An Ice Palace Romance (2023)

[bunniefuu]

[festive music]

♪

- Whoops!
- WOMAN: Hey!

- What are you doing?
- Oh, um, sorry!

I was just...
just trying to fix it.

You're that news lady.

Yes, ma'am!

Lori Marshall, Loop Line Media.

You are one persistent woman.

Yes!

What is your sudden
interest in my studio?

You're on the list of
arts organizations

that lost funding
in the new city budget.

So?

I used to dance when I was young

and I was greatly enriched
by the experience.

These are the stories
we need to be sharing.

No.

Access to the arts
is vital to our community

and our young people.

And I believe
that your holiday recital

is the perfect example of that.

Come on...

A little bump in your profile
can't hurt, can it?

[laughs]

[chuckles] Alright.
Alright.

Great! Great, um...

Actually, can I just get
a shot of you walking up

and coming in?

- [sighs]
- Ooh, okay.

Alright!

♪

Phew!

- My turn today.
- So Christmassy!

Love it! I am so ready
for the holidays.

When are you leaving
for your parents' house?

Susan's meeting me for lunch

so we can make a plan.

[Ken gasps]

Maxine is looking fierce today!

Did you put your résumé in
for the new division?

- Of course I did.
- Mm-hm?

Building a department
from the ground up?

I know I can do that job.

And, I get to choose
the stories!

Mm-hm!

You should bump into her
on the elevator.

Ask her for a recommendation!

Be assertive.

LORI: Seriously, now?

She hasn't even
had her coffee yet.

Yes, now!
Be the early bird!

LORI: Ms. Graham?

LORI: Ms. Graham!

A moment, please?

[sighs]

KEN: Oh, nope,
we don't know her!

Um, is there something
you're forgetting to ask me?

Did the South Side muralist
send those portfolio images?

No!

It was my pre-Christmas brunch
with Darren yesterday!

Right! Of course.

How was it?

Oh, it was only
the most gorgeous day, ever!

I made crepes
with cranberry sauce.

Delicious!

And we got pedicures at that
new place where Casey saw Oprah.

It was not Oprah!

And then we snuggled
on the couch

and we watched
that new action movie.

I was even still awake
when the credits rolled.

He's a lucky guy.

You're just saying that so that
I'll let you get back to work.

This is true!

I think you should
try again with Maxine.

I want you to be management...

And I want Fridays
to end at noon!

[laughs]

♪

And it totally was Oprah!

Lori Mitchell?

- It's Marshall.
- Come in.

- I was just...
- Sit down.

I understand you submitted
for the new division chief job.

Yes!
Not that I'm not happy...

MAXINE: You know the application
has to be accompanied

by a strong portfolio piece.

I do, and I have one.

It's about the challenges
around arts education

and its value to the community.

I have a great interview
with a dance studio owner

and I think the viewers
will really respond to it.

Here's the deal.

Each existing division has been
tasked with delivering a story

in line with
the new division mandate.

If the new chief is
going to be an internal hire,

I want it to be
someone from my team.

I need to put forward
someone who really understands

what's riding
on this assignment.

Someone with skin in the game.

- Can you handle it?
- Yes.

I want a tight 13 minutes
on how people are feeling

about losing the Ice Palace

and the holiday traditions
that go with it.

You're from Michigan,
aren't you?

I'm sorry, is this
the Ice Palace in Greenhill?

Yes.

I can't... I can't do that.

I can't go there.

If you turn this down,

you aren't gonna
get another shot.

I'm sorry...

I can't.

[Christmas music playing
in food court]

But...

But why?

You worked so hard for this.

LORI: It's complicated.

I want the job, but I-I just...

I can't go back to that town.

- There's Susan... ah!
- Don't tell her.

Tell her what?

Come on, I'm your sister!

[Lori sighs]

Remember I told you
about that new division,

the job?

Yeah?

Well, our boss has a story
that she wants me to do

that would really
help with my application.

Great!

What's the problem?

KEN: There isn't one!

She's lost her mind!

You turned it down?

It's about the Ice Palace.

- Oh...
- KEN: "Oh"?

What do you mean, "Oh"?
What is happening right now?

I told you I used to
figure skate competitively

when I was a kid.

Yes, but you've denied me
all the photograph evidence

I so deeply desire.

- Maybe Susan will...
- I never told you why I stopped.

Well?

She fell.

And? Everybody falls.

Not at Olympic qualifiers.

Nobody falls
at Olympic qualifiers.

And to add insult to injury,
I had home ice advantage.

It was in front of
my whole town.

On my own rink.
It was horrifying.

Everything is horrifying
when you're 16.

KEN: At the Ice Palace?

I never skated again.

SUSAN: So what's the angle?
Why the Ice Palace?

They're tearing it down.

They're putting up
a condo/shopping complex.

Old traditions versus
innovation and progress.

Wow, I can't imagine
Christmas in Greenhill

without the Ice Palace.

Honestly, I think it
could be a moving story,

and who better
to tell it than you?

It's a fair point.

Let's just change the subject!
For Christmas, I was thinking...

KEN: Wait, I have
another item on the agenda!

I'm extremely worried about you,
Lori Marshall.

You haven't been
on a date in 13 months.

It's like having
a gap on your résumé:

people are going
to have questions.

Has it really been
that long since Steve?

No, it has not been 13 months!

And I'm just not ready
to start dating again.

Thirteen and a half!

And Steve? Hmph!

You need to get back
up on the horse.

- It's embarrassing.
- Thanks.

When are you driving
to Mom and Dad's?

We can convoy again
with the walkie talkies.

The girls really loved that.

SUSAN: That's actually
why I came to see you.

Chuck's company is rewarding him
for all the extra work...

They're sending us
to Mexico for Christmas!

Mexico?

For Christmas?

A family villa
at a fancy resort, on the beach.

Five bedrooms, a private pool,
and an actual butler,

- who buttles, or whatever.
- Oh.

Mom and Dad fly on the 20th.
When can you get away?

Wait, wait, wait, what about
all the Christmas stuff

that we do?

The wrapping the gifts,
the carolling, the baking,

all the family stuff?

We'll still do
all the family stuff.

We'll just do them
with the assistance

of an esteemed butler.

What about
the snowball tournament?

Yeah, I won't miss that;

still had that shiner
on Valentine's Day.

KEN: Mexico!

Sounds like the kind of reward

that comes after a big,
difficult assignment!

And it can't be
all bad memories, right?

Remember when Dad's
bowling league had their banquet

at the Ice Palace
and then crashed into the band

trying the dirty dancing lift?

And Principal Watson
drove them home

and lectured them
about being responsible.

Mom was so ashamed,

she wore sunglasses in
the grocery store for weeks!

Oh, and there was that time
that you dropped

my tenth birthday cake
on the ice, you remember that?

Okay, look, the point is

there's a lot of good memories
at the Ice Palace as well,

ones worth revisiting.

I think you should
go and take a last look.

For both of us.

Thank you!

♪

Break time!

You have to stop doing that.

So if you're not into
a Mexican Christmas,

you have to come
and have Christmas with us.

We're doing a turkey
and everything.

We'd love to have you.

That's so nice,
but I don't want to impose.

It's your first
real Christmas together.

And you are part
of our family now!

We should start
some new traditions.

♪

KEN: Aw, you should get me
a butler for Christmas!

Then you won't
have to help with dishes.

I knew you'd change your mind.

If that was some
kind of tactic...

It wasn't.

I'm sorry.

It'll be fine.

I want the assignment.

Of course you do.

And maybe whatever history
you have with the town

will give your story
some flavour.

Well, I haven't been
to Greenhill in years, so...

I hired a local camera operator.

If all goes well, you'll need
to get used to managing staff.

The train leaves in two hours.

Drop by Accounting
on the way out.

Great!

♪

LORI: Those are
beautiful new skates.

Are they a Christmas present?

Yeah.

I only got a few days
to break 'em in.

Hit them with the hair dryer.

The heat will mould
them to your feet.

I've never tried that before.

Thanks!

What train are you waiting for?

The 1:15 to Greenhill.

Same!
Do you live there, too?

I used to.

It's only my
third time in Chicago.

Dad had a fancy meeting.

He got a new suit
and I got new skates.

Sounds like a really good trip.

Are you coming to Greenhill
for the skating tournament?

ANNOUNCER: [on speaker]
Amtrak service to Milwaukee

is now departing on Track 6.

LORI: No, but maybe
I'll check it out.

You should.
It's gonna be epic.

DAD: Okay, here we go, sweetie.

I even got my first
real manicure... and panicure!

DAD: Uh, pedicure.

It's called a pedicure.

- Dad got one, too!
- That... that was our secret!

[laughs]

Well, that's
a really nice colour.

We've met before.

You're Susan Marshall's sister,
right? Lori?

Nope.

No, um, you probably have me
mixed up with someone else.

ANNOUNCER: [on speaker]
Amtrak service to Detroit,

stopping in Kalamazoo,
Greenhill, and Ann Arbor,

is now boarding on Track 6.

- Come on, Dad, that's our train.
- Okay.

DAD: After you.

Alright, just wait up, okay?
Wait up!

- Whoa!
- Oh, geez, I'm sorry.

Oh...

It's, uh...

It's for a fitness program
I'm trying to get going.

Do you skate?

No.

But you're...
headed for Greenhill?

It's a work trip.
In and out.

Ah.

ANNOUNCER: [on speaker]
Last call for Amtrak service

to Detroit, boarding on Track 6.

Well, that's too bad.

You're gonna miss
the Christmas Ball.

It's the highlight of
the Greenhill social calendar.

Sounds like fun.

Enjoy and, um, happy holidays!

Happy holidays!

♪

LORI: Hello!

Reservation for Lori Marshall.

I just saw that a moment ago.

Hang on.
Give me a second.

♪

Where did you get these?

Oh!
Uh, the Ice Palace.

The manager there loaned them
to us for our display.

They're beautiful.

Your name sounds familiar.

Do I know you?

No. Um, actually,
I've never stayed here before.

Oh. Well, um...

It's Room 4.

It's just up the stairs.

And we have you here for...

four nights.

You're not going to the ball?

No, I-I won't be here for that.

Well, the room's available
if you change your mind.

The theme this year
is Paris On Ice.

That sounds like fun,
but I have other plans.

Do you mind if I leave
my bag behind the desk?

I'm late for a meeting.

I could put it
in the room for you.

Okay, great!
Thanks.

♪

Lori?
Lori Marshall.

- Yeah.
- Jen, camera operator.

- Great to meet you.
- Likewise.

Now, your, uh,
boss lady's pretty intense.

Yeah, among other things.

Do you get a lot of
freelance work around here?

Yeah, a lot of weddings,
the occasional bar mitzvah,

stringers for the news,
state and local.

Pretty steady
documentary-type requests.

- Nice.
- People are obsessed with bears.

Why don't we grab a coffee
and we'll start chatting?

I'll take you for a hot toddy
over at Gary's,

just up the street.

Best dive bar north of Lansing.

Actually, I have got a couple
of free drinks coming to me,

thanks to a particularly
bad pool player in town.

Ah-ha-ha!
Speak of the devil!

And a howdy-do to you, too.

So are you scouting
for your new corner office?

Hope the view makes you
feel better about sellin' out!

Look, Jen, I am an architect
in Greenhill, Michigan, alright?

I can't afford
to stand on principle

when a huge development
comes into town.

- Yeah, sure, sure.
- Sorry.

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

Well, at least your principles
are better than your pool game!

This is Lori.
She's a reporter from Chicago.

- Good to meet you.
- Likewise, I'm Tyler.

We were just heading over
for some hot toddies.

- Nice.
- And you're buying!

- Am I now?
- Yeah.

- I guess I am.
- [Lori laughs]

♪

Nothing beats fresh ice,
you know?

It's like a painter's canvas,
fresh out of the plastic.

Pleasure to make
your acquaintance,

for the very first time, again.

Mark Johnson.

- Lori Marshall.
- Mm-hm.

See, I knew I recognized
you at the station!

You're a local legend
around here.

You almost made it
to the Olympics!

Zoe's gonna be so thrilled

that you're back
for the tournament.

Yeah, I'm not gonna
be here for that.

So I saw
the Steak & Potato closed down.

Where do people go for
a good meal these days?

Yeah, uh, Gary's got
a pretty mean chicken wing game.

Or Chloe's Kitchen
over on Main Street.

Yeah, I just came from Gary's.

The chicken wings
are a little too...

greasy for my taste.

A lot, actually.

You know,
if you're a food critic,

you have to tell me, right?
It's the law.

I'm a journalist;
not a critic, though.

I should go.

Sure, yeah.

Well, I hope to, uh,
see you again.

You should come back
for a skate.

You could show the kids
how it's done.

Yeah, uh, no.

[laughs]
Probably not.

Thanks.

[in a whisper]
Yeah.

Hi!

KEN: [on phone] Have you
run into any old friends?

Or any boyfriends?

LORI: No old boyfriends.

I did run into this guy, Mark...

He graduated with my sister.

Oh, a long-lost childhood crush!

Maybe it was your destiny
to meet him again.

It's my destiny
to be division chief.

Not as fun, but okay.
Are you eating?

I'm walking up to
the restaurant now, Mom!

Call me when you
get back to your room!

I want to hear all the stories
about the high school hottie.

Have a good night, Ken!

At least tell me he was
wearing a flannel shirt!

Hanging up now!

[indistinct chatter
and music playing]

- Hey there!
- Hi!

I'm Chloe.
Welcome to the Kitchen.

- Table for one?
- Uh, to go, please.

Alright, I'll give you a minute.

Thanks.

[Lori chuckles]

Funny meeting you here.

Glad you took my recommendation.

It's not like
I was flush with choices.

Ow...

I'm sorry, what was that?

I just said that there
was a lot of good choices.

Ah, yeah.

What do you suggest?

Uh, well,
Chloe's lasagna is incredible.

I just ordered two trays

for the volunteer
board meeting tomorrow.

- Volunteers for the tournament?
- Yeah.

And the Christmas Ball,
and the tree-lighting,

which is tomorrow night.

There's a lot of great things
happening at the Ice Palace.

You should come check it out.

We could always use more help.

Well, that's exactly
why I'm here.

The story I'm working on
is about the Ice Palace.

Oh, yeah?

Well, what's the angle?

The new development, actually.

How losing the Ice Palace
will affect the community.

Yeah.

So how long have you
worked at the Palace for?

I, um...

I actually own the Ice Palace.

- Really?
- Yeah.

- Well, can I get an interview?
- Absolutely.

I would be more than happy
to tell you

and the rest of the world that
no matter what anyone says,

the Ice Palace
isn't going anywhere.

Okay.

The Ice Palace is over
a hundred years old.

It's the oldest arena
in the Midwest.

It's a true historical landmark.

Has your family always owned it?

Yes.

My great-grandfather built it
on land leased from the town,

and it was the most
modern arena...

MAN: Mark, can we have a word?

Now?

If it's not, uh,
too much trouble.

Is everything okay?

MARK: Lori,
this is Chad Reynolds,

the man who wants to destroy
this historical landmark.

Out with the old,
in with the new.

But he needs the land lease.
My land lease.

Yours for the next few days.

My apologies!

Chad Reynolds,

Reynolds & Reynolds
Developments.

Who's the other Reynolds?

There isn't one.
He just thinks it sounds better.

- LORI: Mm.
- Yeah.

Are you the journalist
from Chicago?

I heard someone was doing
a story about my development.

I am, and I'd love to
talk to you as well.

I'm sure that can be arranged.

Okay, Lori, will you excuse us
for a moment? Thanks.

- You know that guy?
- A little.

He's been in and out of town
the last few months.

- And...?
- Just another suit

with a haircut
that costs more than my car.

If we're not careful,
we might end up with a monorail.

- You got trouble?
- Right here in River City!

The deadline's coming up quick.

Cinderella gets
to have the ball,

but you turn into
a pumpkin at midnight.

Okay, you know what?

It's not over yet.

If you lose the lease,

all the building code
grandfathering goes with it.

The council will condemn;
they won't have a choice.

I'm not giving up.

Look at it like
everyone else does.

My development
will bring new housing,

parking, more shops,
more customers!

Parking...

Chad, this is the beating heart
of our town, okay?

This is where everybody
comes for Christmas.

I bought a piece of land off
the highway where the town

can build a new arena.
Everybody wins.

You've made a good
go of it, okay?

Don't go down with the ship.

We done here?

For now.

MAYOR: I am so sorry
to keep you all waiting.

We are so happy we get to
welcome you home, Ms. Marshall.

I honestly couldn't believe it
when I heard you were back.

Are you still skating?

No, I'm a journalist.

Are you ready?

- MAYOR: Yes, yes!
- Rolling, rolling.

So, Madam Mayor,
I understand that the new arena

will be on
the outskirts of town.

How will that better serve
the people of Greenhill?

Well, we anticipate
that there will be challenges

to work through
in the transitionary period,

but, you know,
ultimately, we will adapt.

The owner of the Palace,
Mark Johnson,

he insists that
it's not going anywhere.

We certainly wish
we could support him.

But unfortunately,
the renewal of the land lease

is conditional on improvements,

and Mr. Johnson
has not secured the funding

to make those upgrades.

If the original lease expires,

our hands will be tied.

The exemptions cease

and the building
will be condemned.

And after that,
it will be open to proposals

that incorporate demolishing
the existing building.

Right now,
we do have one proposal.

For the shopping/condo complex?

It's very attractive.

Why do you think Mark Johnson is
having a hard time letting go?

The Ice Palace has been
in the Johnson Family

for generations.

Of course Mark is attached;
we all are.

But Mark is a very fine man.

You know, he actually
adopted a baby in need

and is single-handedly
raising her

to be a wonderful woman,

all the while
running a small business.

He sounds like
a very devoted father.

The best of the best.

- Hey.
- Hey.

[Jen sighs]

So... sounds like you were quite
the skater back in your time.

Yeah.

I should have told you
that I was from Greenhill.

Mm-hm!

My sister left for college
and my dad was offered a job

at a big hospital in Chicago,

so then we moved.

I started over.

- Wow.
- Mm-hm.

- Hey, can I ask you a question?
- Mm-hm.

Will losing the Ice Palace
affect your family's Christmas?

Well, it'll certainly
change where we go,

but I don't think it's gonna
change who we are, you know?

Christmas,
it's about gratitude and love

and old memories
and new beginnings.

Christmas,
it's in your heart, right?

It's like your family.

It's with us
wherever we celebrate.

- That was deep, Jen.
- Yeah, I'm pretty insightful.

I spend a lot of time
alone in the woods...

waiting for bears.

[laughs]

So, you going to the ball?

I would but, you know,
it's for couples.

I thought Christmas
was about new beginnings.

- [chuckles]
- What about Tyler?

Oh...

You two seem to be
playing pool pretty regularly!

- Ooh, you noticed?
- [both laugh]

Oh, he... oh, he's a great guy,

but he is just
completely oblivious

when it comes to
this kind of thing.

Well, have you tried
dropping hints?

- You know, flirting?
- Uh, yes!

- All the time.
- Okay!

Okay, okay. Our secret...

Sometimes I will
even throw the game.

No... No!

Just so that
we have to keep playing!

Oh, just, you know,
best out of three.

[both laugh]

Oh, but like I said,
he is completely oblivious!

Well, lucky for you,
I'm an expert wing-woman.

You're looking
at a six-time maid of honour.

- Get out!
- I'm top g*n, baby.

I'm the best of the best.

- So, then that makes me Goose?
- Exactly!

You know that he dies?

Okay, spoiler!

[both laugh]

MARK: Alright.
Welcome, everyone,

to the 127th Annual
Ice Palace Tree Lighting.

Great to see some new faces
joining in the fun.

Tonight we kick off
the festivities.

Now, if you are able,
any and all donations

are greatly appreciated
to our fundraising efforts.

It is not too late
to save the Ice Palace!

- Right?
- [crowd cheering]

MARK: Alright.
Well, without any further ado,

I think it's time
to light the tree.

Madam Mayor,
the honour is all yours.

Thank you.

Three...

two...

one...

[applause and cheering]

Merry Christmas, everyone!

MARK: Happy holidays, everyone!

Get yourself a hot chocolate
and a pretzel,

fresh out of the oven!

♪

[garage door creaking]

[skates scraping]

♪ Close your eyes,
wish what you wanna wish ♪

♪ Whatever you do,
don't share it with anyone ♪

♪ I've made mine,
but I won't be telling you ♪

♪ I'm gonna keep it a secret ♪

♪ Take my hand,
kiss me under mistletoe ♪

♪ Stars all around,
I'm so excited ♪

♪ One more sleep till I see
if my wish will come true ♪

♪ Can't wait till
it's Christmas ♪

♪ I won't ask for
nothing else this year ♪

♪

♪ Whoa-oh-oh... ♪

♪ Santa, won't you
come and help, please? ♪

♪ 'Cause you're the only one
[You're the only one] ♪

♪ That can make it be
[That can make it be] ♪

♪ I won't ask for
nothing else this year ♪

♪ I'll make a promise,
this is all I... ♪

♪ This is all I... ♪

♪ This is all I want ♪

[instrumental Jingle Bells
playing in rink]

♪

So when my parents retied,
I took over, and since then,

among other things,
I have absolutely mastered

the Ice Palace pretzel.

- I have to say, it's excellent.
- Mm-hm!

Now, I'm opposed to
this redevelopment

because the Ice Palace
is the heart and soul

of Christmas in Greenhill, okay?

Nobody lives in a small town
because of its luxury condos.

It's places like this,
where your grandparents met

or your grandchildren
played hockey,

that keep our community
so vibrant.

What if you lose?

Do you have a back-up plan?

Do I need one?
What have you heard?

MARK: Did you know
that the initial proposal

for a new and improved
Ice Palace?

I mean, it was
the best of both worlds.

But that proposal just quietly
disappeared and this new design

with fancy shops
and condo units took its place.

But don't worry, they are
gonna build a new rink...

out on the highway,
between the truck stop

and an abandoned storage lot.

LORI: The mayor says
they don't really know

when the arena will be ready.

MARK: Exactly, or even
if it will get built at all.

So until I get
the official boot,

it just needs
to be full steam ahead.

I'm actually waiting
to hear about funding

for an on-ice exercise program
I've called SkateFit.

If it goes through,

it'll push our fundraising
efforts over the top.

You really are passionate
about this place.

Well...

I mean, I'm passionate
about community,

and the people that are in it,

and the institutions
that serve it.

A lot of very passionate people
have passed through here.

♪

Ohh...

LORI: You know what?
I'll catch up with you later.

Yeah, okay.

Remember, though, we got
the interview with Chad

- in the morning.
- Mm-hm.

Lori!

That was close, right?

It was.

Try picking up some speed

and focus on putting
your weight on your back foot.

- That still counts.
- It totally does.

You should come
and skate with me.

- Where's your coach?
- She left a month ago.

But I'm still gonna do great
in the tournament.

Of course you are.

- I'm gonna try again.
- Okay!

Go ahead!

♪

MARK: Okay,
three hot chocolates.

Make sure they get some.

Hey, you're still here!

You must like it.

I got sidetracked.

Zoe's quite the skater.

She works really hard.

Yeah!

Yeah, she was actually looking
to improve on a good finish

in last year's tournament.

She's got real potential.

Do you mind if I give her
a few pointers?

Yeah, I mean, it's not every day

she gets tips
from am Olympic skater.

I didn't go to the Olympics.

Well, you should have.

That's very kind of you.

I'll come by tomorrow.
Same time?

Yeah, yeah, we'll be here.

We'll actually be setting up
for the ball and the tournament,

so you can meet
all the volunteers

who actually make this possible.

Sounds good.

Thanks.

Enjoy.

MARK: [on video]
And if we do lose the Palace,

at least I'll know I tried.

[text message notification]

[text message notification]

[line ringing]

Tell me everything you remember.

CHLOE: Hey, uh,
you need new string lights.

Like half of these are dead.

Uh, thank you for
getting all that stuff ready.

I will pick some up
on the way home.

Uh-oh...

What's up?

Something isn't sitting
right with me, okay?

Everyone was on board with
the new and improved Ice Palace,

and then along comes
Chad Reynolds

with these condos
and a new arena

on a parcel of land that
he conveniently already owns.

I don't know, I just need
more time for fundraising.

Hey, you know I love the Palace
almost as much as you do,

but you're fighting
a losing battle here.

You should focus on reframing
this as an opportunity.

I'll see you tomorrow, okay?

And I will think about
what you said.

[garage door creaking]

♪

- Well, don't stop on my account.
- [laughs]

What gave me away?

Uh, I've been meaning
to grease that old door

- for about five years.
- [laughs]

Love your retro skates.

Yeah, I got them from Ronald,
sort of.

They look a little small.

Yeah, they're a bit tight!

Maybe these
will be a bit better.

I just sharpened them.
Size 7, right?

Wow.

Thank you.
Good guess!

Yeah.

Look, if you are still trying
to pretend that you are not

Lori Marshall,
Greenhill skating legend,

then I would probably stay...
[clicks tongue]

off the ice!

Yeah, I don't know.

Ever since I've come back,
I just want to skate.

What took you so long?

I don't know.

But I'd rather skate about it
than talk about it.

Fair enough.

Well, you are welcome to process
your feelings on skating

on my rink any time, but I am
gonna lock the garage door.

This key gets you
in the side door.

- [keys rattling]
- Don't forget to lock up.

I won't.

Thank you.

Yeah.

LORI: Looks pretty tall
for a small town.

CHAD: It's certainly
going to have a view.

And there's, uh,
underground parking.

And why weren't you able to
incorporate a new Ice Palace

into this development?

TYLER: Uh, I can
answer that for you.

Lori, this is Tyler Douglas,

Chief Architect
and, uh, Greenhill local.

Please don't do that.
Uh...

Hello again.

I'm gonna want to
talk to you as well.

- Yeah, Jen said...
- And to answer your question,

Lori, this isn't some
single-use sport facility,

it's a community hub, servicing
a wide array of businesses,

activities, and lifestyles.

And what about Christmas?

Well, we can put up a tree
and throw some tinsel around.

Why not?

So no Christmas Ball
or skating tournament?

Well, people can skate
at the new arena.

On the outskirts of town,

which makes it harder
for people to access.

When Mr. Reynolds hired me
to design this development,

his analysis showed that,
uh, condo and retail units

would bring far more people
into the downtown area.

The numbers
on the revamped Ice Palace,

it just didn't compare.

This development
is gonna be great for business,

but it's also super healthy
for the community as a whole.

And again, there
will be a new arena!

I purchased land
specifically for it.

The focus of this development
is really bringing more life

to the downtown core.

You know, perhaps you and I
need to sit down over coffee

so I can really explain it
to you properly.

There's a lot of nuance
you've probably missed.

I'm good. Um...

I think... I think we got it.

CHAD: That's it?
The interview's over?

That's just half my vision.

I have what I need.

It was really nice
talking to you, Mr. Reynolds.

Chad. Call me Chad.

- Yeah...
- Please.

That went well!

♪

LORI: Okay, try it
without looking at your feet.

You just gotta trust in them.

Feel it.

♪

That was it!
That was perfect!

Okay, do it again so I can film
you so you can watch it after.

♪

Now will you show me
the double axel?

Okay, easy there, tiger.

Let's just focus
on the single first

and then we can talk about
some different challenges.

Hey.

This looks amazing.

I like the little Eiffel Towers.

Yeah, yeah,
the Paris On Ice theme

is a throwback to the very
first Christmas Ball, actually.

My great-great-grandmother

was inspired by this
little picture book

from the 1889 World's Fair.

Just like that.

Sounds like
it's gonna be a fun night.

Always is.

I think you left before you were
old enough for the ball, right?

Yeah, my sister
got to go, though.

She said it was a blast.
Well worth the wait.

Yeah, I mean, not only
is it the biggest

and best party of the year...

and believe me,
it's a real rager... he knows!

But it's also an opportunity
for the community

to come together
and for us to celebrate

everything we've been
able to achieve together.

And it's also
a fundraising effort

for next year's
skating tournament.

It's really
all about the children.

But the adults get
to have all the fun.

Well, you know,
life isn't always fair.

And kids need to learn that,
don't they?

Sounds nice.

I actually have to
get back to the city.

I'm spending Christmas
with my friends.

My family
is in Mexico this year.

Wait, so you chose
Chicago over Mexico?

I like a traditional Christmas.

With snow, not sand.

You look pretty invested
in that centrepiece...

You still sure about
the new development?

Are you sure
you're only here for work?

♪

MARK: Listen, can I get
your opinion on something?

Uh, yeah. Of course.

Okay, so Zoe really wants
new leg warmers

and I want to surprise her.

Which of these
do you think she'd like best,

those... or those?

Honestly?

- Neither.
- What?

- Really?
- Is that SpongeBob?

I think it's like
a SpongeBob knock-off.

Well, what is she wearing
to the tournament?

Well, last year's
dress still fits.

A girl with an axel
in her arsenal

should not be wearing
last year's dress.

Okay. You win!

- [laughs]
- But, I mean, where, oh where,

am I gonna find somebody
with an eye for skating styles

that's gonna help me out?

Okay, okay, don't twist my arm.

[phone rings]

Hello?

MAXINE: Your story.

It's missing something.

This Mark guy is interesting.

Can you dig more
into his back story?

What makes him tick?

Well, it's more about
the mission than the man,

though, right?

You go where the story leads.
Juicier, the better!

Juicy?

Right.

You're a journalist, Lori.

I need to know you've
got the nose for it.

Uh, yeah, yeah, absolutely.

Okay.

LORI: This looks great.

Hey. Yeah.

- Yeah, you think so?
- Yeah.

Thanks.

What have you got there?

I have a dress
and two leg warmers

so she can switch it up.

- Oh, what? Thank you!
- Of course.

Wow!

Very spiffy.

Would you like to, I don't know,
come to dinner with me?

And Zoe.
And, uh, the both of us.

I mean, you should really,
you know, give these to her,

uh, yourself, so...

Uh, yeah, that sounds lovely.

It's just... I should really
focus on my story tonight.

I have to get this one right.

Yeah. Totally.

- I mean, that's why you're here.
- Mm-hm.

I will, uh, give these to her
myself and let her know

that they're from you.

Can I at least
walk you back to the inn,

your office away
from the office?

Sure.

We can talk about
how horrifying your taste

in leg warmers is.

Or, I don't know,
your complete disdain

for quality chicken wings.

[Lori laughs]

MARK: You know,
I've been watching you with Zoe.

You're a natural coach.

She's a natural.

That girl's got
some real potential.

It's been nice having
the ice to myself.

There's just something about

skating in front of
people still.

But isn't that the best part?

I mean, feeling the excitement
of everyone cheering you on.

Most of the time it's great,
but I got sucked in.

As much as I fed off
of the crowd's excitement,

I felt obligated to feed it.

I knew my routine.
I had everything set.

Everyone I knew came to the rink
expecting something incredible,

and that's when
I added the jump.

I wasn't even ready for it.

And then I ruined everything.

I was supposed to medal
in those games and...

that fall meant
I didn't even get to go.

Yeah, it was heartbreaking.

We were still proud of you,
even after the fall.

You're still a legend here.

I do still feel pretty
connected to this place.

I guess I just gotta
enjoy the ride.

There you go.
Now you're talking.

You know, our figure skating
club could use a new coach.

The last one
got married and moved away.

Maybe you'd consider it.

Well, that's a sweet offer,
but...

skating's behind me.

I, um, I have a lot of
stories to chase

and a very serious editor
to impress.

Well, I'm already impressed.

The kids, they would love you.

I mean, could you imagine
a champion figure skater

coaching at the Ice Palace?

We'd paint your face
on the wall, 15 feet tall.

Okay, that's not happening!

But I'll think about it.

♪

So, I'll see you later?

Yeah. Yeah, you will.

Goodnight, Lori Marshall.

Goodnight.

♪

[fire crackling]

Tonight on Country Lovin',
city slicker Lori Marshall

may have found her flannel-clad
country bumpkin...

But is she really ready
to trade her Peloton

for a pickup truck, hm?

Okay, A, wearing flannel
doesn't make you a bumpkin.

And B... wait, what are
you still doing at the office?

Ugh, you've inspired me
to be a better journalist.

I'm polishing a story about the
new mailbox design proposals.

Are you there, Pulitzer?

It's me, Ken!

That's nice.

What's wrong?

I don't know. [sighs]

Maxine's really pushing
for the drama,

but there's so much genuine
joy and community here.

If I submit the story
that she wants,

then I'm going to be
hurting people.

Real people, and...

I don't know, I feel like
I'm losing objectivity.

I feel like I'm losing my mind.

Whoa, whoa, whoa, easy does it!

You moved to the big city
and built a life, and a career.

You're living the dream.

Don't sabotage yourself
now that you're tiptoeing

on the precipice of victory.

Put your head back in the game.

Finish the story,
get the promotion,

and come home!

Plus, I've already
made a vision board

for your new office. [laughs]

High back leather is so 2002.

You're right.

Yeah, I'm not gonna
blow this opportunity.

I've worked too hard for this.

Excellent.

And what's wrong
with high back leather?

Please, please, try to keep
your eye on the ball.

♪

Okay...

♪

[keyboard clicking]

♪

♪

LORI: [laughs]
Show me what you got!

♪

LORI: Go ahead.

♪

MARK: Woo!
Good job, honey!

Great job, honey!

♪

Did you see that?

- She really is gifted.
- Yeah.

Looks like you almost
made it this time, huh?

Well, it's weird.

Even though everyone's
been so nice, I just...

I can't do it.

Yes, you can, okay?
This whole town loves you.

What if I helped you?

- To skate?
- Yeah!

Come on, I do alright.

Right? I mean...

I could distract you with my
charming conversational skill.

Or, you know, better yet,

we could play
some Christmas music.

Maybe that Mariah Carey thing.

You wouldn't even notice
the other skaters.

I don't know.

For the kids?

LORI: I did ballet
and I loved it,

but dance classes ran
during the summer,

so my dad signed me up
for the winter skating program.

Ballet?

Zoe's actually been
bugging me about lessons.

Did it...
help with your skating?

Like with the jumping?

Yeah. I mean, I was six,

so it's mostly
just about twirling,

tutus, and wedgies.

Still, your jump game
was legendary.

Especially that last one.

♪

MARK: Maybe you did
push a little too far,

but you were just trying to
challenge yourself to be better.

That's what made you
an inspiration.

There's magic about this place.

Champions grow here,
and I want every...

- Whoops!
- [both laugh]

MARK: They're rusty champions,

but they're
champions nonetheless.

Clearly my best days
are behind me.

That's not true.

You're finding it again.

You still have plenty to give.

Oh...!

[Lori laughs]

- There's a bump, guys!
- I don't see it.

No, that's a well-known bump.

A bump there.

Watch this.

♪

Um...

I need one more
big favour from you.

It's Christmas cookies.

Going for that
deconstructing fad?

Uh, well, I got a recipe online.

And...?

And I recognize most
of the words but, um...

You assumed that I could help.

- It's not like that, alright?
- Mm-hm?

It's a Christmas tradition,

and aren't you the master
of Christmas traditions?

Well, I haven't
gone pro or anything,

but aren't you the pretzel
maestro or something?

That is totally different, okay?

That recipe is bulletproof,

and most people are just
in it for the salt, anyway.

I haven't tried
actual baking since I set fire

to our attic trying to make
a cake for Zoe's 10th birthday.

Oh, no!

Just take pity on me!
I mean, it's Christmas,

and I'm admitting
a real weakness here.

And... I even got the hats!

♪

Do you have a whisk?

Yeah, yeah.

Uh... Hmm.

That's right, uh...

it's right... hmm, yep!

That, uh,
that would have been my...

- sixth guess probably.
- Okay. Yeah?

Actually, seventh.
What is this thing?

Just whisk up the eggs.

Yes, chef.

My 10th birthday cake
was a disaster, too.

Oh, yeah?
What happened?

My sister dropped it.

Oh, no.

It was right over there
on the ice, actually.

Right, yeah.

I mean, I pretty much
had to rebuild our roof,

but that counts.

[loud whisking]

Whoa, whoa, whoa,
you're merenguing those eggs!

What?

You just gotta
slow it down a little bit.

Like this.

♪

That's better.

♪

Okay!
Yeah, that's great.

You can add in
the dry ingredients now.

Good job.

Yeah.

Looking good out there.

- Thanks.
- So, what's up?

I have something for you.

JEN: What am I supposed
to do with these?

Grab the bull by the horns.

Tyler? Oh, no, no.

You could spend the rest
of your life dropping hints.

It's time for
the nuclear option.

Don't take no for an answer.

Okay, is that it?

Because it's
karaoke night at Gary's.

Go put Tyler to shame.

That is not humanly possible.

Okay, moment of truth.

This is the batch
that I made myself.

- Ready?
- Okay, one...

two...

three...

Okay.
What? No!

Gimme that.

No. Gimme.

Oh. Salt!

No, see,
I measured the salt twice.

It's the exact
right amount of salt.

And sugar?

- Sugar...
- Mm-hm?

Why do salt and sugar
both come in white bags?

That is a very clear
design flaw.

Right...

Yeah, well,
I have enough good ones.

Anyways, it's time to clear out.

I gotta flood before
the over-70 league turns up.

- Hmm, rowdy bunch?
- Oh, you wouldn't believe.

Mr. Cafferty,
he straps a stick to his walker.

It's adorable.

Okay, I'll spread the word.

Oh, wait, wait, wait.
Um...

I'll be done in 20 minutes.

And Zoe's wrapping presents
with Grandma and Grandpa,

so, I don't know,
maybe do you want to

try that dinner again,
just me this time?

Oh!

I mean, only if you, uh...

I would love to.

Great.

[horn blows]

What...

- [horn blows]
- is that?

It's Mr. Cafferty.

He needs help up the steps
with his walker.

Uh, I'm... I'm gonna go change!

- Okay, and I'll...
- [horn blows]

- We'll pick you up...
- [horn blows]

- Okay.
- [laughs]

[phone rings]

Hi!

MAXINE: You're still in bed?

- It's almost 10.
- Uh, no.

No, no, no,
I just went for a run.

Seizing the day!

Your story's getting traction.

The suits upstairs
are eager to talk to you.

Really?

First week of January.
Very promising.

Wow. That soon?

They want to move up
the new division launch,

providing they can
get their team in place.

It just doesn't give me
that much time to think.

Think about what?

Well, there's this... this
skating tournament thing.

I just feel like I found more
than I was looking for here.

So, wait, the...
the story is live?

It's online?

Went with the 6 am push.

Okay. Uh, so that means...

Right, I gotta go.
I gotta go.

Mark...

I've come to shake hands.

You fought valiantly,
but all's fair, right?

Yeah, aren't you jumping
the g*n a bit there, Chad?

I still have, uh...
oh, 36 hours.

Plenty of time
for a Christmas miracle.

Hmph!

But you... you can't be serious.

It's over, Mark.

The obituary's been published.

Okay, you know what, Chad?

I woke up in such a good mood
today that even your nonsense

isn't gonna get under my skin,

so why don't you just go have
a good day... somewhere else?

You actually
haven't seen it yet.

Seen what?

Lori Marshall's story
about my development.

It's published?
She didn't...

She didn't mention that.

You know what?

Let me show you
a few highlights.

Come on.

LORI: [video] The majority
of people in town are welcoming

the economic growth
the development will bring.

New shopping and dining options,
condo units,

and much-needed accessible
parking will finally usher

Greenhill into the modern age.

There is certainly a vocal
minority that is insisting

that the heritage building
should be maintained,

but the mayor and her council
are convinced that the town

will be better served
by the new development.

Yeah.

That's gotta sting, huh?

Ouch.

But it's best you hear it
from me, isn't it?

And I was actually thinking,
I'm gonna need someone local

to, uh, liaise
with the townsfolk,

just to make sure
everything goes smoothly.

Maybe you'd be interested.

No?

Okay. I'll, uh...
I'll leave you to it, then.

No hard feelings, big guy.

Also, um, that tree
is crooked...

or maybe it's the floor.

[chuckles]

I love winning!

Ha-ha!

KEN: [on phone] There she is.
Toast of the town!

Are you on your way
to the train station?

- No.
- Uh-oh, what's wrong?

I think I ruined everything.

What's wrong?
What happened?

I didn't get the chance
to warn him about the angle.

It reads pretty objectively.

It is, but it still hurts.

He's worked so hard
trying to save the Ice Palace,

and I was just
so blinded by ambition.

I just wanted the job so badly!
And...

I don't know, he doesn't
even want to see me probably.

I've been working with
Mark's daughter on her skating,

and we had this truly
amazing dinner last night and...

You went on a date?

Marky Mark has a kid?

Wait... you're skating again?

- Yes.
- I'm so proud of you!

The story's fine.

Just explain what happened,
and if it's meant to be,

he'll understand.

And if not?

Then you'll come home
to your friends.

And your promotion.

And we'll find you
an even better guy.

You deserve to be happy, Lori,

but you have to decide
what you want.

I want to skate.

I want to help kids like Zoe.

I want a job that
makes me feel something.

I want to save the Ice Palace.

And Marky Mark?

Yeah!

Well, there you are, then.

Go get it.

I might have to stay
a little longer.

You might have to stay forever.

That's fine. We'll visit.

[knock at door]

[door creaks open]

MARK: Thought you'd be
on your way home by now.

Turns out you really
do belong in Chicago.

I wanted to explain myself.

Just...

It's not necessary.

LORI: [video] The owner of the
Ice Palace is a man out of time,

struggling against
the inevitability of change.

His efforts, though valiant,
are futile.

MARK: "Valiant but futile."

I thought you understood
what I'm trying to save here.

I think that...

people are so afraid of...

of change and failure

that they put these walls up

to feel safer.

But really, it's just we're
missing out on opportunities

to learn and grow and be better.

Look, everyone I talked to
said the same thing,

that they'll miss
the Ice Palace but...

but it's time to let it go.

To keep up
with traditions and...

and keep moving
forward with innovation.

It doesn't have to be
one or the other.

Tell that to Chad's
wrecking crew.

I mean, is this what
you wanted all along?

Just some story
about a crazy man

trying to deprive his community?

No! That's not what...

Is this why you
were helping Zoe?

Just to get closer to the story?

I love Zoe.

And I love the Ice Palace.
But...

it was important

that I delivered
on this assignment.

I am planning a ball
and a tournament tomorrow,

and those are the things
that I think are important.

Maybe this is
for the best, okay?

You're Chicago, I'm Greenhill,

and I'm busy.

Okay.

♪

Lori! You stayed!

Dad said you
went back to Chicago.

And miss your big moment?

No way.

How are you feeling?

Great,
thanks to all your lessons.

Uh, you taught me
some really big lessons, too.

You reminded me
what skating was all about.

- Winning?
- No!

Just kidding.

Do you think I should go
for the double on my first jump?

I think I've got it now.

Well, that's a decision
you need to make yourself,

but you have a lot more
skating ahead of you.

Maybe it's best to
push your limits, you know,

not all at once.

I think I could probably do it,

but maybe I'll stick with
the single for now.

You know, I wish I was as
smart as you when I was a kid.

You're gonna be a champion.

If you stay in Greenhill,
you could be a champion's coach!

That's almost as good.

Morning, Lori.

How are you today?

Fine, thanks.

It's a really good turnout.

Yeah. Yeah, of course.

Everybody loves the Palace.

And the tournament.

ANNOUNCER: Tournament skaters,
please check in with the judges.

Skaters to the judge box, please.

Okay, you got this.

The ice is all yours.

You're not competing
against anybody but yourself.

Make it count,
stay focused, and have fun.

That's the most important part.

See you after?

Yes, I'll be here.

Aww.

- Okay, you ready?
- Yeah.

You show those judges what
the Johnsons are made of, okay?

Okay.

You're gonna do great.

I wanted to return these.

Thank you
for loaning them to me.

Look, why don't you
keep them, okay?

Maybe you'll find
somewhere to skate in Chicago.

I'll just have them sharpened
and you can pick them up after.

Thanks.

I should probably find a seat.

All the die-hards
got here over an hour ago.

♪

[ambient chatter]

[applause and cheering]

[Vivaldi's
"The Four Seasons" playing]

♪

[applause]

♪

[crowd gasps]

♪

[applause]

♪

[applause and cheering]

♪

Hmm...

♪

Okay, pack it up.

We're leaving.

What are you talking about?

Gary's isn't even open
for hours.

I got tons of work to do.

Not today, you don't.

Tonight's the ball.

And I, uh, got a hair
appointment I gotta get to,

and you gotta go home
and get ready.

The ball?

What are you talking about?
I'm not going to the ball.

Yes, you are.

With me.

I'm taking you.

You are my date.

Ha-ha!

♪

This is where you say,
"Thanks, Jen!

"What a wonderful idea!"

♪

Thanks, Jen.

What a wonderful idea.

Ha! Great.

- Yeah.
- Perfect.

Okay, alright.
Okay, okay.

So, I'm... this...
I'm gonna file this and then...

Easy!

And then, um, you just
do what you gotta do,

and then we'll go!

Yeah, yeah, I just
need a minute.

I just need a...
I just need one minute!

Yes.

Ooh!

♪

Oh, this is weird.

Come look.

Look.

Yeah, this is just the...

You know,
the first set of plans,

the original design,
for the revamped Ice Palace.

And this is the deed
for the land that Chad bought

out on the highway
for the new arena.

Huh.

TYLER: Hang on a second.

Something looks fishy.

Can you grab me
the other blueprint?

Okay, but make it quick.

CHAD: You trying to make
an escape without me?

Just kidding.

Congratulations on your story.

I thought it was superb.

Uh, thanks.
Some mixed reviews.

Eh, I knew you'd
see things the right way.

If by "right way"
you mean both sides, then sure.

I'm glad our interests
have finally aligned.

So, uh, what time
should I pick you up?

Pick me up?

For the ball.

You know, us city folk
should stick together.

Uh, no, sorry, I'm not going.

But thanks for asking.

Really?
Are you... are you sure?

Oh, you have other plans.

No, it's just not why I'm here.

ANNOUNCER: Our next skater
is from right here

in Greenhill, Michigan.

Ladies and gentlemen,
please welcome Zoe Johnson!

Excuse me.

I need to see this one.

Aren't you judging?

[muttering] After the first
dozen, they're all the same...

[applause and cheering]

MARK: Let's go, sweetie!

[upbeat pop song playing]

MARK: You got this!

♪

[applause]

♪ I've been knocked down
over and over again ♪

[applause]

♪ And I could just pretend ♪

♪ And life is favouring[?],
the world is on my side ♪

♪ If I believe it
hard enough and try ♪

♪ I'm on top of the world ♪

♪ And nothing can stop me,
nothing can stop me ♪

♪ I'm on top of the world ♪

♪ And nothing can,
nothing can stop me ♪

♪ Oh, no,
no not any day ♪

♪ No, not at the time ♪

♪ Come on and try
to bring me down ♪

♪ Please get in line ♪

[applause and cheering]

Yeah!

[applause and cheering
continues]

♪

- Yes!
- [Zoe giggles]

I'm so proud of you!
Yes!

- Hey!
- Hey!

I made it on the podium, look!

I know!
I'm so proud of you.

Congratulations.

I think it really comes down
to the coaching.

[Lori laughs]

♪

Hey.

Look, um...

I'm sorry for
how I reacted, okay?

It wasn't fair.

I just...

I mean, I was kind of shocked.
I had no idea you felt that way.

I know. I'm so sorry.

I should have warned you
before it went live.

I honestly wasn't sure
until I got the story together.

I mean, you made
some good points.

But I am gonna keep fighting
for this community

and our traditions.

But on the other hand,
I am going to work on being

open to new things as well.

Yeah, me too.

- You should go celebrate.
- Yeah.

♪

- How did the tournament go?
- Great.

Went off without a hitch.

Zoe got a medal.

Fantastic.

- So...?
- So...?

Are you gonna stay for the ball?

No, I, uh... I think
it's time for me to go home.

I booked the 2:30 train.

But I truly had
a wonderful stay.

Well, hopefully
we'll see you again real soon.

- [clock chimes]
- Oh, you better get moving!

I know. It's a little
late for me to walk.

Do you mind calling me a taxi?

- Sure thing!
- [phone rings]

Greenhill Guest House,
Ronald speaking.

Oh, okay. Thank you.

Hi!

What are you still doing here?

Shouldn't you be
getting ready for the ball?

Well, actually,
I think I'm just gonna

- stay in with Zoe tonight.
- Just as well.

You always did
have two left feet.

If you must know,
I just can't stand the thought

that it might be the last one.

Well, if it really is
the last ball at the Ice Palace,

why not enjoy it?

If that story
was just work for Lori,

she wouldn't have
still been here this morning.

Oh, please.
She just showed up for Zoe.

Maybe.

But if you don't catch her now,
you'll never know for sure...

Zoe?

How would you feel
about staying over

at Grandma
and Grandpa's tonight?

Does this mean
you're going to the ball?

- With Lori?!
- [sighs]

I don't know.

I mean, how would I even...

Like, it's been so long.

MAYOR: Yes,
it's been such a long time.

Maybe you could think about it
while you're running.

- What?
- She's already packing.

I'll look after Zoe, you go.

- What, like right now?
- Yes!

[sighs] Okay...

Uh, but...

BOTH: Run!

[knock on door]

JEN: We need to talk.

Aren't you going to the ball?

No, I'm going to Chicago.

Okay, we'll talk
about that after.

- This is important.
- You need to see this.

Look. Chad's original plan
for the development.

This design incorporates
a renovated Ice Palace

and more community space.

It's what Mark always wanted!

There's no shopping,
there's no parking, no condos.

So why didn't
the town go for it?

Well, Chad inflated the costs
and made the renovation

look too expensive.

And then he pitched
the alternative:

the more lucrative
condo development

along with the arena
out by the highway.

On land that Reynolds &
Reynolds already purchased!

Except he didn't!

He didn't what?

- So this means...
- Exactly!

- So he can't...
- He never intended to.

But when the clock strikes 12...

BOTH: Yes!

We need to talk
to the Mayor and to Mark.

To the Batmobile!

Sorry.

Seemed appropriate.

- Okay, let's go, let's go!
- Just go, just go!

LORI: Woop!

Ronald!

I need to... [panting]
talk to Lori!

Oh, you missed her.

Really?

[sighs]

Let her... Oof!

Okay, um...

[squeals]

We're looking for Mark!
Have you seen him?

Isn't he with you?

He just went to chase you down.

- Really? Why?
- Focus, focus!

Okay, uh, there's a huge problem

with the development proposal

and we need to do something
about it before midnight.

TYLER: And if
the deadline passes,

then the Reynolds & Reynolds bid

is gonna be automatically
certified.

But it's the only
qualifying bid we have.

- But it's a fraud!
- And there might be

something we can do
to save the Ice Palace.

Okay, okay.

If there's really
something that we can do,

then you have my attention.

Let's just all...

calm... down.
Good.

First things first.

Jen, you need to keep
your hair appointment.

Take my car.

Zoe's in it
and she's got the keys.

Now, this town
has waited long enough

for you two to get it together.

You will not be making
your long-awaited debut

looking like...

ragamuffins.

- How did you...
- I know everything.

Just go.

Drop Zoe at the Johnsons'.

Marjorie is expecting her.

Scoot!

Now, just give me
a minute to call Ron.

Ron?

As in Guest House Ron?

As in "my house" Ron.

He's my husband!

I hope you have a suit,
young man, a nice one.

And iron your shirt.

It really only takes
a couple of minutes

and it makes
a world of difference.

Oh...

what about you?

What about me?

Diane's home from college.
She's my daughter.

She'll find you
something to wear!

- Oh, no, I'm not going...
- Shh!

Hi, it's me.

RONALD: Well, I'm glad
that you changed your mind

about going to the ball.

It would be such a shame
for you to miss it.

Well, I was gonna go.

When I thought I had a date.

You don't need a date
to show up for your community,

to thank them for all the help
and the support

that they've given you and Zoe

and the Ice Palace
all these years.

You're right.

Of course you're right.

Will I see you there?

Oh, absolutely.

It's Christmas Eve!

Ha!

Well, that's taken care of.

Now, Tyler,
we'll go in your car,

and you can take us to my house,
and you can explain on the way.

To the Batmobile!

Oh, wait!

I have an idea.

Do you have Chad's number?

- Why?
- Why?

Well, I'm going to the ball...

I'm gonna need a date!

[Christmas music playing
at ball]

♪ Christmas is my
favourite time of year ♪

♪ I'm keepin'
outta trouble... ♪

Oh!

Look at this!

♪ Santa is my
favourite kind of guy ♪

♪ [Inaudible] and I'm
gonna tell her why ♪

♪ He brings all the presents
to all the girls and boys ♪

♪ When he comes to town,
he brings nothing but joy ♪

♪ Christmas is my
favourite time of year ♪

CHAD: There you are.

I'm so glad
you changed your mind.

I wouldn't say that...

Do you wanna mingle?

I invited some potential
investors for my next project.

I'm getting into casinos.

You and I are gonna do
good things for each other

back in Chicago.

Have you seen Mark?

No.

I thought you wanted
to meet me here?

I did. I have, um...

Let's go find Mark.

♪

[Big Band music playing]

♪

♪ We wish you
a merry Christmas ♪

♪ We wish you
a merry Christmas... ♪

What are you doing here?!

Bonsoir, mon ami magnifique!

Bienvenue à g*y Par-is!

But, but how?

Oh, I thought you needed
some in-person support.

And we got
a little cabin in the woods!

Very L.L. Bean...

Oh, we also got all the
Christmas fixings for tomorrow.

Hmm? Maxine's here, too.

- Really?
- Eh, no.

But she did mention you weren't
so hot on the big job, hmm?

I'm thinking about
going freelance.

You know, pick my own stories,
work from wherever I want.

I have so much to tell you,
but later.

I have to find someone
right now.

Uh, is this, uh, Mark?

Where?

- I'm Chad Reynolds.
- Oh, you're...

No.
Obviously not.

KEN: [in a whisper]
What?

[chuckles uncomfortably]

Here, take this.

This champagne's terrible.

Hmph!

♪ We won't go
until we get some ♪

♪ So bring it out here ♪

I've been looking
everywhere for you.

- Wow, you look...
- [laughs]

You're...

You look amazing.

You look pretty good yourself.

[both chuckle nervously]

[Chad clears throat]

MARK: What's he doing here?

MAYOR: Chad!

[chuckles]
So glad you could make it!

MARK: Uh...?

You need to see this.

Okay...

This is Mr. Reynolds' original
plan for the redevelopment

of the Ice Palace.

And this design includes
a brand-new Ice Palace

right here where
the current one stands.

That's not mine; I've never
seen this before in my life!

This is none of your business.

Hang on, this is the one that I
supported right from the start.

LORI: Mr. Reynolds realized
he could make a lot more money

if he got rid
of the rink completely.

JEN: He promised town council
that he'd build

a brand-new arena
on the outskirts of town

on land he bought
for that purpose.

And lease it back to us
at a reasonable rate.

TYLER: Then he hired me
to do the new design,

with the shopping
and the condo complex.

This right here
is a deed of ownership

indicating that
Reynolds & Reynolds

owns a huge parcel of land
out by the highway.

But it's fake.

Counterfeit.

MAYOR: But by the time
we would have realized that,

he would have
destroyed the Ice Palace

and started
his new construction.

You lied to me, Mr. Reynolds,

and you tried to pull
a fast one on our community.

Your permissions are revoked
and your proposal is cancelled.

TYLER: And I've already reported
you and your company

to the state authorities.

MAYOR: You wasted
our time and our money,

and you can expect
a huge legal action.

CHAD: This is all your fault,

you and your
stupid little story!

MAYOR: Oh!

You can't do this.

I'll sue.
My lawyers will bury you alive.

Ha, I don't think so!

We've just signed a retainer
with Michigan's finest

retired solicitor-general.

Pro bono!

[laughter]

CHAD: Outta my way.

Oh, I am so sorry
about this, Mark.

Unfortunately, the lease
still expires at midnight.

Without secured funding,
I don't think there's anything

we can do to stop the building
from being condemned.

But we've still got tonight, right?

Yeah, of course we do.

You still have all year
to come up with a new plan

for next Christmas.

Well, actually,
I've got some news, too.

I just got an email
from the investors in Chicago.

They want to finance and
franchise my SkateFit program.

So we can renew your lease!

MARK: So why don't we celebrate
the best Christmas

- that Greenhill's ever had, huh?
- Yes!

- [people cheering]
- TYLER: That's amazing!

- Nice.
- Woo-hoo!

[excited chatter]

[triumphant music]

[excited chatter]

Oh...

Ooh...
Oh!

Hmm...!

♪

♪ There's so many [inaudible]
'cause love is everywhere ♪

♪ You can hear
those carol sounds ♪

♪ Outside your front door ♪

♪ That's when you know
it's almost Christmas ♪

♪ Chestnuts roast
and shiny[?] toast ♪

♪ And frosty in the snow ♪

♪ Children wish
and lovers kiss... ♪

So, does it live up to the hype?

This has been
the best Christmas Ball

I've ever been to.

Hmm.

Isn't it the first?

Well, hopefully
the first of many.

♪ It's almost Christmas ♪

♪

[rock version of "We Wish You
a Merry Christmas" playing]

♪

LORI: Woo!

♪

[people cheering]

♪

Yes! Yes!

Whoa!

I got you!

♪

I got you, too.

♪