Unwrapping Christmas: Lily's Destiny (2024)

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Unwrapping Christmas: Lily's Destiny (2024)

Post by bunniefuu »

Dad, I can't find Rudolph.

Oh, well, it's gotta

be there somewhere.

Found him.

Ooh.

How do you turn

on his nose again?

Like this.

Wow, that's so cool.

It is, isn't it?

Wish you were here to help, Dad.

I'll get to it. I swear.

Lily!

Hi.

Lily, I'm so glad

I ran into you.

I have just come from the Tree

Fest Planning Committee meeting

and I see that you

haven't decorated your tree

for the festival yet.

I know, I know. I'll get to it.

Just so happens to

be the busiest time

of the year at the store.

Well, it's the busiest

time for everyone,

but the flyers

have all gone out.

The clock is ticking, my dear.

I'm aware.

I know you've only lived

on Juniper Lane since May,

but it's a big

tradition for us here.

I know. Don't worry. I'm on it.

Oh, well, families come from all

over to see what each one of us

has created that...

Hello? Hello?

It's a lot of fun for everyone.

Sorry. I don't want

to be late for work.

It would be a shame to

have a booth that's empty,

and with your

creative expertise,

I can only imagine

what it could look like.

I hear ya.

Well, let me know if

I can be of any help.

All right. Bye.

Alright, ladies,

we open in five.

People are starting

to line up outside.

I swear it's because

we're hosting the gala.

The publicity is

already paying for itself.

It was a brilliant idea.

Inspired by our brilliant

marquee maven herself, Lily.

Lily, are you okay?

What? Me? Yeah, I'm fine.

I had another run-in with

my neighbor this morning.

Oh.

Whitney Boyd. The one and only.

She always puts

on that fake smile.

"Hi, what a beautiful lawn.

Amazing how it grows so fast.

Do you need to borrow my mower?

Hi, I'm guessing you

didn't know that your hedges

need to be trimmed

a certain way?

Hi, when are you gonna

decorate for Christmas?"

Well, maybe it's because

you've beaten her at

the fastest wrap

three years in a row.

I mean, of all

the neighborhoods I move into,

she lives across the street.

What are the chances?

There's gotta be a reason.

Oh, here we go.

Everything happens by fate.

Oh, yes, and speaking of fate,

shouldn't your mind be

on something else

or maybe someone else?

Wait, is that... is that tonight?

It's just dinner.

With Twin City's

most eligible bachelor.

If everything goes well,

you might actually have someone

to kiss under

the mistletoe this year.

I did read in my horoscope

yesterday that an unexpected

love is in my future.

Okay. Alright, ladies.

Let's do this.

426! Woo!

We are so lucky

All Wrapped Up is

sponsoring the gala this year.

I really need to

get ticket sales up.

You are the marketing maven.

We are in great hands.

But, more importantly, where is

Owen taking you tonight?

It's a surprise.

Oh.

Do you think I should

wear black, red, or green?

I don't know,

you could wear a brown paper bag

and you would still

take his breath away.

I don't know about that.

Mm-hm.

The guy can date

anyone he wants.

It's a little nerve-wracking.

Hello, you can date

anyone you want.

You were literally

Miss Minnesota

and you were a model.

You promised you'd

stop bringing that up.

I'm just saying, Miss Minnesota.

Sean?

Oh, sh**t!

What?

The writer from

Twin Cities Magazine

wants to do a story on us.

I'm supposed to meet him today,

but I told Kenzie I'd meet

her at the university, too.

Just go see Kenzie now,

and then meet with Sean.

You sure? I don't want

to leave you high and dry,

but it would be

really good for us.

His magazine has

over 20,000 subscribers.

No, you have to go.

The more publicity the better

for the gala

and the ticket sales.

You'll finish this one?

- Of course.

- Thanks, T.

Oh, morning.

Here's your chai latte.

You know me so well.

And here are some

initial ideas that I have for

the St. Paul's Christmas Gala.

We still have a ways

to go with ticket sales,

but the way I see it,

if we play it right with some

of these ideas,

it'll drum up lots of interest

in the Gala and All Wrapped Up,

and I know how important it is

for the shop that

the Gala goes well.

Bowing night,

Christmas cocktail hour,

a night of carols? I love it!

Oh, and check this out.

We could host an event

where every ticket sale

comes with a bow and...

And also a coupon

for All Wrapped Up.

Kenzie, this is genius.

Oh, and you know that student

grant I was telling you about

for the young entrepreneurs?

They're accepting applications.

You have to apply.

You really think I'm ready?

I think you're more than ready,

I think you're a shoe-in.

It's all thanks to

my amazing mentor.

Will you help me fill it out?

Of course! Seems like just

yesterday the girls and I

were applying for it.

Speaking of, I can't stay long.

Oh, wow. He really gets around.

Who?

Owen Mansfield.

Mm, he's that realtor, right?

Total hottie.

Why? You know him?

I'm about to.

We're going for dinner later.

Whoa. Like... Like a date?

You two would be

the best-looking couple

in all of Minnesota.

It's just dinner, but, yeah,

why don't you start

that application?

Oh, okay. Whatever you say,

Mrs. Mansfield.

Sean?

Lily?

Yeah.

Sorry, uh,

would you like something?

Yes, I'll just take

an earl grey tea, please.

Thanks.

Sorry I'm late.

No, only by three minutes.

No big deal.

I know how busy you must

be this time of year.

So, this'll be really quick,

I promise.

Okay.

Now, All Wrapped Up.

Tell me how that got started.

It was a thesis project

my friends and I worked on

while we were at

the University of St. Paul.

No way. I went to

the University of St. Paul.

Wait, really?

Go, Walleyes.

No way.

So, what year did you attend?

Graduated 10 years ago.

Huh. Me, too.

Thank you.

So, anyway, our professor

was so impressed with the idea

that he encouraged us

to try it out

and apply for

a small business loan.

We started off in our garage,

we lived all

together in a house,

and then we had a kiosk

during the holidays,

and now we have

a storefront on Grand Avenue

and operate year-round.

Wow, okay.

Um, so it's four equal partners?

And best friends.

That's a good angle

for the story.

So, whose idea was it?

Well, that's the one thing

we all can't seem to agree on.

I'm positive it was me,

but they all'd

say the same thing.

And, uh, how long

you been in business?

Our storefront

opened eight years ago.

Oh, that's impressive.

Thanks.

Do you remember that pizza

place at the student building

and they Had to put those

warning signs up saying these

giant birds were gonna

come down and steal your pizza,

and you had to literally

shield it with your whole body,

like hold on for dear life

because the birds were gonna

dive b*mb

and eat it off your plate?

I can't put my finger on it,

but you look so familiar to me.

Uh, well, I, uh...

I won Miss Minnesota

a few years back.

Maybe you saw the posters.

No, I don't think that's it,

but, well, I'm not surprised.

You're smart, kind,

funny, and beautiful.

I bet your speech was brilliant.

You know, because, uh, you know,

you're easy to talk to,

a great interviewee

and all that.

Thanks.

Did you ever take creative

writing with Professor Dunlap?

Oh, my gosh. Yes!

She was such a stickler.

I transferred I think

after, like, two classes.

How do you even remember that?

Some things you just remember.

Oh, um, sorry. Do you mind

just holding on for one second?

Sure. Yeah.

Hi.

You've reached Owen Mansfield.

Please leave a message

after the beep.

So sorry about that.

Yeah, no problem.

Anyway, back to All Wrapped Up.

I really hate to do this,

but is there any chance

we could pick this

back up another time?

I just realized I'm now

running late for something else.

I didn't realize

how long we've been talking.

Yeah, sure. Sorry.

We barely even got to the story.

No, no. It's been really nice.

Yeah.

Well, um, here.

I really appreciate your time.

Here's my card.

Wow.

You're, like,

the only person on Earth

who still gives

out business cards.

Hey, I've still got my

Blockbuster membership card too

if you're interested.

Wow. I might be.

It's probably worth

something by now.

But I know you're super busy.

So, just, uh,

whatever's convenient for you.

I'll be in touch.

"Something wonderful

could happen to you today.

You might pinch yourself

to make sure you're awake.

Three is your lucky

number this week,

green is your color.

Follow the signs."

Green it is.

Just made it.

Good evening, ma'am.

Do you have a reservation?

Yes. I'm actually

meeting someone.

So, it'd be under his name.

Owen Mansfield.

Of course.

He has reserved his

favorite table for two.

Right this way.

Sean Allen? No way.

Take your coat?

Thank you.

You're welcome.

Thanks.

He should be here any minute.

Mr. Mansfield,

great to see you again.

Thank you so much.

Absolute pleasure.

Don't go too far.

Lily Morgan.

Owen Mansfield.

I was starting to wonder

if I had the wrong place.

I know. Crazy day.

Hm.

Wow. You, uh...

You looked amazing in

the photos my cousin showed me,

but you're even more

beautiful in person.

And you are just as handsome

as you are on your billboards.

Still not used to all that,

billboards and magazines,

but you, of course,

must be used to it.

Used to what?

Being in magazines.

Oh, that.

I haven't modelled

since my early 20s.

Wasn't really my thing.

Well, I beg to differ.

You're stunning.

Um...

A bottle of

the 2009 Chateaux Rouge.

See, in marketing it's

all about impressions.

How many times

people see your ad.

To create a viable brand,

I mean, you have

to be everywhere.

Right, but they

can't just see it.

It has to make

a lasting impression.

Has to be memorable,

something substantial.

Couldn't agree more.

Anyway, no more

business tonight, I promise.

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

It's corked.

Another bottle, please.

Sorry about that.

It's never happened before.

It's okay.

Merry Christmas!

Everyone's wearing hats.

I don't care.

Thanks.

Well, I mean,

you're a businesswoman.

The company culture,

the environment,

the confidence that

your employees project,

or lack thereof,

it all comes from the top,

and if I or you don't

set that, you know,

proper tone for the staff,

the business will struggle,

don't you think?

I do. Although, my business

is kind of unique in that...

Remind me what you do again.

We have a gift-wrapping shop.

Mm.

All Wrapped Up.

Maybe you've seen

our store on Grand Avenue.

Oh, I, uh... I don't think so.

But gift-wrapping, huh?

What, people actually

pay for that?

You'd be surprised.

I am, but that's great.

Good for you.

I really admire anyone

who takes a chance.

Kind of, uh...

...like we're doing tonight.

I suppose we are.

I mean, I know who you are

because of all your ads, but...

St. Paul's most

eligible bachelor.

That's right.

Hey, imagine the headlines

that we would get

if certain people

were here tonight. Hm?

St. Paul's most eligible

bachelor on a date

with Miss Minnesota of 2010.

That's right.

Yeah, I find it all

a little embarrassing, too.

But it's good for business.

Well, back to what I was saying.

Despite seeing

your face all over town,

it's still kind of

like we're on a blind date.

Completely. My cousin barely

told me anything about you.

You didn't ask her?

Well, I saw your photo.

She said you were

a successful businesswoman

and that was enough for me.

I like to think there's a little

more to the story than that.

Well, I personally do

love a good picture book.

Hey.

What do you say

we do this again?

Free Wednesday?

Um...

Yeah, I think so. I'll, uh...

I'll look at my calendar.

Great. It's a date.

Oh, let's... let's split that.

No, no, no. Not a chance.

It's my treat.

Thank you.

I knew he'd be into you.

I guess. He asked me

on a second date anyway.

Where's he going

to take you this time?

He said I could choose.

Ah, he sounds even better

than he looks in his ads.

He is something.

Is he nice?

Yeah.

But...

Nothing. He's...

How shall I put it?

Talkative about himself.

Oh.

But he was nice and polite.

So, how'd the interview go?

Oh, that.

Not good?

That went great, actually.

The writer, Sean, he's

a University of St. Paul alum.

He's really sweet,

really interested in our story,

and he wants to meet

for a follow-up interview.

Does he?

We ended up

talking for over an hour

and didn't even realize it.

Interesting.

No, it was totally professional.

Of course. Yes.

So, if you talked so much,

why does he need

a follow-up interview?

Well, we were talking

about us, mostly.

Sounds like that date went

better than the one with Owen.

It wasn't a date.

Besides, I don't even

know if Sean's single.

Well, it's like you always say.

Follow the signs.

Goodnight, Olivia.

Goodnight.

Morning.

What do you call this?

A field trip?

So glad you got

my text to meet here.

I have an amazing idea

for a commercial event,

and I thought it would be

better to show you in person.

Come on, you're gonna love it!

So, the Juniper Lane

Tree Festival is the perfect

place to sell Gala tickets

and promote All Wrapped Up.

I mean, think about it.

It's ready made for Christmas,

it's got the same demographic

as the Christmas Gala,

and it's prime

Christmas real estate,

which is almost

impossible to get your hands on

unless you live on

Juniper Lane, which you do.

We'll just have

to hope we aren't

set up next to that booth.

Lily! Oh, I am so glad to see

that you've finally made it out.

You have got quite a ways to go.

I sure do.

But I see that you've brought

in some help. Smart thinking.

Whitney Boyd, Chairwoman of

the Juniper Lane Tree Festival.

I am Kenzie Reed.

I intern with Lily.

Uh, I'm confused.

If that's already your tree,

why is it so bare?

The question of the century.

Alrighty, I will

let you two get to it.

Can't wait to see what you gals

come up with. Toodle-loo.

Gentlemen, this is not

the place for that.

Take the game outside.

Don't look at me like that.

I gotta take this.

Hello?

Hi, Lily?

Sean, Twin Cities Magazine.

Hi.

Hi, did I catch you

at a bad time?

No, I'm just at the community

center with my intern.

Intern?

Yeah, I work at

the University with

the Young Entrepreneurs Club.

You know, teach them

the fundamentals about

starting a small business.

Very cool.

Yeah, the shop hires

an intern every Christmas.

So, what's up?

Uh, wondering about

that follow-up interview.

We go to print Wednesday.

So, uh, any time today?

Oh, I'm actually meant to

grab some last minute gifts

for the faculty I work with.

Huh. Okay. Um...

How about tomorrow?

Tomorrow's no good.

Hm, okay. Um...

Would you want to meet me

at Arthur's Book Bazaar?

Sure, I love that place.

Great. How's noon?

It's a date.

I-I mean, you...

you know what I'm...

I know what you meant.

Great. Looking forward to it.

See you then.

So, should we get started,

or what?

I wish I could,

but something just came up.

I've got a meeting with Sean.

Sean?

Yeah, from Twin Cities Magazine.

It's an interview thing.

Uh, no, no, no.

We're not done here.

Work on that grant application!

What is with this

grant application?

So, you each have your own

specialty at the shop?

To a certain extent.

I mean, we all

pitch in with everything,

but Tina really has sharp

organizational skills,

and Olivia, our creative,

is always coming up

with new designs,

and Mia does the books.

She's very good with numbers.

Right, and so what's

your area of expertise?

I like the marketing stuff.

Grant writing, publicity.

I love a good sales pitch.

And I come up with fun names

for the different wraps.

Sleigh It Isn't So.

Wrapper's Delight.

Uh, Veloci-wrap-tor?

That's good.

Well, it sounds like

you guys make quite the team.

More like sisters, really.

No way, I used

to love this book.

Tiny Astronaut.

Yeah, have you read it?

Many times.

You okay?

Yeah.

Yeah, my dad actually

read this to me all the time

when I was a kid.

He was a science teacher,

AKA total space nerd,

and he had all these

different voices for

each of the different planets.

I totally forgot

about it 'til just now.

Well, you should get it for him.

Oh, uh,

he passed away last year.

I'm, uh...

I'm so sorry. I feel terrible.

Oh, no. It's okay,

it's okay really.

It's just hard to

be reminded sometimes.

Especially during the holidays.

Yeah.

Decorating was always our thing.

We'd go all out.

Decorate the house like

Christmas in outer space.

Even our advent calendar

was shaped like a rocket.

Well, he sounds like a...

like a great dad.

He was.

The irony is now I live

on a street that has

a tree decorating

tradition that takes place

at the community center,

and I haven't even started.

I don't know why

I just didn't tell them

I don't want to do it this year.

Yeah, why didn't you?

I guess I...

I thought I'd feel

closer to my dad.

But I don't know.

I wasn't expecting it

to feel this hard.

Well, uh, I can help.

If you want me to.

I'm not going to reach

the, uh, the expertise levels

of your dad,

but, you know, I could try.

Thanks.

Just might take you up on that.

Yes. This, please.

Lily!

Hey, Whitney.

What can I do for ya?

Oh, well, it's more

what I can do for you.

You know, it just

dawned on me this morning,

and I feel like

such a bad neighbor.

Here I am, harping away about

your lack of participation,

and then I realize that maybe

it's not that you don't want

to decorate your booth,

but that you probably don't

have any decorations

to begin with.

And then it hit me, you know,

maybe it's not in the budget.

Very perceptive reasoning,

Whitney, but I can assure you,

I'm doing just fine.

Oh, well, then, my apologies.

You're forgiven.

You know, this year's festival

should be a great success.

Everyone on the street

has brought their own flair

to their booth this year,

especially Frank.

His theme is

Christmas on the high seas.

That's wonderful.

You know, we'd... we'd really

hate to have an empty booth.

Okay, well...

Lily?

It would be bad form, Lily!

One small step for man...

Wait. Wait, Dad. What is it?

One...

giant leap for mankind.

Hey, Lil,

did you know that in space,

astronauts follow a path

guided by stars and planets?

You know, they have to

trust not only their training,

but their instincts

to follow the signs

to reach their destination.

So, the stars

are like the signs.

Exactly, and just like life,

we have to listen to our hearts

and follow the signs around us,

and they'll guide us

where we're meant to be.

And if we follow the signs,

we'll always find our way?

That's right, sweetheart.

And now put that camera down

and help me put this

angel on top of the tree.

I'm just not ready, Dad.

Hey, Kenzie. Any chance you can

fit in a meeting tonight?

Yeah. I, uh, I want to go over

your promotional event ideas.

Why don't we do it here?

I'll make coffee.

Great.

Oh, hello.

Oh, what's all this?

It's delicious.

You're gonna love them.

Okay, so, where should we start?

Well, since your dating

life seems to be off-limits,

- unless...

- Not today.

Fine. How about we talk about

your dereliction of duty?

Decorating for the Tree Fest?

I think this is

our next promotional event.

Christmas cocktail hour?

What about the Tree Fest?

That's a good idea, too,

but this cocktail hour,

your brilliant idea,

I think that's the one.

You really think it's brilliant?

Mm-hm.

Well, I still think

you should decorate

your booth at the Tree Fest.

Forget about

the Tree Fest for a minute.

We should host

this cocktail hour

and feature

the entrepreneurship club,

and showcase all

the work you've done.

Ticket sales for the Gala

will go through the roof.

I like it,

but why can't we do both?

I feel like you're

not telling me something.

What's not to tell?

We'll still sell tickets

at the Tree Fest,

but this should

be our main focus.

The Gala is an 80-year

tradition for this town.

I don't want

anything to go wrong.

This would be like

a preamble for the Gala.

Oh, I like that. Like a sampling

of what's to come at the Gala.

Exactly.

And it'll show everyone

All Wrapped Up has what it takes

to take over as the sponsor.

We can do a tasting menu.

Oh, one of my classmate's

works at the supper club.

That's perfect.

I'll call her now and ask if

she can help us get in.

Great, and don't

forget to add this event

to your grant application.

For sure.

Don't look at me like that.

I'll get to it.

Mm.

Hey, Mags. What's up? Mm-hm.

Yeah. Yeah, yeah,

yeah, yeah, yeah.

I'll be home in time to

put him to bed, I promise.

Yeah, and then

I got a sitter coming,

and then we can, uh,

we can go get

something to eat, alright?

Yeah. Yeah, I'm excited, too.

All right. Love you, too.

Okay, I will

send out all the e-vites

first thing in the morning.

Stunning, and we've locked in

the location, food, and music.

We're just about ready to

rock around the Christmas tree.

Got that right.

Oh, let's not forget

about the photographer.

I'll sh**t them

over an email now.

Ooh.

Vintage.

You know, the kids are

loving camcorders these days.

I only use

that thing to watch old tapes.

Okay. That about does it.

I better get going

before I'm late.

Although, he wasn't

exactly Mr. Punctual

the last time I saw him.

You have a date tonight?

Please, give me something?

Okay.

What's he like?

He's...

He's really nice.

He's very focused on his image.

You know, for his business.

Well, you know

as well as anyone,

you gotta keep your eye

on the prize, right?

Right.

But you don't want to focus

too hard that you can't see

what's right in front of you.

Sure.

It's just something I read

in one of Sean's articles.

It sort of stuck with me.

Oh, yeah? You've read

his other articles?

I had to make sure

he knew what he was doing.

Well, it sounds like Sean

has really made an impression.

I'm going.

No!

Are you sure about this place?

Just seems a bit casual.

Oh, just wait 'til

you try the burgers.

Oh, uh, sorry.

I gotta take this.

Yeah.

Owen Mansfield Realty.

How can I help you?

Alrighty. Shall we?

Man, that burger was good.

...basically tell him

your offer, and...

I'm sure he won't be too, uh...

Um, he won't be too impressed

with the offer, so...

Yes, of course.

Okay. Talk tomorrow.

Alright. Bye-bye.

Lily, I'm sorry about earlier.

Look, if you like this place,

of course we can say.

I just hope it's not

one of those places

that sings "Happy Birthday"

every five minutes.

Table's ready? Thank you, sir.

After you.

Well... it's not single malt,

but at least it pairs well

with the bison burger.

Is something wrong?

No.

You just seemed kind of

out of it the whole night.

Sorry.

Uh, I just realized

I have a lot going on,

heading into the holidays.

Ah. Yeah.

It is that time of the year

when there's just so much...

There's so much to do

at the end of the year...

- ...to start getting ahead...

- ...all you want to do is

slow down and savor the moment.

Both can be true.

I'm gonna start thinking

about Q1 all over again.

Business never stops, does it?

I actually just put together

a last-minute promotional event

for the St. Paul Christmas Gala.

Trying to

drum up some publicity?

Hopefully. It'll be

a classy cocktail hour.

We really need to

sell out tickets.

It's the first year All Wrapped

Up is sponsoring the gala,

so we really want to deliver.

I could swing by,

make an appearance,

tag the event

on my social media,

offer a picture with

anyone who buys a ticket.

I've got quite a lot of

followers, as I'm sure you know.

Um, I appreciate the offer,

but I think we want to focus

on the Young Entrepreneurs

Club at the event.

Oh. Well...

if you change your mind,

you know where to call.

Lots of people want a

selfie with Owen Mansfield,

I'm just saying.

Will do.

Look, I know I can come across

a little strong sometimes

and I'm talking

about myself a bit too much.

You? No.

Just, I'm a little

nervous around you.

What do you mean?

Compared to other girls

I've dated, you are amazing.

I think we can make

a pretty good-looking

power couple, just saying.

I just wanted to impress you.

Then, just be yourself,

you know, the man

beneath the billboard.

Getting to know the real you,

that's what will impress me.

What if...?

What if I'm only impressive

because... I'm on a billboard?

Honestly,

I used to feel the exact same

way after I won Miss Minnesota.

Sometimes, I still do.

But when someone

finally sees you...

...for who you really are...

...nothing beats that feeling.

Yeah, cool. Okay.

Of course, yeah.

You know, come to think of it,

I like that people

can see me all over town.

It feels powerful

to be seen like that.

Right.

Imagine you up on

a billboard with me,

a real estate queen.

Now, that would sell

tickets to the gala.

I'm...

I'm sure it would.

So...

is he as handsome in real life

as he is on his billboards?

Even more so.

So, you really like him then?

Hmm...

He's okay.

Since when does

Lily accept okay?

I think her mind might

be on someone else.

Oh.

The writer

that's doing the article?

Mm-hmm. Yes, Sean.

Well, he's taken, so...

Oh, no.

It's fine.

Doesn't look fine.

It is.

It's just...

we kind of clicked

from the minute we sat

down at the coffee shop.

And now, I'm seeing

signs of him everywhere.

What about Owen?

I mean, his face

is on every billboard,

as far as I can tell.

So, that's the thing, the day

we went on our first date,

I saw them everywhere, and now,

I haven't seen a single one.

You consider it a sign

that you haven't seen a sign?

Don't make fun.

I'm disappointed.

Owen does have

a sweet side to him.

We just don't click.

Well, maybe give Owen

a bit more time, huh?

'Cause he could

still come around.

Yeah. Maybe.

Speaking of signs...

Hi.

Hi.

Sorry, I didn't mean to barge in

and interrupt your work.

I just, uh...

Well, I thought I should see

your shop for the story.

Of course.

Well,

this is our showroom. Um...

And here,

we have a wall of our, uh,

options.

So, what if I just want

regular old wrapping paper?

We have that, too.

Whatever you want.

"Head to mistletoe."

Very clever.

Oh, hey,

do you still have your gown?

Uh... yeah.

It's... somewhere.

I'm...

I'm pretty sentimental that way.

Yeah, me, too.

Best in Bow?

That's Olivia's specialty.

Tina's Best Wrap,

and Mia is Best Free Wrap.

She does this amazing

Furoshiki technique.

Oh, yeah, that's the Japanese

method that uses fabric.

Very good.

I do my research.

And, uh, that's you.

Fastest Wrap.

Two-time champion.

Three.

Get that right for

your article, mister.

Yes, ma'am.

Come on, I'll show you the back.

Okay.

Well, this is our workbench

and that's our custom printer.

Oh, wow. So, you guys design

your own wrapping paper?

Mm-hmm. We do all

sorts of custom wrappings.

People come up with

all kinds of crazy ideas.

I bet. That's fantastic.

Is there any other

businesses who do this,

at least to this degree?

Not that we're aware of.

We have a very unique niche.

What about other seasons,

like when it's not Christmas?

Honestly,

we're busy all year round.

Mother's Day, Valentine's Day,

birthdays, you name it.

And like you told me, uh,

this whole thing was, uh,

your brainchild?

Uh...

Well, maybe...

just say it was all of us

for the sake of the article.

Gotcha.

I meant to ask you

about your bracelets.

426?

Oh, we all have one.

We call ourselves the 426 girls.

Let me guess, house number?

Oh, you're very intuitive,

Mr. Allen.

Yes.

Yeah, we lived on

426 Walnut Street.

Frontier Hall.

Get out!

Is that your fraternity ring?

We were literally right around

the corner from each other.

And we somehow managed to

only bump into each other

the one time in

Mrs. Dunlap's class?

Well, we probably did lots of

times, we just didn't know it.

No,

I feel like I'd remember that.

Me, too.

Well, um...

glad our paths are crossing now.

Me, too.

Well, how about a demonstration?

Three-time champion, I feel like

that should be in the story.

Okay.

- Are you ready?

- Yeah, I'm watching.

Don't blink now.

You might miss it.

Getting a little

overconfident, are we?

The moment you doubt

whether you can fly,

you cease forever

to be able to do it.

Nice. J.M. Barrie?

Very good.

I guess we both

learned something

from Mrs. Dunlop's class.

All right, here we go.

Boom.

Wow.

Well, I guess you're gonna

just be four-time champion then.

That is if I can once again

beat my grinchy neighbor.

She's probably been

practicing all year round.

Who's that?

Just my busybody neighbor

who won't get off my case

for not decorating

my Christmas tree.

Do you want some

hot chocolate or something?

Unless you have to go.

No, no. I-I...

I got time.

Great. I can whip some up quick.

Judging by what I just saw,

I believe it.

Okay.

Hang tight.

Wow.

Well, thanks for the tour

and the hot chocolate.

You're welcome.

Do you need anything

else for your story?

Um...

maybe. I...

Yeah, I gotta meet someone.

I gotta...

I gotta run, but, uh...

I'll let you know.

Okay.

Well, you know where to find me.

Thanks.

See ya.

Bye.

Oh, well, welcome back.

Okay, that guy is so not taken.

- Were you spying on me?

- Of course.

We are the 426.

We must be informed.

Yeah, Tina's right.

I think you got

the wrong impression,

whatever you saw the other day.

It didn't look casual.

Okay, well, why don't you just

talk to him and ask him?

I'm afraid to.

Why?

Because I don't want

to hear the wrong answer.

What if you hear

the right answer?

Fair point.

You go get him!

Hey!

Sean!

Good to see you, bud.

How you doing?

How was your day?

Seriously?

Okay, so, you think

seeing Owen's face on a

park bench might be a sign?

What about that Sean guy?

What about him?

He's taken, I told you.

Well,

there's nothing on his socials

that suggests he's taken,

but he's also pretty private.

He's only posted,

like, four photos.

Wait. Are you seriously

creeping him right now?

Of course!

That's what interns do.

Ahh!

I never even should have

told you about any of this.

They definitely

look like his wife and kid.

I mean, he doesn't

wear a wedding ring,

so maybe just a girlfriend.

But it was definitely

her kid, though.

Seems like you have it

all figured out

without actually

knowing anything.

So, when are you

gonna see Owen again?

I don't know.

He said he wanted to

come to the cocktail hour,

but I told him no.

Okay, well,

it must be so tough being the

object of everyone's affection.

"Everyone." Not everyone.

Everyone.

Just...

Just be open-minded.

Who knows?

Maybe Owen will surprise you.

Okay, well, let's just forget

about all that for now.

The real question is,

are we ready for tonight?

Ready with bells on!

Great!

Let's get ourselves ready, then.

All right.

Look at us, pulling it off.

We took a brilliant idea

and turned it into a reality.

That's what

entrepreneurship is all about.

- Cheers.

- Cheers.

Tickets are moving.

Not quite like hotcakes,

but they're selling.

Slow and steady.

I know Sean's off the market,

but I should have asked him

to come and cover this event.

Would have been nice to showcase

the Young Entrepreneurs Club.

Well, would it

have made a difference

if he was... on the market?

No.

I guess I should have

invited him either way.

You could just text him now.

I could, couldn't I?

Yeah.

Hey, last looks.

Come see the proof

before it goes to print.

All right, can't wait to see it.

Looks great, Shane.

Oh, it's uh, Sean.

Shane works upstairs.

Oh, gosh. I'm sorry.

First week and all, you know.

No worries.

Ah, I'm still learning.

Lil?

- Lil?

- Yeah?

Is that Owen Mansfield

in the flesh?

Owen?

Surprise!

- Owen! Hi!

- Listen,

I know you said you had

it all handled, but I mean,

who couldn't use a little help

from a sales professional.

- Right?

- Oh!

And I brought some guests, too.

Who knows? Maybe they'll buy

some tickets to the gala.

This is great!

Hi!

I'm Kenzie. I'm Lily's intern.

Kenzie's one of our

young entrepreneurs.

Well,

watch and learn, kid.

No one knows

how to sell like me.

What's he doing?

I wish I knew.

Excuse me, if I could have

everyone's attention.

Look at all you fine people.

You having fun this evening?

Look, on behalf of Lily Morgan

and the

Young Entrepreneurs Club,

thank you for

supporting All Wrapped Up

and the St. Paul Christmas Gala.

Get your gala tickets tonight

before they sell out, okay?

I hope everyone

also got a chance to meet

our world-class host.

Now, I'd just like to

take a moment to say,

like many here this evening,

I, too, was once

a... young entrepreneur.

So,

let me impart some of the

lessons I've learned

over the years

to the next generation of

St. Paul's business owners.

Okay,

I see what you've been saying.

You see, marketing

and publicity -

crucial for

any good business plan.

We all know this, right?

Right?

And the key to good advertising

is to stay relevant, and to do

so, you have to continuously

reinvent yourself.

At least, that's

what I was always taught.

But... I...

learned something

really important

over these last few weeks

from our gracious host.

Let's give her a hand, guys.

Come on, come up on stage, Lily.

Don't be shy.

Let's give her a hand.

Come up on stage, Lily.

Don't be shy. Come on.

You see...

...this beautiful

young woman has taught me

that the real key

to success in business,

and anything really,

is to be yourself.

To... be... yourself.

Wow. Write that down.

I mean, she's opened my eyes to

a whole new way of thinking.

So, as you young entrepreneurs

close out your year,

I want you to

remember the important stuff.

No need to reinvent your image

over and over and over and over.

You just need to be yourself.

To Lily Morgan and

the Young Entrepreneurs Club.

Cheers.

Everyone have a wonderful

evening tonight and remember,

if anyone's looking for a home,

I will make

your dreams come true.

So, his personality is as big

as his face printed across town.

I feel bad that he

crashed the event.

Oh, I think...

I think everyone

kind of enjoyed his speech.

Kenze, he's not the one.

I know, but I think

you know who might be.

Except I don't

even know if he's single.

At least find out for sure.

He hasn't even answered my text.

He's probably just working late,

finishing up the article.

Go tell him.

Maybe.

But first...

Oh, yeah, good luck.

Yeah. Well, you know, it's...

Uh, mind if I interrupt

for a second?

Oh, excuse me. Yeah, sure.

Sorry.

Thank you so much.

You saved my life.

Can I get two martinis,

bone-dry?

So, did you like my toast?

It was... something.

It was something.

I mean, it crushed.

Hit that thing

out of the park, huh?

Listen, Owen...

I think you're a very

interesting guy.

Hey, you said I should

be myself, here I am.

And you're obviously

great at what you do.

And I think you're

genuinely a kind man.

Okay, so then,

what's the problem here?

Isn't that what you want?

I actually think

I'm not what you want.

I'm sorry, Owen.

I'm just not the person

you think I am.

Wait.

Are you breaking up with me?

Thanks for all the surprises.

I'm sorry, there's, um...

There's somewhere

else I gotta be.

"At supper club."

What time is it?

I can still make that.

All right.

I'm out for the night.

Sounds good.

Excuse me.

Do you know

where I can find Sean?

Oh, you must be the missus

he's been bragging about.

He just left,

I'm so sorry to say.

"Missus."

Thank you.

Have a good night.

Lily Morgan has got to be

the luckiest woman alive.

Dating Owen Mansfield?

What I would give.

Uh, I wouldn't say that.

Oh, uh, sorry,

the event just wrapped up.

Yeah, guess I...

missed my chance.

Have a nice night.

It looks, uh...

It looks beautiful in here.

Thanks.

Pictures? What?

"Each of the four

dynamic college friends

turned entrepreneurs brings

their own skillset,

"which makes for

a uniquely well-rounded

"and seamlessly

functioning partnership."

"One of the many roles

Lily Morgan fills

"is that of PR

and community outreach,

"but she's also so much more.

Hmm...

"To put it simply,

"Lily is the kind of person

other people want to be around,

"the kind of person

"you don't soon forget.

Then, he goes on to mention us.

Blah, blah, blah, blah.

This is great, Lily.

Between this and the gala,

we are k*lling it.

Well done.

I'm glad the article worked out.

I guess I'll be all alone

under the mistletoe again.

There's always next year.

Dad, can we do

strawberries next time?

Sure we can, yeah.

Why are you putting

a garland on your telescope?

Well, I thought it

could use some holiday spirit.

Why do you love

telescopes so much?

Well, when you look

through a telescope,

you see things you can't see.

It teaches us to always look

deeper, beyond the surface.

What do you mean

"beyond the surface"?

Well, sometimes,

things might seem simple

or obvious at first, but if you

take the time to look closer,

you might discover

something amazing,

Whether it's stars or people,

always look deeper.

I just read your application.

And?

You knocked it out of the park.

I couldn't have

done it without you.

So, how did we end up on ticket

sales after the cocktail hour?

Okay, we sold 76 tickets.

We really need to

sell those last tickets.

The year

All Wrapped Up is sponsoring

can't be the first year

we don't sell out.

Were you able to have

that talk you wanted to have?

Tried to.

I went to his office

and get this,

his co-worker

thought I was his wife.

Is this the guy

you wanted to see?

That's the one. Why?

He came to the restaurant

looking for you.

He did?

- Mm-hmm.

- But what about his wife?

The thing is

I don't think he has one.

Nothing on his socials indicates

he's anything but single.

Maybe she's really private.

Have you talked to him...

directly?

I mean, you said he

doesn't wear a ring, right?

Listen, I love you,

but I don't have time to

overthink this right now.

I have to go. I promised Whitney

that I would decorate my tree.

Finally! That's the spirit.

Yeah. And who knows?

Maybe while I do that, my dad

will give me another sign.

I'll text you later.

Oh, and before I forget,

I thought maybe...

you'd want to hang on

to this guy for a bit.

Yeah, totally.

Are you sure?

Yeah.

Just give it back to me

when the novelty wears off.

Okay.

Lily

...sort of stuck with me.

Oh, yeah?

You've read his other articles?

I had to make sure

you knew what he was doing.

Sounds like Sean has

really made the impression.

I gotta go.

If she wants a sign,

I'll give I'll give her a sign.

Veloci-wrap-tor?

...sound like...

Well...

Email from...

Lily's assistant?

I should have known better

than to believe that one.

I mean the

tree fest is tomorrow.

Well, there's still time.

Please do not throw

that ball in here.

Where are your parents?!

No!

No, no, no!

No, no, no, no, no!

All my hard work...

It's okay.

Maybe we can fix it.

It's no use.

Oh, what happened here?

Now, you show up.

Now, you want to participate.

Well, it's too late.

It's all ruined!

Oh, Whitney, I'm sorry.

Oh, don't act

like it matters now.

I really thought

I'd get the ribbon this year.

I know this all seems

rather silly to you,

but this means more to me than

any other day of the year.

I'm so sorry.

Look, maybe we can...

Oh, what?

Run to the empty shelves of

every store and redecorate?

Let's just write this one off.

She's right,

she might not have

enough time to redecorate,

and after all her hard work.

Hmm.

Well, I can't say Whitney's ever

been particularly nice to me,

but I feel

really bad about this.

Well, she's

a tough nut to crack.

But once you do,

she's a good lady.

Roses in the summer,

pies in the fall,

Juniper Christmas Tree Festival.

We sort of have

these informal contests.

The neighborhood's

a lot of fun that way.

Poor Whitney always

seems to come in second.

I see that now.

Hey.

Sean...

what are you doing here?

Just got an email from your

assistant, saying there was

a problem with the story.

Do you need something

retracted or...?

My assistant?

Yeah.

I'll fill you in on that later.

Any chance you want to

help me with something?

If you're not busy.

Um, sure, yeah, I'd love to.

I'll, uh, get coffees.

It's gonna be a long night.

Ho-ho-ho-ho-ho!

I appreciate you coming

with me this morning, Frank.

- She's coming!

- I can't imagine

there is anything to salvage.

Well, let's take

a look anyways.

You might be surprised.

Oh!

Oh my goodness.

But who?

Must have been a couple of

Christmas elves.

Can I use this in my next story?

No.

Let her believe it was just a

little Christmas magic.

It kind of is, isn't it?

What is it?

I just don't understand

that girl.

- Who?

- Lily!

She did it. She redecorated

my booth, but why?

I mean, I didn't think

she even liked me.

Well, you know,

I knew her father.

He taught my Joey science.

He passed away last year.

I think it was kind of a big

tradition for them,

decorating together.

It's probably been hard for her.

I... I didn't know.

I didn't see.

That's okay. Now you do.

I feel terrible, I've been such

a nag to her all month.

Don't worry, there's plenty of

time to make things right.

Thanks, Frank.

I can't believe

we pulled this off.

I know, right?

What about your booth?

I need to have breakfast first.

All right, I know a place.

Let's, uh...

Okay.

I haven't pulled an all-nighter

since studying for finals

at University of Saint Paul.

Same. Thank you.

Thank you.

Uh, so, um, what does your wife

think about you

being out all night?

Wait, you think I have a wife?

Well, don't you?

No! Not that I'm aware of. Uh...

What's it matter to you?

Aren't you...

Aren't you dating that real

estate guy?

- Owen Mansfield?

- Mmm.

Or so I've heard. Or read.

Well, you'd better check

your sources, Mr. News Reporter.

It was a pretty dodgy website

now that you mention it.

But no, I, uh, I went to

the cocktail thing.

I overheard somebody saying

that you were lucky to be

dating him.

I went on two dates with him.

We weren't a good fit.

Wait, why did you think

I had a wife?

I went to your office

and your coworker said,

"You must be the missus."

What?

Oh.

You must have run into Bill,

he's the new guy.

He keeps confusing me with Shane

who is happily married.

Well and, I, uh...

I saw you with a woman.

Twice.

And you seemed pretty close.

That's my sister, Maggie.

She's in town with my nephew.

They are staying with me

until Christmas.

- Oh.

- So, wait. Wait.

- You came to my office?

- I was looking for you.

I was looking for you!

Why didn't you just ask me?

I don't know.

It seemed like a pretty forward

question, and...

It wasn't supposed to make

a difference.

It was just an interview, right?

So, why did it make a

difference?

Do I really need to answer that?

Kenzie?

When did you get here?

Did you do all this by yourself?

I see you two have finally

caught up.

We did, indeed.

Thanks to some mysterious email.

Huh.

Kenz, this is amazing.

You didn't have to do all this.

We still have to sell

the last few tickets.

Now, check this out.

You buy a ticket...

You take a bow off the tree.

Then you grab one of these.

And replace it on the tree.

Interactive booth.

Not bad, huh?

You've really come into

your own, young grasshopper.

Or should I say,

Christmas Cupid.

Whatever do you mean?

Mr. Allen, would you like to

come with me

to this year's Saint Paul

Christmas Gala?

It would be my honor.

Great.

Well, since you've got

all this handled,

I'm going to go home and change.

I'll see you later?

Yeah, see you later.

And I'll see you later, Sean?

Yeah, wouldn't miss it.

Hi, guys! Oh my gosh,

so good to see you!

Welcome to the festival.

Please take a cookie.

Cool, huh?

Welcome, hi.

Please take a cookie.

- Hi, Frank.

- Hi.

Try one, they're a new recipe.

Oh.

Mmm. Best cookie I've ever had.

Aww, thank you.

Um, so, what are you doing for

Christmas, anyways?

No plans, well, other than the

Saint Paul Christmas Gala.

Well, me too.

Say, um, would you like to ride

to the Alford House together?

Oh, yeah, I'd love that!

Great.

Hi, Lily.

Would you like a cookie?

Sure.

It means a great deal,

what you did.

No idea what you're

talking about.

Oh, I think you do, and it was

incredibly generous,

especially after how

I've treated you. Thank you.

It wasn't me, but we did

see several elves.

Well, thank them too

if you see them again.

I will.

Oh, um, Sean, right?

- Yeah.

- Yeah, come check out my booth.

- Sure.

- Did you know

they're going to have snow

falling at this event?

Um, Lily?

I was told why you probably

haven't decorated.

Oh.

Yeah, it's okay.

No, it's not.

I sometimes, well,

I pay too much attention

to the way things look,

and I don't see what's right

in front of me.

I know what that feels like.

- See you at the gala?

- Oh, I wouldn't miss it.

Um, I've shaved a few seconds

off my time.

This might be the year

that I unseat

the reigning fastest wrap champ.

- Hmm, we'll see about that.

- Yes, we will.

We used to do things

like this all the time

- when I was a kid.

- Us too.

I forgot how beautiful Christmas

trees can be.

I feel like my dad

is all around me tonight.

Oh, he is. No question.

Today's been one of the best

days I've had in a long time.

- All thanks to you.

- Yeah, same here.

Do you know when I got the idea

to do this story?

No.

My mom needed a few gifts

wrapped,

and she wanted this really

specific color,

uh, purpureus.

It's a shade of purple.

- Purple.

- Right.

So, she goes to four or five

shops, nothing.

Somehow, she ends up in your

store, and lo and behold,

- you guys actually have...

- Purpureus.

So she comes out of there and

raves to me about your shop.

And then I happen to read that

throughout history,

purple usually represents...

- Fate.

- Fate.

I didn't tell you this before,

Lily, but...

When I saw you in that class,

even just two or three times,

I felt like I got

hit by a bolt of lightning.

And I know that sounds silly,

and I didn't even know that was

a thing until it happened to me.

But... by the time I...

wanted to go up and say "hi"

and introduce myself,

you were gone.

Until a few days ago.

And it's all because

of purple wrapping paper.

It's gotta be a sign, right?

Only if you believe

in that kind of thing.

Pshew.

On behalf of St. Paul

and the Twin Cities,

welcome to the annual

Christmas Gala.

Would the contestants

for Fastest Wrap,

please make their way to

the front.

You have to be in this

one, Mayor Betz!

Oh, no.

I'm rather challenged when it

comes to gift wrapping.

Just ask my wife.

But if this were

a cookie eating contest,

I'd take home the trophy!

Now, our contestants

tonight include

reigning three-time champion,

and the person responsible

for selling out tonight's gala,

Lily Morgan...

...and her

fiercest competition,

and three-time runner up,

Whitney Boyd.

The rules of the competition

are simple.

Contestants will go

head to head.

Whoever wraps their gift

the fastest

and rings the bell first

will move onto the next round,

until we're down to two

finalists

who will battle it out

for the title!

Are we ready?

Are we set?

Three, two, one.

Wrap!

Oh, oh!

Whoo! We're down to four

contestants.

Everyone ready?

And... wrap!

Yes!

Whoa! Wow, folks.

That was fast!

We're down to two finalists.

And yes, folks, it's another

rematch between Lily Morgan

and Whitney Boyd.

Now, the winner tonight will

have their name engraved

on the Gala Wall of Champions.

Contestants, take your places!

Are we ready? Are we set?

Wrap!

You got this, Lily!

Folks, it is neck-and-neck!

Wow! These two are really

putting on a show!

We're coming down to

the final stretch!

Oh!

We have a winner!

Whitney Boyd, the new fastest

wrap champion!

Congratulations, neighbor.

You deserved that one.

Thanks.

It means a lot coming from you.

If you ever have interest,

there's a place for you at

All Wrapped Up.

I might take you up on that.

Congrats on second place.

I hope you know you're the real

winner in my eyes.

Thank you.

Looks like a full house.

The gala sold

more tickets than ever.

I couldn't have done it

without you, Kenz.

All Wrapped Up really

pulled it off.

Hats off to you and the girls.

Thanks for everything.

You've got a bright future

ahead of you.

You just might be right.

My application got accepted.

Get out!

Oh that's great! Congrats.

And it looks like you got some

good news too.

You did great, Kenzie.

My work here is done.

I can't believe it.

What?

We're all here with dates.

Even Olivia...

wherever she's hiding.

Is that so surprising?

If you knew more about our

relationship history...

yes.

Well, I'm not surprised...

at all.

Owners of All Wrapped Up,

most popular store going,

and sponsors of the annual

Christmas Gala...

dare I say, St. Paul's most

eligible bachelorettes.

Oh, don't even go there.

Shall we?

You know, I watched you wrap at

your store up close,

I think you could have won

the match tonight.

But I didn't.

Hmm.

I almost forgot, I accidentally

bought an extra ticket

to fireworks over Lake Harriet

on New Year's Eve.

Did you now?

Yeah. Coincidence, huh?

Hmm.

Seems more like a sign to me.

Finally!
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