Swing Into Romance (2023)

[bunniefuu]

The dancing continues

here at the third annual

State Regional Swing Championships.

Dancing now:

Christine Sims and Alex Ivanov.

This pair has been dancing together

since they were teenagers.

You know what I heard?

They just got engaged.

They are coming off a phenomenal year,

and these finals are no different.

Their cha-cha and rumba were magnificent,

and this swing is electric.

With a win tonight, they have a chance

at a feat no other pair has accomplished:

namely,

three straight national championships.

Now, let's see if they can put a bow

on this phenomenal year.

Oh, no.

That simple slip

has knocked them out of contention.

- How's it look?

- Looks great, Dad.

- A few inches higher?

- It's perfect.

Perfect it is.

- Let's break this down.

- Okay.

There we go.

It's Andrew's birthday on Saturday.

I promised I'd make him

my famous Linzer torte.

- With the raspberry jam?

- That one.

Lucky guy.

What's the damage?

$24.50.

Oh. Oh, dear. Oh.

I left my wallet at home.

We'll just start you a tab.

Can't have torte without raspberry jam.

What would I do without you,

sweet Jennifer?

Mrs. Gregory!

Christine! I heard you were home.

I think Mom told half the town

before my plane hit the tarmac.

Sweetheart, I'm not putting you to work.

I'm happy to give a hand.

I've got two of my own.

They work just fine.

- Are you back for long?

- A few weeks.

She's starting a new job in Seattle.

What is it?

I'll be at a consulting firm

specializing in human resources

- Human resources

- and optimization strategies.

Whatever she said.

But all the way to Seattle?

We have jobs in Appleton.

This one comes with a corner office

and a view of the Space Needle.

Mmm.

Honey? Need anything else

to put up for the festival?

Some of those potted plants from out back.

You got it. Okay.

Where are you off to?

You said I can't help you,

so I'm going to help Dad.

She's got you there.

Sweetheart, it's almost lunch.

I'm gonna meet your father at the farm.

Can you lock up?

Yeah, sure, sure.

Oh.

- Oh.

- Can I?

- Thank you. I'll just be a minute.

- Take your time.

- You're closing already?

- Just an hour for lunch.

Oh, that's...

It really is a small town, huh?

Okay.

- Can I help you find something?

- I think I got it, thanks.

Uh, I think I've been down

all your aisles.

- Twice.

- Hmm.

If you tell me what you're looking for.

I can help.

Paper, a ruler, glue

On the side. The aisle you didn't go down.

Right, just

Oh! Um Sorry.

It's okay.

That's, uh

That's where that goes.

I'm sorry, I just haven't been

in a store in ages.

I usually just, you know,

have stuff delivered on the app.

And, uh, yeah, you know, no lines.

No small talk with cashiers.

Not that I haven't enjoyed

talking with you.

- Lovely. Pleasant.

- Why, thank you.

I'm sorry. It's just, uh

It's already been a long day,

and I haven't had a decent sleep in weeks.

We have chamomile.

Or valerian, actually.

- Ooh, that...

- Yes. It's a root.

My grandfather swore by it.

Thirty minutes before bed,

you'll sleep like a baby.

Huh.

Well, thanks, but I think I'll just stay

with what I came for.

Oh, and glitter. Glitter.

- Good morning.

- Good morning.

How many eggs am I making you?

I'll just do toast and coffee.

Is this for me?

I'm not letting you out that door

on an empty stomach.

What were you eating at school?

Now I'm nervous to tell you.

Two eggs, please.

Right answer.

- Oh, man.

- What happened?

Oh Charlotte got out of her pen again.

- Boots!

- Oh, sorry. Sorry.

Found her grazing in the back 40.

It's an entire unplowed field of grass.

It's her dream.

I don't get it. I've patched the wiring

on her pen three times in the last month.

She gets through.

I don't know who's more stubborn.

You or that goat.

- I do.

- Oh, hush.

Christy, would you grab

your father a shirt?

Yeah, sure.

Thank you, honey.

- Charlotte's winning. You know that.

- I know.

Mom? Dad?

What is this?

The bank switched hands

last year, honey, and, uh

The new owners took over.

They brought some changes.

They've been raising rents

on a number of properties around town.

How much?

A lot.

Why didn't you tell me?

We didn't want to worry you.

We hoped with a little time,

we could find a solution. But

So, what does this mean?

Are you closing the store?

No, we have some parties who are

interested in taking over the lease.

It's a great location.

Taking it over to save it

or to turn it into something else?

You never know.

Somebody might look at it

as a good investment.

We're just going to enjoy

the time we have left.

We need to fight this.

Honey, it's out of our hands.

I...

Chris? Where are you going?

- I'll be back.

- What about your breakfast?

- Hi, Candace.

- Hi, Christy.

Is Ben available?

Oh, I'm sorry. He's out for the week.

- He's up at his cabin.

- Oh.

Oh, but if it's important,

I can try and page him for you.

Uh, I just had a question. It can wait.

Well, in that case,

you could run it by Mr. Russell.

Mr. Russell?

Ben wanted to spend time with his family,

so he brought him on.

Well, if you have questions,

he'll have answers.

He used to work

for a really fancy firm in Chicago.

Can you believe it?

And now he's here?

Well, he's with somebody,

but if you want to wait...

Just make sure you keep all those receipts

if you plan on writing off those expenses.

And if you have questions,

come see us or call.

Great. Thank you so much.

- My pleasure.

- Oh, I brought something.

Just for you. I got them from Penny.

Penny?

My hen.

Oh. Wow.

That... this is really not necessary.

No, I insist. I insist.

Christine! Hey, I heard

you were back in town.

Hey.

- Oh, it's good to see you!

- You too.

I'll see you at the fair. Thanks.

Uh, Mr. Russell,

Christine had a question for Ben.

- Any chance you have a moment to field it?

- Sure.

Hello again.

Hello.

Uh You've met?

Yesterday, we

How'd you sleep? You look great.

Very well, thank you.

Ah, the valerian.

You had a question?

Oh, if it's okay, I'll wait for Ben.

He knows our family history.

But thank you, Mr. Russell.

Matthew.

And if you change your mind, I'll be here.

Do you want any of these?

- I'm allergic.

- I live on a farm.

What am I gonna do with these?

Where I'm from,

you fry, poach or scramble.

Okay.

See you this afternoon?

- Is your mother making her sweet tea?

- Yeah. Swing by.

We'll have a glass with your name on it.

What's this afternoon?

The Harvest Festival on Main Street.

Oh, and Mrs. Tremblay called.

She's going to be a little bit late.

No problem, just send her in

when she gets here.

She's not going to pay me

with eggs too, is she?

Not everyone in this town has chickens.

She has bees.

Mom, I've had five people today tell me

what a blessing the General Store is.

Appleton needs it.

We don't have another option.

Not yet.

"Where there's a will, there's a way"?

All things come to an end, eventually.

Even the good things.

Um one second.

Hey.

Pretty, huh?

They're Gerberas, aren't they?

You know your flowers.

I planted some in my garden,

but they wilted.

Oh.

Well, those need sun.

- Do you have a lot of trees in your yard?

- One big one.

Hmm. That could be the culprit.

So, are you here by yourself?

No, my dad's just talking to someone.

Dad!

Taylor, I've told you not to wander off

without telling me.

Sorry, Dad. I just wanted

to see the flowers.

Well, hi, again. Again.

Hi.

Do you find it interesting,

us running into each other three times?

That's small towns. Give me a week,

and I'll know your shoe size.

Dad, she says that the tree

is the reason my flowers aren't growing.

Possibly. But not a bad place to start.

I'm sure we can find another place.

We learned this one

in our social dance class! May I?

You may. I'm watching.

She's in lessons at Inspire Dance Studios.

I thought she could make friends

in a new place. She loves it.

How long ago did you move to Appleton?

Uh, almost three months ago now.

She's the reason why I made

the glue and ruler run.

School project.

- Come on, Dad!

- What? I Oh, boy.

I don't know these steps! Here we go.

You're sitting out a do-si-do?

I'm helping Mom with the stand.

She can get along

without you for a minute.

- Well, okay.

- Come on.

Switch!

- Oh, there she is!

- Oh!

Yeah. Oh, there you

I don't know what I'm doing.

- This is my first do-si-do.

- You're doing great.

Thank you! My mother had me

in dance lessons when I was a teenager.

- Really?

- Yeah.

- How about this?

- What are we They're not

Are you challenging me?

Okay. I'm game. "When in Rome."

- Yeah!

- Lasso move. And I can be a little bit

A little country in me.

- Yeah, you got some moves.

- Whoo!

- How long did you dance?

- Five years.

- You must've enjoyed it.

- I was the only boy in a class of girls.

I kind of loved it.

I should probably get to my

Yeah, um My parents are hosting

a gardening party tomorrow. Want to come?

- You and Taylor?

- A party?

It'll be fun. And a good way

to get to know your new neighbors.

- We would love that. Thank you.

- Okay. Good.

42 Oak Grove. 10 a.m.

42 Oak Grove, 10 a.m., we will be there.

- Okay.

- Thank you. Hey, baby girl!

That was my first do-si-do!

- Hi!

- Oh my gosh!

There she is. I heard you were back

and hadn't come by the studio yet.

Aww.

It was my next stop.

- I've missed you.

- Ditto.

And, hey, you are right on time.

Could I interest you

in a raffle ticket or ten?

- Sure.

- We are raising money for a field trip.

I'm taking two of my advanced classes

to the State Regional Swing Competition.

Oh.

It's in the city this year.

Are you competing...

I guess in the 35 and older division?

- Remember when that seemed so old?

- Yeah.

Well, I was supposed to, but with

my quad acting up, I decided not to.

But the prize money

is quite a lot this year.

- Wow.

- Right?

This way. Dinner tonight?

- Yeah.

- Great. Come by the studio after closing.

- Okay.

- Okay, great.

- Feels like a lifetime ago.

- Hmm. Do you miss it?

I mean, kind of. It was such a big part

of my life for so long, but,

eh, the way it ended

I'd love to have you stop by classes.

The students would be so excited.

Yeah, of course. Of course.

We used to go to the General Store

after dance class and get snacks.

My mom would encourage healthy choices.

Your mom still does with my students.

Yeah?

I just found out my parents can't afford

to keep the doors open much longer.

What? Are they okay?

Yeah, it's a bank thing.

I can't imagine this town

without Sims' General Store.

I just know I could come up

with a solution, if I had more time.

Well, it's too bad

you're not still competing.

Uh, no, no, no, no.

I mean, it might be a long shot, but

- You won State Competition.

- I haven't danced in years.

You can shake off the rust.

I'd need an earthquake.

But that prize money

could buy you more time.

Look. Even if I wanted to enter...

- Which you do

- Who would I dance with?

You could always call Alex.

You can't be serious.

First of all, he has Kelly.

Kelly got married.

She's taking a year off.

I promised myself

I would never compete with him again.

I know he broke your heart.

But if there was ever a time

to set that aside, I mean, isn't this it?

Come on, let's go.

Look at this farm! It's so cute!

It's beautiful here.

Remember the rules of etiquette, Dad.

Say "please" and "thank you,"

no elbows on the table,

and offer help when you can.

- I shall try my best.

- Good Dad.

- Hey!

- Hello!

- You made it!

- We found it, yeah.

And you're wearing a tie.

Yeah, I thought you said

it was a garden party.

Gardening party.

Planting flowers

- "Gardening." I missed the "ing" part.

- Yes.

Sorry. If you want to sit this out,

I understand.

- That's a very nice jacket.

- Well, thank you. But, no.

I think we shall plant in style.

That's amazing.

Oh, and you've briefly met

my daughter, Taylor.

Hey, Taylor. Nice to officially meet you.

- I'm Christine.

- Nice to meet you, Christine.

Hmm

Hey, Mom? Do we have something

we could put over Taylor's pretty outfit?

I think I can find something.

Come with me, Miss Taylor.

- Go ahead. That's so nice, thank you.

- Yeah.

- Wow. This is, uh This is great.

- Yeah.

You know, this might sound a little weird,

but this is my first time on a farm.

- I'm such a city boy.

- Oh. Well, you dressed for it.

Yeah

Do you want the tour later on?

- I would love that.

- Okay.

Now, it's time to "gardening."

Follow me.

Hey, everybody. This is Matthew.

- Hello, everybody.

- He's here to garden.

Yes, even though I dressed for it.

But I'm not afraid to get dirty, so

I'm new. Please put me to work.

Yeah.

Now that the soil's been well tilled,

you want the holes

at least a foot deep for the roots.

Now let's split into pairs

and get started.

- Can we be a team?

- Of course!

What about dear old Dad over here?

You can be my partner, handsome.

I sure can!

Alright.

See? Perfect! Oh, you already

- What do you think?

- No garden outfit, but

Very posh.

Dig a hole

and let's get started.

It's a great find, Mrs. Gregory.

Yeah. We want them evenly spaced.

That's perfect. Good.

Why are we planting spring bulbs

in the fall?

Well, they actually

need the cold to bloom.

Here. You do the next one.

- What if I ruin it?

- You're going to do great!

And I'm right here.

There.

Yeah, perfect!

It's going great.

We need more apple cider, though.

Okay.

- Matthew seems nice.

- Yeah.

Spiffy dresser, too.

We got some wires crossed,

but he was a great sport.

Is it a good idea to get involved with him

right before moving across the country?

No, it's not like that.

I was just being neighborly.

My mistake.

I got a call from Ben.

He said you stopped by his office.

I thought he could help.

You know, we talked to him.

He was our first call.

There's just no reasonable way

that we can come up with

that kind of money so quickly.

Well, Amanda thinks

that I should compete at state regionals.

I thought you'd given up

competitive dance.

Yeah, but the prize money would cover

the rent for more than a year.

Your heart's in the right place, but

I wish you wouldn't carry

this responsibility.

You have a wonderful future ahead.

I don't want our worries

to rob you of that joy.

Your worries are my worries.

This dance competition

probably won't happen.

I don't even have a partner.

We'll figure it out.

I'm sure you will.

I'm sorry, I thought you might

need help with the apple cider.

Oh. Thank you, Taylor.

That is so thoughtful.

It's rule number three.

So, what do you grow here?

Lettuce, tomatoes, all kinds of produce.

And we sell it all at the store.

Huh.

And what about that there?

Ah, the back 40.

Haven't used that in ages.

When I was a little girl,

we had juniper fields.

But they haven't been able

to keep it cultivated,

so now the goats graze there sometimes.

So cute.

- Yeah.

- What was it like growing up on a farm?

I think that's where I got my work ethic.

They used to let me help

before I got busy with dance.

There is so much to do before sunup.

I admire that kind of dedication.

Also the ability to not sleep in

through your morning alarm.

You don't see many farmers with insomnia.

Man, after a hard day's labor,

you're out when your head hits the pillow.

I need to try that.

Taylor, we gotta go!

Where are you?

Hey, there you are. What's going on?

I don't think they're gonna make it.

I moved them far from the shade.

- I guess it's something else.

- Why won't anything grow?

What am I doing wrong?

I don't know, sweetheart.

I wish I could help. I don't...

I know you're frustrated,

but you are gonna solve this,

'cause you are a very smart person.

You take after me.

You got this. We gotta get to class.

We'll figure it out.

Okay.

Alright, baby girl, I'll be back

to pick you up at five.

- I was going to Cammie's.

- I get off work early.

It's gonna be you, me,

and Daddy's special lasagna.

Did you know Christine

used to be a professional dancer?

Oh. No. Really?

Miss Amanda said she spent

six years in the dance circus.

Oh, "circuit."

She's really good.

I saw a video of her last night.

You took dance lessons at my age.

Right, Dad?

- I did.

- Were you any good?

Uh, I was okay, but you definitely

outshine me in that department.

But even though it was a long time ago,

you never really forget, right?

Like riding a bike.

Okay. Spill it.

- What?

- You're fishing.

- I'm not!

- You

There's a big dance competition.

Christine needs a partner.

Oh, sweetie, I think there are

much better options out there than me.

You always say if someone needs help,

we should help them.

It's rule number three.

Oh, right. The etiquette book.

If it had anything to do

with tax deductions, I'd be there.

But I think this is a little bit

out of Daddy's wheelhouse.

But she's just been so nice to us.

I know, sweetheart.

It is a very thoughtful idea.

You're such a kind person, and I love you.

Okay. Go have fun. I'll see you later.

Alright. Today's class is going to be

a little bit different.

We have a special guest.

- Wow!

- Right on time.

You all know this is Christine Sims.

- Hello!

- You also know Christine

is a very accomplished competitive dancer.

- You've all seen the videos.

- Please don't look those up.

Christine is going to be with us today

in class, offering her advice.

I am so happy

to be here with you guys.

You know, this is where I got my start.

Right here in this very same dance studio,

many years ago.

Wow!

Okay, the key to turns is a tight tummy,

so hold onto the bar, go on your toes,

and tighten your tummy.

Good, good.

And then, from there,

turns are easier. Look.

See? Okay, tighten your tummy,

heels together.

Good. Tight, tight, tight.

Heels together. Toes

Yes, perfect! That's so good.

- Thank you so much for coming today.

- I loved being here.

- Excuse me, Christine?

- Hey!

I moved my flowers.

I don't think it's working.

Well, it's only been one day,

but if you want,

I could come take a look.

- Can you?

- If your dad says it's okay.

Hey, T. Let's go!

Oh, I think he'll definitely say yes.

- Christine!

- Hey!

Thanks for coming. Hi! Well

Okay, let's take a look. Yeah.

So, is... is this it?

Yeah.

Okay. Yeah? Um

A lot of clay in this soil.

Did you just move dirt from the backyard

and put it in the planters?

Kind of. I don't

It's okay. We sell a great soil starter

at the store.

Oh, unless you'd rather buy one online,

if that's easier.

I will pick some up in the morning.

Okay.

I'll have my mom put some aside.

And, also, some marigolds.

They'd be so pretty here,

and they do really well.

Do you like lasagna?

Uh

- Yeah.

- Would you like to join us for dinner?

Um, sure, okay.

- Come on.

- Okay. Okay.

I don't know what I'm doing.

Now, cooking, on the other hand

Alright, I got Taylor doing some homework,

but she made me promise

we'd have absolutely no fun without her.

She is such a great kid.

She is my everything.

Hey, what are you doing?

- You're our guest.

- I don't mind.

But you've already been so kind,

helping out with the garden.

It seems really important to her.

Yeah, well, we had a, uh...

A rooftop garden in our last apartment...

Here. And it was big,

and it had lots of flowers,

and it was just

her favorite place in the world.

Why did you leave Chicago?

Um, I wanted to get Taylor

out of the city.

I thought a fresh start

would be good for her.

Well, good for both of us.

My wife passed away a couple years ago,

and that place had a lot of memories.

- I'm sorry.

- No, it's okay.

Do you want some more water?

I got grape juice.

I would've picked up some wine

if I knew I was dining

with the local celebrity.

- Cover's blown, huh?

- Small town, remember?

Right.

Oh.

Hello.

Maybe

Mint chocolate chip

is my favorite ice cream.

- 'Cause it's the best.

- Yeah!

- Yeah?

- Yeah. Can I help?

Please, sit. Allow me.

Um

Is it okay if I ask you

why you stopped dancing?

Oh. Yeah, sure.

My partner, Alex... Alex Ivanov...

He was this very intense,

very talented Russian ballroom dancer.

His parents and he moved here

from Moscow when he was 15,

and we started dancing right away.

- He upped my game, that's for sure.

- Mm-hmm.

And we were very successful for years.

In fact, we were close

to our third national championship.

- Wow.

- Yeah.

But then it came time

for the big finale move.

The Barofski Leap.

- Thank you.

- You're welcome.

Yeah, but, uh

We didn't connect.

And I ended up on the floor.

Ooh.

It's a long story,

but we parted ways shortly afterwards,

and I never looked back.

- I'm sorry.

- Don't be.

- Mmm!

- Mm-hmm.

- So good.

- Mm-hmm, mm-hmm, mm-hmm.

I think everything happens for a reason.

I went back to school,

got a degree in business,

figured out

that I am pretty good at it and I love it.

I'm starting a job in Seattle

next month at a big consulting firm.

- Congratulations.

- Thank you.

So, strategic development, optimization?

Yes! Yeah.

Yeah, so, anyway, dance was great,

but it was time to move on.

But you want to compete again?

Small town.

Right. Small town.

Taylor actually overheard you.

Oh.

I'm thinking about it.

The prize money is substantial.

Oh.

And, um

the bank is hiking the rent

on my parents' store,

and they'll have to turn in the keys

by the end of the year.

- That's terrible.

- It really is.

And not just for them, but for everyone.

I mean, this town needs

Sims' General Store.

But I'd have to find

a new partner, and I'm out of practice,

and it's probably not gonna happen.

I'll dance with you.

Huh?

You need a partner. I volunteer.

I couldn't ask you to do that.

You're not asking. I'm offering.

Okay, I know I'm no Fred Astaire,

but, you know, I can learn.

I've still got a few moves in me.

I am really good under pressure.

I played college baseball,

Division I, until I got injured.

But you and I can get started, and if

a more qualified partner comes along,

you're already ahead of the game.

What, you're serious?

I'm offering 'cause I'd like to help.

Okay. There are three dances...

The qualifiers,

the semi-finals, the finals.

They're short,

but we'd have to train every day.

- I can get out of work by 4:00.

- We'd be a long shot.

Who doesn't love an underdog?

Come on, what do you say? It'll be fun!

Okay!

Yay!

See? We already have

our first supporter in the stands.

And we're gonna need it.

Oh, hey, Coach.

We can skip the formalities.

I am not as flexible

as I once was, it turns out.

Ooh!

Are you sure you're up for this?

You could back out now.

No hard feelings, promise.

I might be

a little out of practice, but

Okay, a lot out of practice,

but I can learn a few one-minute routines

in three months.

Three weeks.

- We should probably get started.

- Yeah, good idea. Okay. Okay.

First thing is the frame.

Right... right there.

Yes, yes, yes. Good. Good.

Chest up, but not out.

Good. Good. Great, perfect.

- Okay, where to? Spin again?

- Okay. Yes, good.

So, remember, this hand,

right above my head.

- Good, and this way, good.

- Just...

- Yeah, that felt better.

- Good.

So, now, let's link that

to the rolling of the arms move.

- That's so hard.

- You got this.

- Got to do it. Let's go.

- You got this.

- Yep.

- Okay.

Okay, ready?

Rock step, triple step,

double turn, rock step...

Oh!

Not crushing of the arms, rolling.

Right. Yes, yes, good. Okay.

Let's do something more fun for now.

- Please.

- Okay. You seem strong.

- Ah.

- Yeah. So... Okay, so, try this.

Put your arms straight out in front.

- Okay.

- Underneath mine.

- Right here?

- Yes, good.

Okay, now lift.

Up?

That is the traditional direction, yes.

Okay. Alright.

Okay, two, one.

- And Yes, that's great!

- That was pretty...

- Oh!

- Mm!

- Oh, I'm so sorry.

- I'm good. Happens all the time.

- No, no.

- It's good.

Okay. Okay, let's do it again.

- Uh, can... Okay.

- Yeah, yeah.

- You okay?

- I'm fine.

Okay, ready? And

Rock step, triple step,

double turn, rock step, triple

Good, slow. And then walk, walk.

I gotta walk and get some water,

I'm sorry. Just

Yeah, all good.

Okay

- Do you have any threes?

- Are you peeking at my cards?

Hey!

How was rehearsal, sweetheart?

Great. Do we still have frozen peas?

Yeah, but if you're hungry,

I made pot roast for dinner.

Working a few kinks out, are you?

Yeah, just a few.

- It's your first day. You'll get there.

- Yeah.

You want me to make you a plate?

No, I'm gonna head up and take a bath.

A very long bath.

But it's going great.

- Good.

- Enjoy.

Fours. Do you have any fours?

Go Fish, my lovely.

Thank you for letting us use the studio.

Of course. How'd it go?

Well, two hours, and we didn't quite

make it past the first move.

He'll get it. He's got a great teacher.

I hope so. I mean, I knew

we'd be starting from scratch, but

It's not how you start,

it's how you finish.

Right. Yeah.

And he's a great partner.

He really listens, you know?

Hmm. What kind of a partnership is this?

What do you mean?

Taylor told me about the dinner

you two had.

No, no. It's not like that.

Besides, I'm going to Seattle soon.

Right, for the consulting, optimizing,

"nobody knows what your job is" job?

- Exactly.

- Mm-hmm.

Oh, I've got those files you asked for.

Oh, great.

Yeah, just looking

into the recent rent hikes in the area.

Sims' General Store is pretty popular?

Oh, yeah. Been around for generations.

I can't imagine Main Street without it.

Um, I heard from a source

it might be closing soon.

What source?

My hairdresser's cousin's fianc.

I'll take your word for it.

Thanks.

Can I get you anything else?

- I was going on a coffee run.

- No, thanks. I've switched to tea.

I actually have a lot of honey

to get through.

- Ah, Mrs. Tremblay.

- Mrs. Tremblay.

I'll be right there.

- Alex.

- Long time.

You look great.

Thank you. What are you doing here?

I flew in for State Regionals.

You're... you're dancing

at State Regionals?

Sure am.

I... I thought your partner was

on her honeymoon, or something.

Keeping tabs on me?

No. Amanda mentioned it. But

You always said swing was

an amateur's dance,

meant for wedding receptions.

We danced swing.

Yeah, but only as part

of a five-dance combo

with cha-cha and rumba and

Remember, the real dances?

Isn't this beneath you?

I could use the prize money.

Our training center needs renovations.

Ah.

Who are you dancing with?

I have a few options.

I can't believe I ran into you.

What are the odds?

Well, it is my parents' store.

But I heard you were in New York.

- Keeping tabs on me?

- Maybe.

A dollar fifty.

I'll be here for a few weeks.

I'll see you around.

Yeah.

It was surreal seeing him again.

He looks the same.

- I never liked the boy.

- Dad

I did. When you brought him for dinner,

he came with flowers. It was sweet.

If Alex is competing,

there's no way Matthew and I can win.

Now, that doesn't sound a bit like you.

It's the reality.

Well, it's not all about winning.

Mm, in this case, it is.

Since when have you backed away

from a challenge?

See? I knew we'd see each other again.

Oh. Did Amanda have you talk

to her classes?

I swing by whenever I'm in town.

Can't forget where you came from.

So, you neglected to mention

you're also competing at State Regionals.

- Did I?

- Yes, you did. So, who is he?

- Who?

- Your partner.

Is it Stevens?

Cortez?

Garcia.

You pulled him out of retirement.

It's not Garcia. You don't know him.

I know everyone.

- Matthew Russell.

- Russell?

Yeah, he's outside

the National Dance circuits.

- Collegiate?

- Accounting.

You're dancing with an amateur?

Yeah, but you know, he has training.

Really?

Yeah, he actually has come a long way,

and he is gonna do great.

Hey, I have been practicing all weekend,

and I can finally touch my toes.

Uh

Oh. Hey.

Hi. Sorry. Hi. Matthew.

Alex.

- Alex. Alex.

- Mm-hmm.

Okay. Wow.

I've, uh, heard so much about you.

All good things, I hope.

Well, I'll leave you to your rehearsal.

Wouldn't want you to waste

a minute of preparation.

So, that's your, uh,

your ex dance partner?

- Yeah.

- He's, uh he's pretty intense.

- Yeah. Let's get to work.

- Let's do it.

Okay, one more time. Okay.

Rock step, triple step,

double turn, rock step,

one and two, walk, walk, and then...

- Oh, oh!

- What is that?

Okay. Let's go. Let's do it again.

I can do this.

I told you, I'm competitive.

- You're doing great.

- I'm not, though.

I just want you to stop thinking so much

and start feeling. Here, take my hand.

It's a push-pull. There's a connection.

Just feel the connection,

feel the joy in us moving together.

Dance is synergy and fun.

Just get out of your head.

I've never been good

at doing that, though.

I may have an idea. Are you free tonight?

I could be.

I want you to meet me somewhere.

I think it'll help.

- Hey!

- Howdy!

Here we are.

- This is not what I expected.

- What were you expecting?

I don't know,

something a little less country? But

I like it!

- Alright!

- I'm excited.

We used to come here to dance.

No judges, no awards on the line.

Just for fun.

- Yeah, an escape.

- Yeah.

I thought this wouldn't feel

like a lesson.

Good thought.

I love her, love her, love her

Working for my baby, I do

Well, I love her, love her, love her

Working for my baby, I do

Wow, you weren't kidding.

He is really good.

Working for my baby, I do.

Can I buy you a drink?

Oh, uh No, no. After.

The dance floor awaits.

- Already? Right in?

- Yes, sir.

- Okay.

- Let's do it.

Let's do it.

Alright.

- Okay.

- Okay.

Ready? Okay. And

Triple step, triple step.

- Right.

- Back step.

Don't look at your feet, look at me.

Loosen up.

Gosh, listen and have fun.

- Fun, fun.

- Yeah. Ready?

Yes, yes, yes.

There we go! Yes, yes.

Here we go. Here we go.

Rock step, triple step, triple, rock step.

Yes.

Rock step. Yes!

Whee!

Wow! Woo!

- I got it!

- It was so good!

- Thank you. We were good!

- You were great.

And I didn't step on your feet.

Can I get us some waters?

Make mine a ginger ale.

Whoa, risk-taker! Look at you!

It seems you two had a breakthrough.

I just had to loosen him up a little bit.

Stop thinking and start feeling.

Oh, I think he's feeling, alright.

You know you can't confuse chemistry

on the dance floor with real life.

Hmm. I know that and you know that,

but does he know that?

- Here you go.

- Thank you.

- Hi!

- Cheers.

Can I steal her away for a moment?

Oh. I'm all danced out.

Just one dance.

For old time's sake.

They've all been asking for it.

Actually, I'd love to see it

and get some pointers.

Okay.

B-17.

Come on, Peaches. Let's give 'em a show.

Whoo!

You still got it!

Wow.

You should've seen them back in the day.

Why wasn't he her first choice?

After they broke off the engagement,

things wouldn't be the same.

Great job, guys. You still got it.

Maybe a little.

Coach, that was amazing.

- So fun to watch. You're incredible.

- Thank you.

- You expect me to do some of that?

- Yeah.

Well, told you it was a long story.

We were partners on the dance floor

for so many years.

At one point, it just made sense

to be partners off.

But he was easily distracted.

- Ah.

- Yeah.

And he wasn't there for me, you know?

Except for on the dance floor.

Sometimes, not even then.

Anyway, ancient history.

He's moved on, so have I.

He didn't look like

he'd moved very far at all.

He can look any way he wants.

I mean, I would never go back to him.

- Oh, I'm sorry.

- No, it's okay. It's okay.

No, no, no, I like that you care.

Yeah?

Anyway, do you think

this field trip helped?

- Definitely.

- Good. Me too. See you tomorrow.

- I'll see you tomorrow.

- Good.

- Drive safe.

- Thanks.

Here we are.

- I wonder what we're planting today.

- I guess we'll find out.

Hello!

Welcome back. Ready for round two?

- So glad you could make it.

- Yeah, glad to be here.

You know, I kind of miss the tie.

I can't w

Hey, let's go see Charlotte, shall we?

- Can I?

- Of course you can. Have fun.

- Have fun!

- Wow.

You know, if I may say,

you seem really happy.

I don't know what your normal level

of happiness is, but

I am happy.

I love it here.

And the store

I mean, I'm excited about Seattle, but

It's funny. I think, as a kid,

I took all of this for granted.

Well, you know, that's normal.

Yeah, I just always assumed

I would have all of this to come home to.

Then why did you leave?

To make it in the big city.

Make my parents proud.

I think your parents would be

proud of you no matter what.

- Let's get you to work.

- That's why I'm here.

- There you go.

- Rake.

- Have at it.

- Just over here? Just start?

- Yep!

- Thank you. Hi!

Thank you for coming.

Yeah, did you have fun?

Hey! How about this one?

Christine, can I just talk to you

for a sec before?

Yeah, yeah.

- What's up?

- Yeah, so I've

I was thinking about this

all night, and, uh

Are you sure you want to dance with me?

Of course I do.

'Cause I don't want you

to feel like mm

you're stuck with me.

I'm not dancing with you

out of any kind of obligation.

I think we'll get there,

even if you don't.

So, if anything, you're stuck with me.

I choose you.

I don't...

Okay, then. Uh

- Taylor's

- Yeah. Yeah, yeah, yeah. Yes, great.

Thanks for coming.

- Thank you so much for today.

- Yeah.

- Alex? How are you?

- Hi, Mr. Sims. Nice to see you.

Yeah, you too. What are you up to?

- Thanks again for helping my dad.

- Oh, my pleasure.

- Afternoon, Mr. Sims.

- Matthew. Sweetie.

- Hi, Dad.

- What are we doing?

Oh, I'm just putting the seed

in the store.

Okay.

I could use a little help,

if you don't mind.

Thank you.

- Sweetie, how are you?

- Yeah, good, good.

That guy Alex is just everywhere, huh?

- Yeah.

- Do you need...? Okay.

That was quite a show.

Thank you.

I know Alex can be a little

competitive.

That is not the word I would have picked.

Don't let him get to you.

We'll show him on the dance floor.

- Thanks.

- Hmm.

- Can I keep this?

- Yes.

- I'll see you later.

- Thanks for helping.

You bet.

- Mr. Sims, thank you.

- Well, thank you, Alex, believe me.

- See you.

- Take care.

Dad, do we have those marigold seeds?

Okay, what are you doing?

I came here to see

if you'd be my partner for States.

What?

Dancing with you, it's obvious.

We still work well together.

Yes, we do. But I have a partner.

I heard about the store, Christine.

Do you want to roll the dice

on some attorney?

Accountant.

With no professional dance experience.

I'm your best bet, we both know it.

I'm not gonna drop you this time.

I'm not worried you'll drop me.

Okay, what's in this for you?

What if I think you're my best bet?

Thank you. But I'm sorry, I can't.

Alright.

- I guess I'll see you, then.

- I guess so.

- I'm not gonna hold back.

- Neither am I.

Again!

Three, four, five, six, seven!

- Sorry.

- It's okay. It's okay.

Now, let's take a break. Yeah.

We've been trying it for days.

I'm just not getting it.

In the finals, we have no shot without it.

There's nothing else

we can replace it with?

Only something

of equal or greater difficulty.

What about the Barofski?

- The Barofski?

- Yeah.

I've watched a bunch of videos on it.

I think I could do it.

We're not doing the Barofski.

Look, we'll get some rest

and try again tomorrow, yeah?

Okay. I trust you.

Yeah.

Next time, I'll show you

how to make my famous Linzer Tort.

Mr. Gregory's here.

Oh, and your father's home.

- Well, hello, everyone.

- Dad, we made chocolate chip cookies.

- Ah, my favorite!

- That's why we picked them.

The last tray's in the oven,

and you can pull them

when the timer goes off.

Sounds good.

Thank you so much

for looking after her, Mrs. Gregory.

What are neighbors for, hmm?

- I saw your ride out there.

- He's always on time.

Say hi to Mr. Gregory for me.

- I will. Good night, sweetheart.

- Good night, Mrs. Gregory.

Thank you again, Mrs. Gregory.

Get home safe.

Oh! Well, it looks like

you two had fun, huh?

- Those are not cool yet.

- They're better this way.

Mm.

You were right. You were right.

Can you head upstairs

and get ready for bed?

I'll be up in a sec.

Mmm.

- They're really good, though.

- Good night.

I love you. Be up in a sec.

Dad, are you hurt?

Uh

No, it's just an old injury.

A little ice, and it will be good as new.

I promise.

Oof

I called a friend who makes

this amazing organic fertilizer.

You could grow corn

in the Sahara with this stuff.

It should do wonders for her garden.

Thank you, that's

Hey! Break a leg, you two.

We're all rooting for ya.

- Thanks, Janet.

- Thank you.

Half the town has bought tickets

to our debut.

Ooh, no pressure.

One week left. We'll be ready?

Yeah, we'll get there. We're doing great.

Okay. Thank you.

You okay?

I just should watch where I'm going.

- See you tonight, yeah?

- I'll be there.

Yeah, okay.

Seven, eight.

One, two, three, four, five, six, seven.

Let's get... Yeah.

One, two, three... Okay.

Five... No, no, no.

One, two, three, four,

five, six, seven, eight.

- Yes!

- Okay, yeah, yeah!

Woo!

That's pretty.

Yes! Oh!

He's doing so great,

but we don't stand a chance

without the high-point closer.

- He still can't get the step?

- Not yet.

- He said he wants to try the Barofski.

- You think he could do it?

I mean, he's strong enough, but

So, what's the problem?

But to run

and jump like that? Um

You remember what happened last time?

Yeah. Alex got distracted and dropped you.

This is a little different.

It's just hard to

trust someone that much.

Are we still talking about dancing?

Chris, look.

You gotta take the leap sometime.

You need to ask yourself

if he's the one you want to take it with.

Come on.

Hello?

- Oh, hey, come in.

- Hi

Sorry to bother you.

I know we talked about

using today as a rest day, but

You would like to practice.

Can you?

Absolutely.

Thank you. You're the best, really.

Oh

- Are these our books?

- They are.

I thought I would take another look.

That's amazing.

The prize money is a short-term solution,

and even if they had an extra year,

they would need to find a new strategy

to better monetize their assets.

Yeah.

- Have you found anything?

- Maybe.

You're an MBA, I'm a CPA.

Together, we should be able

to figure this out.

Yeah, we should.

Um

I thought we'd start

with that unused acreage.

- Okay.

- It's full of potential.

Okay, Mrs. Gregory's

gonna pop over here soon.

I won't be too long tonight, I promise.

- What are you watching?

- Alex Ivanov's Nationals video.

Huh.

- He got the highest score on record.

- Yeah, of course he did.

Dad, you're gonna be incredible.

Oh, yeah? Why is that?

'Cause you have something he doesn't.

What, a trick knee?

Christine.

Hmm. Yeah.

Well, that'll be her. Um

End the screen time. Best behavior?

I'm always on my best behavior.

That's true.

- Have fun, Dad.

- Thanks, T.

Hello, Mrs. Gregory.

Thanks for coming over.

Five, six, seven, eight.

And one, two, three, four.

Five and six, seven, eight.

One and two, three and four.

Five and six, seven, eight.

One and two, three, four,

five and six, and seven and eight.

This and then

Yes! Twice around, and then down.

- And then

- Boom!

Whoa-h*-h*!

- We did it!

- Can you believe it?

- You were great!

- I really was!

Huh.

- What's wrong?

- Huh?

Nothing. No, I'm good.

Doesn't look like nothing.

- What aren't you telling me?

- I just...

You know, just, sometimes

when I push too hard, it swells up,

but, honestly, I think it's gonna be okay.

That does not look okay.

It looks a lot worse

than it feels.

Yeah? Then walk to me.

Wa... Okay.

- How long has it been like that?

- Not long.

It just needs to rest for a few days.

The competition's in three days.

Then I will push through.

It might be better by then.

I'm not gonna let you hurt yourself.

What's the alternative?

- We drop out.

- No, you can't do that.

It's not worth permanent injury.

What about Alex?

- What?

- He's been trying to partner with you.

Just call him, accept.

- You've worked too hard, Christine.

- I won't compete with Alex.

I promised myself that long ago.

Okay. Then we will find

another way to save the store,

I will help, and we will do it together.

Yeah.

- How's your grilled cheese?

- It's great.

Hmm.

- So, I have a question for you.

- What is it?

So, it's just been you and me

for a while now,

but I was wondering

how you'd feel if it was maybe

someone new soon.

- Someone new?

- Yeah.

You know I love your mom very much,

and I would never try to replace her.

I know.

Christine's really nice, don't you think?

Yeah, I do.

That was subtle.

I'm ten.

I will. Yes, I will. Okay, thanks.

- Everything alright?

- Yeah. That was the property manager

for the apartment in Seattle

reminding me to send information.

I've been a little preoccupied.

Anything you want to talk about?

Well, I...

I really wanted to win this for you.

I feel like I let you down.

You used to get very stressed

about winning,

but you never had to win this.

Your father and I will be okay.

Will you, though?

We have each other, and we have you.

We'll be just fine.

My great-grandfather

opened this store

without a nickel to his name.

Said every town needed

a place it could rely on.

- It meant a lot to a lot of people.

- Mm-hmm.

Including us.

Including us.

I still remember the first day

you walked through that door.

I nearly dropped all the boxes

I was stacking.

Nearly?

If I remember correctly,

you did drop them.

The old man docked my pay 30 cents.

Worth every penny,

just to get you to notice me.

Aw

It's me. Can we meet?

Change of heart?

I need to win. Can't afford not to.

- Then let's get to work.

- Yeah.

There we go. Got it for you.

- Thanks, Dad.

- You're welcome.

Christine called. She's at the studio.

That's down the block.

Why don't we go say hi?

Great idea. And why don't we

pick her up mint chocolate chip?

- You're catching on, Dad.

- Oh.

Is she in there, Daddy?

Yeah, but she's a little busy.

- Matthew.

- Where are you going?

He has the wrong idea about us.

Does he?

We're good together, Christine.

Maybe once. Not anymore.

Here you go, sweetie.

We'll catch up with her later.

Matthew! Matthew!

It's not what it looks like.

I said I wasn't gonna go to Alex,

but I couldn't let my parents

lose everything.

I tried calling you.

I'm not upset.

I'm glad you found a partner.

Oh, and we got this for you.

Good luck.

Hey. All ready?

It looks beautiful, sweetheart.

You did a wonderful job.

- I had help.

- Yeah, we both did.

You said you're not dancing

with Christine,

but we'll cheer her on tonight, right?

I don't think she'd want me there.

Because you drove away

and left her on the sidewalk?

- For starters.

- You should talk to her.

- Do you really like the garden?

- I really do.

Finally feels like home.

Good job.

There you go.

So nice to see you again, okay?

Take care.

How you doing?

I'm okay.

Matthew will come around.

I hate to see you this blue.

You have so much to look forward to.

Like an exciting new consulting job,

whatever that is.

Mom, I'm not going to Seattle.

What?

You want to know

what that human resources,

optimization strategy,

consulting job was all about?

Helping businesses.

And what better place than right here?

Sweetie, I'm not sure

there's gonna be much to do.

Look, whether it's figuring out

a way to save this store,

or saying goodbye

and starting a new chapter,

we're gonna do this together, as a family.

Okay?

Okay.

- I love you.

- I love you too.

Oh, hey. How's the knee?

Yeah, it's better. Thanks.

It's too bad it flared up when it did.

Christine's got a better partner anyway.

Didn't you hear?

Christine's not competing anymore.

What?

Why?

Did Alex let her down again?

It was her choice.

She can't dance with somebody

she doesn't trust.

You good, sweetie? I got this.

Okay. Go have fun. I love you. Bye.

Come on, Taylor.

Can I help you find anything?

I hope so.

I need a dance partner.

What?

Matthew, I am so sorry about last night.

No, I am sorry. And don't apologize

for wanting to help your family.

You're a fighter, Christine.

But what about your knee?

- Rested and ready.

- Are you sure?

I've never been more sure of anything.

- Come on!

- That'd be Taylor.

Grab your coat, let's go.

Okay. Alright. Bye, Mom!

- Bye-bye!

- Bye, Jennifer.

We gotta get a move on,

we're gonna be late!

- We have a competition to win.

- My dress.

Your dad gave it to me.

It's from the garden, for luck.

Alright, let's do this.

You in?

- Have fun!

- Thank you!

See you, Jennifer.

Good evening, ladies and gentlemen,

and welcome to tonight's competition.

Dancers, take your positions

for the qualifying round.

Please make sure you spread out

so the judges can see.

The competition begins now. Good luck.

The judges have made their selections.

Here are tonight's semi-finalists.

Couple number 14.

Couple number 18.

Couple number 16.

Couple number 30.

Congratulations, finalists!

And now, dancers, prepare yourselves.

It's your time to shine.

Oh!

Just focus on me.

What about the final move?

Can your knee handle it?

Probably not.

Do you trust me?

I do.

Barofski!

You did it.

Oh.

Bravo!

Ladies and gentlemen,

our second-place winner is

Christine Sims

and newcomer Matthew Russell.

Congratulations.

- Thank you.

- Well deserved.

Thank you.

There you go.

Oh, hey, Alex. Congratulations.

Thank you.

I don't remember a kiss

in the choreography.

Congratulations on a well-deserved win.

And good luck with those renovations.

Thank you. Will I be seeing you

around the dance circuit?

It was fun to step into my old life

for a minute,

but I think my future is somewhere else.

Best of luck.

- How you feeling?

- Ooh!

I'm sorry, Christine.

- For what?

- We didn't win.

Of course we won.

Yeah.

Ooh!

We didn't get the full prize money,

but our second-place win

is enough for seeds and supplies

to develop the unused plot of land,

the back 40.

You also qualify for state

and local tax credits on those purchases.

And once the crops start to come in,

a farm loan will help bridge the gap

until profits increase.

Oh!

Oh, this is incredibly wonderful.

But we don't have enough hands

to work that field.

Actually you just might.

You were always there for them.

They'd like to return the favor.

Sweetheart.

- Matthew. Thank you.

- My pleasure.

Oh, honey.

- Love you.

- I love you too.

Let me say hello.

Hello! Oh, you guys.

I'm so glad to see you.

- Well, this all feels amazing.

- Yeah, it does.

Nice work, partner.

- "Partner." I like the sound of that.

- Me too.

Oh!

You know, next year's regionals

are only 361 days away.