A Reason for the Season (2024)

[bunniefuu]

I know this trip didn't

work out as we hoped.

But I don't want you

to be worried.

Not one bit.

Every "no" from an investor

gets us one step

closer to a "yes".

I know with all my heart

that Lane Cosmetics

is gonna be a big deal someday.

Thank you, sir.

There you go.

You are very welcome.

Thank you very much.

I would rather spend

Christmas Eve with

the people in this room...

than with the finest

people I know.

To the town council.

To the town council.

But for now, we're gonna

take a moment to regroup

and start fresh once

you're here.

I can't wait to meet you.

Now, for the big question.

What are we gonna name you?

What about Kate?

Kate like... oww!

Okay.

That's a big no on Kate.

I'm gonna get us some help.

Sorry to barge in like this.

The snow is really coming down,

and I think I'm going

into labor.

- Okay.

- Okay.

Believe it or not, you've come

to the right place.

I'll grab my emergency bag.

I'm doctor Austin.

Let's get you laying down so

we can see what's going on.

Can you get some hot water

and clean towels?

Yeah, I'm on it.

What's your name, dear?

Elizabeth.

Elizabeth Lane.

How far along are you?

A little over eight months.

The baby wasn't supposed to be

here till the new year.

Oh, well... you and I know that,

but I think this baby

has other plans.

Is this your first?

Yeah, it's, um... a little girl.

Alright.

All good.

Well...

The good news is that

your little girl

is gonna be here in time

for Christmas.

The even better news,

I have personally delivered

over 100 babies since

I started my practice.

You're working with a pro.

Deep breath.

One more push.

That's it. That's it.

Have you given any thought

to a name?

Yeah.

I was gonna go with Alex.

But, under the current

circumstances...

I think I'm gonna have to go

with Evie.

Evie Lane.

It's perfect.

Would it be alright if we

document this special occasion?

A keepsake for when Evie

is old enough to appreciate it.

Yeah, I'd like that very much.

You've all been so wonderful.

I can't imagine a better

Christmas present.

Okay.

Everyone say "Merry Christmas".

Merry Christmas.

Let's get one more,

just in case.

Okay. Always the lawyer,

playing it safe.

Uh-huh.

Well, you can thank me later.

Merry Christmas.

I just need to do Evie's

first checkup. Okay?

Okay. Come here, sweet girl.

Hello, sweetheart.

Okay, come on.

Okay.

How are you doing?

It's hard to let her go.

Oh, I can't imagine.

You did so good.

I'm going to need an escort

to the hospital.

The roads are still

pretty bad out there.

Roy, I'll drive with you.

What?

Elizabeth, Evie may have

an abdominal obstruction.

- Stay with me.

- What?

You need to be strong

for your baby.

I'm going to be right by

your side the entire time.

I promise.

Hey, it's okay.

So, instead of spending

Christmas Eve at home,

with my grandma Helen,

I was at a hospital

while my daughter underwent

emergency surgery.

If it had happened anywhere

else along the way...

I would've lost her.

Those generous, thoughtful

people delivered my baby,

got us to a hospital,

and took up a collection

to cover my bills.

Their support helped keep

my dream alive.

And that dream became

Lane Cosmetics,

a billion dollar,

multinational company.

But that pales in comparison...

to my greatest success.

No.

Please stand up, sweetheart.

Everyone, please welcome

my daughter, Evie,

to her first ever

trailblazer talk.

Excuse me, sorry.

Come on up, sweetheart.

Thanks, Mom.

On my journey, I realized that

overcoming challenges

doesn't have to be a solo act.

It's a collective effort,

strengthened by the support of

my friends, my daughter,

and the good people that I met

on that night.

Let's be a community of support

and help each other fulfill

our dreams.

Together, we will continue

to shatter ceilings,

build female-driven businesses,

and create a world where

every woman's voice matters.

Thank you, Aspen.

Thank you.

So... what did you think of

my trailblazer talk?

Equal parts inspiring

and embarrassing.

I had no idea you were gonna

talk about me.

It's only because

I'm so proud of you.

I wasn't too sure after my

La-La-Lane fashion-wear sales.

Well, the main thing is

you were able to express

yourself creatively.

Thanks, Mom.

Yeah, I do love

my fashion design.

You've always been

so supportive.

Well, you deserve every

opportunity in the world.

Do you have time for a coffee?

Of course.

Great. I have an early

birthday gift for you.

Mom, seriously, you spoil me.

Trust me, I know.

This is for you.

Mom.

A polaroid?

Taken the night you were born.

I found it last week

in my old sample box.

It triggered a lot of memories,

and I'll admit...

some soul searching about you,

and myself as a parent.

You've been an

incredible mother.

I say this to you

with nothing but love.

I have always done what

I thought was best for you.

But you've been spoiled.

Spoiled?

No, I'm just well-cared for.

You're almost 35, and you still

depend on your mother.

That is spoiled.

I didn't realize it was

a problem,

you've never said anything.

It isn't a problem.

I just worry that in trying

to give you

a better life than I had,

I've given you too good a life.

I protected you from reality.

You don't know what it's like

to be around normal people

doing normal things.

I need you to prove that

you are ready to handle

the responsibility that comes

with the fortune

you stand to inherit.

Mom...

I want you to experience

what I experienced.

I want you to find out who

the people are in this photo

and try to repay their kindness.

Why would they even care?

They're strangers to me.

Their willingness to help

this stranger in need

is the reason you're

alive today.

Why not build them a library

or a school or something?

You know, make a big to-do?

Get some press for the brand.

This isn't about me

or the brand.

This is about you understanding

where you came from.

And meeting the good people

that are responsible

for the blessed lives we lead.

I have made your rewarding

their kindness a condition.

Precedent to you taking charge

of your trust fund.

Seriously?

This will explain all the rules,

including using an alias.

While in Brookswood,

you must keep your true

identity hidden.

All to be completed before

midnight on Christmas Eve.

On my birthday?

You've gotta be kidding me?!

You're going to have to give

to get.

Mom, this is crazy.

This could be some wild

goose chase.

Trust me, it won't be.

You are kind-hearted

and you are generous,

but you never follow through

with anything.

I'm hoping this will properly

motivate you.

It... Do you even know if these

people are still alive?

If you fail to meet

the deadline,

your trust fund

will become forfeit

to a charity of my choosing.

I feel like I'm being punished.

Quite the opposite.

You have an obligation to use

your good fortune

to promote

the well-being of others,

not just to support

your own lifestyle.

The act of giving

is a powerful tool.

It spreads kindness and makes

a difference in this world.

The town that you were born in

seems to me the best place

for you to start.

Now, I know this is difficult...

but as a parent, the greatest

gift I can bestow upon you

is faith in your own potential.

The Four Seasons it is not.

Hmm.

There she is.

Welcome to Brookswood.

I'm Mrs. King.

Owner, sole proprietor,

chief cook and bottle washer.

Thank you. Uh... checking in.

The name is... Mary.

Mary Dawson.

Booked through Christmas Day.

I'm not sure how long

I'll actually be staying.

I'm eager to wrap up my visit

as soon as possible.

Oh, are you here for business

or pleasure?

Oh, definitely not for pleasure.

We're gonna have to do

something to fix that.

These are our sign-off sheets.

We have all kinds of crafting

and other festive holiday fun

going on around here

for the next few weeks.

Oh, I'm sure they're wonderful.

I just don't expect I'll have

much free time while I'm here.

Well, why not sign off anyway.

Just in case?

Oh, they're very popular

and they do tend

to fill up quickly.

I wouldn't want you to miss out.

I'll tell you what.

I'll be sure to think on it,

and if I change my mind,

you'll be the first to know.

All free of charge.

Just a little something

to make your stay with us

more memorable.

I'm certain my visit will be

something I won't soon forget.

I'll need your credit card

for incidentals.

Actually, I will have

the company call in

a credit card number.

Sure.

Whatever works.

Suite number six.

Thank you.

I just knew you would

change your mind.

No, I haven't changed my mind.

I just thought of something

you might be able

to help me with.

I'm in need of an attorney.

There seems to be only one

listed in Brookswood.

A Kyle Newman?

That's right.

Is he any good?

Oh, the best.

A real fighter.

After my husband passed,

I didn't think I could keep

the B&B going on my own.

Kyle petitioned the state

to grant us historical status.

Oh, they made him jump through

so many hoops,

but he never backed down.

It came with a huge relief

on the property taxes.

Great. Thank you.

He's also Brookswood's

most eligible bachelor.

Oh.

We held a contest.

I was one of the judges.

Of course you were.

Well, I will keep that in mind.

Thanks.

I wonder what that's all about.

You're not putting this place

up for sale, are you, Jack?

Make me an offer.

You couldn't give this

place away.

Paul, be nice.

It's Christmas time.

Maybe she's one of those

tourism influencers.

I would hate for this place

to become a culinary hot spot.

Well, there she goes.

She did not buy that

outfit here.

This can't be right.

Hmm.

Do you know where I could

find a Kyle Newman?

Wow.

...you guys are going to win,

whatever team.

That is...

one eligible bachelor.

Uh... hello there.

Are you Kyle? Kyle Newman?

Oh... you gotta be kidding me.

Uh... alright, boys.

Look, I already told you

on the phone,

we can't give up

any more rink time.

We're barely getting two

practices a week as it is.

I'm afraid you have me confused

with someone else.

Are you not Mrs. Carter?

The coach of the figure

skating team?

My name is Mary Dawson and

I'm in need of an attorney.

Oh.

Sorry. My apologies.

Uh...

Let me just finish up my

hockey practice

and then we can

move on to my law practice.

Alright?

Hm.

Hey! Sorry about that.

Can I get you something

from the snack bar?

The coffee's not much

to write home about,

but the hot chocolate

is fantastic.

This isn't your law office,

is it?

Yeah, I like to keep

the overhead low

so I can pass on the

savings to my clients.

I'm not exactly in the market

for discount legal services.

Well, I can assure you that

I am the best lawyer

that Brookswood has to offer.

You are the only lawyer

in Brookswood.

I stand by my statement

of the facts.

Now...

why do you need a lawyer? Hmm?

Wrongful injury, traffic court?

I am in Brookswood on behalf

of the Lane family,

of Lane Cosmetics.

I've never heard of them.

Lane Cosmetics.

Founded by Elizabeth Lane.

It's a billion-dollar

multinational company.

Wow.

I'll have to take your word

for it, I don't know.

I would like to enlist

your services

in order to locate these

four people in the photo.

For what purpose?

To reward them for saving

the life of a little girl,

who was born in the diner on

Christmas Eve, 35 years ago.

I remember this story

when I was a kid.

The woman in the photo holding

the baby is Elizabeth Lane.

The founder of Lane Cosmetics.

I have been tasked with

locating the other four people

in the photo in order to

fulfill their Christmas wish.

To fulfill their Christmas wish?

Yep.

Forgive my skepticism, it may

just be the lawyer in me,

but this whole thing just seems

a bit far-fetched to be real.

Notarized documents from

the Lane Family Foundation

to verify this is indeed

for real.

Wow, this is as complicated

a list of conditions

as I've ever seen.

Ms. Lane is well-known for

her unconventional way

of doing things.

And why are you here...

instead of Ms. Lane?

The Lane Family Foundation

seeks to increase the amount of

kindness in the world without

the need for recognition.

And if the recipients were

made aware of our involvement,

greed, inevitably,

would impede the true spirit

of our endeavor.

Mm.

Listen, the people of

Brookswood are a humble bunch.

They helped this young woman

because it was the right thing

to do,

not because they wanted

anything in return.

Now, I'm sure your

intentions are good,

but this just seems like a

case of misplaced generosity.

Mr. Newman...

Kyle.

Please, call me Kyle.

Kyle, I'm not asking for

your permission.

I am asking for your guidance

on the legal aspects

of the endeavor.

Transfer of properties,

gift taxes, what have you.

And as selfless as you claim

the people of Brookswood to be,

it has been my experience

that everyone,

absolutely everyone,

has a price.

Not everyone, Ms. Dawson.

I'd like to thank you for

your interest in my services,

but unfortunately, at this time,

I'm not gonna be able

to take you on as a client.

Hey!

Walking away from

the bargaining table

is a childish negotiation

tactic.

I'm not negotiating.

I don't wanna work with you.

Why? Give me one good reason.

Because this whole thing

seems like some harebrained,

reverse scavenger hunt,

designed by rich people.

Oh, I see.

You take issue

with philanthropy,

as well as general acts of

kindness and gratitude

at Christmas time.

You, sir... are a Grinch.

Are you this delightful

with everybody,

or do I bring out

the best in you?

You know what?

I can name everybody in

that photo, free of charge.

That way, you can be

on your merry way

and not have me involved at all.

The fact you're willing

to do that

tells me you're exactly

the person I need.

Someone I can trust,

someone who knows the town

and its people.

Besides, what's the worst

that could happen?

You're right, maybe some good

can come out of this.

But there could also be some

unintended consequences.

Money and gratitude don't

always go hand in hand.

There is a condition

on the gifts,

stating that they

must be personal,

and relate to something

that really matters

to the recipient.

Doesn't necessarily mean

just throwing money around.

Alright.

Okay, fine. You're right, Mary.

Congratulations. You've got

yourself a lawyer.

Terrific.

I'd like to get going

as soon as possible.

Who do we start with?

Well, easy.

We don't just roll

into town and ask people

what their deepest desires are.

Alright? We gotta go slowly.

We gotta find a way to

integrate you into the town.

Sounds like you have

some sort of plan.

Care to share?

Yeah.

Let's first start with

your approachability.

How do you feel about

a make-under?

I absolutely do not need

a makeover.

I didn't say makeover.

A make-under.

Well, you know what they say.

When in Rome.

So... Mary.

What's your background?

Not exactly sure

what you're asking me.

How did you get involved

with the Lane Foundation?

I'm very close with

the daughter, Evie Lane.

You could say we're inseparable.

How about school?

Where did you go to college?

I went to several

different colleges.

Several?

Did you major in mischief?

No,

nothing like that.

I just get excited

about something,

and once I get into

the day-to-day of it,

I find out it's not for me.

Anyway.

Tell me about you.

How did you end up being

the one lawyer

in this one-lawyer town?

Well, I, uh...

I went...

I went to law school at

the University of Virginia.

Hm. It's a top 10 law school,

isn't it?

Yes, it is.

And I, uh...

I did quite well,

if I do say so myself.

I could've signed with

any law firm I wanted to

in the country after

I graduated.

Huh. Why didn't you?

Because I was loyal

to Brookswood.

When I didn't have the resources

to pay for my tuition,

everyone pulled together

and helped fund a

scholarship for me.

So, I wanted to give back.

Provide good legal services

to this town.

Very noble endeavor.

Similar to the Lane family

wanting to give back,

due to the generosity

that was shown to them.

Don't you think?

So... why law?

My father, actually.

Best person I've ever known.

Hm.

I wanted to be just like him.

He told me that to be

an officer of the court,

you have to hold yourself to

the highest ethical standard.

He had this saying.

You should engage in anything

that you don't wanna read about

on the front page of

the New York Times.

Like winning the title

of Brookswood's most

eligible bachelor?

I see somebody's been gossiping

with Mrs. King.

She did the gossiping,

I did the listening.

Well... what do you think?

It's just what I was afraid of.

Despite trying to dress

you down, you...

you look terrific.

We'll just do the best we can.

Great.

Are you sure you got it,

do you want a hand?

Oh... sure.

Thank you.

Uh... listen, if you don't have

any plans tonight,

I'd like to take you to dinner.

Oh, um... well...

I'm flattered, truly flattered.

But I'd prefer to keep

things between us

on a professional basis.

I wasn't asking you out.

It's a working dinner.

Of course.

Yeah, working dinner.

Yes.

Great.

And I can try out my new look.

Great.

What?

Don't let the appearance

deceive you,

the food here is excellent.

Better than the snack bar?

You know, the owner went to

culinary school in Paris.

You're making that up.

Highest ethical standard.

Remember?

I guess I'll just have to

take your word for it.

That's the woman that was

taking pictures earlier.

Yeah, Mrs. King says

her name's Mary Dawson.

Doesn't know much else

about her just yet but, uh...

says she's here on business.

I'll go spy.

No, no! You stay right

where you are.

Kyle's obviously here on a date.

He wouldn't bring her here

on a date

unless he never

wants to see her again.

You're a bad man, Paul.

Pull up that picture

on your phone.

Yeah.

See... that's Jack Marshall.

Owner of the diner 35 years ago.

And that's Jack Marshall,

owner of the diner, present day.

A working dinner.

Yeah.

Hmm.

Evening, Kyle.

Hey, Jack. Um...

I want you to meet Mary Dawson.

I think I saw you earlier

taking pictures of the diner.

Uh... Mary and I are old friends

and she's here from New York

to help me with a project.

Welcome to Brookswood, Mary.

Your first meal is on me.

Oh, please, you don't

have to do that.

Take the offer!

As soon as you taste the food,

you're never gonna wanna

pay for it.

Don't mind Paul.

I insist.

Okay. Well, what do you

consider your signature dish?

Chicken pot pie.

Great. I'll have that.

When in Rome.

Usual for you?

Yes, sir.

Yeah, I don't know.

I would've preferred a cover

story with a little more flair.

Really?

Maybe then you

should've mentioned

that little sightseeing tour

you did before you hired me.

Wait a minute.

You just flat out lied to him

about who I am,

Mr. "highest

ethical standard".

Okay, wait. Another rule of law

passed down by my father.

You can bend the law,

you just can't break the law.

Hmm.

Is there anything else I should

know before we proceed?

Probably.

What?

Nice, clean plate.

I like that.

You must've been really hungry.

Guilty as charged.

I was actually telling Mary here

about some of

the stories around the town.

Do you remember the one about

the little girl that was born

here on Christmas Eve?

Do I? I remember it like

it was yesterday.

So, listen.

We were having a small

gathering here.

It was the unofficial

town council.

There was a young mother

driving home

to spend Christmas

with her family.

She went into an early labor

on the road.

Kate Austin, that's our

town doctor,

delivered that little girl

right here in this diner.

The doc realized there was

some kind of a problem,

so Roy and Claire, that's our

fire chief and our sheriff,

rushed them to the hospital.

Surgery saved that

little girl's life.

That's... that's some story.

And when you think about it,

if that young mother had gone

anywhere else,

who knows what

would have happened.

Now, if that isn't a genuine

Christmas miracle...

I don't know what is.

A lovely story made even better

by a wonderful meal.

My compliments to the chef.

My pleasure.

Come again any time.

Uh... you want those potatoes?

Yeah, no, still working.

Well, the good news is that

the rest of the people

in that photograph still live

here in Brookswood.

Okay, good. Finish up.

Let's get moving.

Huh? Oh, no, no, no.

There's no rush.

It's... it's pretty late.

Things move a bit slower here

than in New York.

How soon do you think

we could connect with them?

Uh... I got a pretty good idea

where we can find Roy Garland,

the fire chief, so...

Why don't we meet

tomorrow afternoon?

Wow. That is...

that is slow.

Yeah, well, you'll get

used to it.

Well... welcome to our

annual tradition.

This is the Christmas

tree jamboree.

This is quite the operation.

Who fits the bill for all this?

It's all volunteers.

Ah, here's the king

of volunteers right here.

Roy Garland.

How you doing?

Great. You?

Roy, I want you to

meet somebody.

This is Mary Dawson.

Mary is gonna be working

with me up until Christmas.

Oh, welcome, Mary.

This is impressive.

Oh, it's getting there.

We'll have everything up

on its feet by the weekend

for the grand opening.

Hey, Roy. Um...

just wondering, does Santa

have his elf yet?

He does not. Did you have

someone in mind?

Oh, I was just thinking

that Mary here would be

a good candidate.

I could not agree more.

Oh..., well, uh...

You know, I... I might

be under-qualified.

Yeah, 'cause I don't have any

previous elven experience, so...

I'll teach you everything

you need to know.

It's all about being friendly,

cheerful, upbeat, and positive.

Even when there's an

overexcited five-year-old

kicking you in the shins

with all of his tiny

but powerful might.

How could I say no?

Seriously. How?

There we go.

Nice, huh?

Yeah.

Yeah, it's very... Christmassy.

You know what?

Maybe I'll just order my own.

That way it's my size.

Okay, well... suit yourself.

It's only for a few nights

and starts on Friday.

Great. Can't wait.

- Nice to meet you.

- See ya.

Hey, uh... counselor.

Next time you volunteer me

for something else,

just give me a heads up first.

What are you talking about?

I'm doing exactly

what I was hired to do.

This way, you're gonna be able

to blend in,

and you might even get

an inside track

on what Roy wants

for his Christmas wish.

You know, I think that we're

doing pretty well.

You've already met two of

the people in the photograph,

and you just got here yesterday.

I think you hired the right guy.

I sometimes have difficulty

seeing the forest for the trees.

Well, I have a deadline

on another contract

with another client, so uh...

I have to take off.

But maybe I'll see you later?

Sure. Yeah.

I still have some more

exploring to do.

- Oh.

- Hmm.

Have fun.

Slow day?

Well, it's always kinda quiet

after the lunch rush.

Nice tree.

Can I help decorate?

Far be it from me to turn down

some free labor.

I'll even make you a cup of

cheer for your efforts

after we're done.

Deal.

What's a cup of cheer?

Oh, you're gonna love it,

and if you don't love it, well...

you can't beat the price.

You know...

when Kyle asked me about

the story of the little girl,

it got me to thinking...

...about that night.

We take photos of special people

who are passing through

the diner during the holidays,

and we make those photos

into Christmas ornaments.

I thought this one might have

a particular significance.

You look just like your mom.

You got me.

I am, in fact, Evie Lane.

What gave me away?

Striking family resemblance.

Also, the pendant you're

wearing is the same one

your mom was wearing that night.

So, what brings you back

to Brookswood?

It's a long story.

Perfect.

I love long stories.

Come have a seat.

Here you go.

I'm not sure if you know,

but my mother has become

quite the well-known

entrepreneur.

Oh, well, good for her.

I remember chatting with her

about her business plan

when you were in the hospital.

Really?

Yeah, I could tell she had

a real passion for it.

Yes, she is a very

passionate lady.

Right now, her passion is

sending me here

in an effort

to reward all the people

who helped us the night

I was born.

You don't owe us anything.

We were happy to help.

Oh, well, tell that

to my mother.

She insists I have an obligation

to use my good fortune

to promote the well-being

of others,

not just support

my own lifestyle.

So, why the secret identity?

Well, whenever I get to know

new people,

it's hard for me to tell

if they like me for me

or just my money.

The plan was to get to know

everyone without preconception,

perform some anonymous

acts of kindness,

and then vanish without anyone

knowing why I was here.

Does Kyle know who you are?

He knows me as Mary Dawson.

Kyle's pretty sharp.

I think he's gonna figure it

out sooner rather than later.

I will cross that bridge

when I come to it.

Mmm!

That's delicious.

Old Marshall family recipe.

Wow.

Tell me what I can do

to help you.

Do you have a Christmas wish?

I have absolutely everything

I need right here.

Okay, well, maybe you don't

need anything,

but there must be something

you've always wanted.

Please, indulge me.

Think big!

I have an unlimited

bank account.

Make it the biggest

Christmas wish

you could possibly imagine.

My mother knows a lot of

very influential people.

Maybe we could, I don't know,

create an opportunity for you

to do something you never

had a chance to do.

Like take a trip

or learn to play piano

from a concert pianist.

Oh! Open a cup of cheer

coffee stand in Times Square.

Maybe when I've known you

a little longer,

you can pry it out of me.

Well, you've known me since

the day I was born.

You're a sharp one, too.

I take after my mother.

Sometimes more than I realize.

Okay, let me think on it.

I promise you I will keep your

secret identity a secret.

But, here. This is for you.

What is this?

Early birthday present.

You tuck that away.

No, no, no.

Don't open it now.

Not now.

Anyone born in my diner

is entitled to free meals

for life.

Signed, Jack Marshall.

Why does this town have to be

the nicest place on Earth?

So, I hear you're gonna be

Santa's elf at the jamboree.

Wow, news travels fast

in this town.

Telephone, television,

tell-a-local.

I just knew you couldn't

avoid having some fun

while you were here.

You were absolutely right.

Gingerbread 57.

- I repeat, Gingerbread 57.

- Oh.

Nutcracker 32.

I repeat, Nutcracker 32.

Nativity 41.

I repeat, Nativity 41.

Bows of holly, 12.

Are you close?

Bingo!

Oh!

We have a winner!

Mary wins the final prize

of the night.

Congratulations!

Wow.

A holiday gift sampler.

From Lane Cosmetics.

Oh, you hit the jackpot, honey.

Look at all the samples you get.

Nobody I know would call me

this early.

Not a morning person,

I'll put that in my log.

What log? Who is this?

This is Kyle.

Your lawyer, Kyle.

Kyle Newman.

You'd better have a good reason

for this wake-up call.

Well, I'm just calling to let

you know that Dr. Austin

always eats breakfast at 7:30

at the diner.

So?

So... she's quite busy.

So, unless you want to

fake a medical emergency,

this might be our only way

to get face-to-face with her.

How life-threatening would

it have to be?

It's not on the table,

I was being facetious.

Can we do this when I'm

a little more put together?

Why, were you up all night

playing Christmas bingo?

Ugh, this town.

You know what they say.

Early bird gets...

Don't you dare finish

that sentence.

What about carpe diem?

You snooze, you lose.

Uh...

first come, first served.

Fine, you win. No more cliches.

I will be there ASAP.

Hello?

Just calling to make sure

you didn't fall back asleep.

You're annoying in the morning.

Some call it being helpful.

Oh, this rock star

does not need any help.

See you in five.

Oh, no, no, no, no, no.

Oh!

Good morning.

You backed up without checking

your rear view, huh?

I did. I did. I am terribly,

terribly sorry.

And you were driving

while on your cell phone?

Yeah.

Yeah, I was.

Wait a minute. Are you

Sheriff Bedford?

Indeed I am.

Oh, it's so great to meet you.

I'm E... err...

Mary. Mary Dawson.

You sure about that?

Yep. Yep, that's me.

Aren't you Kyle's friend?

I am, yes.

Actually, I'm headed to meet

him at the diner right now, so.

How's your day going so far?

Quiet morning until you almost

smashed into me.

Yeah. Again, I am...

I'm terribly, terribly sorry.

I'm normally a really,

really good driver.

So, um... what happens now?

Do I... do I get a ticket,

pay a fine?

I'm what you would call

a three-strike sheriff.

Oh.

One strike for almost

hitting me.

Right.

Two strikes for the cell phone.

Mm.

So I'm gonna let you off

with a warning.

I just need to see your license

for the record.

Yes, of course.

Whoo.

I am terribly sorry, Sheriff,

but I only just realized

that I don't have my license

with me this morning.

Unfortunately, that's

three strikes.

So... is that bad?

No smiling, ma'am.

Hey. Missed you at the diner.

This is not funny,

not funny at all.

Cup of cheer,

compliments of Jack.

Everyone around town knows

I was arrested, don't they?

Oh yeah. What were you doing

driving without a license?

Must have accidentally

left it behind in New York.

Well, don't worry about it,

you're being released on

your own recognizance.

And as your lawyer,

instead of a fine,

I got you community service.

Community service?

Yeah.

It's gonna be fine.

It's easy.

Come on, I'll drive.

Well, on the plus side,

you're gonna be supervised

by Sheriff Bedford,

so it's gonna give you

a chance to fish

for some information.

I have to give you credit

where credit's due.

I'd rather have cash or check

when it comes time to

tally up your bill.

I was trying to pay you

a compliment.

You seem to find the silver

lining in every situation.

Thanks.

Appreciate that.

Sheriff!

Got a repeat offender over here.

Please don't call me that.

Ms. Dawson.

Kyle.

Nice of you to give our

repeat offender a lift.

My pleasure.

Can we just call me a,

I don't know, volunteer?

Kyle, before you leave,

we have to discuss

your parking tickets.

Oh, well, the...

meter was broken, so...

I think we can let that one go.

There was 16 of them.

So... how about a little

community service?

16? Wow.

Welcome to the Brookswood

Christmas swap meet.

No cash transactions,

only trades.

Something we set up for

the community, so that everyone

has access to anything they

need during the holiday season.

This is really a terrific idea.

Well, what's our part in it?

I am deputizing you both

as peace officers.

Our job is to keep the peace

and facilitate the trades.

Some of the transactions

can get a little heated,

so it's best to have

adult supervision

should anyone

get a little unruly.

Oh, here. I can take your coat.

- Thank you.

- Yeah.

So... how long have you been

sheriff... Sheriff?

Coming up on 36 years now.

36 years? Wow, that's longer

than I've been alive.

Well, at this point in my life,

I've come to favor

experience over youth.

Have you lived in Brookswood

all your life?

Mm-hmm.

Born and raised.

Were you always interested

in being the sheriff?

You ask a lot of questions.

Are you doing a true crime

podcast or something?

Oh, no, I'm just making

friendly conversation.

Serving in law enforcement

has been a time-honored

tradition in my family.

My great-great-grandfather

was the first lawman here

over 200 years ago.

Wow, 200 years. That's...

that's impressive.

Well, sadly, the family line of

law enforcement ends with me.

I'm sure you can find a way

to keep your family's name

alive somehow.

I hope so.

- Hi Sheriff.

- Hi.

Job well done.

We've managed an entire day

at the swap meet

with only one outbreak of

overly aggressive haggling.

Thank you.

Good job.

Hey.

See something you like?

Yeah.

Huh.

My dad used to make these

when I was a kid.

Wow.

I don't have anything to

trade for it, though.

Bracelet for the jar?

Seems fair.

Oh, that... that

looks expensive.

Oh, no, it's costume jewelry.

Can't be worth more than $100.

Thank you.

That was really nice.

I'll pay you back.

No cash transactions.

You'll have to trade it for

something of equal value later.

Okay.

Thank you.

Thank you!

That was a really fun afternoon.

Maybe I should get in trouble

more often

so I can do some

more community service.

I was joking.

Just a joke.

People tend to take volunteering

very seriously around here.

They value time over money.

The most valuable resource

anyone can give of themselves.

That's a lovely thought.

Thank you again, Sheriff.

Kyle, drive safe.

And Mary... try to stay out

of trouble

for the rest of your trip.

I will, I promise.

- Bye-bye.

- Bye.

Hey, what do you think

about having

a monument made for the Sheriff?

In honor of her and her family.

I think that's a great idea.

Yeah?

Yeah, I think it's

very thoughtful.

Hey, you went to high school

here, didn't you?

Uh, yeah.

Yeah, I did.

Any of these trophies yours?

Uh... yeah, actually.

That one right there.

2006 state spelling

bee champion.

Pretty impressive, huh?

I-M-P-R-E-S-S-I-V-E.

Impressive.

Almost as impressive as

you being

the Brookswood's

most eligible bachelor.

Yes, well...

It's gonna haunt me for a while.

Although, truth be told,

my practice does well.

Just not well enough

to settle down

and have a family just yet.

What if you won the lottery?

What if you didn't have to work

to earn a living?

Well, then I'd have a whole new

set of problems.

Might have to find somebody

who loves me for me

and not for all my money.

You know what I mean?

Yeah.

Yeah, I know exactly

what you mean.

Hey, Kyle.

Yeah?

There's something about me

I want you to know.

Okay.

How's it going?

Hey! What's up, doc?

How is Brookswood's favorite son

doing this fine evening?

Very well.

Very good.

Dr. Kate, I'd like you

to meet somebody.

This is Mary Dawson.

It's a pleasure to meet you.

What are you doing here?

Just paying a house call

to Evelyn.

Evelyn?

Mrs. King.

And it's freezing out here.

Why don't we go inside?

- Yeah.

- Yeah.

Hello!

You are all just in time

to join us.

What are you working on?

Christmas gift bags for

some of the kids in town.

You are my last visit

for the day,

so I can stay for a while.

But first, let's do our checkup.

Uh... check up?

Is everything okay?

Just have to monitor

my blood pressure.

Nothing too serious.

Why don't you two team up?

Why not?

That sounds like fun.

Good. Let me take your coats.

Thank you.

- Have fun you two.

- Yeah.

No witty pushback?

I've reached the "if you

can't beat 'em,

join 'em" stage of my visit.

Surrendered to the festivities.

Oh, there's some really

nice things here.

Oh!

Do you know, does Mrs. King

pay for all this herself?

You know, I'm actually a little

curious about that myself.

I'll have to ask her.

Alright, well, I will handle

the decorating.

You fill the bags

when they're ready.

Yes, ma'am.

So, why did the doctor

refer to you

as Brookswood's favorite son?

Uh... well, um...

I was raised by my dad...

until he died when I was

a teenager.

I'm so sorry to hear that.

I was raised by my mom.

I just... I can't imagine

being on my own at that age.

Well, you see, that's

the thing, though. I never...

I never felt like I was

on my own.

Jack...

Roy, Claire, the doc.

I mean, they all...

came together... and they

raised me.

I mean, Mrs. King

and her husband,

they were my legal guardians

until I was an adult.

Brookswood really is

a special place, isn't it?

I mean, it is to me.

The people here, they just...

they look out for each other.

I mean, take the doc,

for instance.

She's had her practice here

for 40 years. Solo.

Just her?

Yeah, just her.

I mean, she could've gone off

and made a fortune

working at

some big city hospital.

But she decided to stay here.

Bandage up kids' scraped knees,

console families.

Deliver babies in snowstorms.

I couldn't imagine this place

without her.

I couldn't agree more.

I think we did it.

Yeah.

Yeah, looks good.

Wow.

It's gonna be a few

lucky kids who get those.

Do you think you have it in you

to make a few more?

Sure. It's kinda fun, actually.

Why not?

Evelyn, I wanted to ask you,

where do you get the toys and

supplies for these bags?

Oh, Brookswood has its very own

Secret Santa.

Really?

Oh. Did you, uh...

did you know about this?

No, I didn't.

This is the first

I'm hearing about it.

Well, that's 'cause

it's a secret.

We don't like to broadcast it,

but every year, December 1st,

all unpaid pediatric bills

are suddenly paid.

And we get a shipment of toys

and other goodies to share

with the local kids.

Mm-hmm.

Do you have any idea

who the Secret Santa is?

We have our suspicions,

but, you know, we don't wanna

really look into it.

Why not?

We don't wanna do anything

to spoil the magic.

Well, we said we were gonna do

a few more, so, uh...

I'll grab 'em.

Great.

It's Evie.

Excuse me.

Hello, my darling daughter.

Uh... hey, Mom.

Quick question.

Are you the Brookswood

Secret Santa?

Brookswood has a Secret Santa?

Unpaid pediatric hospital bills

completely paid off

in the month of December.

Anonymous toy deliveries.

Sounds like you've been

in touch with Dr. Austin.

Wait. Wait a minute.

You told me you didn't know

who the people were

in the photo.

No, I told you I needed you to

find out who they are

in order

to reward their kindness.

Okay, what are you not

telling me here?

I tried a long time ago

to reward everyone directly

involved for their kindness.

Once I had the resources

to do so.

They all politely declined.

So, you sent me on an

impossible mission

you knew was destined to fail?

Mom, this will cost me

my trust fund.

I have faith that you are

resourceful enough

and creative enough

and motivated enough

to succeed where I could not.

I don't understand why you

wanted me to do this.

For you?

No, for you.

I wanted you to learn what I

learned and see what I saw.

Sweetheart, it's not about

the act of giving.

It's about learning to give.

I have no words.

Greatness is not measured

by what you have,

but by what you give.

Evie?

Is everything okay?

Yeah, just a typically

unpleasant conversation

with my mother.

Is there anything I can

do to help?

No. No. But, thank you

for offering.

In that case, do you wanna

join me for a skate?

I've been up to my eyeballs

in legal.

I think we could both

use the break.

No, thanks.

What? Why? You don't like

to ice skate?

Oh, I just don't know how

to ice skate so.

You don't know how?

No.

Do you wanna learn?

Coast is clear.

You're not gonna be able

to skate from over there.

How do you know unless you try?

Let me help you.

Give me your hands.

It's alright.

One... two...

There you go.

Wow.

Just one after the other.

Ooh...

There you go.

I'm doing it.

Don't let go, okay?

Oh...

Where are we going?

There's something I wanna

tell you.

And I hope it doesn't

spoil everything, but...

Well, here it goes.

My name isn't Mary Dawson.

I'm actually Evie Lane.

I'm the little girl

who was born in a diner.

I know.

What?

I know who you are.

You know?

Wait, how do you know?

Did Jack tell you?

No.

Jack knows?

How does he know?

Yeah, he figured it out.

But how do you know?

When you traded that

thousand dollar bracelet

at the swap meet.

The vendor felt conflicted

and called me.

I just figured you had a reason.

And you'd tell me

when you were ready.

Turns out I was right.

Oh, you're gonna think

I'm ridiculous.

Oh, I think we're past

me thinking you're ridiculous.

Try me.

Whenever I meet new people,

it's hard for me to tell

if they like me for me

or for my money.

And the alias let me leave all

that baggage behind.

And allowed me to see the world

from a different perspective.

And I like what I see in you

and the people of this town.

Not only that, I like how you

see me... as a person.

Not just as a billionairess

you can gain advantage from.

Honestly, when all

is said and done,

you may have more

financial resources

at your disposal than I do.

What?

What... what is that

supposed to mean?

Well... if I don't find a way

to reward everyone that

helped us,

by midnight on Christmas Eve...

...my mother will transfer

control of my trust

to a charity of her choosing.

So...

...it's about money?

Look, I know what

you're thinking.

Poor little rich girl.

My mother has feelings

about the way I've been

living my life.

Maybe she's not entirely wrong.

Sending me here is her way

of making me earn my trust fund

rather than just having it

handed it to me, so.

I get it.

I get it, and time is

ticking away, so...

I seem to remember

somebody's volunteered to be

Santa's elf tonight.

So, you're not mad?

No.

Not even a little?

I'm not mad.

Yeah, we should get on that.

Yeah.

Do you want me to help you back?

Oh, all good.

I think I've got this now.

Okay, I'm gonna...

Maybe you need a hand.

Roy... have you heard of

the Brookswood Secret Santa?

I have not.

But only because it's a secret.

What if I was to tell you

a Secret Santa reached out to us

and they wanna do something

for you... specifically?

Really?

Me?

Yeah.

No, they don't have to do that.

No, Roy, before you say no,

if you could make a

Christmas wish, just one,

what might you wish for?

This for real?

I can confirm that it is. Yeah.

I don't know.

It still doesn't feel right.

Roy... it's real.

And you deserve it.

Okay, wow.

Well, I guess there's a lot

of stuff I would wish for.

Well, make your wish.

We'll see if the Secret Santa

can make it come true.

Our fire engine.

So old we can't even get parts

to fix it anymore.

I've submitted a request

to the mayor for years,

but she just doesn't seem

to have it in the budget.

Look, I know this is a big ask.

I don't think it's too big.

Not at all.

Wouldn't you agree, Kyle?

Yeah. We'll reach out

and see what we can do.

h*, h*, h*!

h*, h*, h*!

Welcome, all of Brookswood,

to the 35th annual

Christmas Tree Jamboree!

Let the festivities begin!

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

Get your photo with Santa.

Single file, right behind me.

Follow me, guys.

Merry Christmas!

One, two, three.

Perfect!

Alright. You ready?

Big smile.

One, two, three.

Cup of cheer?

Yes. Thank you.

I didn't figure you

for a hockey fan.

More of a hockey coach fan.

Oh, yeah.

He's great with kids, isn't he?

He is.

What about you?

Do you have a family?

I have a son.

He's about the same age as you.

Oh. Are you planning on

spending Christmas together?

Not this year.

Worried around town is...

that Brookswood's Secret Santa

is stepping up their game

a little bit this year.

As it turns out, the Secret

Santa is my mother.

I had my suspicions.

I guess that makes her

Brookswood's

Not-So-Secret Santa.

I was also informed that

she tried a long time ago

to reward everyone

for their generosity.

And you all politely declined.

Well, I didn't wanna say

anything earlier.

I thought it might

discourage you

from getting reconnected

with everyone.

Have you given any more thought

to your Christmas wish?

I have.

Oh, terrific.

Do you wanna tell me what it is?

Well, my wish is that I want to

host your birthday party

in the diner on Christmas Eve.

I think you have this whole

wishing thing wrong.

You're supposed to wish for

something I can do to help you.

Knowing that you're here

and that you're well,

and that the act of kindness

that I had a hand in

35 years ago has brought us all

around for this moment.

Well... that's a big

enough reward for me.

Seven, six,

five, four, three, two, one!

Look how proud he is.

Look at him over there.

Yeah!!!

Jack used his wish to host

my 35th birthday party

at the diner on Christmas Eve.

Wow. That sounds like

a hot ticket.

Hope I can get an invite.

You'll be my plus one.

I just... I wish there was

something I could do for him.

Do you know his son?

Jason. Yeah.

He, uh...

They had a falling out.

Yeah, I thought that

might be the case.

Well, Jack, he grew up

pretty poor.

So, everything he had,

he put towards the diner.

Try to give his family

a better life.

Money got tight,

and he had to pick between

his house and the diner.

He felt like the diner was more

important to the community.

And his son never forgave him.

Do you think there's any way

we could find his son?

I don't know where he is,

but I could look into it.

I am your lawyer, after all.

Right answer.

A Jack Marshall

is on the line.

The owner of the diner

in Brookswood.

He claims it's a personal call.

I'll take it.

This is Elizabeth Lane.

Hello there, Elizabeth,

this is Jack Marshall.

I don't know if you'll

remember me.

I remember you well, Jack.

How are you?

I can't complain.

Is there something

I can do for you?

No, uh...

Not for me.

There was something

I was hoping you might do

for yourself.

You have my undivided attention.

Okay, uh...

I've met Evie.

And through no fault of her own,

I know why she's here.

Um...

She's made a really big splash

in our little community, and,

well, I thought it might be

nice for you to visit

so you could get

to see firsthand

everything she's doing

for the town.

It's important that Evie

complete this challenge

all on her own.

I understand.

If you should change your mind

about paying us a visit,

we're planning to celebrate

her birthday here at the diner

on Christmas Eve.

Well, I appreciate

the invitation.

Thank you for thinking of me.

I promise to let you know

if I can attend.

Okay.

Hope to see you soon.

I can't quite believe my eyes.

Here's the proper paperwork

granting full ownership to

Brookswood's fire department.

Thank you.

And thank the Secret Santa

for me.

This is amazing.

You're amazing.

It's for all you do

for the community

and all the people you help.

I'm just gonna go check it out.

Go for it.

Wow.

Well, well, well.

I hear the cup of cheer here

is to die for.

Coming right up.

Elizabeth Lane,

and I do mean this.

You look like a billion dollars.

As do you.

Wow.

Does Evie know you're here?

Uh, not yet. I thought

I would surprise her.

Well, I am glad

you decided to come.

So am I.

Wow.

Mmm!

Wow. This tastes just as good

as it did 35 years ago.

It does not disappoint.

Well... it rarely does.

I can't help but feel as though

I've traveled back in time.

Well, I guess maybe that makes

me your own personal ghost

of Christmas past.

Hmm.

So... how is she?

She is fitting right in.

I mean, it's almost as if

she was born here.

Listen, um... I hope you don't

mind but I wanted to ask.

Why did you send her here

on this secret mission?

My success has impacted her

more than myself.

People are always trying

to get close to Evie

to gain favor with me.

I was hoping that by sending

her here undercover,

she could meet some good people

that she could

take at face value

and not always assume that they

had an ulterior motive.

Oh.

Well, for what it's worth...

If Evie were my daughter,

I would be extraordinarily

proud of how she turned out.

Thank you, Jack.

Thank you.

Get in there, go meet Santa.

One, two, three.

Right this way.

You're next.

Get in there.

I didn't realize how charming

this town is at Christmas time.

Festive activities were not

exactly on the agenda

the last time you were here.

Oh, look. There she is.

Hey!

Great.

Um... you know what?

I'm gonna... I'm gonna be

right back, okay?

Well, there is my

darling daughter.

Mom, what are you doing here?

Well, Jack suggested

that I come and see

all the great things

that you have been doing.

And consider me impressed.

The fire engine was a big swing.

I'm glad you got to see that.

But shouldn't you be

in New York?

This is your busiest

time of year.

I wanted to come here

and spend time with you.

Hey, the doc is here somewhere.

Oh, great.

Mom, this is Kyle Newman,

my attorney.

Kyle, this is my mother,

Elizabeth Lane.

It's a pleasure meeting you.

Likewise.

We haven't had an opportunity

to get the doc's wish just yet,

and, well, we're running

out of time.

I have an idea,

just leave it to me.

Hey, Kate. Kate.

Oh, my.

Hi.

This is my mother, Elizabeth.

She decided to join me

for the holidays.

And this is Dr. Kate Austin.

Nice to meet you.

Have we met somewhere before?

I'm sure our paths have crossed

somewhere along the line.

Kate, how's it going with that

search for your understudy?

Well...

not a lot of people getting

out of medical school

are interested in a

small town practice.

Insurance costs, staff.

It's a non-starter.

I just wish there was some way

to provide quality healthcare

to the Brookswood community

for another 40 years.

Well, maybe you're just

gonna have to do it

for another 40 years.

I would if I could.

How hard do you think it

would be to find a new doctor?

I wouldn't say impossible,

but maybe next to impossible.

Might I suggest

offering incentives

based on the time they served?

Yeah, couldn't we set up

a scholarship?

Like what you did with

law school,

to guarantee someone to return.

It's a nice idea, but maybe

we save that as a backup.

Medical school is like

a ten-year endeavor.

Yeah. Yeah, you're right.

Maybe for the future.

We need something for right now.

Okay. What if we offered a

competitive salary, guaranteed?

Bonuses for every year

they maintain the practice.

Permanent housing.

We can pay their student loans

for every year they commit.

I know the commissioner

of health in New York.

She might be able to help

find a candidate.

But the doc is gonna want to

pick and train the candidate.

She has a certain level of care

she's going to want her

successor to adopt.

Of course, that goes

without saying.

Do you, uh... you have

someplace to be?

Ah, yes, actually.

Uh... where are we going?

The Brookswood Secret Santa

is on a secret mission.

Let's hit the road.

Okay.

Uh... big lineup.

We drove two towns over

for eggnog?

Not exactly.

Like I said, it's gonna

be a surprise.

Huh.

Hey, do you remember

how we used to spend

your summer vacations

in small towns?

Going on sales trips

all across the country.

I do.

Honestly, sometimes

I miss those.

Well, not having money

wasn't easy,

but it certainly

made things less complicated.

Look, Mom, I didn't

understand it at first,

but you've given me a gift

that no amount of money

in the entire world could buy.

The people who helped us,

it's like they stepped

right out of that photo

and into real life.

I can't quite explain it,

but it feels like some sort of

Christmas magic at work.

Aww, sweetie.

Okay, so if it's not

for the eggnog,

is it... the kiosk owner?

Good guess.

It's Jack's son.

I came here hoping we might

convince him

to reunite with his dad

in time for Christmas.

Okay. Is it... do you have

a little plan, or...?

I think we'll just have

to make it up as we go.

Story of my life.

- Hi.

- Hi there.

My name is Evie Lane.

This is my mother.

Elizabeth.

Pleasure to meet you.

What can I get you today?

Actually, I was hoping

I could get you

to come to Brookswood

to visit your dad.

How can it be that 35 years

have gone by since then?

Snuck up on all of us.

One day at a time.

You know, it just

occurred to me.

I don't know why I didn't

think of this before.

Andrew, Kyle's dad, was here

that night you were born.

Really?

A lot of what happened that

night is a bit of a blur.

To be honest,

I don't have the best

recollection of it myself.

Well, why wasn't he

in the photo?

Because he was the photographer.

It was also his idea to take up

the collection

to help you and your mother.

Mm-hmm. That money

kept me, you,

and the dream of

Lane Cosmetics going.

His act of kindness gave us

both a second chance.

Kyle's dad's been gone

for more than a decade now.

Wait, what does this mean

for the wishing project?

Hmm. Not exactly sure.

Well, it would only make sense

that Andrew's wish gets passed

down to his next of kin.

Hmm.

Hmm.

He should be here pretty soon,

so we'll just hang out.

Oh, hey. How'd it go?

Good. Yeah, we're in

good shape.

I was just finishing up

some legal

on those Christmas wishes.

How are you doing?

Oh, yeah, we're getting close.

May have hit a minor snag,

but I'm working on it.

Did my tip on Jack's son

pay off?

Better than we could have hoped.

Hello again.

Well, hello, old friend.

How you feeling about tonight?

About as ready as I could ever

be for the best birthday party

this town's ever seen.

How about you?

How are you feeling about

having a 35-year-old daughter?

Well, it feels basically

impossible,

given that I'm only 39 myself.

Hey, how old is your

son now, Jack?

Um...

Well, he's just a little older

than your Evie.

I'm ashamed to say, I've...

missed more birthdays

than I'd like to count.

It's been years now.

Well, maybe tonight

could make up for some

of those years.

Hey, Dad.

Jason.

I'm sorry, I...

I don't know what to say.

I missed you, too.

Oh, look at that.

It's not as much gray as yours.

This is a Christmas Eve

birthday surprise party.

The surprise is...

our new friend Mary is not

who she claims she is.

I am, actually, Evie Lane.

I'm the little girl who

was born in the diner

35 years ago tonight.

This wishing project,

that my mother set in motion,

is our way of thanking you.

Without your willingness

to help a stranger in need

all those years ago...

I'm not sure either one of us

would be here tonight

celebrating with you guys.

Now, having said that,

I still have a few more

Christmas wishes to fulfill.

Dr. Kate Austin.

That is a list of 30 highly

qualified candidates.

All more than eager to take

over your practice

whenever you decide to retire.

Thank you.

For everything.

I look forward to grilling

them in their interviews,

come the new year.

Thank you.

Sheriff Bedford, you're next.

We have commissioned an artist

out of New York

that's going to

work with you to design

a memorial to honor you

and your family.

It's for 200 years of

maintaining a stable community

that the people of Brookswood

can rely on.

Oh.

Thank you.

I'm genuinely touched

by your kindness.

Thank you.

Others who helped us

that night have already

received their wish.

Thank you.

So...

Everybody, let's raise

a glass tonight

to celebrate my beautiful

daughter's birthday.

And this wonderful town.

Cheers!

Happy birthday!

Mm.

So, are you going to talk

to Kyle about his wish?

I will.

Hey, uh... I was thinking

maybe I could use my trust fund

to do this sort

of thing full time.

You know, find some other acts

of kindness to pursue

in the new year.

Well, I would like that.

Hey, maybe that's something

we could do together.

I would love that, too.

Well, this couldn't get

any more magical.

It's your birthday,

it's Christmas Eve,

and we're celebrating

what you have accomplished,

which is truly...

truly incredible.

Oh... Mom.

Thank you for this opportunity.

I needed it.

I'm so proud.

I'm really proud.

Well...

You know, I have to admit

that when we started this,

I had my doubts, but...

You really... you really

pulled it off

in a spectacular fashion.

I could never have done it

without your help.

You know, I do have one last

wish to grant.

What?

No, we got everybody.

There's nobody left.

Jack told me that your dad was

here the night that I was born.

Not only was he the one

who took the photo,

but he was also the one

who started a collection plate

for a young, single mother

who was about to have

a whole lot of medical bills

to deal with.

I told you, he was the best.

Well, seeing as you're his son,

and you are also the best,

I thought it was only fair

that you get to make a wish

in his place.

No, I can't.

Come on, that's cheating.

No!

It's the law.

- Well, it's Elizabeth's law.

- Mmhmm.

Okay.

Yeah, no, I, uh...

I know what I want.

I wish...

for a dinner with you.

A working dinner?

No.

Oh.

No, no, no.

This dinner is 100 percent

a non-working dinner.

Hey, let's take a picture!

Oh, I think you're

the photographer.

Um... yeah.

Everybody get in there.

Alright, everybody say

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas!