Christmas Collision (2021)

[bunniefuu]

[Christmas music]

[phone beeps]

[phone ringing]

Hey, I'm running behind

schedule.

Can you be Wonderwoman

for me again?

I don't know.

How big is my Christmas bonus?

-Substantial.

-Good because I have

those finalization documents

in my hand, and your coffee.

Great. Did the money

transfer to the escrow?

You know what? Never mind.

I'm getting on the elevator.

I-- You and the elevator.

Be sure to call the office

in Des Moines

and get that money into escrow.

Is there news on

the Nebraska acquisition?

-Not yet.

-Okay.

I'm gonna head up to Ronan.

Keep me posted.

Thank you for the coffee.

Good luck.

[Ronan chattering]

[Ronan] Uh-huh.

[grunts]

Yeah, might have to check that.

Let me get back to you.

Depica is finalized.

Three days ahead of schedule.

Nice job, Theodora.

[Kelly grunts]

-Will there be anything else?

-No.

[phone vibrating]

Des Moines is still taking

the heat today.

Nebraska just

will not play ball until we--

Have you made those travel

arrangements yet?

[Ronan sighs]

I'm assigning you

a sensitive project.

Now, I assume you can handle it.

You saved us time

on this Depica deal.

So do you think you could use

a little bit of that magic

on this one?

Of course, you're the only one

that I can trust to do this

this close to the holidays.

I know you have nothing planned.

When do I leave?

Talk to Kelly.

He has all the arrangements.

I have calls to make.

Off you go.

[Theodora] "Kelly

has the details."

So apparently

you have the details?

-I tried to tell you.

-I saw you do this.

-Is that what it was?

-Yes.

I thought you slept funny.

No.

Okay. So apparently he's sending

you to New Richmond.

-New Richmond?

-The heart of it all.

Ohio. [giggles]

So, I will send you everything

in an email.

You have a rental car

and a reservation for a B&B

for one night.

And you need to leave now

because your flight leaves

in two hours.

Okay.

Good luck.

[Christmas music]

[somber music]

[church bells]

I'll be here if you need me.

[music continues]

Vroom!

Hey, my little copilot.

Let's bake some more cookies.

Hey, just wanted to let you know

I was here if you need any help.

Where do you want these flowers?

Thanks. Thank you, you can

just set them over there.

Belinda is on her way.

She's bringing some pies.

[Michael] She was like

a second mother to me.

She baked the best cookies

I ever had.

I don't know if I can

appreciate another cookie again.

Yeah.

She's a good woman

and I'll miss her.

Well, thank you guys

for helping my mom around

the place while I was gone.

I know it meant a lot to her.

It's been a rough few months.

I'm glad you're back.

Me too. We miss you, Charlie.

Thank you.

-Do you think he's gonna stay?

-Hope so.

If he'd seen him like that...

I feel like I can't do anything.

-He's not gonna listen to me.

-Yeah. [sighs]

I just don't know.

You know Lila was

my best friend.

And my cookie rival.

It's hard for me to say this.

But maybe this year I'll finally

win the cookie competition.

This is going to be your year.

-[both chuckle]

-Shh.

That's bad timing.

[Nick] It's gonna be a different

cookie competition this year

with Lila gone.

Poor Charlie.

Just coming home and now this.

You know, I used to check

her cookies twice

to make sure they

weren't pure magic.

It's truly sad to lose her

this close to Christmas.

-But, she's not--

-[knocking]

[knocking]

-[Belinda] Hello.

-[Theodora] Miss King?

No, I'm Belinda. Come in.

I'm looking for Miss Lila King.

Is she available?

I'm sorry.

Lila is no longer here.

Do you know when she'll be back?

I'm sorry. You are?

I'm Theodora Greenly.

Miss Greenly. We laid Lila

to rest this morning.

Maybe you'd like to speak

to her son, Charlie.

He's back in town

taking care of things.

-That'd be Charles King?

-Yes, Charlie.

I heard my name?

Charles King?

-Yeah.

-I'm Theodora Greenly.

I have an urgent matter.

Can we meet in private?

You know what, it's kind of been

a long day for Charlie.

Maybe you can give us a couple

hours just to get cleaned up

and sorted out.

I'll be back in two hours.

I'm here if you need me.

Your mother

was a wonderful soul.

She was proud.

[Belinda] Nick,

butterscotch pie.

Butterscotch, yeah.

-[Belinda] Bye, love.

-[Theodora clears throat]

-I need 15 minutes.

-Yes, yes. I'm sorry.

-Can I get you a coffee or?

-No, thanks.

A transfer? Who?

What do you mean default?

Again.

My firm represents

River Hills Bank.

I have a nonjudicial disclosure

of default on this prop--

I heard what you said

but you've made some kind of--

I need to finalize this transfer

immediately.

You're kidding.

This is a joke. You're joking.

Okay. Clearly,

you don't understand.

I understand what you're saying.

I'm telling you,

this is not possible.

This house, this whole property,

falls under my firm's custody.

It's my responsibility

to finalize this deal.

What deal? There's no default.

-You've made a mistake--

-You had a hard day.

I'm going to give you some time

to figure this out.

And I'll be back in the morning.

[somber music]

She's a lot of fun.

[sighs]

-[Kelly] She arrived--

-[Ronan] Papers signed.

She just got there.

She's been there for four hours,

35 minutes.

I'll get in touch with Melissa.

You do that.

How's that?

Fine quality bourbon.

Hasn't been an

"Aaron wasted my time."

Kathryn will be pleased.

[laughs] Is Kathryn

ever pleased?

Once or twice.

[laughs]

Tell me more about Melissa.

Oh, forget it.

Theodora. She will not let you

get within 50 feet of Melissa.

You speaking from experience?

What time your train leave?

Why?

Why I thought we might

get ourselves a couple more

pours of bourbon.

Okay. Let's get back to Melissa.

[chuckles] You know, I think

you're gonna have to figure out

a way of asking her yourself.

There should be something.

There's nothing saying

she missed a single payment.

[gasps] Her records are perfect.

She would never...

foreclosure.

[dramatic music]

Yo, I think I'm gonna hit

the diner for coffee.

You're gonna be up all night.

I see you tomorrow.

All right.

-Hey.

-It's past your bedtime?

This is rare.

Jogging makes me thirsty.

Hey, um, can I

get another cup of coffee?

That'll keep you up all night.

I have a lot of work to do.

Didn't I see you

at Charlie King's?

You sure did.

This is Theodora Greenly

and this is Michael Strauss,

our resident physical therapist

and running enthusiast.

-It's a pleasure to meet you.

-Nice to meet you, Michael.

I really do have

a lot of work to do, though.

Understood.

Enjoy your stay in New Richmond.

I'm only here for one night.

Thankfully.

[knocking]

[knocking]

Hi.

Do you need a moment?

Um, no.

Come in.

I don't even know

what I'm looking for here.

Let me explain this very simply.

This loan is

in default of payment.

We've sent multiple notices,

and of this date,

the loan has not been satisfied.

[Charlie mumbles]

I'm sorry, this still doesn't

make sense to me at all.

It means that the loan

has not been--

I know what it means.

I'm telling you,

my mother would

never default on this property.

She loved this place.

It was everything to her.

I'm gonna need at least a day.

I have to go to the bank

and get this figured out.

You have until tomorrow morning.

Fine.

[playful music]

-[thud]

-[Theodora crying]

[sobbing]

Let's get you up.

I can't. I can't.

[Theodora moaning]

Don't touch it. Don't touch it.

Let me go see

if I can find some ice

or a bandage or something.

[Charlie] I have frozen peas,

works like ice.

Just whatever.

[Charlie] I used to use them

when I played sports.

Okay, just get it on.

That is really swelling.

Oh, wow.

You're gonna need

to see a doctor.

No. No, it's gonna be okay.

It's okay. I just, I just need

to keep it on ice for a bit.

It will be fine.

It will be fine.

No, you definitely need

to see a doctor for that.

I can take care of it myself.

It's probably for that too.

Give me that!

[Theodora whimpers]

[Charlie] Hey, doc,

I'm glad you picked up.

Look, I have a guest.

She, she sprained her ankle.

I don't think it's broken.

But it was really bad.

Really, okay. Think you'll be

able to bring some crutches?

I don't need crutches!

[Charlie] Great.

Okay, thank you.

Thank you. Yeah, bye.

Okay, so.

The doc says it's just, for now,

to keep your ankle elevated.

But...

he also said you're probably not

going anywhere for a few days.

What? I'm not saying here.

I'm gonna...

I'll be just fine.

I...

I don't think we have

much of a choice.

I can take care of this.

I'll be okay. Yeah.

You know, everybody needs

a little help sometimes.

And, I know you

don't want to stay here.

I'm not really

excited about it either.

So why don't we try

to make the best of it?

You want some coffee?

[sighs]

Black.

Do you have any super glue?

[Christmas music]

-Hey, Don Juan.

-What?

Big sparks with you

and the city girl.

She staying at your place?

She had a bad fall,

sprained her ankle.

Hopefully, she'll be gone

in a few days.

Sprain. Is it severe?

Doc says it's mild.

-Sprain or not, she's hot.

-Is she?

You didn't notice?

Hot or not,

she's trying to take my farm.

Take your farm? How?

What do you mean take?

Why don't you swing by

some time, I'll catch you up.

Deal.

Finally. Are you okay?

It's not good.

It always gets bad

before it gets better.

Yeah, they have me on crutches.

I have an appointment

with the doc in the morning

before I go to the bank.

So we'll see.

Ronan's pissed, and Kelly's

taking the brunt of it.

I don't know how he does it.

You know, I've had a chance

to look through those files

and I can see why Charles

is confused about this.

Anything I can do to help?

So, about Charles?

What?

Is he cute?

Goodbye, Melissa.

-Wait.

-Yes?

Is that a yes?

Goodbye.

[phone vibrating]

-[Melissa] I knew it!

-[Kelly] Knew what?

Is that the New Richmond deal?

Sure is. You need to read it

and Theodora needs to see it.

Are you sure? You could lose

your job over this?

I'm counting on it.

I'm done.

Oh, yeah. And, Jagger Huntley.

Say no more.

[chuckles]

[Nick] Mr. Mayor.

Do you really eat all

your broccoli?

I sure do.

It's my favorite vegetable.

Well, you know

what that makes you?

A really good girl?

No. Someone who likes broccoli.

[laughs] You're funny.

Isn't he, daddy?

Yes, he is, Molly.

-Well, we better get going.

-Have a good day.

Put your jacket on, kiddo.

Got it?

All right. Awesome.

That's for you.

-Thank you.

-There you go. Enjoy.

-Have a good night.

-You too. Nice seeing you.

Bye, Nick.

Still gonna check

on Charlie tomorrow?

Yes, ma'am.

You're gonna ask him

about Lila's recipe

and the cookie competition?

Of course.

Mr. Snow,

when you have a piece of my pie

under your nose,

you are a man of few words.

Look, I will do

what I can. Okay?

But he has to make

his own decision.

I believe in you.

You always know

the right thing to say.

-Oh, hello Seth. Coffee?

-Another piece of pie?

You keep eating my pie

and you're gonna

look like Santa.

Is that a bad thing?

A tree?

It's a fire hazard.

It's fine.

Is this the only bag

you brought?

I was only supposed

to be here one night.

So you don't have

any warm clothes?

One night.

Okay.

Okay, so I have some flannels

and warm socks.

They're clean.

You're welcome to wear them.

Those are great. Did they come

with a free moose?

Okay, look. I'm really trying

to be nice. Okay?

It's really cold out there.

It can get a lot colder in here.

You're welcome.

[Theodora sighs]

You're going to decorate

the whole house?

-Yes.

-Why?

Because it's Christmas.

Then you just take

it all down again.

[gasps]

[soft music]

Oh, wow.

This... This was

my favorite ornament as a kid.

It's not a Christmas ornament.

-Of course it's an ornament.

-No.

There's no red ribbon on it.

There's no glitter.

Even though I hate glitter,

it goes everywhere.

There's no etching,

there's no design.

It's not a Christmas ornament.

Christmas, 1988.

It's an ornament.

Oh, is that a Christmas blanket?

The more you decorate, the

stronger the Christmas spirit.

-[Theodora] Oh--

-Don't do it.

You're sure your last name

isn't Dickens?

[choir] Let every heart

Prepare him room

And heaven and nature sing

And heaven and nature sing

And heaven and nature sing

And heaven and nature sing

He rules the world

With truth and grace

[clapping] Beautiful.

-Stunning. Absolutely stunning.

-Of course.

So. Do you have any other songs?

Do you know what?

It doesn't matter.

You guys sound fabu--

[slow clapping]

That was fantastic.

Nice job.

Hey, Mr. Mayor.

-Hello.

-Don't you think we need some

-decorations--

-There's...

gonna be more decorations.

They're just not up yet.

Don't you have somewhere

to be today?

Oh, yeah. Yeah.

Yeah. Thirty minutes.

I got an appointment.

Mayor Langford. Sorry.

Am I interrupting anything?

[Mayor] No, nothing at all.

Great.

I just wondering, what are

your expectations for us

during the Christmas Eve event?

Absolutely. What we're going

to do is have carolers inside,

and we'll have carolers outside

drawing people to the event.

So the same thing

we did last year?

Yes. But with a twist.

This year, randomly,

the carolers should

throw out candy.

-That's a twist.

-Yes!

We're gonna go back to

rehearsing if that's cool.

Oh, yes. Yes. Yes.

You sound wonderful. Thank you!

Joy to the world

The Lord has come

Let Earth receive her king

[Theodora moans] I'm sorry.

Sorry. Sorry.

It's okay. It's all right.

First time on crutches.

[Charlie] It's okay.

You missed a button.

[sighs]

[Nick] Hey, Michael.

[Michael] Nice tree.

Thanks. Nick sure knows

how to pick 'em.

Hey, have you had breakfast?

I did. I definitely

don't need more coffee.

Oh, there's always room for pie.

Not this morning. I made

an omelet bigger than my head.

-Ate at all.

-[both giggle]

Have you spoken to Charlie

since the funeral?

Briefly yesterday. I'm going

to the farm this evening.

You want to take a pie?

-No, I'm taking beers.

-Oh.

Hey, have you ever

made a pie of stout?

-Keep decorating.

-You are the smart one.

Go easy on him.

He's got a lot to handle.

-I mean it.

-Yeah. For sure.

-It's good to see you.

-Okay.

-See you, Mike.

-See you, Mike.

This looks so nice.

Little Santas.

They're so like you, Nick.

Look at that.

[Theodora] If you're entering

the competition

that your mother always won

then you just use her recipe.

Well, that's the mystery.

I don't know where she left it.

I thought country women

always kept

little boxes

with the recipes in them

to give to the next generation.

She did.

It's not in there.

May I?

Please do.

[piano music]

Moon pie.

Was your mom's

as good as Belinda's?

Mom was a cookie baker.

Quintessential Waldorf salad.

Sweet potato casserole.

That was in her top three.

See, now you're going to go

and make me hungry.

It's just amazing

how many stories

this little box can hold.

Oh, I went to the bank today,

by the way.

Yeah?

Did you figure anything out?

-No.

-[knocking]

Expecting company?

-The doctor maybe?

-No.

I have an appointment tomorrow.

[knocking]

-Are you going to get it?

-Yeah.

Hey, Michael.

Hi, buddy.

You said to stop for a beer.

Northern Row, your favorite.

Yeah, I did say that, didn't I.

Come on in.

Ah. So we meet again.

[Charlie] Meet again?

[Michael] Pleasure,

to officially meet you.

Well, I did hear you had two

broken ribs and a broken leg.

[Michael sighs]

I heard it's just a sprain,

that's a rumor mill.

Right, Charlie?

Yep.

So, how's the ankle?

Um.

It's healing nicely, I think.

Well, I'm a physical therapist.

If I can help you in any way...

Let me know. Right, Charl?

Yeah.

Okay.

Well, I think I'm going

to call it a night.

Do you need some help?

Oh, no, thanks. I got this.

Goodnight, Charles.

Oh, thanks for the beer.

Did I interrupt something?

No. Why would you

even think that?

I've seen that look.

-What look?

-You know.

I miss your mom.

Remember how she used to hum

when she baked cookies?

Yeah.

She could barely make them fast

enough to keep up with us.

[Michael] What was that song?

Frosty the Snowman.

-Frosting the Snow--

-Frosty.

You don't listen.

Wow. I was joking.

You're the one who

doesn't like to listen.

[Charlie sighs]

Right. So you want

to do this now?

I think that we should.

It's time.

[Michael] You...

You walked out

on our friendship.

-Over a simple misunderstanding.

-[Charlie] Simple...

It wasn't a misunderstanding.

You should have known

I would never do that to you.

I should have known.

You were talking to her

every single chance you got.

I talked to everyone, Charlie.

And you never

said you liked her.

It's that move that you do.

What move?

You did it tonight to Theodora.

That? That's not a move.

That's a Michael thing.

That's a me thing.

And making assumptions.

That's a Charlie.

You were like that

when we were kids.

When will you learn?

So this is all my fault?

No, it's both of our faults.

You're the one who left.

You didn't care about

our friendship enough

to see it from my side.

From your side.

What about my side, Michael?

Yeah. I see things from my side.

That's a Charlie thing.

And here we are again.

-You're falling for Theodora.

-No, I'm not.

You are.

Even if I were,

why would you be hitting on her

in front of me?

Is it just to prove

that you can?

Are you kidding me? I'm being

friendly. It's who I am.

I'm not interested in her.

Don't do this again.

-You're falling for her.

-No, I'm not.

You are.

-[Charlie] I can't.

-Well, you are.

[Charlie] Something is missing.

Hey, look at you.

You look 100% better.

Yeah, the swelling's actually

gone down a whole bunch.

It looks a lot worse

than it feels. So, it's good.

-Can I sit?

-Yeah.

How about coffee and a cookie?

The cookies smell

really, really good.

It's a very nice apron, Charles.

It's very festive.

[chuckles] Thank you.

It was my mom's.

Please call me Charlie.

You know, I think this country

air is doing you some good.

I haven't seen you this relaxed

since I met you.

Maybe it's the cookies.

[Charlie chuckles]

I don't think so.

Can't get the recipe right.

There's something missing.

[Theodora grunts]

They smell like a winner to me.

Something about the way

my mom made them,

I just cannot duplicate.

I'm sure you'll figure it out.

sh**t. I've gotta go. I've got

an appointment with the doc.

Oh, hey, wait.

I was looking

over the paperwork,

and Helena Corrival's name

is associated

with my mom's account.

Yeah, well, she probably

handled the mortgage, so.

I got to go.

I'll see you in a bit though.

-Well, can I drive you?

-No, thank you. I got it.

[cheerful music]

[Mayor humming]

Let's put the presents to

the right of the tree right now.

Please. Thank you. Thank you.

I know we said we

need more lights there.

But we're going to need

more lights here actually.

Oh.

I think we should put

garland over the doors.

And tinsel.

Like tinsel everywhere.

More tinsel.

Because it's almost

time for old St. Nick.

-Hey.

-[Mayor shrieks]

You really got it going on. It's

like the north pole in here.

-Yes.

-Oh, hey.

-Here comes Christmas.

-[both chuckle]

Yeah, we're good there.

We're gonna put

the raffle tables over there.

We're gonna put

the cookie competition table

next to the tree and...

Have you spoken to Charlie yet?

Yeah, it's...

Do you want the

mistletoe in all the doors?

Oh, yes, absolutely.

I think we should have it

and it will make it

look so festive now.

-Great.

-Thank you.

So...

[Christmas music]

[Theodora] Yes,

I had some questions

regarding the foreclosure

on the King home.

Such a shame Lila became ill

and was unable to keep up

with the payments.

I've gone over the paperwork

many times.

Weren't you

and Mrs. King friends?

Yes. Well, until it came

to the cookie competition,

then it's

everyone for themselves.

This year may just be my year.

I see.

About the King account.

How is your leg?

Ankle.

It's better. Thank you.

I heard it was your leg.

[laughs]

The paperwork. I expected

to pick that up today.

Our system was down.

Your system was down.

So once your system

comes back online,

I can expect you to email

that file to me immediately?

Certainly, whatever you need.

I appreciate your prompt

attention to this matter.

I'll be in touch.

[playful music]

Would you like to

take one of my cookies

with you on your way out?

I'd be delighted.

Do you need a taste tester?

[Helena] Yes. Be honest.

These look amazing.

This is definitely going to be

your year.

Have any milk?

-I didn't hear the door?

-I came down the chimney.

[Nick chuckles]

Just dropping by.

They want me to check on you.

I promised your mom,

I'd look in on you

and I know you got

a lot on your mind now.

I'm okay.

I heard the big city

businesswoman

has been staying here.

What, she like broke her leg

and a rib or two?

Theodora.

It's just a bad sprain.

[laughs] The New Richmond

rumor mill, man.

Someone gets a splinter,

they turn it into someone

needing brain surgery.

It's one of the many things

I missed while I was away.

Are you planning on staying,

Charlie?

If I don't lose the property.

How is that with the enemy

staying right here?

It was pretty rough at first.

She's warming up. I think.

It doesn't hurt

that she's easy on the eye.

-Stop.

-Looking. Hey.

You know,

maybe you're both changing.

Listen to her. Okay, she might

be able to help you out.

So, how's that cookie recipe

coming?

It's good. It's good.

It's not perfect.

Well, your mom

would be proud of you

entering the cookie competition.

Well, I haven't entered yet.

There's still something missing.

You know, every recipe she ever

had, right there in that box.

Everything but the cookies.

So, I'm just trying to

remember the best I can.

You will figure it out.

I have every faith.

Look, I got to go.

Lots of stops to make, but...

Oh, hey.

That was always your mom's

favorite photo of you.

I'll see you, Charlie.

Take care.

Charlie, hello. How are you?

I'm well. Thanks.

Is there anything

I can do for you?

Yeah, actually, I was in

the bank yesterday trying

to get some information

on mom's account.

We've been having problems

with our system,

but I doubt they give you access

without power of attorney.

It's out of my hands.

I'm so sorry.

It's all right.

I'll figure something out.

I heard you haven't entered

the cookie competition.

Well, I...

Don't wait long. You don't

want to miss the deadline.

The prize is $10,000,

and an interview on The Greatest

Cookie Evertelevision show.

That's the reason

for the new hairstyle.

I plan to win this year.

Well, you look very nice.

Well, thank you, Charlie.

I wish you the best.

Hi there.

[Theodora giggling]

Wow. [Charlie laughs]

-Are you okay?

-Yeah, sorry. Thank you.

Are you, um...

-New boots?

-Oh.

Both feet even.

Yeah. The doctor thought

that something

with a lower shoe would help.

What about this?

Oh, just around town.

I don't need to wear it at home.

Home?

Your home. I don't need

to wear it at your home or...

[mumbles]

...my feet for very long.

I gotcha. Yeah.

Well, that's good news.

Celebrate?

Can I treat you to lunch?

I'm going on cookies

and coffee here. So yeah.

Sounds good.

Well, the diner here has um,

a great meatloaf special,

amazing pies?

Sounds good.

Are you okay to walk?

[giggles] I think so.

This is such a, it's such

a beautiful little town.

It is charming without being

too touristy. You know?

It's a town that's just enough.

Oh, I like that.

[Theodora giggles]

Yeah?

Is it because you're a writer

you can come up with that stuff?

[Charlie laughs]

[Theodora] This place reminds

me of when I was a kid.

Look at the pies.

Do you have a favorite?

All of them.

Oh, look who's having

a lunch date.

[both mumbling] It's not a date.

Really? Well, okay.

-Belinda is a bit of a talker.

-[Theodora] Mm-hmm.

I call it as I see it.

When's your birthday?

I'm a Leo if

that's what you're asking.

A Leo and a Sage.

Oh, that's a nice pairing.

-I already know what I want.

-Okay.

Charles has sold me on

the meatloaf special.

I've known Charlie a long time,

and I can read his mind.

That's two specials coming up.

Thank you. Oh!

A chocolate pecan for me and?

-Dutch apple cranberry?

-Okay.

-So--

-So you--

Sorry, you go ahead.

You said this place

brings back memories?

Yeah. When I was a kid,

and I wasn't traveling

with my dad,

I used to stay

with my grandparents.

They were bakers,

they loved to bake pies.

They had their own specialty

they would make,

and give it out to neighbors

and friends and stuff. But...

I was never much of a baker.

So they made me

the official pie taster.

[Charlie chuckles]

I don't know. I just...

It was more about just being

around them. You know?

Watching them work.

It was magic.

They were so in love.

Sounds wonderful.

They passed

when I was in college.

We lost my mom

when I was really young,

in case you were wondering.

I was curious.

-What about your father?

-No.

He's all business.

People say that he was different

before my mom passed but...

I cannot picture that man in

anything but a business suit.

The way you talk

about your grandparents,

it reminds me of how I feel

about my mother and her cookies.

All right folks. Here you go.

-Thank you.

-Great.

Do you need extra gravy on that?

No, this looks delicious.

It's so good

you'll want to move here.

Don't you have

something else to do?

Of course.

Sorry about that.

Not necessary.

It's very entertaining.

I like you.

[Theodora giggles]

She, she actually

really is great.

She's kind of like

that crazy you know,

that shows up unexpectedly,

throws you a party just because.

She actually did

that for you didn't she?

She did.

After my father left.

I'll never forget it.

-It takes a special person.

-[Charlie] Mm-hmm.

Well, I have not

taken a bite yet

but I can tell you

that you were right.

And this is the best meatloaf

I've ever had.

Oh, just wait.

[upbeat music]

[gasps]

Oh, I can't believe she's

staying at the house with him.

That's so bizarre.

Not really. They're actually

perfect for each other.

They just can't see it.

Wait. Do I sense potential

for intervening on his behalf?

[Michael] Me?

Stop. [sighs]

I know you better

than you think.

Michael the magnificent.

[chuckles]

That... I will agree with you.

[both chuckle]

Somebody needs to intervene.

It might as well be me.

It won't work.

You better be careful.

You remember

what happened last time.

Just be cautious, man.

He's been through a lot.

And don't push too hard.

One more lap?

Loser buys coffee.

[Theodora giggles]

-Here you go.

-Oh, wow, that looks amazing.

Pies compliments of Grace Tilly.

She's treating everyone.

Ice cream is on me.

-Thank you so much, Grace.

-Oh, my pleasure, darling.

She gets really excited this

time of year. Enjoy every bite.

Let me know

what you think of that crust?

-I will.

-All right.

Thank you.

New Richmond loves

this time of year.

I do too. [chuckles]

[piano music]

It must be...

especially hard on you then just

considering your circumstances.

Yeah, well.

How about that crust?

Really good.

-So you sure you're okay?

-Yeah, I'm good.

I'm gonna pick up a few things.

And then I'll meet you

back at home.

At your house.

I'm gonna meet

you back in your house.

Well, my plan is to work on

the recipe tonight after dinner.

Would you want to be

my official taste tester?

Absolutely, I would.

How about a light dinner?

Grilled cheese,

tomato basil soup?

-Sounds perfect.

-Great.

-See you in a little bit.

-See you.

Charlie.

You'll give me a heart attack.

I see you treated

your guest to lunch.

We're celebrating

her healing ankle.

Well, Belinda says

she's really nice.

What for being the enemy

and all.

She's not the enemy.

She's just doing her job.

It's on me to figure out

how to save the house.

You know,

sometimes the biggest problems,

may have the simplest solutions.

Don't forget about

the cookie competition.

Your mother should be proud

even if you just enter.

I'm working on

the recipe tonight.

That's good news. Let me know

if you need a taste tester.

I have one but thank you.

Oh.

-Yeah. Take care.

-See you.

[dramatic music]

Predictable.

Dependable.

[barman] What's your drink?

Bourbon, neat.

Nice tie.

Yes, my girlfriend

has impeccable taste.

How's Philadelphia?

[sighs]

The same.

No signature?

Look, this is not

the typical type of deal

I concern myself with.

You told me

it would be cut and dry.

Cut and dry.

Do you remember Seattle?

Don't.

No. I took the hit on that.

Look, we need to focus

on the business at hand.

Sometimes we need to be patient.

I've lost my patience.

-[Charlie] Hey.

-[Theodora] Hey.

Looks like you did more

shopping?

Oh, I did.

Okay, so I got us smoked Gouda

and then Monterey Jack.

Oh, and I got us this

fresh baked sourdough.

All for tonight.

Outstanding.

What do you want to do,

the Gouda or the Jack?

Um, both.

[both laugh]

Perfect. Well two grilled cheese

coming up.

Oh, yeah. I also got us

a really nice bottle of red,

I didn't know,

do you drink wine?

Yeah, I do.

Oh, you went to Baker Bird.

They host the cookie competition

every year.

I don't know,

I've been cooped up

in this house for so many days

I went a little crazy, I guess.

Thank you for going

a little crazy then.

This should take our dinner

to the next level.

I'm gonna go change.

Okay. I'll open up the wine.

[cheerful music]

[Charlie gasps]

Nice shirt.

That soup smells amazing.

It's Belinda's recipe.

She gave it to me

when I went away to college.

She felt I should have access

to my favorite soup

in case I ever need it.

She wasn't wrong.

She does not hold back

her opinion, does she?

No, she definitely does not.

-Cheers.

-Cheers.

[Charlie] Mm.

-I'll get these.

-Great, thank you.

[Helena] I know I keep bugging

you about this competition.

But I really need you to try

my cookie one more time.

And give me your honest opinion.

Again?

All right.

One more time.

[playful music]

Well?

After the fifth time

of trying your cookies today,

these are even better

than last year.

-I'm ready!

-[both cheerful]

I still need some milk.

So what did you

study in college?

English literature and writing.

All the baking I did

with my mom growing up

I wanted to write a cookbook

and incorporate stories

with all the recipes.

How about you,

what did you study?

Business.

I was always drawn

to art though.

-Really?

-[Theodora] Mm-hmm.

I used to love to go

to the museums

and study Art History.

Business it was.

Well, a business degree

would be ideal

if you wanted to open

your own gallery or art museum.

Yeah.

Business was the only thing

my dad and I had in common.

Gave us something to talk about.

So if you wanted to be a writer,

why did you move away? I mean,

you could have done that

right here.

Well a friend and I

got a job at the same

advertising agency

right out of college.

I wrote copy and he was

a graphic designer.

Thought work would pay

all the bills

while we had time to do

the things we really loved.

You can probably guess

how that went.

Obligations, deadlines.

Meetings...

Didn't happen.

The next thing you know

you need more things.

A nicer place to live.

So you work more

and that's that.

Story of my life.

I guess that's why

my memories of my grandparents

mean so much. You know?

Thank you for the wine

and cheese.

I think it made dinner

a little more special.

[phone vibrating]

[Theodora clears throat]

Oh.

[Theodora sighs]

You ready to make some cookies?

Yeah. I'm going

to return this call.

I'll be right back. Okay?

I'll clean up

and get things ready.

Hey, I got your voicemail.

There's something

that is not right here.

I'm gonna stay around

and I'm gonna figure it out.

Oh, since you didn't

even bother to ask.

Yes. My ankle has healed

very nicely.

[piano music]

Everything okay?

Yeah. Just a work thing.

You know how it goes.

So what do we got going on here?

Oh, these are the ingredients.

Honestly, I'm just trying

to do this by memory, but...

there's still something missing.

Okay, and the papers are for...?

Reference.

Reference.

Yeah, it's just notes,

various ingredients and amounts

that I've tried to replicate

in my mom's recipe but...

I just can't get it quite right.

Okay. Well, what's off? Is it

the taste or is it the texture?

Texture.

Well we can assume

we're missing an ingredient.

Wow.

You're really good at this.

I am in analytics.

Taste testing's just for fun.

Well, I feel we're moving

in the right direction at least.

I think you're right.

This deal was to be

signed a week ago.

We should be

breaking ground now.

I said going into this,

if we were going to do it,

we were going to do it fast.

The property is basically ours.

If all we do--

[Kathryn] It is not our property

until those papers are signed.

How utterly disappointing.

I changed my important schedule

to handle this mess.

A mess my maid

could have handled.

The deal is not lost.

Now, we all stand to gain

something very significant

once we get those

documents signed.

I pulled in a big favor

to get those papers audited

and I'm not going to walk away

with nothing.

How do you

intend to fix it, Ronan?

I found the property.

I got the developer's contact.

It's because of me that

you stand to gain something

very, very significant.

Pistols, at 20 paces?

[Ronan sighs]

I hold you both accountable.

Now fix it!

Clearly, you miscalculated

Theodora's ability

to close this deal.

Ah, yes.

Where is Theodora?

Fired.

[Theodora] Is that you?

-Yeah.

-Aww.

My mother's

favorite picture of me.

Look at you. You were so cute.

[Theodora chuckles]

What's that?

[slow piano music]

Oh, wow.

This is it. This is the recipe.

No way.

Two tablespoons of

white vinegar. That's it.

That's the missing ingredient.

That's one tablespoon, I think.

One tablespoon of white vinegar.

You're right. You're right on.

That could have been bad.

That's a little error.

I even-- I remember my mother,

she would say

this is the ingredient that adds

the magic to the cookie.

She put in right what I thought

was a tablespoon of just water

but it was vinegar.

Well, let's get busy, right?

-Oh, no, no, no. Oh.

-What? What is it?

I forgot to sign up

for the competition.

The deadline's

tonight at midnight.

Okay, it's nine o'clock.

So where do you have to go?

The diner.

Belinda might still be there.

[playful music]

I think I'm gonna try making

a bourbon chocolate pecan.

Well, you tell me when

and I will be here

for breakfast, lunch,

and dinner.

You are already here for

breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

[giggles] Yeah.

Hey, what about our boy Charlie

and that city girl?

-They make a nice couple.

-They do. Theodora and Charlie.

When two people meant--

-It's Theodora and Charlie!

-Come on in.

-Come in, guys.

-Come in.

Hey. Are you here

for a late night slice?

Thank you.

But we found mom's recipe.

Wonderful. You're sure

to win the competition.

He can't win

if he doesn't enter.

-What!

-I know you have the forms,

I should have enough time

to get it filled out

and to the community center.

There.

Get it done.

Get it over there quick.

The mayor will surely

be there at midnight

to pick up those forms.

[Belinda] Would you

like some pie?

Oh, no. We are going

to fill this out.

Get it to the office,

then we have

got to get back to his house

so we can start baking.

I mean, we have two days

until the competition.

So maybe tomorrow I might come

in and get a couple of slices.

Tomorrow, she may have

chocolate bourbon pecan pie.

[all] Hey, keep writing.

[Theodora giggles]

-That's it. I got it.

-Okay.

-All right.

-Thank you.

-Go. Go.

-Save me a couple of slices.

I'll save them,

I'll save them. Go!

Just get out of here.

They making me a wreck.

It's nice to see.

-Young and in love.

-Well.

I think love is good at any age.

Yes, it is.

Okay, so yesterday's cookies

were really, really good, but...

these are magic.

You can taste the love.

[Theodora giggles]

Thank you.

For what?

[piano music]

If you hadn't picked up

the photo,

I wouldn't have found

the recipe.

Thank you.

Just for letting me help.

I didn't realize

how much I missed

just doing

these kinds of things.

Me too.

Well.

I can whip up some frosting

if you want to help me decorate?

Wait a second.

It's gonna be like

one of those corny movies

where he puts the frosting

on her nose

and she puts the frosting

on his nose

and then they end up--

[Theodora groans]

[Theodora grunts]

[Theodora clears throat]

Um.

You...

You only have a day to get

ready for the competition.

And I have a meeting

in the morning.

-I think we should--

-Right.

Goodnight, Charles.

Goodnight.

[soft music]

[Charlie sighs]

[Theodora] Charles?

[Christmas music]

[man] Theodora?

Theodora, come on.

Get all the little things

and bring them out

and decorate the tree.

[wood snapping]

Hey.

Good morning.

[Theodora] Hey.

Didn't you buy new shoes?

I didn't want to get them dirty.

[Charlie chuckles]

But you're okay

getting mine dirty?

Come on. These are filthy.

[Charlie laughs]

You can take the girl

out of the city

but not the city

out of the girl, uh?

I don't know about that. It's...

It is so beautiful here. It's...

It's so peaceful.

[Charlie] Yeah,

yeah, it really is.

I could see myself writing here.

You know?

I have some more chores

that need to get done.

Sure. You need

some help with them?

No. No. Thank you. I got it.

Okay.

Well, I'm freezing and I

haven't had my coffee. So.

I'm gonna go in.

Full sentences

and you even offered

to help me with chores

all before coffee.

Well, I guess I am

just full of surprises.

[Charlie gasps]

Yes you are, Miss Greenly.

[Theodora humming]

One tablespoon of vinegar,

not two.

[playful music]

It's one tablespoon of vinegar.

Not two.

[phone beeps]

Hey, I am sorry

I missed your calls.

I had the phone on silent

and fell asleep.

But, um,

regarding the King account,

I think there's

been an oversight.

I'm going to

give you a call later.

It's just an error

in the numbers.

[Theodora] Why? Why can you

still not access the files?

I'm trying.

It seems as if there's

some sort of a hold on them.

Lila was a dear friend of mine.

Now I know business is business,

but if I can help save her farm,

I will do everything I can.

Okay. Okay, then

if I could just see them.

If I could just see your files

then I might be able to find

a discrepancy to stop

the foreclosure

but I need your files

to compare them to mine.

Well, I don't want

to keep you waiting.

I'll email you the file

once our system is compliant.

This is an urgent matter.

Do you understand?

When are you leaving town?

It's just one more day until

the cookie competition.

Oh, I know.

Didn't you hear?

Charles found Lila's recipe.

He's in the competition.

[thud]

[piano music]

[phone vibrating]

Hey.

I just came from the bank.

Do you want to tell me

why the King file is locked?

We got--

I know. Ye--

No, you see I think--

Okay.

Yes, yes. I will be on

the next plane. I will.

But, dad--

Dad, can you please tell me

what's going on

with the King property--

Dad?

[dramatic music]

Dad?

Is the man who is trying

to take my home your dad?

Okay. Yes, but it is not

what it looks like.

-It's not?

-No.

So, what is it supposed

to look like?

It's... I mean,

am I supposed to think that

you actually understand how

important it is for me to keep

-this house?

-I do.

Or that maybe you

care about something,

anything other than money?

-Charles, wait. It's not--

-No. Listen.

I'm not stupid. But I actually

thought you were different.

You've spent so much time

trying to impress your father,

but you're just like him.

Aren't you?

You really

are full of surprises.

Charles. No, please.

Just listen--

[Charlie stutters]

You...

You, the type of person

that would interrupt someone

when they're mourning

the loss of someone they love.

You're constantly looking

at your watch,

like you're somehow

more important

than everyone else on Earth.

[piano music]

You don't really care

about anyone else

other than yourself. Do you?

It's not true.

It isn't true.

I think your ankle looks fine.

It's time for you to leave.

Charles.

Charles, please wait.

I don't care what you think,

that girl is not out

to get you or the farm.

[Nick] Charlie. If you saw the

way she looked at you last night

you'd feel different right now.

I heard her on the phone, Nick.

Her dad sent her

to take my farm.

You don't let people explain.

Then what, you lose out

on the best things in life?

Charlie, don't let

this happen again.

Look at how much time we lost.

Theodora was just here,

she bought two pieces of pie

to bring home and she said

she has some really good news--

To bring home, you mean to bring

to my house. That's my home.

Charles King,

I'll tell you what I think.

I think you've missed this town

for a long time now.

Coming back here

made you realize all of that.

The thought of losing it,

is more than you can take.

It's easier for you

to close yourself off

to the possibilities.

Am I right?

You ran away,

didn't let me explain.

Now you're running away

from somebody who loves you.

Don't make

the same mistake twice.

And after all

the girls you've dated,

and now you found someone who is

as perfect for you

as those cookies

is another thing

that you don't want to lose.

I was upset.

I just left.

You have someone you don't trust

alone in your home.

[chuckles] That seems

pretty trusting to me.

Look, I... I said

some really harsh things.

When you love someone,

you're willing to forgive them.

Or, you hope for a little magic.

Such a way with words.

I'm going to get you

some breakfast.

It's time to bake

some champ cookies.

I'll be there

right by your side.

Eating them.

[Theodora] Okay, you see that?

That right there?

That is exactly what I needed.

Remind me to send Kelly

a thank you letter.

And probably

a letter of recommendation

because, once Ronan finds out

he sent us these files,

he's gonna be looking

for a new job.

I think he was more

than happy to help.

Your dad really did

a number on the Kings.

Yeah, he doesn't care.

He just cares how much money

the land will bring in.

You know what?

It really is,

it is such a beautiful farm.

I won't let him destroy it.

What about Charles?

It's his home.

He grew up in that town so

he really wants to settle there.

Did I tell you he's a writer?

No, you didn't.

And what's with the sparkle

in your eyes

-when you talk about him?

-What?

You are in love!

Yes, indeed. You are in love

with the cookie man.

I am.

I really think I am.

That is so amazing!

Who would've thought

you were going to foreclose

on a property and instead

you'd fell in love? It's like--

Oh, no! Do not say magic.

We need to focus because

if this plan is not perfect,

then he'll lose the farm

and I won't see him anymore.

So come help me.

-What next?

-[Theodora] Right here.

[Michael] Did you

decorate these?

[Charlie] No. It was Theodora.

Wow. Impressive.

She's an artist.

It's actually

what she's passionate about.

Wish she was still here.

Man, I...

I really screwed up.

You can't think like that.

You just got to win

this competition.

And then go after her.

Talk to her. She'll understand.

That's three in a row. I assume

these are competition ready?

-Mmm.

-We have to make more.

[Charlie] Hey!

-[Michael laughs]

-C'mon, man.

[dramatic music]

Melissa, leave us.

No, no, no.

She is my assistant

and she is my friend.

[Ronan laughs]

-Your friend?

-[Theodora] Mm-hmm.

I've been working with this

group from Buffalo for months

and I will not stand by

and watch you destroy this deal.

-Are you uncomfortable?

-Unbelievably.

Go talk to Kelly

and prepare the papers.

I'd do it pretty quick

because I fired Kelly

and he's probably

on his escorted walk out.

Do you have any idea

what you're doing?

You're not even

in the same ballpark

as the group from Buffalo.

And by the way,

the only thing I'll be signing

for you young lady,

is your termination papers.

You know, this soft

attitude of yours, you,

this, this will destroy you.

It always does.

I am so disappointed.

So disappointed.

After your grandparents--

No, no, no. No.

You don't get to talk about

them, you cold-hearted--

Careful!

Be very careful!

You willfully deceived

a dying woman.

[mouthing]

What kind of evil person

does that?

One old farm.

What does that matter?

[Theodora] What is this?

[Melissa] Theodora,

the papers are ready.

Where did this come from?

A messenger brought it

just before you arrived.

A nice older gentleman.

Reminded me of Santa.

Santa.

Santa Claus.

There is no such person.

That's where you're wrong.

It's Christmas.

It's time of hope,

and love, and...

and magic.

It's time to be

with people who love you,

who care about you.

And yeah, it's a time

to believe in Santa.

Magic.

[laughs]

Santa.

Santa.

[screaming] Are you two insane?

You've taught me a lot.

You have.

You've taught me exactly

who I don't want to be.

You've taught me

that nothing but work

just makes you bitter, cold.

You're so deceitful, angry.

I don't want to be like you.

I'm nothing like you.

I'm not you.

Thank goodness.

[Theodora] Now I love you.

I do love you.

But I really don't like you.

And I'm going to tell you

what you're going to do.

You're going to fix this.

You're going to report

that deed paid in full. You are.

And you are going to do this

because if you don't

I am sending every single shred

of evidence I have to Charles

and then I...

I will help him bury you

with it.

Do we have an agreement, dad?

No, no, no, no. That that little

intimidation stare thing,

that doesn't work on me.

Do we have a deal?

Send the papers to my office.

I'll sign them directly.

Melissa will escort you out.

I will?

I will.

Oh, dad. One last thing.

I quit.

[dramatic music]

[Ronan] Theodora.

Theodora, come on.

Get all the little things

and bring them out

and decorate the tree.

[upbeat music]

[Nick] I have a good feeling

about this.

You know,

I never did say thank you.

No need.

[choir] Wonders of his heart

Wonders of his heart

Merry Christmas everyone.

[all] Merry Christmas!

[Mayor] Wonderful.

I hope you are all having

a fabulous time this evening.

And this year let's not dismiss

the mistletoe. Okay?

-All right.

-[all laughing]

So also while you're

out and about

enjoying the evening, make sure

you stop by the raffle table,

get your tickets

for the drawings this evening.

I got mine!

If you don't get tickets,

Nancy's winning

everything this year. So.

Now, understand this year

has been the toughest year

for judging

the cookie competition.

So let's find out.

Judge. Have you chosen a winner?

Yes.

I have.

Let me invite up

our two finalists for this year.

Helena Corrival

and Charlie King!

Charlie. Charlie. Charlie.

[Mayor] And now

this year's New Richmond

Christmas cookie champion...

Charlie King!

-[cheerful music]

-[clapping]

Thank you so much. Thank you.

[Mayor] Our cookie champion,

Charlie King, say a few words.

Wow. Um...

I'm really not prepared.

The honor of being

your cookie champion

means a very great deal to me.

This whole thing, it's really

just a tribute and a thanks

to my mother.

Her recipe.

I missed this town

while I was away.

The people.

No matter how hard I tried

with college,

my big job in Boston, I always,

I always felt like something

was missing in my life.

An important ingredient.

Coming back here helped me

realize what that was.

My mother knew it.

Now I do too.

It's love.

I couldn't have

figured this out without you.

Without you even knowing it,

you showed up and...

showed me what I was missing.

I'm sorry.

I should have given you

a chance to explain.

-It's okay.

-You coming back like this.

It's... It's like Christmas--

No, no, don't say magic.

We'll call it love.

[cheerful music]

I don't understand.

The farm is yours.

There's nothing left

to understand.

How did you do this?

Do you forget, I am

one hell of a businesswoman.

I guess I was right. You can't

take the city out of the girl.

Mm-mm. No.

But you can probably bribe her

with some Christmas cookies.

I'll open a whole bakery

if that's what it takes.

That's actually

a brilliant idea.

Okay, so I have a friend

who is an investor

-and he can find us--

-Whoa. Whoa.

Let's conquer Christmas first.

Don't you two

worry about Christmas.

I'll take care of that.

[cheerful music]

Who's that?

[Theodora] It's my...

What's he doing here?

I guess I'm the last person

you wanted to see.

[Theodora] Mm-hmm.

When you walked out, I...

I had this incredible emptiness

-in my heart.

-[scoffs]

The same emptiness that I felt

when I lost your mother.

[Charlie] Hey. Um.

My mother and I had

our differences when I left.

He came all this way,

you should hear him out.

Charles is right.

You know, I...

I should have known this

for years, that you...

you are the best thing

in my life.

Not my company, not my money,

it's you.

You were always the best thing

in my life and I am so sorry.

So sorry that I ever made you

feel that you weren't.

I just want to make it up to you

if you'll let me.

[Theodora] How?

I've missed

most of our lives together.

I don't want to miss anymore.

Can you forgive a cranky,

hard headed old man?

[crying]

Hi, Melissa.

Merry Christmas, sweetheart.

Hi, Helena.

-Merry Christmas.

-Merry Christmas.

I love you.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas, Charlie.