause I think you can

count the Vitanian families on two hands.

Great, you can host

a Christmas lunch!

You're joking?

Lunches aren't really my style.

Yeah, to be frank,

life as a

candidate for Ambassador

doesn't really seem

to be your style either, yet...

You think I have a shot?

Absolutely.

We just need to focus

on showing you in a positive,

professional light in the run up

to the committee meeting.

Fewer fallouts, more families.

Exactly. Responsible...

reliable.

Sorry.

Oh, sh**t...

Is everything okay?

Um, yeah, I...

I didn't realize

how late it was.

We should wrap this up.

Is nine PM considered late

in diplomatic PR circles?

I don't know about that,

but it does to my daughter

and our sitter.

I've missed her call to say

goodnight...

Look, I gotta go

catch the subway.

Oh, no, no. Take my driver.

No, it's fine, I...

I insist.

Please. Come on.

Okay.

Ah... okay, okay.

Oh! Okay, Nora,

it's time to go to bed.

No! It's time for you

to show me the choreography!

Nora.

You're the one who said we should stop

watching TV and do something together!

So let's do something!

I said that an hour ago and you

wanted to finish watching the movie.

I know! But, just, repeat

after me, it's so easy!

- Oh my gosh.

- Come on. Come on!

One, two, three...

Do it, come on!

Okay, okay!

- One, two...

- One, two...

Oh, no!

Oh my God...

Three, four...

Okay, okay!

Your mom is gonna be calling

to say good night soon,

don't you think you should

at least be in your pyjamas when she does?

- Good point.

- Yeah.

But you need to practise

while I'm gone.

- Okay...

- Okay.

Wait... one, two,

three, four...

Thank you so much for the ride.

My pleasure.

- Hi, I'm Nora!

- Hi.

- Nora...

- Do you work with my mom?

I... do.

And you're like, a Prince?

A Prince? No.

But you're from Vitania

and you're gonna get a job

because of who your dad is?

I like her.

Oh, I'm... so sorry.

Oh, I'm... the sitter.

I'll take this one up to bed.

Well, there's a kid

I could bear to have a conversation with.

Probably not for more than five

minutes, though, kids are not for me.

Oh, I... I feel like

an Ambassador

will have more than

the occasional interaction with children.

Really? Yikes.

You know, maybe this

isn't a good idea.

What? No, wait, wait,

no, I was just joking.

Didn't sound

like you were joking.

I was, I was, I swear.

Look, let me prove it to you.

Tomorrow morning

you can bring your daughter.

- No, I...

- You won't regret it!

Can we go?

I think we should go.

Please, Mom!

There you go.

Settled, then?

See you tomorrow.

Bed, now!

I'm so sorry, after we called

and you didn't answer,

she just wouldn't settle, I thought maybe

it would best if she saw you tonight.

We'll be out of your hair first

thing in the morning. I promise.

I'm not sure that's possible.

I think I just agreed to spend the

morning with Nora and Michael Karlsson.

Hmm...

- What, "Hmm"?

- Oh, just, "Hmm".

No, no, that was

definitely a loaded, "Hmm".

Nothing, just...

It's 10 PM and you're not

at a c*ck bar with a model.

And?

And...

looks like Lara's magic

has already started working.

Yeah, so...

I am a world class negotiator.

People are scared of me.

But could I get your

10-year-old daughter to go to bed?

Not a chance!

Well kids can smell weakness.

Maybe I'm not cut out

for mom life.

No! Don't say that!

Nora is a headstrong 10-year-old,

but babies, on the other hand,

they arrive as perfect

little squishy ba*ls

and they just... pop!

Stay where you put them.

Yeah, but, apart

from the crying...

Oh yeah, apart from the...

constant crying.

Should we just call this off?

What? No! I'm just...

adjusting. That is all.

Me and Nora can head home

first thing.

And lose Michael Karlsson

as a client? I don't think so!

You're the first PR person he's ever been

willing to meet with for longer than 20 minutes

and he's booked to see you...

Again, tomorrow!

Well, when you put it like that.

We should at least

hear what he has to say.

Maybe he'll surprise us and

turn into the dream client.

I'm sure everything

will work out perfect.

As long as Nora doesn't blow

your cover.

Right...

- Is that him?

- No.

Is that him?

No, that is not him,

making him officially 25 minutes late.

- Woah.

- What?

Look!

Oh my God!

Woah...

- So big.

- I know.

Oh my God!

- Good morning.

- You're late.

Oh, yeah, sorry, old Misty here wouldn't

get going until she had a full breakfast.

Horses these days, am I right?

Come on, Mom.

Sorry about doing something

so tourist-y,

I thought somebody

might enjoy herself.

Huh?

They've been giving carriage

rides since the park opened in 1858.

Wow.

All the horses that

you see in this park,

they all live in stables

right here in Manhattan.

Whoa!

In fact, this is the first

place that a Vitanian came

when they visited New York City.

Oh, that's nice.

- Yeah.

- Oh, look, Nora.

- Woah!

- It's beautiful, isn't it?

Yeah!

This is so cool!

Mmhmm. It is, isn't it?

Yeah!

They have the best hot

chocolate in this park.

Oh, we're done already?

Yeah. Sorry, kiddo, but maybe your

mom can take you out another time.

No, she says it's way

too expensive.

I don't think I've said that.

- You have!

- No, I think it's impressive,

teaching Nora

the value of money.

Well maybe that's something I ought

to be working on with you too.

You don't need grand gestures

to win people over.

An Ambassador needs consistency,

integrity, honesty...

It's not as much fun

as a carriage ride, am I right?

Are you gonna take the whole appointment

committee out on a carriage ride?

No... wait, should I?

Can we go one more time?

Sorry, kiddo, old Misty here has

other appointments to get to.

Okay.

Come on, honey.

Let's get you home so that Michael

and I can get to work, okay?

- Okay.

- Uh, yeah... about that?

I have a lunch

that I need to get to.

Really?

It's with a bunch

of old college buddies.

Are any of these buddies

Vitanian?

They are not.

Well then,

you're gonna have to cancel.

I can't do that, we've got a

booth at Greenby's.

And are the Greenby's servers

gonna appoint you Ambassador?

I can't get out of this, Lara.

Okay, then,

what time are you finished?

Tomorrow morning.

I see.

Fine.

- Is it?

- Course it is.

Have fun. I guess I'll just

start my holidays early.

Merry Christmas, Michael.

Good luck with all of it. Alone.

What are we gonna do now?

We're gonna go back to Babcia's.

- How it's going?

- This isn't gonna work.

Wait, what? What happened?

It went... fine.

Everything was great.

I thought I'd won her over.

- Okay, then what happened?

- Nothing.

Michael...

She's ridiculous!

- How so?

- She wants me

to cancel on my

boy's Christmas party.

I'm sorry.

Is this some type of joke?

No, look, it's been planned

for months, I can't

drop out now.

Oh! But you can drop out

on Lara? Oh, I knew

you'd take her side!

Dad phoned this morning.

- He did?

- Mm-hmm.

He saw your photo

on the internet.

He's not impress, Michael.

Do you really wanna

risk losing Lara?

Hello?

Are you really not gonna work

with Michael anymore?

Depends if he takes

my advice or not.

Will he?

- Well, he'd be stupid not to.

- I don't think he's stupid.

I like him, he's nice.

Looks can be deceiving, baby.

Are you gonna stay here tonight?

I don't know. I'm not sure,

maybe not?

You don't mind spending time

with aunt Lara, do you?

It's only until Christmas.

And you know you can call me

whenever you need me.

Yeah?

I don't mind.

I like Aunt Lara.

But she's not

as good as you, Mom..

Come on.

One more measurement, we're

gonna find you a perfect dress...

- Hi!

- Oh, hey, friends!

What is going on in here?

Lara is being very helpful.

But far too generous.

Well what's the point

in working in PR if you can't

pull in Christmas party favours

for your friends?

This is all for Christmas Eve?

I told her nothing fancy,

it's just a little party.

And I told her,

it would be my pleasure.

Or we could just this whole

thing at my apartment.

Oh, no, thank you,

but this is already

more than enough.

Come on, it would

be my pleasure.

Thank you.

But Christmas wouldn't be

Christmas without being at home.

Besides, it takes far too long

to get to Manhattan!

You make it sound like

crossing the Atlantic.

And I already did that once.

Hey, should we go grab a coffee?

Go. I can make coffee

for you here!

No, it's fine, Mom.

We need to talk business.

Oh, well, okay.

Suit yourselves.

We won't be long.

- Look at this one.

- You like it?

Mm-hmm!

And Nora really didn't blow

your cover?

Even after he called you Lara?

No, no.

She just didn't seem to notice.

Michael teaching her all about

the horses probably helped.

Well, call me crazy, but it seemed

like you were having a good time.

Well, until the end.

That's the thing.

Every time I think he might be a

decent person to work with,

he reveals his inner idiot.

Okay...

Michael, hi.

What's he saying?

I'm sorry, I didn't quite

catch that?

I said, I'm sorry for before.

- He's sorry.

- Sorry?

You were right,

and I cancelled my lunch.

Perfect. I am glad you came

to your senses.

Uh...

so, should we meet here, or?

Uh...

I'll have a courier

bring over your homework

for the afternoon.

Oh. What, you're not

gonna be joining me?

No,

no, I'm afraid not,

but don't worry, I will see you

first thing tomorrow morning.

And there will be a quiz.

It's okay. Okay.

A quiz. Hm.

- Yeah, on your homework.

- Ah.

I'll send over the address

for tomorrow.

Don't be late.

Okay, this... boss persona

suits your vibe.

I don't know what

you're talking about.

What are you gonna send him?

Uh, background info on

the appointment committee,

there's actually a lot to learn.

Um, I thought it would do him

good to spend the afternoon alone,

thinking about what he's done.

Hear, hear!

So what should we do?

Oh, I think it's about time

you got to enjoy some

alone time, don't you?

- Really?

- Absolutely.

Have fun.

Relax.

I wish I could have seen

his face.

Me too.

Okay. Thanks. Have a good day.

Oh.

Oh, hey, no.

Let me take that.

Everything okay?

What would you like me to do

with the others?

Oh...

Oh she's...

she's joking, right?

Mm-mm.

- Oh boy.

- Yeah.

She's a Taurus...

and Scorpio rising.

- Eh!

- Ugh!

Sagittarius.

Why do I need

to know this stuff?

Surprised to see you here

so early.

Your message said 6:30.

- You were here at 6:30?

- No.

Okay. Yeah, you're good at this.

So what are we doing here?

You'll see.

Hmm.

Can't help but think there aren't

gonna be any Vitanians of note here.

I wouldn't be so sure

about that.

Ms. Berg! Hi.

Nice to see you again.

Isabella please.

I must say, I was surprised

to hear from your team.

Oh, uh, I think it's

this lunar eclipse in Gemini.

You know, it's got me...

re-evaluating what's important

in life.

- You're a Sagittarius, no?

- Uh, rising, yes.

But the rest of my chart

is pure Pisces.

Of course. Fascinating.

Well, you're welcome

here anytime.

We can always use helpers.

- Oh, well...

- Oops.

Happy to be here. Heh.

And, uh... I'm hoping if I'm

gonna be in New York more often

that I can make this

a regular thing.

Excellent.

Carry on.

Whew.

That was... impressive,

but you probably shouldn't be making

promises you don't intend to keep.

Nah, I wouldn't do that.

If this is where I'm needed,

here's where I'll be.

Would you like it? Yeah.

Okay, great.

Here you go.

Enjoy, yeah.

Don't you think you've maybe had enough

chocolate cereal for before 9 in the morning?

No. This is only

my second bowl.

I used to have, like,

three when I was tiny.

I used to have competitions

with my dad.

- Aw. Did you?

- Yeah.

He used to always let me win.

Okay, well, why don't we go

to the playground?

When you're done.

I looked out before,

and it's totally deserted.

I think I'm a little old

for the playground.

And it's probably deserted

because it's a Tuesday.

And everybody's at school.

I thought you said it was

a holiday?

Gotcha!

Oh, uh, you have a little um...

Uh...

What?

Flour on your face.

Ah, I have something...

Can I, uh...

Uh, so, I mean, shouldn't we

be posting to social media

or taking some pictures

or something?

No. We should avoid the whole

virtue signalling narrative.

With the appointment committee,

it's best to work on word of mouth.

Any photos or comments need

to come from other people.

That sounds smart.

Well, you can count on Isabella

Berg telling everyone she knows,

but even with that, a visit to a soup kitchen

is not gonna generate enough chatter.

Are you ready to work hard?

Oh, I was born ready.

Good, 'cause we have

the Elders of Vitania

to meet first who are

notoriously difficult to impress.

Oh.

I hope you're hungry.

Why does that sound

like a threat?

It's not a threat, it's just

an invitation to sample

the best Vitanian schnitzel

sandwiches the city has to offer.

Sandwiches.

Uh, I don't know.

What's wrong with the little

schnitzel sandwich?

You think I managed to maintain

this figure eating bread?

I don't know, do you think you can

manage to maintain your popularity

after disappointing a Vitanian

national treasure?

- Okay. Alright.

- Okay.

Mm.

That... that is delicious.

Carlo asked if you wouldn't

mind sampling another,

but for a photo this time.

Oh, for you Carlo, anything.

Okay.

It's great.

It's really good.

You're doing incredibly well.

Oh, well, we're doing

incredibly well.

I couldn't do any of

this without you.

I owe you a lot.

Um, we have a clear afternoon.

Is there anything you'd like

to go over?

Yeah, actually, um, there's

a place I'd like to take you.

If you're okay with that.

Yeah, sure.

Okay, let's go.

Are you gonna tell my mom about

me missing school this morning?

I haven't decided yet.

Please don't. I'm sorry, I'll

do anything you want me to do

just to make up for it.

Well, I suppose you could help me make

some Christmas decorations as an apology

for being so sneaky.

Doesn't sound like much

of a punishment.

Come on, you.

I've never been to this part

of the park before.

Yeah, it's a little off

the beaten path

but I think that's why my Mom

liked it so much.

A gift from Vitania

to the children of New York.

Yeah, it's like a whole

Vitanian garden

in the spring time.

There are just flowers

everywhere.

My mom would bring us here

when we came to the city.

And she had me convinced,

for years,

that they had planted the

flowers as a welcoming for us.

It makes sense.

Well, of course you believed

that a garden

was planted in your honour,

right?

I don't think you would

have recognized me as a kid.

Why not?

I was quite a gentle, sensitive

soul until my mom passed.

She's definitely responsible

for any lingering good parts.

Well I'm sure she'd be really

proud of the man you've become.

Yeah, I'm not so sure

about that.

I'd... hardly have been able to point

out Vitania on a map a few weeks ago.

Really?

Yeah.

You're breaking my heart, Kaws.

That was then, this is now.

Now I am a fountain

of Vitanian knowledge.

Although I think I would still struggle

to name another high-profile Vitanian.

You kidding?

Other than little Aviva Benzi?

Wait, Aviva Benzi

the teen singer?

My daughter is obsessed

with her.

Yeah, yeah. Her and everyone

else in the world.

I mean she's...

I don't know,

one of the most famous

teen singer the last decade.

- Really?

- Really.

Really, she's in town for

a concert tomorrow night,

you have arranged a meeting,

haven't you?

No, no...

I haven't...

and I am so sorry,

I had no idea, but...

I am sure there's something

I can do.

Just...

Oh.

Everything okay?

Yeah, yeah.

Did you know your dad was

in town already?

I did not.

He told me he wasn't coming in until

the appointment committee decision.

I guess he didn't want

to include me in his plans.

Oh, I'm sure that's not true.

No, it's pretty textbook

for my father.

You know, why spend time

with your only son

when there are other, more

important people to schmooze?

Should we focus on securing

these Aviva Benzi tickets?

I think it's a great chance

to show you're connected

to Vitania's future and, well, I would

hate for you to miss out because of me.

You know what?

Don't worry about it.

I don't really wanna go.

You... You were doing so well.

We're so close.

Look.

Let's not kid ourselves here.

The appointment committee is

only gonna take me as seriously

as my father does,

which is not at all.

I appreciate it but...

I think I'm just gonna go.

Do you like this one?

Yeah. Let's sing

our Christmas song.

I love Christmas food

Hi, it's me!

I love Christmas crafts

- Oh, hey.

- Hi Babcia.

Oh, wow, these are looking

very impressive.

Thanks, Babcia.

You made these yourself?

Yeah! Shall I teach you how?

Aw, so clever.

I love home-made decorations.

The three ornaments

are home-made, aren't they?

Well yes, but they're old.

The apples were made by Julianne

when she was a child.

Ah, that's what those are.

Did you used to make snowflakes

when you were younger, aunt I?

I did. It was something I did

with my nanny though,

and she stopped working for us when I

started middle school at Trinity so...

a long time ago.

You're still pretty good though.

Your nanny must have been

a good teacher.

Yeah. Yeah, she was.

How about this one?

Ooh.

Hey!

Oh, look who it is.

Have you eaten?

I'll make you some food.

No, no, I'm fine, Mama.

Aw, the place looks great

in here.

Hi, honey.

Can we have a quick work chat?

Things have taken a turn.

Oh. Sure.

Let's go to my place now, Nora

and Viktoria can come later.

You're back!

Bagel?

Did you know Dad was in town?

I...

I did.

Mm-hmm.

Mm. Okay, so just me out

of the loop then?

Michael.

I didn't want to dampen

your mood.

You're doing so well.

Has he reached out to you?

No. No.

He's probably too busy boring everybody

with the sound of his own voice

to even think about

checking on his own children.

That sounds like Dad.

I don't know why you do this.

Let him get to you.

You've always been like this,

since you were teeny.

Just desperate for him

to approve of you.

I think I gave up on that

a long time ago.

Oh you just wait until

the gala dinner

after the appointment committee.

Even he'll be impressed with

how far you've come.

I don't know, it just feels

like another perfect opportunity

for him to be publicly

disappointed in me.

Don't say that.

You've done brilliantly

since Lara came on board.

Yeah, maybe, but tomorrow

night Aviva Benzi's in town

and I'm gonna be the only

Vitanian not in attendance,

I don't know, maybe I should

just cut my losses now.

No! Don't do that,

just stop it.

Stop self-sabotaging yourself

the way you always do.

- Uh, I don't know...

- You're doing well!

Listen, are you not the most famous Vitanian

export since the schnitzel sandwich?

- I think that's debatable.

- No!

I don't. You are.

So just like, pull it together

and figure out a way

to meet Aviva Benzi yourself.

I don't know.

If you don't do it for yourself,

do it for Lara.

You owe it to her

not to bow out.

- Oh, it's your mom.

- Oh, you can answer.

Hey, Viktoria, it's Lara.

Are you okay?

Oh, I actually don't know.

Let me check some reviews

and I'll send you a message.

I won't be long. Bye.

Your mom wants to know if I recommend

the Polish fish monger nearby.

Would you?

I have no idea.

Is a Polish fish monger special?

No, but I would watch out

for a carp in your bathtub.

- Carp?

- It's a Polish tradition, we have it on Christmas Eve.

And you keep it in the tub?

I'm sure she wouldn't. She hasn't

done it since before Nora's dad died.

I'm sorry, I can't get my head

around this,

you keep carps in the tub?!

Just forget I said anything.

Okay, yeah. You're right.

We have more important things

to discuss.

I think I'm gonna do it.

Do what?

Have a baby.

By myself.

- Really?

- I mean, okay, so,

being with Nora,

it's been hard at times,

but it's also been wonderful.

And it showed me that

I do really want this...

to be a mom.

Do you think I could do it?

Of course I do.

Even though I'll be on my own?

No. You'll never be

on your own.

You have all of us as.

And so will your baby.

Okay then, I guess that's

that decided.

I'm gonna do it.

I'm gonna be a mom.

A brilliant one.

Okay, enough about me.

What are we gonna do about

this Michael Karlsson situation?

Ugh, I don't know.

I just, I tried and failed

to get these tickets but,

more importantly, he seemed to

lose faith in himself altogether.

I'm sure you can bring

that back.

Look at everything you've

managed on your own so far.

I wouldn't be so sure

about that.

If he's lost the faith,

then we need to keep it for him.

Let's get to work.

- Alright.

- Cheers.

Cheers.

Ugh, who on earth is that?

I'll get it!

Leave it, Mama!

Uh, who is it?

It's Michael.

I'll... be right out!

Oh.

Um, it's business, Mom, okay?

So when he comes, just don't call

me Julianne, okay? Or me Lara?

Yeah, don't call either

of us by our names.

In fact, why don't you just

go wait in your room?

- It's time to start the day!

- Okay, coffee? She could make some coffee.

In the open-plan kitchen.

Oh, actually, I could really

use your help in...

for a minute, Viktoria.

You two are being

really strange.

What?

No, no. Just...

Really, really strange, girls.

I'm sorry to just turn up

like this.

- It's fine.

- No, it's not.

I should have called first.

I'm sorry.

Look, I just wanted to apologize

for the way I left yesterday.

No. No, no, no,

there's no need to apologize.

I should be the one apologizing, I tried all

night to get those Aviva Benzi tickets...

About that.

I got us tickets.

I thought maybe Nora would like

to join us.

You said she was a fan.

Not as big of a fan as me!

- Hello.

- You have Aviva Benzi tickets?

We love Aviva Benzi.

She's so talented.

I'm sorry, who are you?

She's my babcia.

Did you say you have tickets

to see Aviva Benzi?

I do.

Would you like to join

your mom and me there?

Can't we all go?

Oh. Um...

I'm not sure...

You know what but... maybe your

grandma can take you instead?

No, no, no. No.

What about your meet-and-greet

with Aviva?

Oh, I'm sure we can work

something out.

They were very helpful on

the phone yesterday,

it seems somebody's

revolutionized my PR or something.

So, do you want to go?

- Yes!

- Yeah!

Okay. Well, I guess we

all ought to get ready then.

- Oh!

- Come on!

Thank you.

Do you want to come in?

Sure.

Is everything okay in there?

Are you aware there's a...

a fish in your bathtub?

Oh.

Oh.

I just wasn't expecting

to see a fish.

Neither was I.

She hasn't done this in

a long time.

She's done this before?

Yeah. It's a Polish thing.

Oh, I didn't realize Kaws

was a Polish name.

It's not.

How long does it take to get

to the concert?

- Um...

- Is it far?

Or we should...

Mom, we're ready!

Ta-da!

You weren't kidding about

them being fans.

High-five.

Uh, sorry, no hot chocolate.

Um, thank you so much for today.

I'm pretty sure it's been like

the greatest day of her life.

Your mom's or Nora's?

Oh, my Mom's. 100%.

Nothing else comes close.

Seriously though, it was a

really kind thing for you to do.

Well, I think it was necessary

after the way I left yesterday.

Throwing self-pity parties is not

my most attractive of qualities.

Well, I'd say you have a few

others in your favour.

Um, you know you're doing

incredibly well.

Oh, uh, I mean, that's all...

that's all down to you.

No. No, no, no,

it was a team effort.

- Would you want to...

- Should we...

- No, no, you.

- No.

- Please, please.

- No, you. You.

You go.

I actually... I can't remember

what I was gonna say.

Same.

Nora and I should take you

to lunch to thank you for today.

Oh, uh, actually, I have a lunch

scheduled with Aviva Benzi,

but why don't you join us?

Oh, you are full of surprises.

Uh, yes, we would love to.

Should we go tell Nora

and Babcia the news?

After you.

I don't want to jinx it, but I'd say Aviva

Benzi publicly endorsing you on her socials

has pretty much sealed

the deal...

Nah, no, no, no.

Don't... don't say it.

Although I'm pretty sure Nora

won Aviva over for me.

Well, maybe I should start marketing

us as a mother-daughter duo.

- Oh, yeah, yeah. Definitely.

- Yeah? Mm-hmm.

Do you think you could source

matching outfits?

I make a lot of Nora's clothes

so I don't see why not.

You're joking?

No.

Did you make that coat?

Yes.

No, no, no. No, no, no.

Wait, wait, wait.

This is too unfair.

You can't be brilliant at PR

and make stuff like that.

It's not that hard. My Mom

taught me when I was little.

So why get into PR?

It's complicated.

Well, I'm listening.

Uh, I was working in fashion

until Nora's dad died.

And then my priorities changed.

I had to be there for her.

And you couldn't do both?

No.

Nora had to come first.

Well, I think you're brilliant.

And to build up your PR business

so quickly.

Yeah...

I wish I had your focus.

Well, I'd say you could

be pretty focused

when you put your mind to it.

Thank you.

What did you want to be when

you were little?

Uh...

I don't really know.

I don't remember.

I mean, I think it was always

expected of me

that I become the ambassador

one day but...

You know, to tell you the truth, I don't

think I ever wanted it until this week.

- No?

- Yeah, after watching my dad, you know?

It was always about him,

the speeches and parties.

I don't know, it wasn't until

I met you that I realized

I could actually help people

with it.

I think you will make

a wonderful ambassador.

I think you'd be wonderful

at whatever you wanted to do.

But I'm glad you're this.

Otherwise, you and I would never

have had the chance to meet.

Yeah.

Um...

Hey, um, look.

There's a big gala after

the appointment committee

makes their decision.

Would you like to join me?

Yeah, I'd love to.

Great.

Um, well...

I won't be able to stay late

because it's the night before

Christmas Eve

and Christmas Eve is a very big

deal in our family.

There's a whole party

to prepare for, so.

Maybe I can come

to that party too?

I... If I'm invited.

Yeah, okay.

I'd like that.

Come on, Mom!

I should get going.

Okay.

Um, good night.

- Yeah... have a good night.

- Yeah.

You think these roses are too...

roses?

I think that sentence doesn't

make sense.

- You know what I mean.

- No, I don't.

Do you think Lara would

like these?

I don't know.

Do you like Lara?

- I don't know what you mean.

- I mean,

I think somebody might have caught

feelings for their PR specialist.

I don't know what

you're talking about.

Here. You take these.

I'm gonna get something a little

more fairy tale.

Hm.

Okay.

Good morning!

How are you feeling?

Good. Fine.

Now, what's that?

Nothing, just trying to calm

my mind.

What time are we expecting

to hear the news?

There should be a call

from the appointment committee

before they announce it at

the gala dinner.

Back at the Carson Centre.

Are you going?

Are you nervous?

No.

No, no. I think we did

a good job.

They'd be fools

not to appoint him.

I meant about telling Michael

who you really are.

Do you think I should tell him

tonight too?

I'm sure everything is gonna

be fine.

Especially if he likes you

as much as you like him.

Well, no we're just...

We're just friends.

Oh, look, the Hudson River

just froze over.

Oh, that's funny.

- You like him.

- Stop.

Oh!

Are you causing trouble?

Is it too much?

No.

No, you look incredible.

Yeah.

These are for you.

They're gorgeous.

And these...

Are for Nora, seeing as

she can't come to the ball.

Thank you.

She'll love them.

So, uh...

how are you feeling about

the announcement?

You know what?

Surprisingly calm.

We did the best we could.

Together.

Michael, um...

There's something I need

to tell you.

Oh...

Our car's waiting.

Oh...

I'm... I'm sorry.

You wanted to say something.

No. No. It's fine.

It can wait 'till later.

We should get going.

Okay.

Did you smile?

- No.

- No?

- Let's just go for another one.

- Okay.

Oh, he wants another.

Oh, another one?

Congratulations my boy.

You look almost as surprised

as I was.

- Wait, did...

- I'm sorry, have they made him ambassador?

Officially?

Yes. The committee just passed

on the news.

I assumed you'd heard.

No.

No, I hadn't.

We did it.

- We did it.

- We did it. - Yeah.

You're amazing.

Yeah, um, sorry, of course.

Dad, this is...

the incredible, Lara Kaws.

No it isn't.

Excuse me?

That is not Lara Kaws.

You're her assistant,

aren't you?

Yes, I never forget a face.

You were in the office the day

I hired your boss

to pull my feckless son

into shape.

I never imagined she'd actually

do it.

Hmm.

I imagine she decided her

assistant was more your usual type.

Michael, um...

Excellent idea, I must say.

She certainly had

your card marked.

No. No, you see,

you're wrong.

This...

this is, um...

This is Lara.

Aren't you?

You lied to me?

I was trying to tell you before.

So you... you work with my

father and then you lied to me.

- I can explain everything...

- I have no idea who you are.

You do. You do. I'm...

You're a liar.

Michael...

Ugh. Don't.

Great dress. Vintage?

Wha... sorry?

Sorry, no. I made it myself.

Exquisite.

Heading home already?

Yeah, I think so.

Mm.

Here, take this.

My card.

I know talent when I see it.

We should work together.

- Oh, no, I don't...

- Take it.

And take my car too.

My driver's parked

right outside.

It looks like you could do with

a comfortable ride home.

Uh...

Thank you.

Congratulations

Mr. Ambassador.

Where's the lady of the hour?

I'd thank you for

introducing us,

but it turns out it was Dad

all along.

Okay.

So, he was involved

at the beginning, sure,

but does that really matter now?

I thought you would understand.

Uh, I do.

But don't let him ruin

your night.

You don't get it, do you?

Dancing. Dancing!

Figure skating!

Figure skating.

Figure skating.

Skating!

Uh, reindeer!

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer!

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer!

Oh, I've got it!

No, I don't got it...

Tree!

Tree!

No, no, no.

Ornaments!

No!

- Gold!

- No.

- Snowing!

- Look, look, look.

Mom, come and guess!

It's over.

It's time to go home.

Okay?

Thank you.

We will have to do lunch.

Absolutely.

Oh, Michael.

Um, this is Cara Marshall.

Hi.

A fellow fashion buyer,

though more high-end than I.

- Oh...

- Pleased to meet you.

Um, look, I'm gonna get going.

It's your night.

Celebrate.

I don't really feel much

like celebrating.

Yeah.

Bye.

Yeah, can you bring

the car around?

No, I know I said I was gonna

be here for a while but...

You know what, actually,

forget about it.

I'll walk.

Michael!

Thank God!

I was terrified.

You have ignored every one

of my calls.

- I had to clear my head.

- You couldn't even let me know that you were okay?

I am pregnant!

I apologize.

What is this about?

Something happened with Lara?

She's not Lara.

Actually...

She's Lara's assistant.

- What?

- I don't wanna talk about it.

Well, she's obviously all

you can think about.

She betrayed me.

Betrayal's a strong word.

She lied to me...

for our father.

Is that what she said, or Dad?

Have you spoken to her about it?

Michael.

You like her.

She likes you.

Don't you think you should hear

what she has to say about it?

Yeah.

It's that time of year

When Santa comes

Bring that cheer

He ain't coming

by boat or plane

Is that the...

Try not to think about it.

Hey, at least

you're smiling now.

Any word from Michael?

Nothing.

And I know he doesn't want

to hear from me.

- Can I just have one, Babcia?

- Hm, you know the rules.

Christmas doesn't start until we

see the first star in the night sky.

Have you seen the first star

in the night sky?

Hmm.

Now, where should we place

the absent guest?

- The absent guest?

- It's a tradition.

We set an extra place setting in

case someone shows up unexpectedly.

It's not gonna happen.

I'm gonna open the wine.

Mom, it's Michael!

Hey.

Hey.

I wasn't expecting to see

you here.

I would have been here sooner,

but, uh...

I had a hard time figuring out

where you lived

because I didn't know

your real name.

How did you find me?

I may have had some help.

I am an ambassador now,

after all.

Right.

Look...

I am so sorry for everything.

I wanted to tell you for

so long and...

I swear though, I had no idea

about your father. I know.

I might not have known

your real name.

But...

I think I got to know the real

you over the last couple of weeks.

I think you have too.

I think...

the real you went through all that

because you actually care about me.

Oh.

I care about you, do I?

I think you do?

Hmm.

What else do you know?

Well, I know your name

is Julianne.

Mm-hmm.

And that I've wanted to do this

for a really, really long time.

Babcia!

I see the first star!

Mom! It's Christmas!

Should we...

Two more minutes.