Sweetest Christmas, The (2017)

[bunniefuu]

♪]

♪ It's lookin' like
it's about to snow ♪

♪ The leaves on all the trees
fell months ago ♪

♪ It's Christmas ♪

♪ I'm so glad it's Christmas ♪

♪ Once again ♪

♪ The carolers
are warming up to sing ♪

♪ All around you
hear the sleighbells ring ♪

♪ It's Christmas ♪

♪ I'm so glad it's Christmas ♪

♪ Once again ♪

♪ I'm looking out
for some mistletoe ♪

♪ I just want
the whole world to know ♪

♪ I've got everything
I need this Christmas ♪

♪ I don't even need
to make a wish list ♪

♪ More than presents
'neath the tree... ♪

Okay, just
a little bit more snow.

Oh, that looks great.

[camera app snapping]

And I think that's a wrap.

Perfect.

All right, now,
I'll email these off,

and just keep
my fingers crossed.

Do you think you'll
get into the contest

this year, Aunt Kylie?

Who knows?

Maybe this year
I'll have a Christmas miracle.

Oh, thank you
for your help, ladies.

Thank you.

[♪♪♪]

Can I have the roof,
Aunt Kylie?

Can I have the tree?

[chuckling]

I thought you might
ask for that,

so I made these.

I want a star!

Me too!

Well, I actually
made these for Santa,

but you know what,

if you eat them really fast,
he'll never know.

Too late.

I saw,

and I have a direct line
to Santa.

No, Mom, we want to bake
like Aunt Kylie.

See, the great thing
about pretend baking

is that it can happen
just as easily

in the living room.

Far away from real hot ovens.

Let's go.

[toys clattering]

Vroom!

Kylie, this is even better
than that sleigh you made

a few weeks ago.

You think?

Are you talking
about the one

for the American
Gingerbread Competition?

-Yeah.
-Let's hope so.

'Cause that one didn't even
get me a rejection letter.

You still haven't heard back?

No.

Aw. [sighs]
That's a shame.

You really could have used
that prize money.

Oh, come on,
who needs $ , ?

Okay, don't tell me
that you made this

for the Hawkey Homes
Christmas party?

Yeah.

I love baking,

and it's kind of
part of my job

to make sure the office
looks festive...

as the receptionist.

The temporary receptionist.

You spent too much money
on culinary school

to be answering
phones.

Have you heard me
answer the phone?

[clearing throat]

"Good afternoon, Hawkey Homes,
we make dreams come true."

[laughs]

Don't you think every time
I pick up the phone,

I wish I was picking up
a pastry bag?

There's only eight
restaurants in this town,

and only one that could
afford a pastry chef...

Ooh, Chez Philippe.

You were amazing there.

I just wish "amazing"
could've kept the owner

from selling the place.

Or pay off
your cooking school debt.

Oh, you've had
an unlucky year, Sis.

Unlucky?
I'm not unlucky.

I have a sister

who lets me live here for free.

You have to pay me in cookies.

[chuckling]

And an amazing boyfriend,
Alex,

who can throw me
some receptionist work.

Temporary.

So temporary

that I actually applied
for a startup loan yesterday.

For your cake business.

Yes.
If it's approved,

Kyliescakes.com
will be up and running by June.

And you know what,

I may not have to live here
for very long,

because...

I really feel like things are...

things are going to change
this Christmas.

Alex has been really
dialing up the romance.

Alex?

Mr. Business?

Yes, he is being
very suspicious

about our anniversary dinner.

Oh, so you think
he has something planned?

Well, I mean...

when it's meant to be,

it's meant to be.

Right?

Huh.

[chuckling]

What is with
this coffee maker?

How is it the
best boyfriend ever

is the worst
coffee maker ever?

Nonsense, Kylie,
I'm a builder.

We're known
for our handiness.

Ah!

Let me do it.

Make it a double.

Today is nuts.

I've got three
building inspections,

two plan reviews,

lunch with
a new investor.

Not to mention
our big event.

Yes.

How is all that coming along?

Great.

I bought some new heels,

and my dress is in the car--

But the Christmas party
isn't until next week.

[coworker]:
Christmas party?

Let's see,
the invites are out,

we've got confirms
so far.

You booked
the string quartet?

Yes, and gave them
your set list.

Brilliant.

I have full confidence
in you, Kylie.

This is going to be
the best party

we have ever had.

Without a doubt.

[quietly] But, Alex,

I was actually
talking about tonight.

You know, our...
anniversary dinner you planned?

Ah! the dinner.
Of course.

I hope you work up
an appetite.

You are going to love
this restaurant.

[cell phone rings]

Excuse me.

Uh-huh. Yeah.

[whispering]
Where are we going?

He won't tell me.

He's doing everything himself.

He says
everything has to be perfect.

Really?

-Yes.
-Really?

Yes!

[squeaks]

Enough whispering, you two.

We have a lot to pack in

before we all go home
for the holidays tomorrow.

But I know,
with your help,

we can slay it.

You get it?

"Sleigh?"

'Cause it's Christmas.

Oh, like "sleigh", "slay."

Of course.
That's hilarious.

[quietly]
Good thing he's handsome.

[sighs]

He's adorable.

There are only eight
restaurants in Helen.

I'm gonna figure it out.

Hold on,
a few more steps.

Ooh, I smell garlic.

Ooh, ooh, I've narrowed it
down to six.

No narrowing!

You forget that this nose
has been to culinary school.

I mean, this nose
has been...

it has spent years inside
Michelin Star restaurants.

[chuckling]

Where are we going?

We're almost there.

And here to the right...

Okay...

You must be thrilled

every time you walk into
one of these places

knowing that
that's all behind you.

Well, actually,

I'm really passionately
about baking, but--

Wait, we're eating here?

Yeah, what's wrong?

You said pizza's
your favorite.

No, it is, it's just,
this restaurant is--

Is a five-star pizzeria

that we've never
been to before.

What's the problem?

Uh, we've never
been here before

because it's actually owned by--

What do you two
need menus for?

Allow me.

Lobster taleggio,
truffle fontina,

and a nice bottle
of reserve Amarone.

Hello.

we have a reservation
under Hawkey.

The special table.

Yeah, it's all ready.

Let me know if you...

Hi.

Hi-Hi, Nick.

Kylie Watson,

in my restaurant.

The guys are gonna
have to up their game.

There's a real chef
in the house tonight.

You two
know each other?

-It was a long time ago--
-Millions of years ago--

Alex, do you remember

the guy in the prom photo
I showed you?

You're that guy?

In the flesh.

Minus about pounds
of hair product.

[laughs]

Nick, this is, uh,
this is my boyfriend,

Alex Hawkey.

Of Hawkey Homes.

You must be
the luckiest guy in Helen.

Well, I can't take credit

for Crested Manor.

That's a team effort.

No man builds
an artificial lake

on his own.

Oh, I meant lucky because--

You know what, let's just,
uh, get you to your table.

[Alex's cell phone rings]
Oh, sorry, Kylie.

It's the buyers from that
lakefront property.

Closes tomorrow.

I hope they're not
getting cold feet.

No, take it,
I can wait.

Thanks so much. Sorry.

I have been meaning
to get in touch with you--

You know, I didn't know
he was bringing to be here--

This was, like,
such a surprise--

I feel...

I'm so sorry,
I feel--

Ridiculous.

Yeah, me too.

Yeah. But honestly,
I thought you left town

once Chez Philippe
closed down.

Uh, no, no, I, I...

actually got lucky,

'cause Alex, um,

was able to give me
a job in his office.

Oh.

Steady work?

Yeah, I mean, it's not...

as exciting
as working in a kitchen, but...

I hope that doesn't mean
you've stopped baking.

No, I still enter a contest
every now and then,

but you know, with so many
celebrity chefs these days,

it's...

well, amateurs don't really
stand a chance.

Amateur?

Please,
you're a pro.

Uh, was a pro.

Oh, come on,

you can't let one
closed restaurant get you down.

You have a real talent.

You've got to work
with what you've got.

Thanks.

You've obviously
done that.

I mean,
look at this place.

Look at what you've done

with our old
high school hangout.

When this was
your dad's place,

it was two-dollar slices
and arcade games.

That old claw machine
that kept breaking down?

[laughs] Yes!

The one that you busted open

to give me
that teddy bear?

-I did.
-Do you remember that?

Daddy!

You've met Bobby,
right?

No, I met a little baby

at a church picnic
a few years ago.

You've turned into
such a--

Uh, don't say "little,"
don't say little...

Uh, uh... a large boy.

Can I show you
my invention?

Of course.

[beeping]
It's a pizza spinner.

Wow, are you kidding?

That is genius.

Do you know how many times

I have had to lean
over the pizza

to grab the last slice?

You're gonna
make millions.

Careful,

he's gonna ask you
for start-up money.

[laughs]

What's this?

Oh, okay.

Is this...

Is this your company logo?

No. It's for my friends.

Sorry.

Uh, should we
sit down?

Yeah.

Okay, uh,
follow me.

An amazing meal
with an amazing guy,

in a restaurant
that is Christmas itself.

Alex, this is why I love you.

I know how much
you love Christmas.

Cheers.

And with that
holiday spirit,

this is going to be
the best Christmas party

we've ever had.

I was actually hoping
for "I love you too," but...

Kylie, you know I do.

But lately,

it's so much
more than that.

In the past year,

you have filled gaps that
I didn't even know existed.

[sighs]

Alex, that is so sweet.

I... I feel the same way.

I know this
isn't the job

you've always
dreamed of,

but that's why
I want to give you

a bigger role in my life.

A role
I didn't think

anyone would ever
be able to fill.

[chuckles]

Kylie...

I want you to be
my office manager.

It's a lot of work,

but I figured

with your
culinary school debt,

you could use
a raise, and--

Wait, did...

[chuckles]

I'm sorry, did-
did you bring me here

to tell me
about a promotion?

Well, I wanted it
to be special.

I was very impressed

with that video-
conferencing system

you installed.

Alex, that's something
I did at work.

I-I...

I'm your girlfriend. I...

I thought this dinner
was about us.

Well, it is.

Hey, we're a team.

A team that's
going places.

Hawkey Homes just had
its best year yet.

Thank you
for the promotion, Alex,

and I, uh,

I will do my best
to make your party a success.

So...

we're good?

As boss and employee?
Mm-hmm.

I was hoping for
a little more than that.

[sighs in disbelief]

So was I.

Alex, I can't come home
to just spreadsheets.

I don't want to just be
part of a team,

I... I want to part of a couple.

They're the same thing.

No, Alex.

They're not.

I'm sorry, but...

I don't think
we can be together anymore.

Oh.

♪ ...Laughing all the way ♪

♪ Ha-ha-ha! ♪

♪ Bells on bobtails ring ♪

♪ Making spirits bright ♪

[♪♪♪]

Oh, hey.

Oh, Nick.

Just grabbing some
decorations from my car...

Are you okay?

I'm fine.

Yeah, I'm fine, I just...

This dinner wasn't exactly
what I thought it would be.

I guess Alex and I

are just on different pages.

Oh, um...

I'm sorry.

It was really nice to see you.

Yeah, you too.

What?

What happened there?

I dunno.

The blindfold,

the rose petals,

the special table?

[sighing in realization]

I have to fix this.

Good luck.

Listen, I realize

Alex checked a lot of boxes
on paper, but...

A lot?

He was the first
boyfriend I've ever had

who used a calendar.

Okay, so I realize

that might not make it
into a country song.

[laughs]

Why can't you
take me seriously?

It might be
the reindeer slippers.

[bells jingling]

Can't you just let me mope?

[chuckles]

Tonight would have been
the worst night of my life

if Nick Mazzanti
hadn't been there.

Oh, we were just
in his restaurant.

It's... it's no biggie.

No biggie?

You two were inseparable
back in high school.

And you did
kinda break his heart.

I had no choice, Tina.

I mean, when life puts
that many obstacles

between two people,

you just have to accept it.

Accept what?

That it wasn't meant to be.

Oh.

Right.

[slipper bells jingling]

[Michelle, whispering]:
You broke up with Alex?

[sighs]

[whispering] Does
everybody already know?

Oh, don't worry
about them.

So how are you doing?
Are you okay?

Well, I have to be.

I mean,
I need this job,

so I have to be
professional.

I can't be
the girl who's...

[voice breaking] ...who's
crying in the eggnog!

[sighs in sympathy] Oh!

Maybe I should take care
of the Christmas party.

I mean, you're
in no shape for this.

No, I can't give
Alex more reason

to demote me.

Have you seen him yet today?

He's hiding in his office.

He doesn't handle "no" well.

[sighs]

I mean, I know
he respects my work,

so I just have to believe that
things won't get super weird.

Yeah.

Hey, Alex.

Miss Watson.

Great, it's weird.

Maybe I should look
for a new job.

No! Don't do that!

No one's hiring
at Christmas anyway.

You need
to stick it out.

[cell phone vibrating]

Save money for
your cake company.

I won't have to
worry about that

if this phone call
goes my way.

Hi. This is Kylie.

Oh, no, I-I...

Yeah, of course
I understand.

Thank you so much.

[sighing] Oh, great...

I mean, first Alex, and now...
and now this.

The bank just decided to deny
my start-up business loan.

Oh, Ky,
I'm so sorry.

Can I do anything?

Just... distract me.

What is that?

Oh, just some old invoices--

But this came to you.

The cleaners found it
behind the mail bin.

I hope it's not important.

Oh, my gosh.

[gasps]

Do you remember
the sleigh I made?

Yeah.

I got in.

I got in.

I am a semifinalist

in the American
Gingerbread Competition.

[gasping in delight]
Oh, my god!

But the...
the entries are due--

Next week?

Next week!

[chuckling in shock]
Oh-h*...

[laughs]

You better
get going, girl!

This is amazing.

[♪♪♪]

...no,
that's unacceptable.

I'd really appreciate it

if you could
get one here A.S.A.P.

Wait, wait, what happened?

Is everybody okay?

What's that smell?

Oh, the girls
decided to bake.

Long story endless,

the oven is ruined.

Oh no, if the oven's gone,
how am I gonna win?

Win what?

The American
Gingerbread Competition.

The one here in Helen?

I don't understand,
I thought that they--

I never got
a rejection letter

because I got in.

I'm a semi finalist.

Kylie, that's huge.

That prize money
would be unbelievable.

Hey, good news.

We will have a new oven
by Christmas.

Christmas?

Okay, calm down.

That's only seven days.

I know, but the competition
is in six days.

What am I gonna do?

[♪♪♪]

Well, what about
the Nelsons?

They live right next door.

They would let you use
their oven in a heartbeat.

Ah, but I'd feel
weird asking.

I mean,
it's the holidays.

They have three kids,

and I'm gonna be working
around the clock.

I think it's
too much to ask.

What about Michelle?

Michelle lives in
a bachelor apartment.

She has a stove
and a microwave.

I mean, I really
don't know

what I'm gonna do.

Can we look here
for one second?

Yeah.

[sighing]

What is that?

I have been waiting
for this cookbook to come out

for months.

I didn't even know there was
an English translation yet.

"Ina Bruckner,
The Art of Gingerbread."

You could have
written that.

Oh, no, no, no,
she's the master.

Her books are amazing,

her videos are incredible.

Oh, she has such
attention to detail,

it's just inspiring.

[boy calling]: Hi!

Hey! What are you
doing here?

Am I really
running into you

twice in one week?

Yeah, is it just
too weird?

It's slightly weird.

Nick, do you remember
my sister Tina?

-Hey!
-Hey!

Anybody who loans me their car
to get to prom

gets more
than a handshake.

Oh, that old truck?

I'm surprised you guys
made it there in one piece.

Well, we did
have to push it

the last block.

[laughing] We did.

[laughter]

What's with the cookbook?

Oh, I'm just
doing some research--

No, Kylie made it

into that baking competition,
up at the Helen Inn?

Tina, nobody cares--

Oh, the gingerbread contest.

Yeah.

Yeah, do you know about it?

How could I not?

That's huge.
Congratulations.

[whispering] She can help us
with the cake.

Oh, I don't
think so, buddy.

She's got
bigger fish to fry.

Well, I'd love
to stay and chat,

but his karate teacher
does not mess around.

Merry Christmas, ladies.

You too.

Merry Christmas.

Bobby--

[chuckling]
What?

I just got a new teacher,

and she's having
a Christmas pot luck.

His regular teacher
went on maternity leave,

and the new one wants to do
something nice for the kids.

Well, that sounds like fun.

It's not.

I have to make
a homemade dessert,

and I don't know what to make.

But don't sweat it.

I'm usually better
about this stuff,

but one of my managers
quit without notice,

so I've been working
double-time.

But hey, we're gonna have
a great Christmas anyway,

right, Bobby?

Nick, I'd be
happy to help.

Uh, that's really nice
of you, Kylie,

but we're fine. It's...

No, I could maybe come up with
some easy-to-bake recipes.

Please...?

Swing by the restaurant later?

I'll be there.

You're the best.

Sure.

What?

"I'd be happy to help."

Okay, stop.

[giggles]

[laughing]

[♪♪♪]

I mean, I keep thinking
that maybe I could...

[sighs] No,
it would never work.

Could what?

But you know,
maybe if I actually...

No, I-I couldn't.

Couldn't what?

I mean, I would,
but, you know, it's just...

it's too much to ask.

You know, I'm gonna
refresh this cookie plate,

and let you finish

this conversation
with yourself--

Wait, no, no, no.

No, no, don't go, please.

Listen, promise
you won't laugh at me,

but I had this idea--

What if I asked Nick Mazzanti

if I could use one of his ovens
at his restaurant?

That's not your worst idea.

But do you think
he'd want to help me?

Sure, why not?

You two are old friends.

It doesn't cost him anything.

Right... Right?

But I just...

I don't really know
how to ask.

I mean, like,
how would I approach it?

"Can I use your oven?"

Oh, no way,

that is way too direct.

"Hey, do you have
any extra ovens?"

Tina, come on!

I mean, it's not something

that people just have
lying around.

I was kidding.

I know,
but this isn't funny.

I have to win this contest

if I'm going to start
my cake business.

Hon, all you can do
is your best.

I mean, it's not really
a big deal, is it?

It's just... it's an oven.

Sure. Yeah.

Yeah, it's just an oven.

It's totally...
just an oven.

Just an oven.

[murmuring]
"Maybe you have an oven

you don't use very much...?"

"If you don't use
one of your ovens very much,

I could..."

What oven?

Oh, what?

Oh, no, no,
th-there's no oven.

I was just actually
practicing my list to Santa.

You brought those
for me?

Uh...

Who's this?

That is Ina Bruckner,

and she is the godmother
of gingerbread.

You know, I kind of learned
everything I know from her.

I wish I didn't have
to go to this party.

What do you mean?

Christmas is the best time
of the year,

and cooking for your friends,
that's part of the fun.

But I don't even know
where to start.

Well, let's think.

What's your favorite
kind of food?

Cupcakes.

That's super boring.

No, nonsense.

There's nothing boring
about cupcakes,

only boring cupcake makers.

So you'll make me
some cupcakes?

Um... no.

but I will help you
come up with an idea.

A Christmassy idea?

Yeah, a Christmassy idea.

Know what,

why don't you take this,

and you can write down

everything that you
love about Christmas,

and then we'll go
from there?

Hey, no running
in the kitchen!

Looks like you gave him
his marching orders.

Oh, no, just...
just baby steps.

I just want to help him come up
with his own inspiration.

Hey, I owe you
big time for this.

Ever since Vincente quit,

I haven't had a minute
to spend with him.

Aw.

Hey, I'll
tell you what,

order anything you
want on the house.

Make it a double.
Your boyfriend's gotta eat too.

Uh...

I mean, provided
he's still your boyfriend?

Okay, you guys broke up.

Yeah.

I'm sorry.

My foot tastes
really good right now.

[chuckles]

At least get something
for yourself.

No, you know what,
I had too many chestnuts

at the Christmas market.

Aw, come on,
you gotta let me repay you.

There's gotta be
something I can do.

Okay, so there
is something.

sh**t.

I seem to be at
a bit of an impasse

with my contest entry.

On, no, there's
a molasses drought.

[laughs]

No, but it's more like
an oven malfunction.

Tina's broke,

and I'm having
a really hard time

finding another one
that I can use.

It's really a round-the-clock
kind of job,

so I was hoping that maybe
there was a restaurant

who could let me use
one of theirs...?

Oh!

You want to use one of mine?

Yes, but only if it's not
a huge inconvenience.

No, no, you can
totally use one.

But you gotta clean up
after yourself.

I run a tight ship back there.

Oh, no, I've changed.

I'm not messy anymore.

No, that was the old
Kylie Watson.

Okay.

As long as I don't find
any gumdrops

in my garlic knots.

[laughs] No.

I'll even use my own pans.

Honestly, you'll never even
know I'm here.

When do you want to start?

Well, the contest is...
it's really soon,

so I was kind of hoping
for, like, today.

Great.

Give me a couple hours.

Uh, we have someplace
we need to be.

Hey, bambino!

Grab your coat, let's go!

No hurry.

Whenever
you're ready.

Thanks. So, see you
in a couple hours?

Great, I'll grab my stuff,
and I'll be back.

Great.

Come on, buddy.

Bye.

Have fun!

Oh, wow, Nick,
this kitchen is amazing.

It's all right.

You remember Ralphie.

Ralphie!

Oh, my goodness!

Hi!

You're still here.

And you look exactly the same.

Oh, honey,
that's not a compliment.

You have only grown
more lovely.

That's a compliment.

Oh, and I hear you made it

into that baking contest
up at the Helen Inn.

You know about it?

Know about it?

I've been going to that contest
for the last ten years.

You need any ideas,
I'm your man.

Okay.

All right, this
dough counter work?

Oh, this is perfect.

Well...

back to work.

Nick?

Thank you so much

for bringing me back
into this world.

Let's see
how your enthusiasm holds up

when your gingerbread house

gets disqualified
for bite marks.

Ralphie here is quite
the snacker.

What? Hey!

You talking about me?

Hey, Nick...

No, no, she's fantastic.

No, she taught Bobby
how to make a hockey stop.

Yeah, seriously.

She's sweet,
she's good with Bobby,

but it's like I said.

All right, you'll
tell her for me, man?

You're the best.

Well, she is
not the one.

Who?

Uh, that girl
from earlier.

She did not make
the Nick Mazzanti cut.

That's too bad.
She seemed nice.

Yeah, but she has
no babysitting experience.

You know,
it's a short-term gig

to help me out
over the holidays,

but everyone the babysitting
agency sends me

has no experience.

[Ralphie] What do you
need a babysitter for?

Carlos is
with him right now,

teaching him
how to make ravioli.

That's a very
important life skill.

I don't mind
keeping an eye on him

back there.

You're very kind, Kylie,

but no, a kitchen's
no place for a kid.

How about we ask my wife?

Celeste?

She's been dealing with kids
all year at the high school.

I'm sure she wants
a Christmas break.

Nah, nah, nah,

she's bored out of her mind.

Besides,

whenever she's off work
too long,

all she does
is make me to-do lists.

[chuckling]

Well, when you
put it like that...

Thank you.

Oh, I, uh, had an idea

for your entry.

Oh, I'm all ears.

[tapping out
a dramatic drum roll]

The Empire State Building.

You went through
all that fanfare

for the Empire State Building?

What does that
have to do with Christmas?

You just light it up
red and green.

Nick, do
everybody a favor

and get back to your pizzas.

Hey, believe it or not,

I was asking
for her opinion.

Oh, my opinion.

Uh, I mean, I like it.

I just think
it's a little tall

for something made of,
you know, cookie.

Yeah.

So get some dowels.

Man, don't you know
anything about these contests?

Everything has to be edible.

So get some of those
supersized candy canes

from the restaurant
supply store.

Solder them together
with a blowtorch.

That's a good idea.

See?

I am known to have them
from time to time.

Yeah, you know what,

if I'm working with
something that strong,

I could even go bigger.

The Golden Gate Bridge.

Yes, we could use rope licorice
for the wires.

And there's nothing
more Christmassy

than the Golden Gate bridge.

Okay, so if you're
such the expert,

what's your big suggestion?

Okay, well,
let me see, um...

How about...

Santa's village?

-Oh.
-Mm-hmm.

I like that.

Yeah.

Yeah, and I could do
a big clock tower

if I find those
giant candy canes...

Oh, but you know what,

when Chez Phillipe closed,

I lost my membership
to the restaurant supply place.

Maybe I can find them online.

Nah, don't do that.

We make a run on Saturdays.

As in...
Saturday-tomorrow?

Yeah, I can
make sure you get in.

I mean,
unless you're busy.

No, that'd be great.
Yeah--

[cell phone ringing]
Ah, it's the mushroom guy.

He'd better know
where my morels are.

Excuse me.

Perfect.

If I were a betting man,

I'd say that sounded
like a date.

And if I were a betting woman,

I'd say that sounded
like a shopping trip.

[sighs]

Good, I'm glad
you feel that way,

'cause I was afraid
you'd be disappointed

when you found out I was
the one who'd be taking you.

Wait, you do the shopping?

Yeah, every week.

I'll pick you up,
say, um, : -ish?

Wait, at night?

No, the other one.

Oh.

Hey, remember,

when you
pick out my basil,

make sure it's fresh.

No brown leaves, okay?

All right.
Go ahead.

[♪♪♪]

One...
You know what,

let's do
two molasses.

Good.

I'm gonna blow a fuse

if I don't get
a latte stat.

Oh, Ralphie,
I don't know,

I just wish I had
a little more time

for my entry.

You know, 'cause
Santa's village,

that could go
a few different ways.

Don't overthink it.

That people that stress out
about these contests

are goners.

The ones who really
dig Christmas,

those are the ones

who take home the golden
gingerbread man.

Hey, look!

They have fresh ginger root.

Thanks, Bobby.

I'm probably going to use
the powdered kind,

'cause this project
is so big,

but we can use that
for cookies.

And where is my fresh basil?

Um...

I forgot about that part.

Hmm, playing favorites, huh?

Remind me again
why I brought you here.

Because my dad worked late

and your wife
wanted to sleep in?

[laughs]
Get outta here.

Hey, hey,

you'd better be
running to produce!

Oh, that kid
cracks me up.

Yeah...

Yeah, he's cute,
but he's a handful.

Just like his dad
at that age,

except smarter.

Wait, you don't think
Nick is smart?

I'm not talking
about book smarts.

I mean, take Bobby,

you know, he's logical.

He's got that
engineering kit.

He thinks with his head.

Nick?

He thinks
with his heart.

Hmm.

I don't know why
I'm telling you this.

I mean, I am a friend.

Then you understand
that with his folks gone,

I'm all he has.

I have to
take care of him,

make sure no one
messes with his heart.

Make sure...

history doesn't repeat itself,

if you know what I mean.

Ralphie, why do I feel

like you're really trying
to tell me something right now?

I'm not trying
to tell you anything.

I'm...

I just remember
all those years ago when...

you broke his heart.

Then you know
I didn't have a choice.

I don't know
anything.

All I know is
one day you were gone.

I was in school.

We were kids.

Nick was spending
all of his time

coming back and forth
to see me.

His dad couldn't cope
when his mom passed,

and if Nick hadn't
picked up the slack,

his family would have
lost everything.

I didn't want to be responsible
for pulling him away

when his family needed him.

That's why you left.

I'm sorry.

I had no idea.

But...

you did
move back into town.

You could've looked him up.

Not really.

He was married, he had a kid.

I... I didn't want
to rock the boat.

And by the time
I heard he was divorced,

I was dating Alex.

Hmm...

Two ships
passing in the night.

Two friends passing
in the night.

Mm, that's not really
a thing people say.

[chuckling]

[laughs]

[Bobby shouting] Mush!

Mush!

[laughing]

All right...

I'm sorry, but your sled dog
is a little tired.

It's kind of early for me.

Where is Ralphie
with those coffees?

The donut shop
is right over there.

On Saturdays,
they put out samples.

It could be a while.

I see.

Well, since we have a minute,

hey, do you want to talk
about your list?

We could, but
there was only one thing

that made me think of Christmas.

Soccer ba*ls?

Yeah.

Every year,
my dad gets me a new one.

Nothing wrong
with that, right?

I mean, we all have
different traditions.

So we'll do
soccer ball cupcakes?

Well, why don't we
think about it a little bit?

You know, when you were
making this list, did you...

I don't know, did you happen
to think of, uh...

Did any Christmas ornaments
come to mind?

Or Christmas
decorations?

We didn't put any up this year.

What about the ones
on the tree?

We have a tree
at my mom's house.

It's not like that.

My dad's great,

he just...

doesn't have time
for all that stuff this year.

When he's home,

he has to clean, shop,

fix stuff,

and help me with my homework.

Yeah, but I bet

he still tries to make
Christmas special for you

in any way we can, right?

Like buying you that
soccer ball every year?

You know what,

I'm not gonna let you go to that
party empty-handed, okay?

We are gonna make you

the most
Christmassy dessert

that teacher has ever seen.

All right...

the cocoa express
has arrived!

Don't even think about
touching the peppermint one.

It literally has
my name on it.

There you go.

[chuckling]
Thanks.

Okay.

Come on, let's go.

[murmuring]
No Christmas tree?

[sighs] Oh, Nick Mazzanti...

I'm not gonna let
that one slide.

[♪♪♪]

Do you think these
are fresh enough?

[sighing
in exasperation]

What? Alex will fixate
on stuff like this

at the Christmas party.

Oh, hon, I don't think
a holly bough

is gonna get you out of
the doghouse with Alex.

You know, it's been
really hard to be around Alex.

especially with
all the office gossip.

Oh, come on,
it can't be that bad.

Oh, it is.

Everyone knows.

Even the water guy says to me,

"Are you really coming back
after Christmas?"

-[Tina chuckles]
-Yeah.

That's all
the more reason

to focus
on the contest.

Oh, I know.

Ugh, if I could just
win that prize money,

and start
my cake company,

and say goodbye
to Hawkey Homes.

Ah, that's the spirit.

Hey, um, how's Nick's kitchen
working out?

Oh, it's so great.

He really
entertains me.

You know, last night,

when we were brainstorming
gingerbread ideas,

he suggested that--

Whoa, whoa, whoa,

Kylie, you're brainstorming?

So you haven't started
your entry yet?

Oh, no, I've started it.

I mean, it needs a lot of work,
but I've started it.

Ah.

Oh, here are
the Douglas firs!

Oh, no, honey, we don't need
two Christmas trees

again this year.

Oh, no, this one's for Nick.

What, you're, um...

you're buying Nick
a Christmas tree?

Yeah, his son said they didn't
have time to buy one yet, so...

Oh.

Do you want some advice

from someone who's been around
a little longer than you?

Not really, but that's
never stopped you before.

Oh.

You just got out of
a pretty bad breakup,

so you might want to
slow your roll a little.

Well, is it really
that fast?

Oh.

Oh dear. Incoming.

I just remembered,
mistletoe's around here.

You, do not leave me.
Do not--

Hey.

Hi... Alex.
You're up early.

Yeah, I could lie and say
I'm here shopping for a tree,

but the truth is,

Michelle told me
you'd be here.

Listen, I don't want you
to worry about the party.

That whole holly-wilting fiasco
I heard happened last year

won't happen again.

[chuckles]
Um, you're getting a tree?

Let me take it
to your car--

No, no, no, it's okay.

I mean, that's
really nice,

but you don't...

There's a guy
who will do that.

I wanted
to talk to you.

Apologies are in order.

I was standoffish
at work the other day.

Everything just kind of
took me off guard

the other night.

Yeah, me too.

I also hear

congratulations
are in order.

Michelle told me
about the contest.

You entered last year too,
didn't you?

Uh... yeah.

The fifth time's the charm.

Clearly your perseverance
paid off.

I mean, I've been
doing some research

into the contest.

It gets quite a bit
of media attention.

That kind of publicity
would be great for Hawkey Homes.

Uh, I'm not sure I follow.

Well, there are
four semifinalists, right?

I'm sure all of them

have big corporate
sponsorship.

You're an employee.

It would make sense for
Hawkey Homes to sponsor you.

Well, how would that work?

It's easy.

You just wear
a Hawkey Homes apron,

I'll pay for
all your materials,

and you can use the kitchen
in the new model home.

The model home by the lake?

The one
with the chef's kitchen?

And the double oven,
the marble countertops,

and the beautiful
view of the lake?

[sighs] Wow...

It's tough to say no to that.

Then don't.

Look, I should have done more
to show you I appreciate you,

that I recognize your talent.

Alex--

I'm not asking you

to change
your mind about me.

I'm just asking you
to let me support you.

Besides, I miss
having you on my team.

I really appreciate your offer,

but...

I think I have to do this
on my own.

Uh...

Thank you.

[sighs]

[knocking]

Hello!

[knocking]
Good morning!

Hi!

Hi.

It's, uh, Sunday.

I start late on Sundays.

What's this for?

If you want to get
in the restaurant early,

have at it.

Thank you.

And I heard you were treeless.
Come on.

Uh... thanks, Kylie,

I think I've got
Christmas covered.

Ta-da!

Really?

'Cause someone
would beg to differ.

[sighing]

[chuckles ruefully] Okay.

Hi.

Hi.

What's all this?

Oh, I was driving
past the lot,

and Bobby had mentioned

that you guys didn't
have a tree yet--

I think it's great you've taken
an interest in Bobby,

but it's taken me a while

to get this whole
single dad thing down,

and I work
with what I got.

I'm sorry.

I'm sorry, I just get
carried away with Christmas,

and...

You know what, I'll take it
back to the lot.

They'll take it back.

[sighs in resignation]

What is this, a Douglas fir?

No.

It's a... hand-selected

perfectly symmetrical
Douglas fir.

[chuckles]

I'll pay you back.

Do you need my help?

Nope.

Okay...

Okay. Whoa--

[chuckling]

Whoo!

We're supposed
to share!

But it's my turn!

[laughs]

No Christmas tree.

So that's
a good sign, right?

Yeah, Bobby
got his tree,

but you were right,

I totally blew it with Nick.

Aw, don't beat yourself up.

Oh!

Especially when my children
can do that for you.

Hey, I saw that.

I'm gonna get you later.

[laughing]

Okay, girls,
it's time for lunch.

Wait, lunch?
What time is it?

Uh, it's almost noon.

Noon! Oh, my gosh.

I was supposed to be
setting up the Christmas party

an hour ago!

I gotta go.

Come on, come,
come, come.

[murmur of bustling crowd]

[string quartet plays]

[chatting and mingling]

You are amazing.

At event planning.

Well, thank you.

You might want
to hold your praise

until after
the food is here.

[cell phone rings]

Oh, this better be
the caterers.

One second.

Hello!

[quietly]
Hi. Where are you?

Alpharetta?

That is miles away.

Are you...

I'm gonna have to just
figure out something else.

Thank you.

Don't tell me those were
those blockhead caterers

that Alex hired?

Yes, their van broke down
outside of Atlanta.

Alex's biggest clients
are in this room.

Heads are gonna roll!

How long do you think
they're gonna survive

on a cheese plate?

minutes, max.

What are we gonna do?

No, seriously,
what are we gonna do?

[♪♪♪]

Hey. Hey,
hey, hey, hey.

Celeste's been
talking to Bobby.

I heard you got
a Christmas tree.

What, did you
get a visit

from the ghost
of Christmas Future?

More like the ghost
of girlfriend past.

Ah... Kylie, huh?

I know what
you're gonna say,

but it's not like that.

I didn't say anything.

You're the one
that said something.

Look, I'll be
the first to admit,

I was crazy about Kylie
when I was a kid,

and the breakup wasn't easy.

But I'm over it.

You know, I got somebody else
to look out for now.

I don't have the luxury

of revisiting things
that weren't meant to be.

Hmm, and I forget
you're never wrong.

Plus, I was such a jerk
about the tree--

[cell phone ringing]
--I'd be surprised

if she ever
talks to me again.

What can I do for you, Kylie?

[laughs]

Okay, sometimes I'm wrong.

[laughing]

What is this?

I've been eating it
all afternoon.

That is the pesto feta
sundried tomato flatbread,

the Mediterranean.

Mmm.

Otherwise known
as "pizza."

Shh! Don't let Alex
hear you say that.

He wants the food
to be fancy.

Pizza.

Pizza!

[laughing]

You know what, whatever
it is, it saved me.

[text alert chimes]

Glad to be of service.

What?

How can we be out
of prosciutto already?

[together]: Oh, Ralphie!

I don't get it.

The guy can literally
make a panini

out of anything.

Why does he have to use

the most expensive thing
on the menu?

You know, last month
it was lobster panini.

[chuckles]

Listen, if you need to go
and take care of that,

don't feel obligated to stay.

Thanks,
I should get back

before he eats through

everyone's
Christmas bonus.

Catch you later.

Bye.

I don't know
about you,

but I think we can declare
this party a huge success.

I'm so glad you feel that way.

How's your gingerbread
masterpiece coming along?

Oh, it's TBD,

but now that I'm off
for the holiday,

I can really get into it.

Well, if there's
anything you need.

Yoo-hoo!

Your friend left this
in the kitchen.

Oh, I'll
run it out to him.

Well, I mean,
just so he doesn't charge us.

I'll be right back.

I must say, Alex,

this party is way better
than the one last year.

Mm-hmm.

Nick!

Nick, you left this!

And these flatbreads...

whose idea was that?

[clears throat
awkwardly]

[Alex]:
Hey, you're Kylie's friend.

What's gotten into her?

Kylie?

Um... you got me.

No idea.

Nada.

Why is she
so into this guy?

Is it because
they're both into...

cooking?

I don't know, Alex.

I think he's just
helping her

with her contest.

Right.
"Helping her."

Two seconds
after we break up.

I think you're reading
too much into it.

You know, she really
cared for you.

I know.

And that has to mean
something, right?

There's just got
to be a way

to get back into
her good books.

I suppose.

Hypothetically.

There's always
something one can do.

I need to do
a grand gesture.

That's not what I...
what I said.

The grandest gesture
of them all.

You know, I never would have
bothered you if I had known

none of your delivery guys
were working today.

Maybe they were.

Maybe there are just some jobs
I prefer to do myself.

Is that so?

It was the least I could do

after I snapped at you
about the tree.

Oh, please, you know what,

I overstepped.

No, no, it was
a good wake-up call.

I totally put Christmas
on the back burner.

It's not fair
to Bobby.

You know, in a weird way,

seeing him get so excited
about the tree...

it kinda made me feel
like a kid again.

[chuckles]

It was nothing.

Are you kidding?

If that tree
wasn't there,

you wouldn't even know
it was Christmas.

Well, it's not
Christmas yet.

I mean, if wanted
to really go crazy,

you could decorate
the whole house.

Two dudes
decorating alone?

[chuckles wryly]

Are you trying
to depress me?

I mean...

unless you felt like
coming over to help.

I could
check my schedule.

Want me
to walk you in?

No, I'm okay.

All right.

See ya.

See ya.

[starting car engine]

[♪♪♪]

You two did so well
on the ornament making,

we don't even
really need these.

That doesn't mean
you can eat one.

Aw...

[laughs]

Okay, maybe just one.

I mean, it is
the least I can do,

considering
he made this, uh,

really, really
incredible garland.

And you too, Nick.

Who knew you had
such a crafty side?

Yeah, where'd that
come from, Dad?

Well, I may
have consulted

some online tutorials
before you came.

I'm gonna
re-load the popcorn.

Was there a tutorial
on tree-toppers?

Uh, no,

but there's a chance
the angel we always use

might be in storage.

I just need
to find the key.

A chance?

I might have lost it
in the, uh,

D-I-V-O-R-C-E.

[Bobby calls]: I'm
in second grade!

I can spell!

[both laughing]

Whoa!

Kylie, can you
come here?

I think I know what
I'm going to make

for my cupcakes!

I...

I promised
I would help him.

Yeah.

So I should...

...do that.

[♪♪♪]

All right...

Are they done?

Well, there's only
one way to tell.

Here, stick that
in the center.

And... we're done.

I can stick the snowmen
to them now?

No, we have to wait
for them to cool first.

Aw...

[Nick rubbing his hands]
Well...

I got the fire going.

What? Come on,

that doesn't get me
any holiday spirit points?

It's a gas fireplace.

I don't think that counts
for holiday spirit points.

[laughs]

What is that smell?

Cupcakes.

No, no, no,
the other smell.

Um... oh,
it'll burn off.

But what is it?

Um...

it's...

oven dust.

[smirking]

Because you never cook.

Not true.

I am well known
for reheating my food

in the microwave.

Okay, you want me
to cook more?

Huh?

Want me to stop
bringing you veal parmesan?

Huh?
[Bobby shouting]

You want me to make

broccoli casserole
instead, huh?

No!

No! Put me down!

Kylie!

[laughing]

What? His broccoli casserole
is % broccoli.

It's pretty delicious.

Gross!

Yeah, and you can
follow it up

with your famous
cauliflower pudding?

-Mmm...
-Yuck.

All right,
enough of this.

Let's see these cupcakes

that ruined my
oven dust collection.

I made them all by myself.

All by yourself?

-Mm-hmm.
-Oh yeah?

Well, how about we consult...

the tickle of truth?

[Nick roaring playfully,
Bobby laughing]

Okay, okay, Kylie helped!

[laughing] Kylie helped!

Oh, yeah, she helped?

You know she's here
to help me, right?

But you finished the tree.

It's my turn now.

Almost finished.

There's one more thing

we want to put on it,

and I think I know
where it is.

Okay...

Watch your step here.

I should really
get a storage space

for all this stuff.

What do you mean?

It's not like you have
a jet-ski in here.

No, I keep that out back

with the RV
and the monster truck.

[laughs]

I've missed you, Nick.

Ditto.

But you know
what I've missed more?

Beating you.

Yeah.
Watch and learn.

[foosball clattering onto table]

[paddles rattle and spin]

[laughing]

Whoo!

[laughing]

I mean, it's kind of
beginner's luck.

Let's take this as a sign
to grab the angel,

okay?

Here we go.

-Do you want my help?
-Please.

Just grab that end
right there.

See?

I'm not as hopeless
in the Christmas department

as you maybe thought.

-[chuckling]
-Let's do this.

I'm upping
my Christmas game.

What's this?
This is so pretty.

Don't worry about that.

Oh, come on, what is it?

I can't open that.

It'll destroy your image of me.

Which is...

Utterly unsentimental.

Do you think
I would make fun of you?

In a heartbeat.

Okay, then I definitely
need to see what this is.

[laughs]

Okay.

Nick, this is
so pretty.

Why wouldn't you want
to set this out?

I don't know.

I got it a few months
after my mom passed.

That was a rough time.

I mean, you were
finishing school

and managing
the restaurant.

You grew up fast, huh?

Do you remember that one day
right before the holidays,

we snuck out of school

and went to that kids'
Christmas fair?

[laughing] Yes, the one
that they kicked us out of?

We really were
too big for those rides.

Not all of them.

[laughs]

Oh, the carousel.

Yeah.

Yeah, we did go on that...

that merry-go-round.

We didn't just ride it.

We had our first kiss there.

You know, I never
really understood

why you took me there.

I think I just thought
maybe you needed to...

feel like a kid.

You know, just...

just for a minute.

No one understood that
except you.

I tried.

You did.

You still do.

I ruined it!

Oh, buddy,
whatcha got there?

Pudding?

What happened
to the cupcakes?

Uh, Nick, those are
his cupcakes.

Kylie told me
to wait to ice them,

but they weren't that hot.

But then the icing...

Can we make more?

I don't know
if we have time, buddy.

The party starts soon.

Tell you what,

we can stop by
the store,

pick some up,

take the wrapper off,

and then we all take
a blood oath

of eternal silence, okay?

[chuckling]

You know what, Bobby,

I think we can
salvage this.

Are you sure?

In the kitchen, this is
what we call a "do over."

Uh, in the kitchen,

I've also heard you
say things like

"work with what you got."

Which is what?

Well, we've got an army
of marzipan snowmen,

and a stage.

Come on, let's go
in the kitchen

and see what kind
of firepower

we can track down.

[music box chiming]

[♪♪♪]

[Kylie]: Seems like

Bobby really wants
to impress this teacher.

[Nick]: Yeah,
she only started

a few weeks ago,

but he jumps out of bed,

can't wait to get
to school in the morning.

Oh, I can't wait
to taste that gravy.

And those potatoes
look divine.

How did these kids
get the easy stuff?

Why don't you guys
go on in?

You don't want to miss
pin the tail on the reindeer.

Well, hello, Bobby.

Oh, thank you.

And who's this?

-Hi. I'm Nick.
-Hi. Kylie.

[Nick]: Hey, thanks
for doing this.

I know the kids
were really excited,

especially him.

Well, thanks
for bringing him by.

I can hardly wait to see
what you've made.

Melted snowmen cupcakes?

That's genius!

What a creative
little boy you are.

And did you do this
all by yourself?

Nah...

I had some help.

Well, what a creative
family you are.

I...

Uh... do you want
to get some coffee?

That'd be great.

♪ It's a marshmallow world
in the winter ♪

♪ When the snow comes
to cover the ground ♪

♪ It's the time for play ♪

♪ It's a whipped cream day ♪

♪ I wait for it
the whole year 'round ♪

♪ Now, those are marshmallow
clouds being friendly ♪

♪ In the arms
of the evergreen trees ♪

♪ And the sun is red
like a pumpkin head ♪

♪ It's shining
so your nose won't freeze ♪

♪ Oh, the world is your snowball
see how it grows ♪

♪ That's how it goes
whenever it snows ♪

♪ The world is your snowball
just for a song ♪

♪ So get out
and roll it along ♪

♪ It's a yum-yummy world ♪

♪ In the winter ♪

♪ When the snow comes
to cover the ground... ♪

Whoa, does Santa
have a dog run?

[chuckles] It's more
like a reindeer stable.

Ah, makes sense.

Gotta keep the reindeer
outta the rain.

Really?

You are... Wow, you are
just on fire tonight.

But I thought you had
the night off.

I do.

I was doing
some Christmas shopping,

and Bobby called from Ralphie's.

He left his
engineering kit somewhere.

Well, we can't have that.

Ah! [wincing] Ow, ow...

Ah, I'm so clumsy.

Did you
burn yourself?

Yeah, it's just the dangers

of working
in a kitchen, right?

[wincing]

Oh, that hurt.

More like working
in a kitchen

non-stop
with no sleep.

Did you want to...
get some air?

Yeah.

Yeah.

Some air
would be good.

Yeah. Yeah, cool.

It's, uh...
over here.

I really
needed this, Nick.

Yeah, I figured you needed
to clear your head,

or you might
poke your eye out

with one of those
pastry bags.

[laughs]

It is nice to just see

that the world is still
going on around me,

you know?

Oh, it has.

You know,

there's a lot of
new stuff's been going on

since you started
your gingerbread house.

Oh, really?
Do tell.

Well, the coffee shop
in the marketplace

has started offering half-off
on peppermint lattes.

Oh...

Santa's big parade
got brand-new costumes.

[laughing]
That parade,

I can't believe
they've been doing that

since we were kids.

It is kind of like
time just stands still.

It's kind of
comforting, you know?

Yeah.

You remember that?

The bench that I first
asked you out on?

[chuckles] Yeah.

Where it all began.

Is that
what you call it?

Well, do you have
a better name for it?

Uh, I dunno, maybe
"The bench of terror."

What?

What, I didn't know
you were going to say yes.

Oh, come on.

I asked if I could
borrow your lip balm

in Algebra.

I mean, that's
practically an invitation

to ask me out.

That's news to me.

Although,
you should know

that I kept
that lip balm

way past
its expiration date.

[laughs]

[sighs]

What?

I don't know, it's just
strange to think

that there was a time
when my biggest worry

was asking a girl
out on a date.

Yeah, but that's what
being a kid's all about.

You know, you're
supposed to have fun,

be carefree.

You went through
a lot, huh?

Yeah, but
I got through it.

You know, people do.

I just... had to put
that kid part of me

away early, you know?

Well, you know what
the good news is,

you can always get that back.

Really... easily.
[laughing]

Are you really
going there?

Oh, what do you mean?

I just went there
and came back.

What, are you gonna
play along,

are you gonna
make this a match?

You are toast.

Now it's on.

[laughing]

That was dead on.

[♪♪♪]

Whoa!

[laughing]

Ow! Ow...

Oh, I'm hurt, I'm hurt.

Oh, you're injured?

Yeah.

Are you injured?
Are you okay?

[♪♪♪]

♪ Come now, baby
make my Christmas bright... ♪

Hmm.

Bringing your work
home with you?

Yeah, I have
most of the baking done.

Now it's just
the embellishments.

I figured

I could just knock out
the clock tower this morning.

Not to pull a thread,

but why would Santa's Village
have a clock?

What? Why wouldn't it?

It's always Christmas time.

Huh?

It's a joke.

I'm trying
to loosen you up.

Yeah, Tina, I'm just...

I don't know,
I'm getting so stressed out

about this contest.

Well, it looks like
you're making progress.

Yeah, but anyone
can make progress.

I need to make progress
on something that's mindblowing.

That could become amazing.

"Become" amazing? You don't
think it looks amazing now?

'Cause it's almost finished.

Don't you think you're
being a little oversensitive?

Yeah. Probably.

Just, there's so much
riding on this.

I mean, winning this could mean
living the life of my dreams

versus ordering office supplies.

Kylie,
you have a gift,

and winning or losing
one contest

isn't gonna take that
away from you.

Thanks.

[Nick humming
"Joy to the World"]

Are you humming
a Christmas carol?

How long
have you known me?

Hmm, you can hum
all you want,

but don't be harmonizing.

Hey, can't I be
in a good mood?

[splashing]
Hey, hey, hey!

You can be in a good mood,

but don't spill
your latte all over me!

Sorry, I've been a
little distracted lately.

[wryly] Oh, have you?

I hadn't noticed.

Hey, man, take
a look at this.

Hey, isn't that

that lady that's
on Kylie's cookbooks?

Yeah.

[sighing in worry] Ah...

♪ 'Cause there's a chill
in the air outside... ♪

Now, this property
won't stay on the market long,

because, along with
an elf dormitory

and a state-of-the-art
coal cellar,

this gem also boasts
a working reindeer stable.

It's kind of a must-have
for any savvy Santa.

[sighs]

Hi, Dad.

Hey, buddy.

Ralphie's outside

putting up
the inflatable Santa,

not that you'd want
to help with that.

I do!

Okay, don't freak out...

Ooh, not your best opener.

It's that German lady--
Eena, Oona.

Ina Bruckner?

She's entering the contest.

What?

How?

She doesn't even
live in this country!

Hey, I know it's big news.
Don't panic--

Don't panic?

Come on,
you got this!

It's just
one contestant.

She's entering last minute.

She'll probably have jet-lag.

I don't think you understand.

She's the godmother
of gingerbread!

She's written
like six cookbooks,

She's got three TV shows,

she's got this entire brand
behind her.

And you've got all these people
who care about you

behind you.

I do?

Heck, yeah!

We'd better have one of our own
in the winners' circle.

Look, I...

I would love
to have your confidence,

but I have no idea
if can win this competition,

and other than Ina,

I don't even know
who I'm competing against

until the press conference
tomorrow.

If you spend too much time
thinking about the future,

the present will slip
through your fingers.

Now, who was it
that told me that?

[chuckling]

Chin up.

We'll worry about
the contestants

when we know
who they are.

"We"?

Are you going with me?

Yeah.

In case
you haven't noticed,

I'm a little invested
in this thing.

[contest judge]: On behalf

of the Georgia
Culinary Association,

we would like to welcome you

to the th American
Gingerbread Competition!

[applause]

Now, we have some new rules
this year.

Contestants are now allowed

a double-A
battery-powered device

within their submission,

so long as the remaining
structure of the house

is entirely edible.

See?

You put some lights
in Santa's workshop,

and pow.

[judge]: And now,

the announcement
of our semi-finalists.

First, we have Jim Olsen!

[applause and cheers]

Jim Olsen is a sports bar owner
from Milwaukee,

and he is sponsored
by SK Footwear.

[applause]

Alex was right.

People are
sponsoring up.

No, one person
is sponsoring up.

[judge]: We have
last year's winner,

Jill Goyette.

There she is!

[applause and cheers]

She is a pastry chef
from Montreal,

and she is representing herself.

And we are also very proud

to present a former pastry chef

from right here
in Helen, Georgia,

Kylie Watson!

Give it up, everybody.

[applause and cheers]

[shutter clicking]

Wow, this is
really happening.

Yup.

And you're gonna
take home the grand prize.

$ , .

[judge]: We also have

a very special contestant
joining us this year,

all the way from Europe,

won't you please
put your hands together

and give a big
round of applause

for the godmother
of gingerbread herself,

Ina Bruckner!

[thunderous applause]
Wow...

[applause and cheering]

[camera shutters snapping]

O-kay... now can I worry?

Being the hometown
favorite goes a long way.

[Ina Bruckner]:
Thank you all for having me.

While I am not from here,

I know how important
this contest is to Helen,

so instead of working
independently,

I've teamed up with
a local business as my sponsor.

I am entering

as Team Hawkey Homes!

[applause and cheers]

[gasps in disbelief]

Okay, now you can worry.

I've heard of guys
doing crazy things

to get back
at their exes,

but this
takes the cake.

Sponsoring the grandmother
of gingerbread?

The "godmother."

But you know what,
I like "grandmother" better.

Is that edible stained glass?

Yeah, you know,
if there's one thing

I learned from
this press conference,

it's that I've got to up my game
if I want to win.

And I have to win.

Look, if you put all
of your eggs in one basket--

Yeah, but Tina,
what other basket do I have?

I mean,
I've spent the last five days

living the most wonderful dream,

and I-I'm terrified
that I'm gonna wake up,

and it's all gonna go back
to the way things were.

Do you really think
you feel like this

just because of a contest?

You're right.

I just never thought that...

hanging out with Nick
would bring up all these...

these feelings
that I tried to bury.

I have to tell him, don't I?

Yeah.

Um, don't tell
him in a text.

I'm not,

I'm just asking if he has time
to talk tonight.

Yeah.

Kylie...

I have two pieces
of good news.

First of all, Bobby's
teacher e-mailed me.

The cupcakes
were such a hit,

she wants him to come in

and do a demo
for Valentines day.

That's great!
What's the other news?

Just a little something
to say thank you.

Aw...

It's... tickets

to the competition.

My Christmas bonus
came early.

But there's, like,
ten of them here.

Yeah, I got one for me,
for Bobby, for Ralphie,

the kitchen staff...

Nick, that's really sweet,

but I...

I don't know if I want
all those people there.

What?

Why not?

I just don't want to drag
everybody out there

to watch me lose.

I'm just feeling overwhelmed.

Can we just dial back
the pressure a little, please?

Yeah, yeah.

Um, I'll... tell
the kitchen staff not to come,

but honestly, I really think
you could...

Whoa!

What happened
to Santa's Village?

Oh, my nieces thought
it was delicious, but...

I don't know, Nick,

I just wasn't feeling like
it was enough,

and with the opponent
that I'm up against,

I just need that "wow" factor.

What do you think about this?

I think it's....

a perfect imitation

of someone else's work.

[sighs]

You don't understand.

I mean, Ina's my competitor.

I-I have to... I have to
get into her shoes,

I have to think,
"What would Ina do?"

Really?

Well, I'm more interested in
"What would Kylie Watson do?"

And that's
a nice thought,

but you don't understand
the pressure I'm under.

Kylie...

I've known you your entire life.

I get you.

[sighs]

I get that you can
make Christmas

out of a pool
of melted frosting.

I get that you can make
people feel something

with what you make.

You just need
to trust your talent.

What you don't get is

my entry has to be up at the Inn
by tomorrow morning.

I mean, everything
is at stake here.

You're right.

I don't get it.

You sent me a text?

You wanted to talk to me
about something?

I...

I can't.

Don't worry about it.

What did I say?

Why don't we talk about it
in my office?

Why do I feel
like I'm a kid

who's been called into
the principal's office?

That's because you are.

Listen, um,

before your dad died,

He asked me
to look after you.

Well, I don't need
looking after.

I'm a grown man, man.

I got work to do.

Okay, well, just..

just answer me
one question.

Make it a fast one.

Why are you giving Kylie
such a hard time

about the contest?

I want her to trust her talent.

I don't want this
to end badly for her.

Okay.

Well, how about
you clarify something--

That's two questions.

All right...

I think you're anxious.

I think you're scared

that once
the contest is over,

you won't see Kylie again.

Aw, come on, man--

No, no, you come on.

Man, you're
crazy about her!

I can see it in your face
every time you say her name.

You want me to take a poll
of the kitchen staff?

What are you
waiting for?

Tell her.

I've wanted to, like,
a hundred times.

I just, I don't want
to be that guy.

What guy?

That guy who thinks

"This time
it's gonna be different."

Are you kidding me?

If people didn't think

"This time
it's gonna be different,"

they would never
go on a date.

You can call my wife
and ask her.

Our whole marriage
is based upon those words.

Those words should be engraved

in schools
and churches.

Why?

So we can get people's hopes up?

[chuckles]

Do you want to live a life
without hope?

Yeah.

Yeah, man.

[cell phone rings]

Hi, it's Nick.

Leave a message.

[voicemail beeps]

Nick...

listen, I'm up at the Inn,

and I've been thinking
about this contest,

and how crazy
it's getting, and...

I just have to face the facts.

I think I was so excited

to be spending time
with you again,

that I actually convinced myself
that I could win,

and...

it's nothing you did,

it-it's just me, but...

I think we both know
it wasn't meant to be.

[sighs sadly]

[voicemail alert chimes]

[beep]

Nick, listen,
I'm up at the Inn,

and I've been thinking
about this contest,

and how crazy
it's getting,

and I just have
to face the facts.

I think I was so excited--

[clicks phone off]

[distant voices murmuring]

...a little
to the right.

[Alex]: A little
to the left...

A little to the right.

[Ina]: Alex, you
are over-doing it.

[Alex]: It has
to be perfect.

[Ina]: You must
trust me, Alex.

I assure you,
she will love it.

Who will love it?

Kylie...

What are you doing here?

What are you
doing here?

Stay away.

You can't look
inside this booth, please.

You guys don't have
to be so secretive.

I'm withdrawing
from the competition.

But you must come tomorrow.

Yeah, you'll
ruin everything.

What? I-I thought
you'd be happy.

I mean, you have an even better
chance of winning now.

You think I need you
to withdraw

in order to win?

No, I'm sorry,
that came out wrong.

I...

Alex, what is going on here?

Ina, I need
a minute with Kylie?

Um... alone?

Alex, will you please tell me
what's going on?

It's probably better
if I show you.

[sighing in awe]:
Wow...

I gotta hand it to you,

you have, uh,

you have hitched
your cart to a winner.

[chuckles]

Look inside.

[gasps]

Oh, my gosh,
that is amazing.

That's so beautiful, but...

I don't understand.
It's not edible.

You're gonna blow
your chances at...

[sighs]

I didn't enter this contest
to win a trophy.

I entered to win you.

Kylie,

I want you on my team,

for life.

What?

What's wrong?

[sighs]

That word.

[door closes,
footsteps approach]

I--

Nick, wait!

Something tells me
it's probably not a "yes."

Alex, this is so impressive,

but I really hope
you can understand.

I'm so sorry.

Nick?

Nick!

Nick, wait!

Nick, please talk to me.

I don't need
to talk, Kylie.

I have eyes.

I had no idea
he was going to do that.

I-I didn't--

You didn't exactly
look like a woman

who was politely declining.

But I did.

I did, I told him "no"
the second you left.

Well, maybe you should
go back in and say "yes."

Why would I do that, Nick?

I...

Nick, I don't want
to be with him.

It was just

the wrong place,
wrong time.

Yeah, well, that's how
it always is with us.

Wrong place, wrong time,

wrong you, wrong me.

The reason it ended then
is the reason it's ending now.

It just wasn't meant to be.

Nick?

Nick!

Okay, so he's not here.

It doesn't mean anything.

People do sleep.

No, Tina,
it does mean something.

He won't pick up the phone.

He won't return my texts.

Okay, in the grand
scheme of things,

a man going bonkers

at the sight
of another man proposing

might be a good thing?

I don't care

about the grand scheme
of things, Tina.

I...

I want Nick.

Now, and-and...

forever.

I don't think I ever stopped
wanting him in my life.

So tell Nick that.

But I told him
I don't want Alex.

Hon, that's not
the same thing.

You need to tell him
how you feel about him.

Tina, he said
it wasn't meant to be.

Do you really think if he knew,
it would change things?

[Tina and Ralphie]: Yes.

Ralphie!

Don't "Ralphie" me.

This is my kitchen.

Occasionally, I'm in it.

Did you just hear--

Everything.
Mm-hmm.

Was I eavesdropping?

Perhaps.

But...

I have a vested interest
in what goes on

between you
and that knucklehead.

A.K.A., I care.

And as a person who cares,

I happen to agree
with your, uh...

Oh, sister.

Sister.
Hey, what's up--

Who, along with myself,

seems to have

a little bit more knowledge
of human nature than you.

And we...
happen to think

that with
a little honesty,

you two could
work things out.

Yeah, but he's not
listening to words.

He won't listen to words...

So I can't...

If he won't listen to words,
I can't tell him in words.

Okay, so she's gone
off the deep end,

and as a relative,
I feel this falls on you.

What?
No...

No, I'm not crazy,

but I have an idea.

Ky, whatcha doing?

I know what my contest entry
should be.

You know, Nick's been saying

that I've been
focusing on technique,

and he's right,

I've been focusing on technique,

but what I really need to do
is just...

make something that makes
people feel something!

Okay, but you do realize

that they're
judging this contest

in, like,
what, hours?

Yes, which gives me hours
to make my entry.

You guys, go.

Don't worry about me.
I'll be fine.

Know what,
sometimes life comes down

to a girl and her oven.

Ralphie,
if you could, just...

could you please make sure

that Nick and Bobby
come with you tomorrow?

I'll do my best.

But, uh--

I have to tell him how I feel
the best way I know how.

With gingerbread.

The Helen-based contest
is in its th year,

and the excitement is building

as the four semifinalists

are about to get
their final score.

Now, so far,

world-renowned pastry chef
Ina Bruckner's jewelry store

is the day's standout.

However, local favorite
Kylie Watson

has still
not revealed her entry.

Now, tension is mounting

with mere minutes until
the contest deadline.

She'll be disqualified

if she misses
the judges' ceremony

at exactly : a.m.

Time is running out
for the Helen native.

[judge]: Contestants!

We are ready
to judge your entries.

Time is almost up.

Hey, cookie boss,
did you hear that?

Time's up.

Everyone's waiting!

Come on, Aunt Kylie!

Do I have
icing on my face?

Think of it as the
"snow angel" look.

Come on, let's do this!

Ah, Ms. Watson.

You are the final entry,

and we can't judge it
unless you share it with us.

Oh! Oh, right!

Let me help you.

Thank you.

Thanks.

Very impressive.

But does it
do anything?

Yes.

Uh...

Would you mind

if my assistant
hit the switch?

[quietly]
You tested this, right?

I think we're gonna have to
just cross our fingers, buddy.

Go ahead.

[beeps remote switch]

[♪♪♪]

And... the winner

of the American
Gingerbread Competition,

and $ , ,

is...

Kylie Watson!

[everyone clapping
and cheering]

[camera shutters snapping]

[♪♪♪]

Yeah!

Thank you so much.

Whoo!

[crowd cheering and applauding]

[♪♪♪]

♪ I remember last December ♪

♪ Making angels in the snow ♪

♪ You kissed a frozen tear
and whispered in my ear ♪

♪ "I won't let you go" ♪

♪ But life gets in the way ♪

♪ Sometimes we have to chase
our dreams ♪

♪ But baby, you and me... ♪

Hey.

I thought you guys went home.

I convinced Ralphie
to watch Bobby for a few hours.

I thought
I'd stick around,

give you a ride home,

maybe...

take you on a celebratory
Christmas excursion?

Excursion?

To where?

♪ ...someone tell Santa
he'll just have to wait ♪

♪ Till my baby gets home
for Christmas ♪

[♪♪♪]

♪ Home for Christmas... ♪

[Kylie gasps]

I can't believe
it's still here.

Kylie, you need to go see
more kids' fairs.

[laughs]

What do you think,

you want to take it
on a victory lap?

But the park's closed.

How could we?

Hey, I know a guy.

Really?

Oh, this is amazing.

It gets better.

[♪♪♪]

Oh, I want this one.

Here you are.

Thank you.

♪ ...lights are up
on the tree... ♪

I don't think anything

could make this
more romantic.

I can think
of something.

♪ ...someone tell Santa
he'll just have to wait ♪

♪ Till my baby gets...

[laughs in delight]

♪ ...till my baby gets ♪

♪ Home for Christmas ♪

[♪♪♪]

♪ Home for Christmas ♪♪

[♪♪♪]