A Country Romance (2021)

[bunniefuu]

- Morning, Sara.

- Good morning.

How did the date go?

- That bad?

- I didn't go.

What? Again?

I'll just--I don't have

anything in common

with the guys in this city.

Okay, I think

what you don't really

"have in common with"

is the city.

Maybe.

Hey, I tried that apple bread

recipe you gave me.

It's dangerous, right?

Oh, it took everything I had

not to eat it all

in one sitting.

My husband keeps asking

for more, so...

Story of my life,

but don't give that recipe

to anybody else, though.

It's a family secret.

Oh, no.

I posted it to my blog

last night.

I'm kidding.

I would never.

- Grab lunch later?

- You bet.

I can't wait to see

what genius you come up with

for the pitch.

I wish I could

write copy like you.

Stop it, Dary.

You are brilliant, my friend.

- Bye.

- Bye.

Good morning, Mr. Lever.

Morning.

Did you have a good weekend?

We did.

Took the family out

to the beach.

Kids loved it.

You?

It was a quiet one,

just me and a good book.

Did you make any progress

on the Brooke's Beauty pitch

as well?

Maybe while baking?

You know, that apple

turnover you made

while figuring out

the shoe campaign last year

helped us all, I think.

I've just about mastered

this apple torte

I loved when I was a kid.

I'll bring it in as soon

as I've cracked the code...

on the torte and the pitch.

Looking forward to it.

And as you know,

landing Brooke's Beauty

would be huge for the firm,

and I'll need to onboard

the team with your concept

before the pitch

so we're all on the same page.

The mockup

is just about ready, boss.

Hmm.

You know, I took a huge risk

having you create

the ad campaign,

but I know you won't make me

regret the decision.

See you around.

- Hey, Dad.

- Hey, Sar-Bear.

How's the vacation?

What are you guys up to tonight?

Oh, just a dolphin cruise

at sunset.

Hey, listen,

I hate to call you like this,

but after six months

of no buyers for the farm,

I just got an email

from a local developer,

wants to make an offer.

Well, that's great, right?

Yeah, well, he--

he wants our answer

by the end of this week,

and Caleb checked

with the airlines,

and we can't get a flight back

until probably

Saturday night at the earliest.

Is there any way

you can go meet him for me?

Oh, Dad, I've got work.

There's a big pitch

I'm trying to get ready for.

Do you think I'm really

the right person?

I haven't been back there

in so long.

Oh, please, hon.

If there was any other way,

I wouldn't ask this of you.

It has to be family.

It'll just be a quick trip.

Well, I don't have

any meetings till next week.

Let me see what I can do.

Thanks, Sara.

Hey, are the grapes ready

to be harvested?

Uh, not yet.

We had a late frost,

which briefly caused

the compound buds

to stay dormant

longer than usual,

so the tertiary buds are gonna--

Dad, you know

I don't speak "farm."

Yeah, well, the grapes

won't be ready for a bit,

but Mom's apple tree

is almost ripe.

Oh, okay, great.

Let me check in with my boss,

and I'll get back to you.

- Love you.

- Love you too.

Come in.

Is everything okay?

Yeah. Uh, well, sort of.

My dad has been trying

to sell our family farm

for a while now,

and of course the one week

that he and my brother

are out of town,

they got an offer,

so I just need to take

a couple of days

and go and meet with

the buyer, if that's okay.

It won't take long.

I promise.

Well, the pitch

isn't for another week,

so if you can make it

super quick,

we can manage everything

around here for a few days.

Thank you so much.

You're not gonna go down

there and fall in love

with some farmhand and not

come back to us, are you?

Not likely.

Thanks again.

Be safe.

It's so beautiful

this time of year.

I was usually at school

during the fall.

We're close.

See that water tower up there?

Yes, ma'am.

You don't have to call me

"ma'am."

- Sorry, ma'am.

- Oh.

It's okay.

I forgot what it's like

to be in the country.

Not much tradition

where you are now, huh?

I'm sure there is.

Not much for this transplant,

nothing like

when I was growing up.

I never got to harvest

the grapes

on our family vineyard.

- That's a shame.

- Yeah.

But I did get to spend

a good deal of time

with my family

during the summers.

Thanks again.

I miss this house

and those family memories.

Excuse me, ma'am,

I think you dropped this.

- Oh, I did.

- Thank you.

Frank asked me to come

and check on the mail

while he's gone.

You must be Sara.

- Guilty as charged.

- Gabe Nellis.

- Sara Kress.

- Pleased to meet you.

And I think we might

be the same age,

so you don't have

to call me "ma'am."

Well, can my attempt

at politeness

be noted for the record, ma'am?

Gabe Nellis.

I think I've heard my dad

talk about you.

He's a great guy.

We're sorry to see him retire.

Likewise.

So you've known

my dad for a while?

Your brother too.

I just moved back up

from Shady Grove.

I live with my brother

and his family

across the street.

We help your dad with his crop.

He helps us with ours.

Shady Grove?

They've got peach orchards

down that way, right?

Used to.

Now the only thing

that grows there

is mold and resentment.

So I see you've got

your sale papers.

Your dad wanted me

to come and check,

make sure they got here,

and they did.

That sounds like Dad.

I'll call the developer,

let him know you're here.

I'm sure he's gonna wanna

swing by later.

Okay.

Well, I'll leave you to it.

Thank you, Gabe.

Take care.

Oh, wow, Dad.

The renovations look great.

Mom's recipe book.

Now, where's that apple torte?

Cognac.

Of course.

I can't believe I forgot

our secret ingredient.

Excuse me.

Hi.

Can I help you?

Oh, hi, I'm Mabel,

Ben's daughter.

I don't know a Ben.

- Oh, well, that's my dad.

- You'll meet him.

I was just checking the grapes,

and I thought

I'd do some daydreaming.

I do my best thinking

by this tree.

I didn't realize

anyone was here.

I just got here.

This is my dad's farm.

My mom and I planted this tree.

Oh, it's beautiful.

What were you saying

about checking the grapes?

Well, a lot of vines around here

were ruined by the late frost.

You know how it goes.

Actually, no.

My dad talks about it,

but I know

very little about farming.

You'll learn quick, I reckon.

Here, I'll show you.

- So?

- So what?

- How are they?

- Oh, perfect.

Looks like the freeze

didn't get you.

Wanna take a look?

Uh, sure.

Why do you keep the seeds?

For my anti-aging face cream.

- Mabel!

- Oh.

Oh, sh**t, that's my uncle Gabe.

Don't tell him I was on

the swing without supervision.

He's a worrier.

Back here!

You can't just go running

off on your chores like that.

I can't--

Sara.

I see you've met my niece.

Frank's are fine.

Made it through the frost.

You're lucky.

Half our crop got wiped out.

Oh, I'm so sorry to hear that.

Me, too,

but looks like you'll have

a great harvest.

Yeah, I guess it does.

Tastes like it too.

When are you planning

to harvest?

When am I planning to what now?

You are here for the harvest,

aren't you?

Oh, no.

I'm here for the offer

on the farm.

I don't know the first thing

about grape... ing,

but my dad says

they're not ready.

Well, I hate to break it to you,

but those grapes

are for sure ready.

Well, we're across the road

if you need anything.

Mabel still has some homework

and chores to do,

don't you, Mabel?

I do.

Talk about sour grapes.

You'll have to excuse Mabel.

She loves grape jokes.

Come on.

Bye.

See you around.

- Hey, Dad.

- How's my girl?

Everything going okay?

Well, not exactly.

What do you mean?

Apparently the grapes are ready.

They can't be.

They are, though.

I guess it's rained a lot

since you've been gone.

I can't believe this.

Well, what should we do?

I'll think of something,

and I'll let you know

as soon as I've

cooked up a plan.

- Are you sure, Sara?

- Because I--

Dad, this is your

retirement vacation,

and you haven't taken time off

in, what, decades?

Let me handle this.

All right, all right,

I'll try.

Thanks, Sara.

Love you.

Love you.

Okay.

"How to do graping?"

No.

"How to pick a lot of grapes."

- Hi.

- Are you Sara Kress?

Yes, hi.

Ethan Smith.

I'm the developer who's trying

to snag this beautiful farm

from you.

- Right.

- Nice to meet you.

Have you started

looking over the paperwork?

I just started

looking over it now.

I'm sure it's all fine.

So you're looking to get

into the wine business?

Uh, no,

haven't the slightest clue

about farming.

No, my partners and I

are going to put in a hotel.

It's a perfect plot of land.

- A hotel?

- Won't it be great?

Wow.

Um, give me a--a bit

to look over everything,

and I'll get back to you soon.

Sure thing.

- Here you go.

- Thank you.

- You're welcome.

- Have a nice day.

I met Frank's daughter,

Sara, today.

She's really nice.

Well, she is Frank's

daughter, so that makes sense.

He didn't mention

she was beautiful, though.

Really?

You know, moving back here

and being a part

of the family vineyard

has made me happier

than I've been in a long time,

and seeing what you have

with Paula and Mabel,

I think I'm ready

to find someone

to share all this with too.

You'll find someone soon,

and whoever she is,

she'll be very lucky.

You're one of the good ones,

little brother.

Thanks.

- Morning.

- Hi, good morning.

- Did you have breakfast yet?

- No, I haven't.

- Well, come on in.

- I'll feed you.

Something else I forgot

about country life.

Everyone feeds you.

- We don't know any other way.

- Come on.

Are you sure you only want

to drink tea?

I'm really sorry to hear

about your vines.

How is it that ours are okay

and yours aren't?

It just happens sometimes.

I've never seen it this bad,

but we'll figure it out.

We always do.

We just have to get creative.

I'm glad that your dad's

are okay though.

About that...

Oh, hi.

You must be Sara.

- I am.

- Ben, I presume?

- Yeah.

- Nice to meet you.

- Hi.

- Hi.

- So you were saying?

- What?

Before they walked in,

you said, "About that."

I'm guessing it had to do

with your vines.

Right, um, so I've been

living in the city

for the past 15 years,

and before that,

I was at boarding school,

and then college,

so I'm embarrassed to say

I haven't been around

for a harvest

since I was maybe

a little older than Mabel.

I actually looked up

harvesting grapes,

and it turns out it's a lot

more work than I remember.

Basically, what I'm saying

is I have no idea

how to begin working

on my own family's farm.

I'll help.

Mabel, that's very sweet of--

We don't have

much of a yield this year,

so if you give us

half of yours, I'll help.

Mabel, you can't

just assume that--

Sorry, she gets excited,

and then she wants--

- Deal.

- See, Mabel?

You can't just

make offers like that

because...

Wait, what'd you say?

I said, "Deal."

- See?

- We'll all help you.

We have lots of equipment.

I mean, Frank

has good equipment, too,

just so you know, but I can't

let you do this, Sara.

I mean, that's a huge offer.

Listen, I don't know

how to do this.

You guys clearly do,

not to mention you lost

half your crop this year,

which I assume

is your livelihood.

Farming is your life.

I design ads for a living,

and we're trying to sell

the place anyway,

so if you guys will help me,

half of whatever we harvest

is yours.

Really?

Are you sure?

Positive.

I mean, I'll have to check

with my dad,

but I'm sure he'll agree.

And here I thought your dad

was the nicest person

in the world.

There are, like, miles of vines.

You guys know that, right?

Yeah, we know that.

I guess we're just gonna

have to eat a hearty breakfast,

because we've got

a lot of work to do.

Don't try to make me feel bad.

Wait, Uncle Gabe,

you don't know what Sara

likes to eat for breakfast.

What if she's vegan?

What?

Well, that's the last one.

I'll finish up, and then

what do you ladies say?

We can get this show

on the road, huh?

- I'm ready when you guys are.

- Let's do this.

What?

You're gonna wear that

to harvest grapes?

It can get pretty messy.

What's wrong

with what I have on?

Nothing if we were going

to a board meeting.

Everything

if we're working the field.

Well, I didn't pack any

"working the field" clothes.

I just thought I would

be signing some papers.

My dad's truck is at the house,

and I assume Joe's General's

still downtown?

- You bet it is.

- Great.

I'll just go pick some stuff up,

and I'll be back in no time.

- Perfect.

- Uncle Gabe and I will chaperone

to make sure you don't--

you know.

Okay, let's go.

- Come on.

- Upsy-daisy.

So I was thinking.

Can I call dibs

on the clothes you're gonna get

for when I grow into them?

Sounds like a plan.

- Thanks.

- I'll meet you guys inside.

I'm gonna go pick out

some stuff.

She's such a great girl.

She's a keeper.

You're great with kids,

by the way.

I love kids.

So what's Mabel's story?

Shouldn't she be in school

right now?

They're on a break right now,

and she loves helping out

on the farm,

which is pretty great because

her mom's away on business,

and we need all the help

we can get.

Well, that works out.

So why haven't I seen you

around here before?

I left just after my mom

passed away.

Being here without her

was just too hard, you know?

Yeah, I can imagine.

You know the apple tree

in our yard?

- Mm-hmm.

- That was our favorite spot.

So we must have bought

our farm right after you left.

Yeah, I guess so.

And you just moved back

to help run the farm?

- Yeah.

- It was the least I could do.

I mean, it is my family's

farm, after all.

I guess I always

kind of felt guilty

about being the one

who moved away, you know?

Me too.

I think there just comes a time

when you realize

how much you need family.

Yeah.

Being back here is--

it's really made me miss them.

Daffodils.

They've always been

my favorite flower.

Really?

They were my mom's favorite too.

She always said,

"Gabe, daffodils may not

be the key to a woman's heart,

but they definitely help."

Well, we should get inside...

before Mabel pulls the entire

store for you to try on.

Let's go.

Well, that was fast.

Here.

That's the one.

Hey.

Hey, there, farm girl.

You ready to harvest

some grapes?

Um, absolutely.

How are you with garden shears?

Great.

So great.

You remember how to do this?

Uh, sure.

Now, make sure you get

a clean cut of the stem.

You wanna be able to use it

during fermentation.

Of course.

You sure you got this?

Uh, I got it.

How hard can this be?

See, you don't wanna

overextend like that.

- I got it.

- You're stretching too far.

- I'm not.

- You are.

What difference does it make?

Well, when you stretch

like that, you're likely to...

Oh, oh!

Fall into the vine.

Sorry.

It's okay.

- Thanks.

- You okay?

Yup, mm-hmm.

Whoa.

You can't just throw 'em

into the bucket like that.

- Really?

- No. You'll bruise 'em.

I didn't even think of that.

So you're saying

we have to gently place

all of these grapes

into the buckets.

Kinda, yeah,

and then, you know,

we have to clean 'em,

sort 'em, inspect 'em,

and then put 'em

in the storage boxes.

Seriously?

I need a nap just hearing that.

Here.

I want you to do the honor

of taste-testing

your very first harvest.

Oh, wow, this is amazing.

Nothing like a grape

right off the vine, huh?

Hey, this is random,

but do you have any flour?

I looked in the cupboards,

and we don't have any.

There this apple torte recipe

I've been trying to master,

but I found my mom's

old recipe book,

and I thought I'd try it

with some of the apples

from our tree.

I think so, yeah.

Could I borrow some?

Sure.

I'll give you some...

just as long as you promise

to pay back

the, uh--how much we talking?

Uh, cup and a half?

The whopping cup and a half.

You got it.

So you bake, huh?

Yeah, just for fun,

on the weekends, mainly.

Hmm.

You don't spend your weekend

with your boyfriend?

I don't have a boyfriend,

actually.

They're just pouring

off the vines.

I've already filled my bucket.

How about you guys?

I'm obviously a natural.

So do you wanna clean and sort

before or after lunch?

That sounds exhausting,

so my vote is after.

- Me too.

- Me three.

What? I'm hungry.

After it is, then.

Oh, I'll go get the working

aprons so we're ready.

Sara, we have an extra one

you could use.

Thank you.

Hey, Dad.

Where's the work aprons?

I stored them away already.

- I'll have to dig them out.

- Okay, cool.

I really like Sara,

and I think Uncle Gabe does too.

Slow down, Cupid.

She's only here

for a short trip.

We'll see.

How about we go

get those aprons?

Okay.

You're a really great uncle,

you know?

Thanks.

I've always wanted

a family of my own,

so in the meantime,

I just spoil Mabel,

like any good uncle should.

Ice cream trips on demand,

we watch her favorite

cartoons--the works.

- You do all that?

- Oh, yeah,

and you should see the snacks.

They're pretty great.

I have to say,

you're very different

from the guys

I'm used to meeting.

So the guys you're used to

are dull and not funny at all,

then?

Pretty much.

Well, I am known

to be the life of the party.

Um, hey, you know

the harvest party

my dad always throws?

- Yeah, it's great.

- Whole town comes.

I think we should do that:

one last harvest party

as a surprise.

My dad would love it.

I don't know where

I'd begin to plan it, though.

I've got some ideas.

I can make some calls.

- Really?

- That's so nice of you.

Well, I mean, you are

giving us half of your crop.

The least I could do is make

a few calls on your be- "half."

See?

Life of the party.

- Party?

- What party?

See what you started?

So all we have left

is cleaning, sorting...

inspecting, and storing, right?

Kinda.

I mean, it's a bit

more complicated

than that, but...

So how many days

do you think we have left?

Like, one or two?

I only ask because I have

kind of a big pitch

back in the city next Monday.

I mean, it's hard

to say exactly,

but I think we have

at least another week

before the harvest is over,

and then we still have

a couple days of work

to do after that too.

A week? Really?

I can't miss this pitch.

I'll lose my job.

But... I can't let my dad

down either.

Hey.

Things always start out bumpy.

What matters is how they end up.

There's always a solution,

and you have the entire

Nellis family

to help you find it.

Hi.

Hi.

I brought you flours.

"Flowers"? Get it?

Sorry, that was a bad joke.

It's for the recipe you wanted.

Cup and a half, remember?

Oh, right.

I'd completely forgotten.

Come on in.

So how was your first day

being a farm girl, Farm Girl?

You know, it was pretty fun...

once I stopped

falling into the vines.

Well, if you think about it,

it's really just another way

to crush the grapes.

Cut out the middle part,

get right to the fun.

Have you always wanted

to be a farmer?

For as long

as I can remember, yeah.

I mean,

I can't think of anything

I'd rather do than help people

celebrate their lives

with some of our wine

or be a part of people's

mornings with our jam.

It's really special

to have people welcome you

into their homes like that.

That's beautiful.

Oh.

Sorry about that.

Catching up on work?

Trying to.

I'm having a hard time

focusing, though.

I really don't know

what I'm gonna do

about the timing of all this.

Well, what usually helps?

What do you mean?

Well, how do you clear your head

when you're not here?

For me, I like to go on walks.

That's what I do.

But it's a little dark out

for that right now,

so what do you do?

Do you--do you walk?

Do you write?

Do you call your best friend?

What?

I bake...

just like my mom did when she

was feeling overwhelmed.

Whenever I'm stuck

on an issue at work,

I start baking,

and usually by the time

the bell dings on the cake

or the bread or whatever it is,

I've found a solution.

Well, lucky for you,

there is a certain torte

that is waiting

to uncover a solution.

I think you might be right.

I should go.

Can't wait to try that.

See you tomorrow.

See ya.

Hey.

Thanks for "the flours"...

and the pep talk.

Night, Farm Girl.

I got it.

Now some sleep.

Now, who is that?

Is that your girlfriend?

Again, I apologize

for popping by so early.

It's always

a pleasure to see you

in the morning, Alison.

And please tell me what you

think about the casserole.

It's a new recipe, and I know

how much Mabel loves bacon.

I will.

Thanks, and maybe I can

stop by in a few days

and pick up my casserole dish?

- Aww.

- Sure.

I think that's his girlfriend.

Ben and Mabel will be sad

they missed you.

We've been working so hard

that mornings

are the only time they have

to run into town.

Oh, you Nellis brothers,

hardest-working men I know.

You're too kind.

And might I say

you look lovely today?

Thank you, Gabe.

You're such a good friend.

See you soon.

Oh, sh**t!

Hey.

How's everything at the office?

Um, Rick is starting

to get nervous.

Will you be back soon?

sh**t, he is?

Uh, yeah, I'll figure it out.

I just got a little wrapped up

at the farm,

but honestly,

farming's kind of fun.

Did you really just say that?

I felt like a fraud

the second

it came out of my mouth.

But it's pretty gratifying

to be able to look at

everything you've accomplished

at the end of the day.

What, hitting "save"

on the computer

doesn't give you

the same feeling?

Can't say that it does, no.

I'm just kidding.

That actually makes sense.

Look, I gotta run

if I'm gonna make the train.

Call me later?

- I will.

- Bye.

- Hello.

- Hi.

You must be Sara.

I'm Alison.

Hi.

I'm just here helping my dad,

so I don't wanna buy

any magazines or anything.

- Oh, no, I'm not selling--

- Gabe told me about you.

He's so great, isn't he?

And I'm sorry I'm stopping by

so early,

but I saw that

your light was on,

and I just figured

you might be up.

Do you mind if I come in?

Why, exactly?

Word on the street

is you need help

throwing a surprise party.

Oh, well, no,

I'm sure I can figure it out.

Well, I just so happen

to be the only party planner

for three counties,

and I have attended your dad's

harvest party every year

since I moved here

in high school, so, honey,

I just know I'm the right person

to help you with all this.

Ooh, is that coffee I smell?

If it's not too forward of me,

I would love a cup.

- You just tell me how much.

- Aren't you a peach?

Lord bless, honey,

did I track in this mud?

Oh, no, that was me.

I just went out

to get the paper.

Now, what is this?

It's just an apple torte.

I made it last night.

Would you like to have some?

Oh, I wouldn't want

to impose, of course,

but if you insist.

Please, go ahead.

Oh, wow.

Oh, this is something else.

Is it good?

- Good?

- No.

This is outstanding!

Where did you get this recipe?

It was my mom's.

It was one of my favorites

when I was little.

Sara, sweetie,

you absolutely must enter this

in the festival this weekend.

It's probably a little late

to enter now, don't you think?

Isn't the festival in two days?

Well, normally,

it would be too late,

but it just so happens

that I also...

Plan the festival.

I like you.

Sara, dear, why do you have

a stick in your hair?

What?

Let's talk harvest party,

shall we?

So I was thinking these two

for the centerpieces.

This all looks so great.

It's gonna be the perfect

surprise for my dad.

I'm happy to hear it.

So you're expecting

your family to be here?

Yeah, my dad and my brother.

Are you sure it's possible

to get this all done by Sunday?

Oh, honey, I am a busy woman.

Grace under pressure

is our thing.

Listen, uh, I have some work

to do around here,

but thank you so much

for stopping by.

I'll give you a call later

about everything?

Sounds good.

Oh, and I'll go ahead

and get you all registered

for the harvest festival too.

Oh, that's really okay.

I--I have so much work to do

with the harvest

and the sale, and I--

- Don't be silly.

- I insist.

That is a blue-ribbon dessert

if I have ever tasted one.

That's so nice

of you to say, but--

Nope, nope, not another word.

It is really no problem.

Anyway,

I love doing stuff like this.

Just save me another slice

as a thank you,

and we'll be all squared away.

Sure thing.

I'll see myself out.

Just need to get

harvesting clothes on.

Sure thing.

Walter, what are you doing here?

Well, Gabe here called

and said Ms. Sara

was in a little bit of a pickle

and asked if I'd help out.

I'm always here to help Frank

when he needed me,

so it's an honor

to do it again one final time.

- I appreciate that.

- Thank you.

Now, don't mention it.

I don't wanna ruin my reputation

as the salty old man

around town.

We won't blow your cover.

Sorry I'm late.

A party planner knocked

on my door this morning,

helping me with

the harvest party for my dad.

Oh, you met Alison.

Isn't she great?

Yeah, she's something else.

And this is Walter.

- Hi, I'm Sara.

- Hi.

Someone told me that

you might need a little help.

Well, thank you for being here.

So same teams as yesterday?

Actually, I think

I'll team up with Walter today,

get to know him better.

Oh, okay, great.

Okay, Mabel, looks

like it's just you and me.

Hop on.

- See you guys around lunch.

- Giddy-up!

Ha-ha!

Hi.

Oh, hey, Dad.

If it's okay,

now that you're here,

I'm gonna go tackle one

by myself.

Yeah, sure.

Be careful.

Well, that was nice of you

to bring Walter in.

Well, if there's any hope

of getting this done

in time for her

to make her pitch,

we need all the help we can get.

Are you sure you want her

to make her pitch?

What's that supposed to mean?

Gabe, I know you

better than anyone,

and I've never seen you light up

the way you do around her

in a really long time.

Stop.

I agree, Uncle Gabe.

I think you should marry her.

Okay, everyone, just slow down.

No, seriously, though,

I know you've been focused on

making sure that the farm

will survive, and it will.

It always does,

but I'd like to see you happy

while you're doing it.

And for the record,

Mabel loves Sara.

So do I.

She is pretty great...

but she doesn't even live here.

So, what,

you're rushing her to leave

before she realizes that here

is where she needs to be?

You think so?

A little brotherly advice:

tell her how you feel

before it's too late.

Don't mean to interrupt,

but these grapes aren't gonna

harvest themselves, boys.

- All right, all right.

- Back to work.

- Look what I found.

- What is that?

Cornhole.

I think we got time

for a quick game, don't you?

Sounds good to me.

Mind if we join?

Sure. Come on over.

Thanks.

Uncle Gabe and I will be a team.

You go by Sara.

Oh, nice sh*t.

I've done this a time or two.

It's been a breeze today

with you and Walter here.

Don't mention it.

I can't tell you

the number of times

I've done this for your dad.

He's like family to me.

You guys really harvested

this whole vineyard

all by yourselves every year?

Oh, heck, no.

We had a whole bunch of crew

helping us out.

- Really?

- Oh, yeah.

You don't suppose

they're available now, do you?

I'm on a bit

of a tight schedule.

Gabe didn't tell you?

You did all this?

I may have made a few calls.

What can I say?

I hate seeing a farm girl

in distress.

Hi, everyone.

I'm Sara.

Thank you so much

for coming out,

especially on such short notice.

We're happy to help out,

Ms. Kress.

Well, I guess just let me know

what I owe you,

and I'll cut you checks.

Oh, we can't accept your money.

Your father has helped us

so many times

down through the years,

and besides,

it's a favor to Gabe.

We all owe him.

Thank you, truly.

Enough gabbing, everyone.

Let's get to work.

Gotta stay salty.

- Hello?

- Good morning.

I hope it's not too early.

Sara, how are you?

Good, really good.

You heading back to us?

Not quite yet.

We've still got a bit

of vineyard to harvest.

A good bit of what?

- Nothing.

- It's nothing.

I'm gonna be back

Sunday night, actually.

Well, that's cutting it

awful close, don't you think?

- I know.

- I just...

I ran into some issues

when I got here,

but it's all gonna be fine.

You know how big this pitch is.

I know.

Honestly,

you're making me

a bit nervous here.

No, don't be nervous.

I--I've-- I got this handled.

Sorry, boss, I gotta go.

I got your text,

but I wanted to see

if there was anything

I could do to help this along.

We wanna get started

as soon as possible.

I know, I just--

I really haven't

had the time yet.

Can you give me a little longer?

- All right, sure.

- No problem.

Get back to me

as soon as you can, though?

Will do.

Running a farm

looks good on you, Ms. Kress.

I don't know about that.

Hey, do you wanna go for a walk?

Um...

Just to the edge

of the vineyard, to the lake.

- Sure, why not?

- Come on.

We got one more day,

and then we'll be finished,

so looks like you'll make

your pitch after all.

Looks like it.

Are you excited?

About what?

- Your pitch.

- Oh, about the pitch.

No, I can't say

it excites me very much,

but I do love my job.

Really?

What do you love about it?

That's a great question.

I love...

Well, um, I love the--

Just give me a second.

I really love the people

I work with.

- Well, that's good.

- Yeah.

Wow.

I forgot this place

was back here.

Yeah.

Legend has it,

this is where my parents kissed

for the first time

when they were in high school.

- No way.

- Yeah.

It's my secret spot.

I mean, other people

probably know it exists,

but this is where I come

to work out my problems.

- I can see why.

- Yeah.

I'll let you steal it

if you want.

Well, thanks.

I will let you know there is

a sign-up sheet, though,

so that way we don't overlap

when we're trying to work out

our problems.

- Yeah.

- Gets a little awkward.

So what have you

worked out lately?

Doesn't matter.

Over the years,

I think coming here

has helped me learn

what's important.

We should probably head back.

Yeah.

You know, I've been meaning

to thank you.

- Thank me?

- For what?

For being so good with my niece.

Well, she's such a sweetheart.

She is.

We're gonna miss you

around here.

Mabel.

Mabel will miss you.

Yeah?

Hey, I'm the one that should

be thanking you for all this.

I mean, you're probably

just doing it

to help my dad, but...

That's not why I'm doing it.

You're not?

No.

Yoo-hoo! Sara?

Hi.

- Hi, Alison.

- Oh, and Gabe too.

It is my lucky day.

Oh, as handsome as ever.

Look, I don't wanna interrupt

you two worker bees.

I just stopped by

to drop off your festival entry

number for tomorrow.

Oh, wow, thank you.

And I've almost finished

planning the harvest party too.

Wow, you did all that

in two days?

You're incredible, Alison.

- Oh, you stop.

- You know what they say.

If you wanna get something

done, give it to a busy woman.

- You're amazing, though.

- You hush.

All right, y'all, I gotta scoot.

I'll see you tomorrow, and Sara,

don't forget my slice.

Okay.

Slice?

Oh, yeah, the torte I made.

My mom's recipe?

I guess she entered it

in the festival.

Oh, that's great.

We can go together.

Mabel entered too.

In the dessert competition?

Ah, no, some face thing

she invented,

our 12-year-old

little businesswoman.

She invented a beauty line.

I think she mentioned

something about that.

Well, I'd still like to try

the torte tomorrow if I could.

Yeah, sure.

Are you sure you're okay?

Yeah, I'm fine.

I gotta go 'cause I still

gotta make Mabel dinner.

But I'll see you tomorrow,

and we can work

after the festival?

Mm-hmm.

All right, then.

Good night.

He cooks too?

You have to tell me

about this new guy.

I am dying to know.

Dary, he's so great.

But I think he's seeing someone.

My timing is the worst.

No.

Oh, man, I'm so sorry.

Speaking of timing,

have you heard anything

from Rick?

Yeah, I told him

I'd be back Sunday night; why?

I don't really know

how to tell you this,

but he actually asked me

to work on the pitch myself

in case you drop the ball.

He did what?

I said no, of course.

I feel so bad

even telling you this.

No, you shouldn't feel bad.

Dary, you're one

of my best friends,

and this is your career too.

- Sara, I--

- Do what you feel is best.

I'll think about it.

Listen, just hurry back, please?

I miss you.

I miss you too.

Daffodils?

He remembered.

I don't understand you, Gabe.

- Hey.

- Hi.

You ready to go eat fried food

until we fall into a food coma?

Sounds like the perfect way

to spend a Saturday to me.

Where's Ben?

Dad's doing some work at home.

He said he'll meet us

when we get there.

- Great. Let's go.

- Come on.

I got you.

Let's do it.

Oh, Uncle Gabe,

can I go check this in?

The boss has spoken.

Catch up with you later?

It's a date.

So what is it

that you're entering?

I came up with

an anti-aging serum

that uses grape seed extract,

argan oil, and resveratrol.

It's a natural antioxidant.

- Wow, that's so resourceful.

- Thanks.

Gabe says you wanna start

your own line.

Already started it.

I plan on selling it

at farmer's markets.

Well, if you ever need any

marketing help, let me know.

Will do.

Who looks that good

this early in the morning?

Who, Alison?

Is she actually

the perfect woman?

Yeah, she's pretty cool.

Good morning.

Oh, would you just look

at you two belles?

Good morning, Alison.

You look radiant today.

Oh, this old thing?

It was just something

I had laying around.

And how are you doing,

Miss Mabel?

Quite well, Ms. Alison.

Is there any way

my friend Sara and I

can get my usual spot?

Of course.

I'll get you all squared away.

What was that about?

Oh, nothing.

What?

Placement is a game-changer.

Plus it's $500

if you win first prize.

Yeah. Come on.

Good luck, Uncle Gabe!

Go, Sara!

Are these apples

locally sourced?

Of course.

There's an apple tree

on my family's vineyard.

It's a special tree.

This is tangy for a torte.

Is there a secret ingredient?

Well, I'm not allowed to say.

It's an old family recipe.

Of course.

Secret recipes

must remain secrets.

What is the moisturizer in here?

Grape seed extract

sourced from my dad's farm.

Impressive.

All right, everyone.

It's almost time

to announce the winners.

If I can have our head judge,

Stacy,

please bring me the envelopes?

Thank you.

Now, if I call your name,

please come up here

to accept your $500 prize.

So first we have

best glassblowing,

which goes to a repeat winner,

Jim Smitherman,

for these cute pumpkins.

Congratulations.

And next we have

best beauty product,

which--no surprise here--

goes to Mabel Nellis

and her anti-aging serum.

Congratulations.

- Thank you.

- Thank you.

And for best wine,

we have--oh, Nellis Vineyards,

Gabe Nellis,

and his delicious merlot.

Congratulations.

Thank you.

And last, but not least,

the most coveted

of all festival honors,

best dessert,

which goes to--

no surprise to me--

everyone give

a round of applause

for newcomer Sara Kress

and her mom's apple torte.

Congratulations.

Thank you.

If I can have one more

round of applause

for all of our winners?

Oh, and as the person who

planned this festival today,

I declare ownership over

the rest of Sara's apple torte.

There's so much more festival

left to happen,

so everyone, thank you so much

for coming, and go have fun!

Now, how do you celebrate

a good festival win?

How about...

flowerpot painting?

That sounds perfect to me.

Me too.

Let's go.

I'll give you a holler

after lunch.

Hi, Sara!

Did my big-city sister

really just use the word

"holler"?

Dad, Caleb, you're back early.

Well, we finally got

a flight out.

And we wanted so badly

to be here helping you, Sis.

I know you did,

but you're here now.

Aww, I missed you guys.

Dad, retirement

looks good on you.

- Thank you.

- I like that.

Speaking of which, Caleb,

I hope you brought

a different outfit.

These are not

"working the field" clothes.

Ah, putting me to work

already, huh?

- Absolutely.

- But let's eat first.

Oh, yes.

Apologies these won't

be nearly as good

as the fried ham

and cheese I had earlier.

Well, now that's all I want.

I made Mom's apple torte

for the festival,

and you're looking

at the first prize winner.

- Well, that's fantastic.

- How about that?

Way to go, Sis.

Hey, uh, I called you earlier,

but you didn't

answer your phone.

Oh. Oh, no.

I think I might have left it

at the festival.

Well, should we go look for it?

- You know what?

- It's okay.

Alison probably found it,

and she'll be back

to see Gabe soon,

so not having my phone

for a little bit won't k*ll me.

My sister

being without her phone

and not falling into pieces?

I don't think I know this woman.

You know, I have to say, kiddo,

I haven't seen you this happy

in a long time.

You know, he's right.

Could it be because of some

hat-tipping neighbor guy?

Hmm?

I saw the way

you were looking at him.

No.

It's more than that.

Ever since I got here

a few days ago,

everything's just...

slowed down.

It's been really nice.

Sounds peaceful.

It has been.

I kinda like it.

I thought it was gonna

be really hard being here,

but it's made me feel...

I don't know,

whole, I guess.

And a cute guy

sure doesn't hurt, right?

Well, I'm happy for you.

Thanks, Dad.

Now let's eat up.

- Got a lot of work to do.

- Okay.

Did you meet with Ethan?

I met him, yeah,

but I haven't

signed the papers yet.

- What?

- Why not?

Dad, they want to make

our farm into a hotel.

Are you sure

that's what you want?

I'm retiring, Sara.

I mean, Caleb

doesn't wanna take over.

I don't know

what other choice I have.

I will miss this place, though.

So you and the Nellises

really harvested

this whole vineyard

by yourselves, in a week?

- Oh, no.

- No way.

Dad, you should have seen it.

Gabe got the whole town

to come help.

They love you so much.

If it weren't for them,

we never would've finished.

The people here

are so wonderful.

They'll all be here tomorrow.

Tomorrow?

Uh, yeah.

I'm kinda throwing

one last harvest party.

I thought you would like that.

Gabe's been helping me

with that too.

Sara, I don't know when I've

ever been more proud of you.

Your mom would be too.

What you've done here

is really something special.

Dad, that means the world to me.

You know, if I didn't know

any better,

I'd swear you were turning

into quite the little farmer.

Must've passed it on to you.

You should've seen me

the first day.

I was a disaster.

Well, hon, it's rarely about

how we start things.

It's about how we finish them.

You know,

I don't mean to pry, kiddo,

but, uh,

you've been mentioning Gabe

an awful lot over the past day.

Is there anything

I ought to know?

Honestly, he's just a very

kind and generous man.

He reminds me a lot of you.

Oh.

- So he's perfect too.

- Yes.

Well, I don't know

about you, Sara,

but all this work has got me

ready for a game of...

You're it!

- Hey! I wasn't ready!

- Come on!

Oh, you're faster than that.

You can catch me.

Come on! Come on!

You tell her how you feel yet?

I tried, but we got interrupted,

and then, I don't know,

the moment

just hasn't been right.

I don't know

how she's gonna take it.

Only one way to find out,

but you better do it soon,

before she flies home,

out of your life forever.

I mean, look how miserable

she is here.

You're right.

Homemade lemonade is a delight.

Probably 'cause

they don't make it like this

in the big city.

They are missing out.

More for us.

I think I'm gonna go into town

and get some groceries

for supper.

I think I'll join you.

Can you believe we did it?

Nope, I really can't.

We're a pretty great team, huh?

Yeah.

You know,

I still have never tried

that now-award-winning torte.

Oh, that's right, you haven't.

So do you think

I could try a slice?

Yeah.

I've got the original

up at the house.

Wow, I get the original torte?

- Oh, yeah.

- Now we're talking.

Hey, listen.

You go first.

I was just gonna say,

before I forget,

could you give Alison a call

and see if she found my phone?

I think I left it

at the festival.

- Of course.

- Thanks.

- Is that it?

- Yeah, I--

I'm gonna need it to rebook

my flight for tomorrow night.

- That would help, yeah.

- Yeah.

So you're really leaving

tomorrow, then, huh?

Pitch is first thing

Monday morning.

If I don't land this client,

I don't think

I'll have a job anymore.

Yeah, that's a lot.

I've been at this company

for ten years.

I am so close to making partner.

Well, good luck to you.

Thanks.

So what were you gonna say?

About what?

Just before, when we...

Oh, I was just going to say

congratulations

on winning the festival.

Thanks.

It is pretty cool.

I've never won anything

like this before.

Well, happy to have

witnessed the first.

Yeah.

Let's see.

Oh, the tiny businesswoman

demands dinner.

You stay on her good side.

I think she's gonna run

this whole town before long.

I think you're right.

Thanks again.

Don't mention it.

I'll see you tomorrow night

at the harvest party.

Yeah.

Have a good night.

You too.

Sara?

- Oh, hi.

- Hi.

A little bird told me

that you forgot your phone.

Thanks so much

for bringing this by.

- Of course.

- Did your family get in?

Yeah, they did.

Hey, I had so much fun today.

- I'm glad to hear it.

- I'm happy you had fun.

Are you all right?

Me?

You know me.

I'm fine.

Why don't you tell me

what's wrong?

Okay, thanks.

Can I ask your advice

on something, woman to woman?

Of course.

There's this guy

that I've had this...

thing with for what feels like

my whole life,

but we've never

made it official,

and I know

it's not very ladylike

for the woman

to ask out the man,

but I just don't know

if I should tell him

how I feel or not.

Do you think I should?

Alison,

you are a remarkable woman,

everything you've done for me,

and today I saw

how much you do for this town.

Any man would be lucky

to have you.

- Really?

- Really.

I think I'm gonna go for it.

- Bye, Sara.

- Good luck.

Caleb?

You okay?

Not really, no.

I'm probably gonna lose my job.

- What?

- Yup.

Oh, and the guy

that I'm interested in

is about to become official

with the world's

most perfect woman,

and I still haven't signed

the sale papers.

Why not?

I don't wanna see

the only part of Mom

we have left

turned into a hotel.

Yeah, me neither.

I am so sorry, Sis.

Is there anything I can do?

I don't think so.

I just have to get

on a plane tomorrow night

and try to fight to keep my job.

But it's in a city

that absolutely exhausts me.

- It's been so great being here.

- Hmm.

I thought I was

just romanticizing it

because we loved it

so much as kids, you know?

Yeah, totally.

I get why Dad loves it here.

I feel at peace

for the first time in--

since I can remember.

Oh, who am I kidding?

I'm not a farmer.

I've just been wearing

the fun outfits

and playing pretend for a week.

I'm just gonna need

to sell the farm,

let Dad retire,

get back to reality.

I don't know about that.

You fit in pretty well

from what I saw today.

- You think so?

- Absolutely.

Now, tell me more

about this guy, hmm?

This wouldn't happen to be Gabe,

who you were giving dreamy

eyes to all afternoon, is it?

I was not.

Okay, okay, sure you weren't.

But yeah, it's him.

Have you told him?

I can't, remember?

The perfect woman

who's professing her love?

Right, that.

And I just encouraged her

to do it.

Why would you do that?

Because I don't live here.

I don't wanna hurt them.

Everybody's been so good to me.

Who am I

to mess with their lives?

Hey, you're a good egg,

Sara Kress.

Okay?

Well, what about you?

Have you been seeing anybody

since you and Mandy broke up?

Nah, not really.

Well, there is someone

I have my eye on,

but she seems a little out

of my league, so we'll see.

I've missed this,

seeing you and Dad,

hanging out like we used to.

Yeah, I miss it too.

How great would it be if you

lived this close all the time?

I would love that.

So what are you gonna do?

About the farm, the job,

and the guy?

I'm still working that out.

About the next hour?

I'm gonna bake something.

Ooh.

Maybe Mom's famous

apple crumble.

Oh, yes, please.

Well, it's a shame

this'll be the last party,

but I can't think

of a better way

to say goodbye to a place that

brought everyone so much joy.

Me neither.

You're gonna be all right.

I know.

I just--I just need a minute.

Okay.

So how did it go?

Did you tell her?

- I couldn't do it.

- Why not?

'Cause she's got this

whole life in the city,

and she's got so much

going on right now.

I just didn't wanna

be another problem

that she'd have to try

and figure out, you know?

I understand,

although I have known you

for pretty much my whole life,

and I don't think I would ever

call you a problem, Gabe.

Thanks.

A casserole dish thief, maybe,

but not a problem.

Hey, I was letting it air dry.

Uh-huh, sure.

I promise to return

the casserole dish

if you promise to finally

tell Caleb how you feel.

I will if you will.

Deal.

Sweetheart, it's 6:00 a.m.

What on Earth are you doing?

If this is gonna be

the last harvest party

we have in this house,

I want it to be the best one

we've ever thrown.

You deserve it, Dad.

How can we help?

Caleb, you can stir the cider,

and don't forget the bottom.

I don't want

that cinnamon sticking.

The fridge is full

of enough veggies

to feed the whole town,

which is what

I'm expecting today,

so get to chopping.

Yes, ma'am.

You sorry you asked?

Hey, I heard that.

Great, Frank, can you put

the chairs down

just over there?

Thanks.

Oh, uh, great.

One there and one there.

Thanks, Sara.

- Oh, jeez.

- Oh, um.

- Sorry.

- Hi.

- I didn't see you there.

- Hi. Hi.

I tell you, I thought

your dad had lost his mind.

I had never seen a man get

so mad at a squirrel before.

Well, it was stealing

his crops, so I kind of get it.

What'd you do

to get rid of it, Dad?

I asked if I could get

a lot of cooking oil.

- For what?

- I didn't know at the time,

so I got a big vat

of vegetable cooking fat.

And?

Well, he put

all the grape crates

on top of this

metal crate type thing,

and then he took

all the cooking fat

and smeared it

all over the metal.

Why?

Well, I had no idea

until I came over one day

and saw that squirrel

climbing up the metal,

and his little paws

just slipped right off

like he was trying

to climb melted butter.

What?

- Yup.

- Man, that's gotta be

one of the funniest things

I've ever heard.

I really wish

I could've seen that.

Most ingenious solution

I'd ever seen.

These guys are the best.

They really saved the day.

Oh, come on, now.

All we really done

was pick a lot of grapes.

It's not like we were putting

out any fires or something.

Thank you so much, fellas.

Excuse me for a minute.

Of course.

Um, I don't really know

how to ask this,

but can I speak

with your brother?

Of course.

He's right over there.

What on Earth was that about?

Alison has had a crush

on your brother

for, like, years.

She keeps stopping by our house

just hoping he's at your dad's.

She always brings casseroles.

Huh.

Your squirrels.

Caleb, can I borrow you

for a moment?

Uh, yeah, sure.

- Alison wants to date Caleb?

- Yeah.

She went to school

with Uncle Gabe

but always had a crush

on your brother.

I might have exaggerated a bit

and told her

he's like another uncle to me,

so she's been trying

to impress me for a while.

Mabel.

So, um, I don't really know

how to, um, go about

doing this, but I--

Alison, would you like

to go out on a date with me?

Oh, I--um...

I haven't been out with

anyone in a very long while,

but, uh, I truly

cannot think of anyone else

I'd rather else spend time with

than you.

- I would love to, Caleb Kress.

- Yeah?

- I would be honored.

- Okay.

Phew.

Do you mind if I take care

of something really quickly?

Hi, Ethan.

I'm glad you could come.

Happy to be here.

I'm still not sure

what I'm attending, though.

Do you have the papers for me?

Did you just land?

Hi, Mr. Lever.

Listen.

Oh, I don't like

the sound of that.

I've just sent you and Dary

an email

that will explain everything.

I promise you'll like

what you see...

but right now I have to go.

You better say that's

a blue-ribbon dessert, too,

Mr. Nellis.

It absolutely is.

Did you do all this?

I had help, but yes.

Well, I'm impressed.

Thank you,

but I couldn't have done

any of it without you.

So listen--

I haven't checked

the sign-up sheet lately,

but I think the lake

is free now.

I've been told there's nothing

quite like it at sunset.

There's not.

Would you like to go

for one last walk?

I would love to.

Would you like to come

to my Casserole Sundays?

Casual Sundays?

No, Casserole Sundays.

Yeah.

So I hear you're

in investment banking.

That's right.

Have you ever considered

investing

in an all-natural

beauty product line?

It's an all-organic

skincare line

with a focus

on environmental impact.

Practically sells itself,

and your sister's already

started on the marketing.

Since it looks like we might

be in-laws in the future,

I can't think

of a better partnership.

Can you?

Uh, well, let's see it.

Wow.

Wow, yeah.

I still can't believe

we pulled all this off.

Well, a lot can happen

when the whole community

gets behind someone

they really care about.

- Yeah.

- They really love my dad.

Not just him, Sara.

You think they care

about me like that?

I know we do.

Can I confess something?

Of course.

I kinda got this silly notion

that you and Alison had

a thing going with each other.

Me and Alison?

No, we're just friends.

- I know.

- Mabel told me all about it.

Why are you telling me this now?

Aren't you leaving

in a few hours?

Well, actually,

I just emailed my boss

and sent him the finished pitch,

which I'm sure

is gonna land them the account,

and I included

my letter of resignation.

Really?

Being here

and seeing my family again,

it's just made me realize how

much I've been missing out on.

I don't wanna be the one

who moved away anymore.

Or the one that got away.

I used to find joy in work

and helping Ben with his family,

but ever since I met you,

I can't stop thinking about

having a family of my own.

They don't make them like you

in the city, Gabe Nellis.

I am so glad you came

to the country, Sara Kress.

But this is a big decision.

Are you sure you don't

wanna bake on it first?

I don't need to.

For the first time,

I know exactly what to do.

First of all,

from the bottom of my heart,

I wanna thank you all

for coming today.

Seeing all of you

amazing people,

hearing your stories,

your times with my dad,

it's made me realize

how lucky he is.

You all welcomed me

with open arms

and selflessly helped me harvest

this entire vineyard

in one week,

something I still

can't believe we pulled off.

If it wasn't

for this experience,

I wouldn't have gotten to

reconnect with my own family,

and it's because of that

I'd like to announce

I'm not leaving tonight.

In fact, I'm staying for good.

You all reminded me

how important family is,

how this place is my home...

And home is where the heart is.