Love at the Ranch (2021)

[bunniefuu]

Here you go.

Thank you.

So, how was your awe-inspiring
interview with the Mayor?

I'm not sure I
would call it that.

But you know, he's doing
great things for the city.

Not the scoop you
were looking for?

No.

I just wish I could
cover stories

with a bit more personal edge,
you know?

Well, it sounds like I stole
you away at the right time.

You definitely did, thank you.

I don't know how you
can drink that.

It is so plain.

Well you know, sometimes it's
the simple things in life...

That make you the most happy!

Yeah.

See, this is why I love you.

The yin to my yang.

The peanut butter to your...

Jelly!

So, now that we're caffeinated,

shall we go enjoy the rest
of your half day?

We have to take advantage
of Ivy's rare act of kindness.

I'd love to,

I'm kind of working
on this pitch, though.

So I think I should just go home
and work on it.

A pitch? Tell me.

You know how last night was
the anniversary of my mom?

Of course I remember.

I was going through
some of our keepsakes

in our old memory box

and I came across one of the
first books she ever gave me.

It's by my favorite author,
Annabelle Harper.

I told you about her, right?

Yeah.

I don't know,
I used to spend hours

getting lost in her stories.

And it's one of my favorite
memories of her and I together.

And I came across this photo.

Clyborne Ranch?

Yeah, that is where all
the novels took place

and I used to think
it was fictional,

but I think it might
actually exist.

Ali, it sounds like
you're really onto something.

This could be the story
you've been waiting for.

Yeah I mean,
I think it might be.

I just hope Ivy feels the same.

What gives?

You're upping and downing

like you're trying
to get more cardio in.

Just go talk to her.

I don't know, every time I think

I have my speech memorized,
I blank so...

Speech?

Who needs a speech
when you've got this?

Your story made the front page!

This is brilliant.

You really think so?

Absolutely, the whole
city is talking about it.

You need to strike
while the iron is hot.

Trust me, now is the time.

Yeah.

Okay, you're right.

I'm gonna go.

Great.

I'm going.

Go, you go get them girl.

Okay!

This is not what you
were told to do!

Come back when it's done,
or don't call me at all.

Are you going to lurk
all day or come inside?

Good morning, Ivy.

- Have a seat.
- Thank you.

Do you know why I hired you?

To get the truth out
to the people.

And?

And to make the Seattle Daily

the number one source
for groundbreaking news.

This article you wrote...

Is genius!

That is exactly why
I hand-picked you

to be my next protégé.

Thank you.

You're the only reporter I know

that can use your
trusting nature

to get a source
to open up well...

And I have a hunch that
your interview with the Mayor

just might find the front page
to be your new home.

The first draft
has already been sent

to your inbox for review.

This is excellent.

Now, use this momentum
towards your next assignment

and follow it
straight to the top.

Right so about that Ivy,
you know how grateful I am

for the opportunity you gave me
right out of college.

Which has lead to my breaking
some of the greatest stories

in my career.

The only stories of your career.

Right.

So, if it's alright with you,
I would...

Well, I'd like to
pitch you something

a little bit different.

How different?

Do you remember the novelist
Annabelle Harper?

How could I forget?

She named the main character
after herself

in those sappy,
fictional love stories

that were so far from real life,
that even the Fabio wannabes

on the covers
couldn't save those books.

No wonder she disappeared.

Actually, Annabelle Harper
was an award-winning novelist

because of those
"sappy fictional stories."

But, they were about so
much more than just love.

Which is why I would like to do
an exposé on her life

and contribution to
the literary community.

We're a "hard" newspaper,
Allison.

We deliver the facts
and inform people

on what's going on
in today's world.

This screams off brand for us

and quite frankly
for your career.

You see the thing is
that the past eight years,

I've dedicated my life
to The Seattle Daily

and I have followed your
direction without hesitation.

But I guess lately
I've just been feeling

like there's something
missing in my life,

and you know, since
Annabelle was the reason

I became a writer...

And you think a trip down
memory lane

would help you find that?

This is so much more
than a trip.

This will be about
uncovering fact from fiction.

You have 20 seconds
to get me hooked.

Okay so, Annabelle's
novels took place

on a ranch in a town
called Cedar Creek.

So I contacted the owner and,

low and behold,
that is where Annabelle

spent her summers
writing her novels.

This is how you've
uncovered fact from fiction?

Oh well you see,
the author and the owner

they became very close
and she has actually agreed

to let me stay on the property.

So I can literally walk
in Annabelle's footsteps

to accurately investigate
her creative process.

And this source of yours
is reliable

despite the author's anonymity?

Oh yes, absolutely,
I give you my word.

Fine, I'll agree to this,

but only because
you're my best writer,

and I don't want to
risk another publication

stealing you away from me.

You have one week.

Okay.

Perhaps this piece
will put an end

to you feeling that
something's missing,

and get you back
to writing hard news,

where you belong.

Thank you, Ivy,
I am not going to let you down.

Thank you.

This is a special treat
for Susan.

Gram...

If you keep giving the
harvest away like this,

we're not going to have
anything left to sell

at the Farmer's Market.

Every penny counts right now.

Well, you can think of this
as a gift with purchase.

Besides, we always
have plenty left over

for friends and family.

That's why we love you, Gram.

I love you too, Hank.

You should get going.

I want you back in time
to greet our guest.

Our guest...

Right.

Sorry.

I was just going to get that.

You know what, never mind.

You were here first,
so it's okay.

No, here.

Please, I insist.

No, I'll just...

I'll find something else.

You are...

Hi.

- Hello!
- Hello.

You must be Allison Sawyer.

And you must be Stella Clyborne.

Yes I am.

It's lovely to meet you.

Lovely to meet you!

Please, come in.

I almost forgot!

To thank you for
this opportunity

and welcoming me into your home.

You didn't have
to get me anything.

Of course I did.

Actually, I can't
take all the credit.

There was this guy...

There always is, dear.

- Come on in.
- Great.

Right this way...

and here you are.

This is where Annabelle Harper
wrote her novels.

Actually, it was
right over there.

Definitely not something
you can find in the city.

You know what's better
than looking at it?

Being out there
to experience it.

Well, then I better get settled,

so we can get
started right away.

Perfect.

You have a 1931
Remington Typewriter?

It's just an old decoration now.

It's nothing really.

It was one of the first
portable typewriters.

If I had one of those,
I'd be using it every day.

It's not doing anything
but collecting dust.

So you may as well
put it to work.

Really?

Be my guest.

Thank you.

And when you're ready,

I'll be just down
in the kitchen.

Great, I'll be right in.

I can see why Annabelle
chose to visit this place.

I'm rather fond of it myself.

Please, have a chair.

If you don't mind, I would love
to start with the interview.

I got the sense from your call
that you were eager.

Which honestly,
came as a surprise.

My eagerness, or the phone call?

Both.

I just didn't know that

Annabelle's work
was still remembered,

or that she could inspire
a young journalist like you

to do a piece about her.

In fact, I don't think I've
spoken her name in ten years.

Which is exactly why
this is long overdue.

Speaking on the record
for Day One

is Ms. Stella Clyborne.

So Stella, what
year did Annabelle

discover Clyborne Ranch?

I believe it was
the summer of 1960.

She and her mother
would visit Cedar Creek

even when she was a child.

And her father?

She never knew him.

He passed away when overseas
just before she was born.

How do you think that loss
shaped Annabelle's upbringing?

She grew up without
a formal education

to help her mother
make ends meet.

No formal education?
How did she become a writer?

That experience
made her feel isolated,

so to fill the void,

she leaned on her imagination

and eventually taught
herself to write.

Little did she know,

overcoming that obstacle would
guarantee her lifelong success.

True, but not
until after decades

of fighting to be respected.

Of course.

Being a female writer back then
was not as easy as it is today.

If she ever faced an obstacle,

instead of running away,
she charged right at it.

This is delicious.

Good.

The almonds are
from my neighbor,

and the rest is fresh
from the Cookie Kids garden.

Cookie Kids?

That's our organic
community farming program

for underprivileged youth.

Speaking of...

Our guest is here!

Coming, Gram!

Please don't tell me you ran

into our coffee table again,
Hank.

This is Allison Sawyer.

She'll be staying
with us this week

to write a piece
about the ranch.

Hi, I'm Marie.

Nice to meet you!

Nice to meet you.
Cute overalls!

Thanks!

My grandma Susan gave them
to me for my birthday.

And let's not forget
who helped pick them out.

Marie is a youth leader
volunteer for our group.

What do you say, Cookie Crumb,

Let these ladies carry
on talking about their day.

Are you not going
to introduce yourself?

I'm Hank.

We met earlier at the...

Yes it's nice to meet you,
officially.

You too.

And thank you so much
for the gift.

That was... it was unexpected.

Sure.

Please excuse my grandson.

He's usually much more
social than that.

It's okay.

People don't always like
having journalists around.

Actually, I should
apologize to you.

I just dove right
into the interview.

Oh no.

Don't ever apologize
for being driven.

Ever.

Let's start the tour in
the organic vegetable garden?

Well that sounds lovely.

All right.

Those just won't do.

I have just the thing.

Great.

Wait a minute, am I
going to get in trouble?

I think we'll be okay.

Let the food be thy medicine
and medicine be thy food.

Here, try one.

Thank you.

Is this where Annabelle
got the idea

to weave alternative
healing into her stories?

Yes she did.

Annabelle believed that
if you nourish your body

with wholesome ingredients
straight from the earth,

your body could heal itself.

You know, it actually
inspired me

to start my own mini-garden.

Really?

Well, it's more like
a window garden.

I just have a condo
in the city, so...

That's close enough.

I guess.

Is this kale?

Yes it is and you can
grow that in a window box.

Now you see these?

This is perfect.

Because they smell so sweet.

Exactly.

I think you're ready
to hear the secret

of why this ranch is so special.

Okay.

It's been in my family
for many, many years.

And it's up to us
to take care of the land

the same way she takes care
of us.

She gives us food,

a beautiful place to play,
live and relax.

That's why the Clyborne Ranch
is the world's best kept secret!

You got it.

Cookie time, Marie!

Do you mind taking over?

Hank will finish
showing you around.

Guess I figured out why
they're called Cookie Kids.

Gram's famous cookies
bring kids from all over town.

They sort of trade
their time for them.

It's her fun little way

of teaching them
some responsibility.

- That's clever.
- Yeah.

She has them harvest
the fruits and vegetables

and take them on down to
The Farmers Market to sell.

She even lets them keep

a significant portion
of the proceeds.

Really?

I think creating something
like this is so important.

You know especially today,
kids and their phones.

Yeah right.

Thank you, we appreciate that.

You know, maybe I could
incorporate that

into the article somehow.

Just one second.

So Hank, you and your family

have created a proactive and...

Allison I'm sorry, but I
should really get back to work.

Just one question.

Honestly, I'd love to but
it's really not my thing.

Alright?

Okay...

- If you'll excuse me.
- Sure.

Hey.

Hi, how is life on the ranch?

Thank you.

Is it everything you dreamed of?

It's beautiful here.

You know, I wouldn't
have been here

if it wasn't for you
and your extra nudge.

What are friends for?

I'm just eager to see

if you've channeled
your inner Annabelle yet.

Well, I did eat
from the same garden

she harvested her
organic produce from.

How civilian of you!

How's everything there?

Everyone is walking on eggshells

because Ivy's
number one isn't here.

It's just for five days.

I know, that's what she
keeps telling everyone.

Meanwhile, I'm still
looking for a man.

Any hot cowboys there?

No.

Like you would notice, anyway.

You're too busy making
googly eyes at your computer.

The opportunity is wasted.

Maybe I should tell Ivy
I like Annabelle

so I can come to the country.

Don't, she will fall over!

What would you do
with a cowboy anyway?

Seriously.

Cowboys and journalists
do not mix.

I just had a
little pushback from one.

Nothing you can't handle.

Hey, I've gotta go.

Ivy is on my case lately

and I've gotta get back
to the office.

I will talk to you later,
I love you.

Bye.

- Hi.
- Hi.

I'm sure you're hard at work,

but I thought you might
need a little creative break.

Thank you.

That's so sweet of you.

One sweet tea, freshly brewed.

How did you know this
was my favorite drink?

It's everyone's around here.

And the best way to enjoy it
is while watching a sunset.

But you have to
follow me to the porch.

It has the best view.

Great.

There's my rhubarb pie.

You go ahead.

Okay...

Stella wasn't kidding when she
said this was the best view.

Oh, no...

Don't get up.

Definitely can't
find that in Seattle.

Nope.

Just another reason
why city life

never much suited me anyway.

You've lived in the city?

Yeah.

You know, for a
gritty journalist

I would've thought
you'd figure that out

before you showed up.

My goal isn't to dig
into your past

and expose your dark secrets.

What is your goal?

Well, it's to gain insight
into the literary world

of an author that paved
the way for me growing up.

And I want to shed light
on an art form

that I think is
really undervalued.

The great thing about books

is no matter how long ago
they were written,

you can aways open one up

and discover a world
that's brand new.

Although your passion
is rather admirable,

it's my job to protect Stella.

And now is not
a good time for us

to have an article
published about our family

and all of its history.

Would it make you
feel any better

if Stella said this
was the perfect time?

I mean, she said
this article could be

the closure she was looking for.

I guess we don't see
eye to eye on that.

So why this place?

Oh well, because this is
where the novels originated.

And I feel it's
the most honest way

that I can reintroduce
Annabelle's work.

Okay.

Correct me if I'm wrong,
but is it not your job

to fabricate intriguing stories
that will lure more readers

into your paper?

Well yes, it's my job
to lure in readers,

but I hope I'm
maintaining integrity.

Why do I get the feeling
there's another reason

you're being so protective?

What makes you say that?

Intuition.

Enjoy your sunset.

"As she takes in
the vast breathtaking view

of the world below,
he trails behind,

unable to take his eyes
off her."

"Bewitched by her beauty
and all that she encompassed,

he knew he had found
his one true love."

Is it fair to say that
you're a romantic at heart?

Guilty.

I guess that's what happens

when you get exposed to classics
at such a young age.

Who is responsible
for the introduction?

My mother, actually.

Truth be told,
she's a big reason

why I'm writing
this article is to honor her.

And does your appreciation
for classics

go beyond books and typewriters?

Tell me that's not
just an old decoration.

No, this was someplace safe.

This was used by
Annabelle to document

and study details
of her surroundings

before she wrote about them.

This was hers?

She accidentally left it behind.

How do you accidentally
leave something like this?

Between you and me,
I think she did it on purpose.

When she decided
to stop writing,

she just disconnected
from everything

that reminded her of it.

Do you two still keep in touch?

Oh no, I respected
her change of heart.

Of course.

Well, you should
be my first subject.

No, I've been never very good
at getting my photo taken.

- Really?
- No.

I've never felt comfortable.

Pictures are such a great way
to save memories.

Well, sometimes memories
are painful.

Not this one, I promise.

Okay.

If you're camera shy,
it helps to put

the attention
onto something else.

Okay.

Perfect.

Now say, "Annabelle Harper!"

Annabelle Harper!

Beautiful, you look great.

One more...

Which one will we do tonight?

Orion, or Lyra?

I think I'll do Lyra...

Love, Youth,
Radiance, Abundance.

I'm sorry, but I
can't pretend right now.

Why are we jumping through hoops

for some journalist
when what we should be doing

is spending what little time
we have left together

as a family on this ranch,
together as a family?

You know why Allison's here?

To re-introduce Annabelle Harper
to the world.

At this point in our lives?

I mean, you're in a
very vulnerable position.

What if the wrong piece
of information slips out?

That's not going to happen!

We don't know that.

My darling Hank, I appreciate
you trying to protect me,

but this is my one chance
to share my final story.

Sure, but why now?

Think about the
consequences, okay.

If she exposes
your secret, then what?

You lose your anonymity
and she gets a promotion.

She gets a promotion.

Now I'm starting to see
what this is all about.

No.

This has nothing
to do with my ex.

That's true.

So please be careful
about confusing the two.

I think I can sense
someone's good intentions.

I'll give you that.

You've been right so far.

She does seem to be
coming from a genuine place.

I'm glad you noticed.

So I have your support?

It's just for a few days.

Of course you do.

I love you, Gram.

Sweet dreams.

But don't think for one second

that I'm not going to be
keeping a close eye on her.

You wouldn't be my favorite
grandson if you didn't.

Your only grandson.

That experience

made her feel isolated,
so to fill the void,

she leaned on her imagination

and eventually
taught herself to write.

Which later inspired her
to be the storyteller.

Little did she know,
overcoming that obstacle

would guarantee her
life long success.

True, but not
until after decades

of fighting to be respected.

Rise and shine!

What time is it?

Six.

I thought leaving hard news
meant I could sleep in.

Get dressed!

Annabelle never
missed a sunrise.

Annabelle would craft
her days with adventure

and use the repetition
as mesmerism

to write through the night.

- Really?
- Many many times.

- Do you see?
- I do!

That looks perfect, Hank.

Beautiful.

Oh good one, good one.

Yes you did it.

Let me just make sure
I'm doing this knot right.

You want it to be really strong.

Yes, and then over...

Yeah...

And under.

Yeah okay.

- You have done this before.
- I have not.

Since we've been outside
all day honoring Annabelle,

I thought this quote
would be appropriate.

She always said that
reading made her feel free,

"Like a dancing kite
in the open sky."

"When you unleash
your potential,

you'll soar beyond
the highest cloud."

That is the mantra of

The Underground Women's
Book Club from volume three.

You must have a story to tell

if you remembered the origin
of that quote.

Yeah actually, when I read
that volume in high school,

I started my own book club.

- Really?
- Yeah.

For every book we read,

we had a sponsor
that would match us

with a donation that went
to fund our school library.

Well that was very
Annabelle Harper of you.

Thank you!

Especially because The
Underground Women's Book Club

was actually a real movement.

It was real?

Annabelle wanted to help others

who also felt feelings
of isolation and exclusion.

So she forged this
safe community

where learning and reading
were obtainable.

It's so strange.

I mean, why would
someone that made

so many worldly contributions
choose to remain anonymous?

Well, not every good deed
needs to be recognized.

I like that.

If you head up to the stable,

you should find
Hank finishing up.

And he can show you
the perfect spot

to test out your craftsmanship.

Yeah, I don't know
how enthusiastic

Hank will be about my company.

Being in nature always puts him
in a better mood.

Okay, if you say so.

Just be back before dinner.

Oh yes, I won't want
to miss that.

Okay, wish me luck.

There you go.

Good girl...

I hear you're the go-to guy
when it comes to

finding the best spot
to test out

my newly acquired
kite-making abilities.

So Gram whisks you away
for a day,

and already she's
sharing our trade secrets?

Maybe.

I'll never tell.

Okay, that's fine.

I suppose there's
only one way then

to find out if I
still hold the title

of Gram's topnotch kite maker,

or if her new protégé here

is going to bump me
into a close second.

Shall we?

You lead the way.

Welcome to Lovers' Lookout.

It's beautiful.

I can't believe
this place is real

and not just a part
of Annabelle's stories.

You know, there might be
another story you don't know.

It's said that when two people
find themselves here,

their love is destined
to intertwine forever.

Like the roots of a tree?

Yeah.

Is that something that
was taken from the books?

Hank, is there something
you're not telling me?

How do you mean?

I never would have pegged you
for an Annabelle Harper fan.

Books. No, hah.

I probably heard Gram
talking about that part,

and I sort of misconstrued
fact from fiction.

It happens.

Well, I can fill you in
on some of the blanks.

Give you a little
refresher course.

Forgive me, but
I think I'm good.

Oh, come on.

You can't say we
don't have time.

Alright.

So, according to the story,

Thomas and Annabelle
shared their first kiss...

it would be under that tree.

Then, for a surprise
for Annabelle's birthday,

he carved a heart in the tree
to profess his love.

Then coming up here on her
birthday became a tradition.

They would feed the chipmunks
and fly their kites.

And then Thomas
would lay out blankets

and they would watch
the sunset together.

Then on her 19th birthday,
he proposed.

Well...

I can't say I have a ring,
but I brought the blanket.

And here I thought I'd
leave this mountain hitched.

Oh look at that, he smiles.

I've been known to enjoy myself
from time to time.

Jokes aside,
I'm really impressed

with how much you know
about the series.

Well, while you were
adventuring outside,

I was adventuring inside,
with my books.

Annabelle's stories,
they just...

They always made me feel
like I was somewhere far away.

You know?

Somewhere really happy.

Even though my parents
didn't have the kind of love

that Thomas and Annabelle had,

I guess it was their story
that made me believe

that maybe one day
I could find it too.

So did you?

Does work count?

May I ask you something?

That depends.

It's not for the article,
I promise.

- Off the record?
- Off the record.

Okay.

Why did you move to
Cedar Creek from the city?

There was a beautiful,
brilliant woman

whom I foolishly gave my heart.

I see.

Two years in, I found out
her love was a facade.

It destroyed me.

Guess I should've taken
a page out of your book

and married my career.

So, that's why you
moved out here?

It was the same year
my grandad passed.

Gram was devastated,
so I came to the ranch

believing that if
I could take away

even a fraction of her pain,

then that would make giving up
my life in the city worth it.

You're her rock.

She's mine.

- That's it.
- What?

- That's it!
- What?

- Come on!
- What's it?

Come on...

We just need more
of your girl power,

and you're almost there.

That's it!

It's almost ready to decorate.

That's my favorite part.

Howdy, Gram!

Looks like you two ran into
each other at Lovers' Lookout?

Hey you!

You two look like
master chefs in here.

Yeah, Marie never
misses the opportunity

to volunteer her
expert pizza crafting skills

when Gram's in the kitchen.

Susan's usually here too.

She busy tonight?

You know Susan,

she's at home trying to whip up
cookies to out do mine.

She'll be here
in time for dinner.

The best part is that
my grandma and Stella

let me taste test to see
whose batch is better.

I am seriously working
in the wrong field.

Yeah.

We are looking to hire,
if want to wash your hands

and roll up your sleeves.

Sure.

What?

I never said anything.

I am squeaky clean
and reporting for duty.

All we have to do is squash it.

You know, I've never made pizza
from scratch before.

Looks like our new student

might start to struggle
a little over here.

Care to let a seasoned
professional give you a hand?

Sure.

Sorry you have a...

What?

You know... right there.

Thanks.

What?

I didn't say anything.

First one is done!

Knock knock!

The town's best
cookies have arrived

to meet their competition.

Yeah, just like clockwork.

Hi, Grandma!

Hi, my angel.

And you must be the
infamous Miss Sawyer.

I'm Stella's best friend, Susan.

So nice to meet you.

Please, just call me Allison.

It's great to put
a face to a name.

Okay, Allison.

Oh my goodness,
I'm so ready for this.

Thank you.

Voila!

I think Allison should
have the first slice.

I am never going back
to frozen pizza again.

This looks amazing.

Smells so good.

Ivy, hi.

Sorry I missed your call.

The article is well on its way.

And, don't worry, the
reason you haven't received

my preview draft is because,
well actually,

I'm taking a more personal...

The mailbox is full

and cannot accept any
messages at this time.

We so often glaze past moments
in our lives...

because we're always
rushing to the next big thing.

But, there's value in
savoring these moments.

Both the victories
and the hardships

and everything in between.

Annabelle Harper reminded us
of life's beauty

by creating ardent tales
based on her real-life journey.

From homeopathic healing,

to an underground
woman's book club,

to her whirlwind love affair.

Here, let me help you.

Thank you.

Good morning.

Morning.

Seems no matter
what I say or do,

you are intent on
taking photos of me.

Oh no, I was just getting those
geese over there actually.

That's the end of my roll.

Why don't I give you a lift?

I have to be in town anyway
for The Farmers Market.

We can drop that off
at the camera store

and get you a few more rolls.

Thank you, that would be great.

Great, but there's a catch.

You've got to join me

for the final part
of my morning routine.

Which just so happens to be

one of Annabelle's
Cedar Creek traditions.

Come on.

You said you wanted to
walk in Annabelle's shoes?

Yes walk, not float.

Why don't you just ease into it,
and I'll keep her balanced.

I promise.

Are you sure?

You just think of it
as tight rope walking.

It's one foot in front
of the other.

There's a big hole...

No, that's not helping.

- You got this.
- Okay.

Big step.

There you go.

Perfect!

Mind giving us a little push?

Oh yeah, sure.

Very nice.

Thank you.

Hello, Mr. O'Leary.

Oh no...

Yes, I understand...

No, I will let Hank know.

I'm sorry, too.

After being born and raised

my dad moved to
Los Angeles in 1985.

He opened his own restaurant
with his wife.

And that summer, they gave birth

to a very incredible baby boy,

called Hank Everett
Clyborne, Jr.

Strengths: Tons.
Weakness: Gram's cookies.

Okay but wait, how did you
develop such a weakness

if you were all the way in LA?

I spent every summer
in Cedar Creek.

That's how I learned the
ins and outs of the ranch,

so I could take care
of it myself someday.

Little did I know,
he was teaching me

a valuable life lesson.

Really, what was that?

When you selflessly devote
yourself to nurturing something,

it will always give back
to you times ten.

I can't tell you
how many memories

this ranch has given me.

Yeah, I bet.

So what were you wrangling
for the three seasons

you weren't in the country?

I worked in an architecture firm
designing industrial lofts.

And when did you decide to,

you know, move to out to
Cedar Creek permanently?

And that concludes
our interview.

Interview?

You sir, did not answer
my final question.

Which was what?

Oh right, you look
very beautiful.

Great answer, wrong question.

Okay.

I found out that my fiancé
stole my designs

and brought them into the firm.

They bought the rights,
they made her a partner,

and then I lost my job.

Oh, really?

I'm so sorry.

Do you think maybe
that's another reason

why you are so protective?

Either way, it was for the best.

My grandad passed
shortly thereafter,

and Gram wasn't
about to let them

leave their business
to look after her,

so it was convenient.

I packed my bags and
I've never looked back.

You're a good man,
Hank Clyborne.

I'll have these ready
in a couple of days.

Great, thanks so much.

We can pick them up
before you head back home.

Yeah.

Let me guess,
you're from the city?

Is it that obvious?

So what brings you to
our charming little town?

I'm actually writing a piece
about The Clyborne Ranch.

What a great idea!

It's my go-to whenever I need
a fresh batch of produce

or just a good
old-fashioned helping hand.

- Thanks, Samy.
- You got it.

Be sure to tell Stella
to save me some zucchinis.

I'll have her set
some aside for you.

There's still some time before
the Farmers Market opens,

are you hungry?

Starved.

Perfect, I know just the place.

Well, what do you think?

This is so good!

Bet you can't find
that in Seattle.

No, you definitely can't.

So you know,
you've managed to get me

to tell you a heck
of a lot about my life.

Now I'd like to know
some about yours, if I may.

Oh well, let's see...

You already know who influenced
my decision to become a writer.

I'm married to my work.

I love dogs? I don't know.

Okay but, you seem to have
a clear affinity for novelists,

and yet you became a journalist.

So forgive me,
but you don't really seem

to fit the take no
prisoners stereotype.

Was that a compliment?

Maybe, yeah.

Actually, that was
an excellent question.

See, I majored in
literary studies in college.

I had taken every
literary class available,

except for journalism.

Yeah.

But in my final semester,

I had to write this article

on the ascension
of women in politics.

And my professor she,
well she loved it

and sent it off to a friend
of hers in the business

who thought it
was very impressive

and asked me to intern for her.

Okay, congratulations.

I imagine that's your boss now?

Yes, Ivy Stone.

Actually, I owe
my career to her.

But at the time, I was living
on the outskirts of Seattle.

So interning for Ivy meant

that I had to leave
my mom for the city.

Must've been hard.

Yeah, it was.

But nothing compared to
losing her a few years later.

Allison, I'm so sorry.

That's when Ivy, she stepped in.

She gave me even more guidance,

but it was through
tough love, you know?

- Good.
- Yeah.

She's really pushed me
to my potential,

and she's just opened
endless doors for me.

I don't know, I guess
somewhere along the way,

I just forgot the reason
why I loved writing so much.

How do you mean?

I want to inspire my readers,
you know?

In my line of work, I just
don't think I'm doing that.

I don't think you should
be so hard on yourself.

Sometimes things
take time to figure out.

You're smart, passionate,
very ambitious.

I say stay the course.

Maybe you're closer to
a change than you think.

What makes you say that?

It brought you here, didn't it?

Hi!

Well...

You two seem to be
having a stellar day.

Yeah, I bet we've sold at least
three hundred dollars worth.

Right, Grandma?

It's looking more
like 38 dollars.

Tomato, to-mato.

Looks like you got in
a fight with a tomato.

The way I see it,
if it doesn't make a mess,

probably wasn't worth
eating in the first place.

Now that is the truth.

But, it gives us
an excuse for me

to take you to
my favorite booth.

Hey?

Oh no, pardon me.

I mean my second favorite booth.

Shouldn't we be here?

Oh no, the crew,
they can handle this.

This is as busy as it gets.

Just give me a second.

Can you take this bag
to the booth next door?

- Yes.
- Perfect.

You ready?

- Ready!
- Alright.

We'll be back.

Bye!

Bye...

Hey there, Stella.

What brings you to
my side of the market?

I was hoping you have something
for my friend, Allison.

Well you have come
to the right place.

Let's see.

Hey, yeah.

By the time we're done here,

she's gonna have that
good old Cedar Creek sparkle.

- Perfect!
- Okay.

- Hi Becky!
- The market's going viral!

I wonder who took those photos?

I have a hunch.

Better get Gram and Allison,

we're going to need
all hands on deck.

Aye-aye, Captain!

Something's still missing.

Now you're shining!

Yeah, that's a winner!

Ladies...

I hate to interrupt.

You're gonna love this.

Thank you.

Would you look at this?

Susan, what happened?

Someone posted us
on social media.

Doesn't sound like something
someone from here would do.

You know.

It was probably just
a tech savvy teenager.

You know, kids and their phones.

That's so cool.

It looks like you just
stepped out of my closet.

Oh yeah, you like it?

Definitely my favorite so far.

I should take this,
but I'll be right back to help.

Sure.

Ivy hi, did you get my message?

Hashtag Cookie Kids?

Is this your idea of
accurately investigating

someone's creative process?

Do you have any idea how silly
this makes me look to the board?

Well, I have
actually been walking

in Annabelle Harper's footsteps
and it's been great...

I don't care where you walk,

as long as you're walking
back to your cubicle

and starting to write profound
news stories for me.

If this post is any indication

of what you are
about to present me,

then you have wasted
both our time.

No Ivy, it's not...

You better return
with an article

that makes my generosity
not look like a mistake.

All the years
I've been doing this,

I have never seen
this kind of crowd.

I think we're going
to run out of produce!

Thank you.

Day Three: good deeds
don't need recognition.

Those are the words
Annabelle Harper lived by.

Now just imagine the lives
we could change,

if we collectively
redirected our thinking

to help others without
the expectation of return.

Someone's awfully happy
this evening.

Yeah, we had a great day.

We sold out of produce
at the Farmers Market

for the very first time.

Marie and I couldn't
stop talking about it.

I guess putting a spotlight
on a small town has its perks.

I know what you're doing.

What?

I think it's fair
to say that Allison

has had a positive effect
on a few things

since being here.

A few things?

Well I do have to admit.

She's definitely
got a few more layers

than I originally
gave her credit for.

Perhaps the real reason
that lead her here

will solidify your
new found opinion.

What's this real reason?

She's writing the article
to honor her mom.

Really?

Yeah.

Hey, no no no...

Gram, I know that look.

Yes, you're getting a
little excited about nothing.

Allison and I are just friends.

If you say so.

She's here on
business, remember?

People meet people
working all the time.

Yeah and Allison
works in Seattle.

She'll be back there
before we know it.

Then you are admitting that
you have feelings for her.

No!

Can we talk about
something else?

No we cannot.

Love can be scary,
but you can't spend

your whole life
running away from it.

I'm not running from it.

Have I ever told you the story

of when your father first
laid eyes on your mother?

Yes, but please...

He was in seventh grade
and she was new in town.

And I was picking
him up from school

and I could see
the two of them pass.

And your father
almost ran into a pole,

he was staring so hard.

It was the most
adorable thing ever.

And, I could tell that she
was sorta sweet on him too.

And when he got into the car,
that is all he could talk about.

And this went on for months.

Because he was afraid
to ask her out, I know.

But, on the last day of school,

realizing that he may
never see her again,

your father
gathered his courage,

and look what happened.

Now I have you.

I think I see what
you're getting at.

But with everything
going on around here,

it's just the last thing
on my mind, you know?

Besides, I've got
you, Marie, Susan,

the farm booth, the ranch.

There's plenty of
beautiful people and places

to occupy my time.

Oh my darling,

I'm just saying I want you
to listen

to what your heart
is really saying.

I don't know what that is.

Well, the only way
you're gonna know

if she's feeling the same.

You have to go ask her,
before it's too late.

If you've been looking
for a dance in the stables,

all you had to do was ask.

Well I was afraid I'd
make you look bad, so...

Sounds like an excuse to me.

Let's see if you can keep up.

You're not serious?

Yeah.

Okay.

You know,

first you recall the
legend of Lovers' Lookout,

and now you're dancing
with me in the same place

that Thomas and Annabelle
exchanged vows?

If I didn't know any better,

I'd say you're an
undercover romantic.

Maybe.

Yeah, I think you've been
holding out on me.

Maybe...

I'm sorry.

I didn't mean to...

I should...
I should go.

- Yeah I...
- Sorry.

Ivy hi, about our
conversation earlier,

I'm so sorry I...

Hold that thought.

The mayor is stepping down

and appointing the Deputy Mayor,

who just happens to be
his daughter to replace him.

He's doing what?

Can you believe it?

Sources have been saying
he can't handle the pressure.

Wants to leave town
and retreat to Fiji.

And the best part
is they've informed me

that he only
wants to talk to you.

Really?

Wait, who are your sources?

Not over the phone.

You're the only one who
can get to the bottom of this

and make us the first
publication to report on it.

Oh okay.

But I'm still two days away

from finishing my work
in Cedar Creek.

Do you hear yourself,
or more importantly me?

No Allison, this is a real story

that could catapult your career
to the next level.

We're talking Pulitzer here.

So sit tight while
I iron out all the details

and be prepared to leave
as early as tomorrow morning.

Hello?

It's go time.

Ivy?

I've locked in the interview
with the mayor.

Check your email and I'll
see you in a couple of hours.

Oh and Allison, congratulations.

Thank you.

Come on Allison, this is
what you've been waiting for.

He said at the end of the mont.

O'Leary said that?

He wants us out
at the end of this month?

That gives us time
to pack for Susan's

since we'll be there
until we figure out

a more permanent
living situation.

Gram, this isn't right!

Had I taken that job in LA,

I'd be paying this
mortgage off by myself.

I could have spent time
with you on weekends.

There's no reason why...

Hank, stop.

No, you didn't want me
to be alone.

You can't put a
price tag on that.

Allison will be
leaving in a few days.

We'll start packing then.

Yeah, about that.

Guess who called this morning?
To the house.

Sorry to interrupt.

You're leaving already?

Unfortunately I have to,
I just got a call from my boss.

Ivy.

Ivy called this morning.

Trying to prepare us
for your early departure.

She did?

I don't understand.

The thing is...

Ivy depends on me when it comes

to investigating
high profile stories,

so I just have to go.

And as Ivy so blatantly put it,

"A mediocre farm booth
that sells produce

to raise funds for
the poor #DessertChildren

is not going to
advance your career."

She didn't tell you
I said that, did she?

Hank, I would never say that.

Hank, wait!

Allison...

It's not the right time.

I have loved my time
here with you.

I don't want to leave.

This...

For what it's worth,
I believe you.

Thank you.

While advocating
vigorous policies

to improve our city
has proven successful,

orchestrating them has
taken a toll on my health.

It's time to step down as mayor

and pass the torch on
to my flesh and blood

to continue my legacy.

And that's why we don't waste
time with frivolous stories.

Next level.

I'll get started right away.

Hello, Allison...

You're staring off
into lala land.

I know.

Okay, the old you
would have been halfway

through your first draft by now.

How did I not see that
Stella and Hank

were going to lose everything?

Oh Allison, you were focused

on something
completely different.

You never could have.

I know, it's just the way
Hank looked at me.

It was awful.

He was hurt, Ali.

And he thought you betrayed him,
which you didn't.

But that mixed with the
stress of losing the ranch.

I know, I just wish there
was something I could do.

You know?

No, that's it.

What?

I've got it.

Yes, okay.

No, don't delete!
Don't do that!

You are on a deadline!

It's okay.

She's doing it.

A tea for your thoughts?

Sit.

I still remember the day
you showed up on my door step

with your luggage just
after Grandpa Everett passed.

You said, "I'll be with you
till the end, Gram.

I got you."

In that moment, you
took away my loneliness.

I should have
thanked you for that.

Gram...

I think you just did.

I meant it then
and I still mean it now.

You're a good man,
Hank Clyborne.

You know, it's funny.

Allison just said that.

Well she's very observant.

And smart too.

It's a real shame she
only cares about her career.

Maybe it's not as
black and white as you think?

What does it matter?

Gram, she's gone.

Love can be complicated.

Who said any of this is about...

No, in my experience,

if someone wants back in
your life, they find a way.

Alright, which constellation

do you think we
should pick tonight?

Let me guess, Lyra?

Alright.

Lyra it is.

Hello, Cedar Creek Tribune,
how can I help you?

Hi there,
my name is Allison Sawyer,

I'm a reporter for
the Seattle Daily.

Here you go.

Thank you.

Let's see...

She's quite the photographer,
isn't she?

Looks like you were one
of her favorite subjects.

Certainly looks that way,
doesn't it?

Normally I wouldn't butt
into people's business,

but I figured since you
had a write-up in the paper.

Write-up?

Mario...

I've been using him
for five years,

you'd think he'd be a little
more sensitive to my needs.

Is everything alright?

Of course not.

I called you in here because
a contact of mine sent me this.

Why do you look so surprised?

You went behind my back.

Generated an article that
had no bearing on what we do.

All while you had
your own assignment

that could actually have
made a difference in your life.

You're a prestigious
Seattle Daily reporter

for goodness sake...

On a contract.

Ivy, I'm so sorry.

And you know that
I would never do anything

to disrespect you or the Daily.

And you know how grateful I am...

Well gratitude cannot fix
a breached contract.

What?

While you've been
very dear to me,

I can no longer play favorites.

Rules are rules.

You're fired,
effective immediately.

Fired?

You let life distract you.

If I taught you anything,
it's that work should be

your number one priority,
or you'll never have success.

I'm sorry, Allison.

You'll thank me
for this someday.

Okay.

I am so sorry, Ali.

This is all my fault.

No, this is definitely
not your fault.

No, I pushed you.

Everything was fine before,
better than fine.

Your career at the Daily
was about to take off.

Yeah, but not in
the direction I wanted.

But what about the article
of a lifetime?

Well...

It's yours.

Wait, what?

- I can't finish this!
- Why not?

You're an amazing writer
who's written many masterpieces

as far as I'm concerned.

Not for The Daily.

Because no one's
given you your chance.

Now you have it.

Thank you.

You're welcome, don't worry.

Okay.

Hi Marie!

Hi, Ali!

I saw your article
with Grandma this morning!

It was so good!

Are you coming back
for the last harvest?

I really want you to.

Oh yeah, I don't think I can.

Why?

I had to get back to my job
here in Seattle, so...

Is that where you are now?
Can I see?

Marie, honey, don't be nosy.

It's not polite!

Hi Allison!

Hi Susan!

It's okay, I can
show you guys a bit,

before I start my new adventure.

Here.

It's so fancy!

Why would you want to start
a new adventure?

Give us a sec...

Allison, tell me more
about your new job.

It's because of that
incredible article

that you wrote in the Tribune.

Yeah, something like that.

I mean the effect it
has had on this town.

And more importantly, Stella.

Did she like it?

She loves it.

I just don't know
how you did it.

Did what?

I have been trying
to get my best friend

to talk about her book series
for the last decade!

Sorry, her book series?

Because she wasn't
willing to reveal her secret,

her publisher let her
go from her contract.

That's why she found herself
financially upside down.

Wait, Stella is
Annabelle Harper?

You're such a big fan,
I thought you knew.

Grandma, can I get one more?

You finished it already?

Looks like my services
are needed.

I'll talk to you later, Allison.

I just... I...

Did that just happen?

Yes, it did!

Stella is Annabelle Harper?

It is too bad Ivy fired you.

I was going to read
your exposé before,

but now I really
want to read it!

That's it.

- What?
- That's it.

I found the missing link.

To what?

To how we can save
Clyborne Ranch.

We? Dost thou forget?

I have an article to write.

Right, okay I'm gonna...

I'm here for support
if you need me.

Don't forget Hank
in your new adventure!

After the way we left things,
Gram...

how could she still find it in
her heart to help us like this?

I think you know
the answer to that.

Hi.

Hello there.

What are you
doing here so early?

I was hoping you
could call Allison

and invite her to
our last harvest.

I already tried, but if anyone
can get her back, it's you.

Sweetie I'm afraid
Allison's a little too busy

for all of us.

She's got a lot of work to do.

No, she doesn't.

She's fired.

Fired? What do you
mean she's fired?

Did she say why?

No.

She was trying to be happy,

but I could tell
she was really upset.

Gram, do you think this article
cost Allison her job?

Well, I don't think it's
the groundbreaking article

her boss pulled her out
of Cedar Creek to write.

Where are you going?

To get Allison her job back!

Stella!

Allison!

We appreciate the risk
you took, but...

It's okay, there's a
bigger plan in place here.

What do you mean?

When an obstacle is in our way,

we charge towards it instead
of running away, right?

Right.

I think I know how
we can save the Ranch.

- Come on in.
- Okay.

You know, I still
can't believe it.

Annabelle Harper was
right in front of me

this entire time.

I guess you can say I mastered
the art of keeping her a secret.

All for a lifetime
spent giving to others.

Stella, what if
there was a chance

they could give back to you?

What do you mean?

We host a charity hoedown

with part of the proceeds
going towards the ranch.

We could have line dancing,

food and craft vendors,
tractor rides...

I appreciate your enthusiasm,

but even if we did
have an event like that,

I don't think we
could raise enough.

Well we may not be able to,
but Annabelle Harper could!

I know you created
Annabelle during a time

where you felt the need
to protect yourself

and your loved ones.

That's true, I did.

That doesn't mean her life
experiences didn't exist.

They were real stories and
they took place on this land.

It was here you met and married
the love of your life.

Where you created Annabelle.

This place holds
decades of memories,

I know you don't
want to let it go.

No it's true, I don't
want to let it go.

But I left Annabelle
in the past.

I never thought I would
be ready to be her again.

It's not too late.

Based on the response
from this morning's article,

people want to help,
they just don't know how.

With your notoriety
and my resources,

I know we can pull this off.

We can call it,

"A Country Night Under the Stars
with Annabelle Harper."

What do you think?

Do people really want
to help me?

Yes.

You've touched
more lives than you realize.

As Stella and as Annabelle.

Now all you have to do is
just take a leap of faith,

and just tell people the truth.

So they can come
and they can help you.

My Everett did always say,

"When you selflessly devote
yourself

to nourishing something,

it always comes back
to you times ten."

Does that mean
you're ready to share

your secret with the world?

If this is my one chance,
then I better take it.

Yes!

We better alert the town.

We are gonna have a hoedown.

Allison...

I invited you here to help me

close the last chapter
of the ranch,

and here you are
helping me save it.

Stella, my life wouldn't be
what it is today

if it wasn't for you.

Well, I have to make some calls.

Yes.

Come on, hoedown!

Thank you, this is great.

I've got a deadline
in four days and I...

The deadline is in four days,

so you need to make sure
this is good to print.

It's so close!

Excuse me, miss?

Wait, Hank?

A Country Night Under the Stars
with Annabelle Harper?

Yeah.

You know, I'm the one
who pushed her

to chase after her dreams.

She thought the emptiness
was work related

and then she felt the heartbreak

of the way she left things
with you.

And then she got
fired from her job,

which is terrible, right?

Wrong, because now
she can follow her heart

and help you and Stella.

Well cowboy,
you are on your own.

It's too bad you
didn't bring your lasso.

She can be a wild card.

Good luck.

Yeah thanks...

Try again.

Howdy ma'am, you don't know me,

but I'm Hank Everett
Clyborne Jr.

Hank Clyborne...

No.

No?

No.

But I didn't even say anything...

I know why you're here.

To convince me to
give Allison her job back

and the answer is no.

Don't you think
you're being a little harsh?

I haven't even proposed
my argument yet, ma'am.

What am I, your grandmother?

Don't call me, "ma'am."

With all due respect,
I'm already in your office.

Please just hear me out?

Look you've known
someone for years,

and you took them
under your wing

because you believed in them,

and then when that person
does one little thing

that doesn't align
with your personal goals,

you just dispose of them?

Have you ever stopped to think
about what's best for Allison?

What makes her happy?

Because sometimes,
what you want for someone

and what they want
for themselves

are two different things.

You can't punish someone
for that.

I mean at least, I
don't think you should.

Especially someone whom
you claim to care about.

You've made your point,
Hank Clyborne.

Now what do I have to do
to get you to stop talking

and let me return to my work?

Does this mean you'll
give Allison a second chance?

A third.

I have to admit,

I can see why she's become
ensnared by your charm.

This is the best night ever.

I am so glad that
you're having fun.

- Howdy, Stella!
- Hi.

I was wondering, if it
isn't too much trouble,

would you please sign a copy
of my Annabelle Harper book?

Yes!

There you go, Samy.

Oh no, I couldn't.

Take it, that's why I'm here.

That's why we're all here.

Samy.

Thank you, Samy.

That is so generous.

You three get together.

Perfect!

Now say cheese.

Cheese!

Okay this time,
everyone say Annabelle Harper.

Annabelle Harper!

Come on!

Howdy, ma'am!

You look lost.

Have you seen a
ridiculously optimistic woman

wearing heels and a big smile?

Sounds like you,
minus the smile.

No need to worry.

Nothing like a Boot
Scootin' Boogie to fix that.

Follow me.

Young lady, I really
don't have time for this.

Wait, I remember this song...

Okay, one song.

And then you're
helping me afterward.

Ivy?

What are you doing here?

That'd be Scootin' Boogie.

Rumor has it you're
not the only city girl

that could use a visit
to the country.

Hi.

Hi...

Hank, why don't you
show me around?

Wanna come?

- If you'll excuse me.
- Sure.

The more, the merrier.

Okay.

Where do you fit into all this?

Just consider me
your personal life coach.

Dare I even ask?

Dare not, my friend.

Just know I've
always got your back.

You do.

You know, I am so lucky
to have you in my corner.

Stop, you're gonna
make me blush.

Oh come on, you've never
blushed a day in your life.

Good evening everyone, could
I have your attention please?

Thank you all for coming
to the first annual

Night Under the Stars
with Annabelle Harper.

And now, the moment
we've all been waiting for.

Stella, where are we
at with the donations?

I'm sorry to say that
we're still $10,000 short.

That won't do!

May I?

I have to admit that I
haven't had so much fun

since I was a kid
with my Pee-Paw.

Pee-Paw?

My grandfather, he used to own
a ranch similar to this one.

And my parents and I
would visit every year

and we would ride the
tractors and the horses...

This has been such
a trip down memory lane.

And on that note...

I have an announcement
I'd like to make.

From the moment I set foot
in Cedar Creek,

I could feel its
tremendous impact.

This is a community
that can make us feel

as though we're a part
of something

greater than ourselves.

And that's what leads us to
a happy and fulfilling life.

Allison, you were right to
feel that something was missing.

I would be honored
to make a donation.

Stella.

$15000?

Ivy, thank you!

Clyborne Ranch is saved!

It's now or never.

I have to say,

this night couldn't
get any better.

Maybe it can.

May I have this dance?

Sure.

I owe you an apology.

For what?

For judging you, misjudging you.

And most importantly,
for lying to you.

The truth is, Allison,

I felt something the
first time I saw you.

But it scared me,
the possibilities,

the potential heartache.

I felt it all within seconds.

Then you showed up
to my house...

Yeah.

It was all another reason
why I felt so protective.

It's a harder time not...

I should probably
tell you something too.

Okay.

I came to Cedar Creek
because I was...

I felt like there was something
missing in my life.

And I was certain it was because

I was searching for
more meaning in my work.

But when I found that,
I realized there was part of me

that still was missing.

Why do you suppose that is?

Because that part was you.

Who would've thought
a cowboy and a journalist...

Two different people
from two different worlds.

Could be so right.

I'm never going to let anything
come between us again.