Coming Home for Christmas (2017)

[bunniefuu]

It's our favorite

time of year

the snow falls

through the night

Where is your sister?

I need to leave for my shift

in an hour.

She'll be here.

We show up for family dinner

every week, don't we?

Yes, but you girls might have

to finish the tree

without me tonight

so that we have enough time

to eat.

No, we finish the tree

together.

It's tradition.

We'll finish sometime

you don't have an overnight.

You don't mind coming back?

Never.

Besides,

the more Christmas

cheer the better,

after the year I've had.

I mean, first

Jake and I break up,

and then my company closes

right before Christmas.

It's like everything came

crashing down on me all at once.

What is that?

Well, the job situation

wasn't your fault,

and you and Jake were not right

for each other.

I know,

but I just hate that

i sent him away broken-hearted,

with an engagement

ring in his pocket.

Honey, you did what was right

for both of you,

and he'll see that too

someday.

Do you think I'm complacent?

I think it's an easy trap

to fall into

when you don't yet know

your thing.

Well, what if some people

never figure out

what they're passionate about?

I mean, it happens.

I studied art history

and ended up in insurance.

Well, for the time being, yes.

Are you happy, mom?

I love what I do,

and you girls make me so happy.

Knowing

that I have raised

two smart and sensitive

young ladies,

that fills me up.

That's just it.

I don't know what fills me up.

I only know that what

I've been doing doesn't.

Well, then you need to look

at this time in your life

as an opportunity.

It's the shake-ups

that show us what we're made of.

Right?

We all learned that

when dad died.

Mm, we've done okay

all these years, haven't we?

Just the three of us?

Oh, baby,

we have done better than okay.

Oh...

Look at this tree!

I learned from the best.

Your father

did love Christmas.

And so do I.

So, for now, I'm going to enjoy

some Christmas with my family,

eat more baked goods

than should be legal,

and figure out

what I want to be

when I grow up.

Now, that sounds like a plan.

[Laughs]

Well?

I got it.

Oh!

Ashford estate!

I'm the listing agent.

This is

my biggest property yet

and my third time

with the Marley family.

I never doubted

it for a second.

The Marleys trust you.

Something is very

wrong with them.

[Laughter]

Well, you girls can help me

bring in dinner,

but I'm going to open

a bottle of champagne

so that you can celebrate

while I'm at work.

Please tell me that you made

a chocolate yule log.

It's tree-trimming night.

Oh, honey, I'm sorry.

I did not make

a chocolate yule log.

I made two,

so that you would each have

one to take home.

[]

[Shop doorbell rings]

Lizzie?

Looks like

we had the same idea.

Well, it's the first time

i haven't had to go into work

for a while,

so I needed

to keep myself busy.

I know.

Me too,

but at least

the board was able to approve

a little Christmas bonus

on our severance checks.

I just wish they didn't have

to close the doors

this close to Christmas.

You are going

to land on your feet, Carla.

We all are.

Thank you.

You've been a great boss.

You deserve to be happy.

Mm...

Oh...

[Rustles in bags]

...this is for you.

I saw it,

and I thought of you.

I was going to

drop it off later.

Thank you.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

You take care.

[]

[Bell ringing]

[Meg sighs]

For over a hundred years,

your family has

occupied this home.

We should write that in

our promotional materials.

Uh, will the furniture

be included as well?

Yeah, everything in it

is for sale,

except for what my grandmother

wants to take with her,

but you'll have to ask her that.

She's not speaking to me

right now.

She's 80, Robert,

and she's here all alone,

even with this big staff,

now that you and your family

are in D.C. full-time.

You're doing the right

thing by selling.

Oh, wow, such

history here.

If only these walls

could talk, right?

The sooner

we unload this place,

the better.

[]

Boring.

Same old. Ugh...

What do you want to be, Lizzie?

Lizzie?

Meg?

Do I have a proposition

for you?

What kind

of proposition?

One that comes

with a paycheck.

Does this involve me

working for you?

Because we tried that once,

and you threw a pizza

at me.

I was 17,

and it's time you stopped

throwing that in my face.

However, this job

does involve me,

but only in a

peripheral manner.

It's really good.

What is it,

and does it come with dental?

Okay, so you know

how I'm selling ashford estate

for Robert Marley?

Well, they need

a new house manager

to oversee the property

and prep it for sale.

They've gone through, like,

three in the past month.

That's a ringing

endorsement.

What does a house

manager even do?

You manage the house.

Okay,

the very wealthy have staff,

and then they have staff

who manage their staff.

Then who manages

the manager of the staff?

Heh. cute.

Come on, you basically did

exactly that for seven years

at your insurance company.

I don't know.

I...

I mean, thank you,

but I'm just kind of looking

for something different.

You know?

I want to find

that thing that's meant for me,

like real estate is for you.

Yes, but remember,

I started off

in the payroll department,

and then I happened

to land on a realtor's desk

who needed an assistant,

and then

she mentored me.

I mean, that's how it happens,

Lizzie...

By chance.

And you think

this could be my "by chance"?

Who knows?

But you love art,

and ashford estate

is a historical landmark.

Worst-case scenario,

you're surrounded

by that all day.

It's really nice?

This place is exceptional,

historic...

And it's only temporary

because the place

is selling soon,

and you might get an invitation

to the Marley family

Christmas party at ashford.

It is...

Legendary.

Only the creme de la creme

can get an invitation.

It's a huge stepping stone,

Lizzie.

Come on, give chance a chance.

I mean, yeah, sure,

I'll... I'll meet him.

[Sighing]

It's just a house...

That could fit

four other houses inside of it.

Okay.

Hi!

[Rings doorbell]

Hi, I'm Lizzie.

Miss richfield.

We've been

expecting you.

Oh.

okay.

Thanks.

This house is huge!

What it must cost to

heat this place, huh?

I mean, it's got to be

5,000, 6,000 square feet.

20,000, ma'am.

[Loudly]

20,000 square feet?

Sorry.

I'm not used to a house

that comes equipped

with its own echo.

Oh, thank you.

I imagine you need

a lot of staff

in a place this size, huh?

Uh, this way, please,

miss richfield.

Oh... oh... okay.

My last job,

i managed 22 employees.

Let me tell you, the fires

i had to put out there.

I mean, not actual fires.

I'm not trying

to imply that I'm a hero...

Or that bad things

happen on my watch,

but you know, I can

tell Mr. Marley all this.

How long

have you worked here?

Longer than I can count,

miss richfield...

Or is it miss Elizabeth?

You can just call me "Lizzie."

Yes, miss richfield.

You know,

i didn't get your name.

I am Gerard.

It's very nice

to meet you, Gerard.

Uh, miss pippa

will meet you in here.

It's like living in a museum.

I guess if you can afford

a real Van gogh,

the heating bill

is the least of your concerns,

right?

I do not concern myself

with the bills.

That would be the job

of the house manager.

Mrs. Marley...

Your house is so beautiful.

Yes, it is.

The art is exquisite.

I actually majored

in art history,

and you've amassed

quite a collection.

I'm so glad

you approve.

So, if there's anything

you'd like to know about me...

That will be all.

Come. this way.

Oh... yes, okay.

[Robert]:

isn't that what I just said?

Oh, just do

what I pay you to do!

[Gasping]

Hello?

Hi.

Hi.

I'm Lizzie...

Richfield.

Megan's sister.

Yeah. um...

Uh, yeah.

This is my resume.

No?

You know,

Megan said you had one already,

but I just brought

one just in case.

Huh.

Always be prepared,

that's my motto.

Um, not really.

I don't have a motto.

The boy scouts say it,

and it's, uh...

It's good advice.

Huh.

You'll be living here

at ashford full-time,

on call 24-7.

The entire staff

will report to you.

You're going

to be the liaison

between me and the sale

here at ashford.

You'll need to pack up

and send all the antiques

to the auction house.

You'll also be coordinating

and planning

the annual Marley family

Christmas Eve gala.

This is going

to be the last one ever,

so it's got

to be one for the books.

My brother kip

will be home for it,

as will my sister Sloane

and her family,

I think,

so you'll need to plan

and coordinate

their arrivals as well.

-So...

-and lastly,

you're to see that all

my grandmother's needs are met.

She still lives here at ashford,

though not for much longer.

Is that clear,

or do you need me

to write that down?

I'm sorry,

I'm a little confused.

I thought

this was a job interview.

No, an endorsement

from someone I trust

is worth more than gold,

and your sister

has never steered me wrong

in a transaction.

So I'm... a transaction?

No, I... I didn't...

I don't mean

that I don't see you

as a woman...

Uh, I, a...

Person.

I do.

I mean, obviously,

you're a woman,

and you're also a person.

You're both.

And I was

just kidding.

Oh! yeah.

No, no, no, right.

Right. ha.

Yeah, I knew you were kidding.

Oh, good.

Yeah.

So you start

right away.

I'll make sure that Gerard

has your room ready, okay?

Uh... huh.

[]

So, first day.

Are you nervous?

Insanely, yes.

What else can you tell me

about Robert Marley?

There's just

so little information about him

online.

You're cyber-

stalking him?

It's called

due diligence, Meg.

[Laughs]

What?

I just want to know

what I'm walking into

this morning.

Like you don't

Google your clients.

Uh, when I get a listing

like ashford,

I tend not to ask

any questions...

But...

What did you find out?

Not much.

He brokers mergers

and acquisitions.

His parents were k*lled

in a car accident

when he was 13.

So sad.

His grandmother raised him

and his two younger siblings

at ashford.

Yeah,

i know about his parents,

and it's awful.

I haven't met

his siblings yet,

but I'm really looking

forward to,

especially kip Marley.

They say

he's the most eligible

bachelor in D.C.,

and you're sort of going

to be living with him.

It's a job, Megan.

I know, I know.

And like you said,

it's temporary.

Yes,

and it could be

very temporary.

I already have

a potential buyer

who's interested

in looking at the house.

It's not a house,

it's a county.

I'm not kidding.

I'm going to need a GPS

to find my way around there.

Oh, the place is so incredible,

but it's so... cold.

Don't you think?

I need to get some Christmas

in there right away.

Well, they picked

the perfect girl for the job.

Call me later.

With a full report.

Yes. [chuckles]

Miss richfield,

allow me.

Gerard,

if we're going to be friends,

you have to call me Lizzie.

Yes, miss Lizzie.

Guess that's a start.

Uh, come.

I'll show you

to your room.

This is Robert's room,

but we'll put you here

since it's close to miss pippa,

in case she

needs anything.

Well, it's lovely,

but I don't want

to put him out.

Oh, he doesn't come home

for Christmas, ma'am.

But the gala!

It's the last one ever.

He's going to miss it?

Why break his streak now?

I'll meet you

in the kitchen

once you get settled

to go over

the to-do list,

and if you're hungry,

Anna can prepare

something for you.

Thank you.

Uh, Gerard?

The last house manager...

What happened to him?

Or her?

Oh, um, miss pippa

drove him away.

Oh, miss Lizzie?

Welcome to ashford.

I'll meet you

in the kitchen

momentarily.

Here is the supply order.

We've been

without a house manager

for a while,

so we need it on a rush.

The piano needs to be tuned.

It's an 1870s steinway grand,

so find someone

well-versed in that.

Miss pippa wasn't fond

of the last gentleman.

There's a crack

in one

of the front hall windows.

Have a stained-glass company

come to repair it.

That exists? Okay.

Stained...

Glass...

Company.

That should be all for now.

Ah, this is Anna.

She'll take care

of all your dietary needs.

Welcome, miss richfield.

I'm not used

to such formality.

Please, call me Lizzie.

Well, a certain level

of formality is expected.

[Chuckles]

So, can I get you anything?

A sandwich?

Omelette?

perhaps a waffle?

That's quite a menu,

but I ate at home.

I think

I'll just get some coffee

and head to the office.

Oh! thank you.

Is, um, miss pippa up yet?

I'm looking forward

to seeing her again.

You may wish

to manage your expectation

where miss pippa

is concerned.

She is somewhat old-school.

She doesn't engage

much with the staff.

We tend to

meet her needs,

and she leaves us alone.

Got it.

Thanks for the tip.

Certainly,

and if you need anything,

I'm always right here.

Thank you.

[Lizzie]:

Mrs. Marley!

It's so nice to see you.

I...

I...

Hi! uh...

I thought you weren't

coming home for Christmas.

I'm not home.

I'm working.

As the executor of the estate,

I need access

to my grandfather's files,

which are here

at ashford,

on paper...

Nothing digital.

Um, I need you

to scan this stack

and send it to me

as soon as you can, please.

Of course.

Um...

I hope you don't

mind sharing.

Huh?

The office, I mean.

It'll only be for

a little while.

I'm in and out,

and I'll be spending

most of my time in the city.

Yeah, well,

whatever works for you.

Okay.

Actually, I'm really glad

you're here.

I already have some great ideas

for the Christmas Eve gala.

I can't wait to get started.

It's my favorite time

of the year,

but actually,

you know,

the lack of Christmas

in this house

is frankly...

Unacceptable.

It's December already.

The gala's pippa's domain,

so you'll need to run that

by her first.

Oh.

Um, you know,

speaking of that,

any tips on how to approach her?

She's not exactly... welcoming.

I'm the last person

you should be asking

for tips on how to manage pippa.

Why?

She doesn't want

to sell ashford,

so I'm not exactly

her favorite person

in the world right now.

Then why are you?

I mean, the house

is so beautiful.

The history, the architecture,

the antiques...

Could we just focus on this

for right now?

Please scan that

and email it to me

when you can.

[Lizzie]:

i don't know

which pieces

will be up for auction yet,

but I can get you a list

by the end of the week.

This is a weird question.

I know you're an auction house,

but do you happen to know

where I could find

a stained-glass repair company

around here?

[Car speeds up]

Um, uh...

You know what?

Can I call you right back?

[Tires screech]

Gerard?

What was that noise?

That was Mr. kip.

Gerard!

Please introduce me

to this strange and

intriguing woman

at our doorway.

I'm Lizzie,

the new house manager.

It's nice to meet you.

Well, it's nice

to meet you too.

Have you alerted

the press?

Please do,

because I think my

brother has finally made

a right decision

in his life,

and I cannot

believe it.

I just mean

that our last house manager

was far less

interesting than you.

I mean, he was

terrified of pippa.

Can you believe that?

My sweet little

grandmother, pippa.

This house definitely

requires someone

who can hold

their own.

I will certainly try my best.

I don't doubt that,

and I have very good instincts

about people.

That's something

we have in common.

Ah...

And what do your instincts

tell you about me?

I hope I made

a good showing.

Gerard, tell me

i made a good showing.

[Gerard]:

excellent showing, sir.

Thank you, Gerard.

You definitely know

how to make an entrance.

Yep...

She definitely holds her own.

All right, I'm going

to go see my grandmother,

and we can get more

acquainted later.

Gerard,

great to see you.

Pippa Lou!

Where are you-hoo?

[Pippa]:

is that my kip?

It's so good to have you

home for Christmas.

Where in the world

are you returning from

this time?

[Kip]: you would not believe

the sights I've seen.

[They laugh]

[Lizzie]:

Robert! hi.

I didn't know

you'd be in town.

Um, are you coming to ashford?

Do you need anything?

No, I'm not,

actually.

I have a meeting with

the estate's attorney

just down the street,

and then I have to go

straight back to D.C.

Uh...

Oh, wow.

Oh, I promise everything

is getting done.

That stack is scanned.

Uh, bills are paid.

Piano's getting tuned

tomorrow.

These are

Christmas decorations

for ashford.

Can't wait

to get started.

What's your fascination

with Christmas?

It was my dad's favorite.

To sit by the fire

with my family,

the lights flickering

on the tree,

I mean, it's...

It's magical.

We've never had that.

Then you should

definitely come home.

It's the last Christmas

at ashford,

and I promise I'm doing

everything I can

to make it

beyond special.

I don't think

anyone wants me there.

Don't do anything

without running the gala

theme by pippa first.

[Knocks]

[Pippa]:

who is it?

Uh, it's...

It's Lizzie.

Who's Lizzie?

The new

house manager.

What do you want?

This is for your room,

a little

Christmas spirit.

Robert suggested

that I talk to you

about my plans for the gala.

Oh.

My grandson is asking

my opinion about something.

How novel.

Yes, he...

He said that you are in charge

of the gala.

The only topic on which

Robert and I can agree.

I was looking

through some of the

old gala pictures...

Why aren't you married?

You're in your 30s, no?

Well, I...

I actually almost got engaged

a few months ago,

and he was a good man,

but I just wasn't

in love with him,

and, you know,

i couldn't take that leap

knowing that true love

might be out there somewhere,

but I'm probably just being

a silly, hopeless romantic.

You know what I mean?

No.

May I?

Mm.

Okay, so I have

a few options.

Winter wonderland.

Boring.

Martinis and mistletoe?

Gauche.

Um, polar express?

-No.

-jingle mingle?

-No.

- apres ski?

No!

You're... you're right

to be underwhelmed.

I mean,

none of these really do

justice to ashford,

do they?

It's the last gala,

so it needs to be pure class.

Yes, it does.

What about...

Silver bells?

Silver bells?

Yeah.

Uh, so the whole house

would be in silver and blue

with bits of gold

and woodsy garland.

Elegant, but warm.

I think this house could use

a little more warmth.

Do you, now?

Very well, then.

"Silver bells" is the theme.

Spend what you must.

I trust you will

not disappoint me.

I will do my very best.

Do better than that.

Okay.

Thank you.

[]

[Giggles]

[Groans]

[]

[Lizzie]:

I've drawn up some plans.

I was up all night.

Oh, but it's so fun

imagining people's reactions,

you know,

when they walk

into the main hall.

I can't wait for it to be done,

and for miss pippa to see it.

You're quite good at this,

miss Lizzie.

Thank you.

Maybe in another life,

party planning was my path.

Well, why not this life?

Thank you.

Oh, there you are.

Looking everywhere

for you.

On the jogging trails?

Ha!

Actually, I found

this incredible new restaurant

that I think is perfect

to cater the gala.

Oh, great.

Send me the information,

and I'll look into it.

Well, I can do

you one better.

I secured us a private tasting

of their catering menu tonight.

I had to pull a few favors,

but anything to make

the last gala at ashford

the best it can be.

We'll talk about ashford

the entire time.

I will bore you to death...

And then we'll, uh,

expense it back to the estate.

It's a business meal.

Okay.

i appreciate you doing this.

I knew I'd get you to cave.

This is not

me caving.

This is me working,

for you, actually,

since you're my boss.

Uh-uh-uh, that would be Robert

who is your boss.

He cracks the whip.

Sloane, pippa, and I,

we just enjoy our lives.

It's actually

the perfect dynamic

for all of us.

If it's okay to ask,

what's the story

between Robert and pippa?

It seems... tense.

Well, I mean,

she's lived here

all of her life.

Robert's just selling the place

from under her.

What's to know?

Where will she go?

Again, you'll have to ask

the boss that question.

He hasn't informed

the rest of us.

Hmm.

So, tonight, you and I,

strozzi,

downtown.

Yep.

Oh, and hey,

by the way?

Silver bells?

Really great idea.

Thank you.

[Phone rings]

Robert.

I need you

to pull a file for me.

It should be

in the second drawer

of the cabinet,

labeled "Virginia

historical society."

I was just taking

a little break from decorating,

exploring the grounds.

Let me head to the house,

and I'll call you back.

But where are you now?

I'm at the pond.

I think

it's the most beautiful thing

I have ever seen.

I know.

It's incredible.

This was your playground

as a child!

I don't know

if it's the air here

or the view,

but... being at ashford

makes you feel

like you're on the verge

of something...

Like anything is possible.

That pond was always

my favorite part of ashford.

Actually, it was the only thing

i liked about it.

If you don't mind my asking,

why don't you want to be here,

Robert?

It's Christmas.

You ask a lot of questions,

and, uh, my answer

is that it's just complicated.

I know

there's stuff from the past,

but Christmas is the time

when we get to let everything go

and just be.

Well, you have

to see it here today...

With all the silver accents

going up...

Yeah, that sounds great.

Pull that file for me

when you get up to the office

and call me back.

[Music plays]

[Music playing]

[Laughter]

[]

[]

It's really starting

to come together,

don't you think?

You ready?

Wow.

i... I...

I would compliment you,

but words escape me,

and that never happens.

Thank you,

but there's really no need to,

seeing as how

this is a business meeting.

Right, of course.

Well, after you.

Robert!

Kip.

You decided to come

home for Christmas.

Yeah.

um...

There's a lot of work

to be done here anyway,

so...

I'm glad.

[Kip]:

yeah, it's great news.

We're all beyond thrilled,

but we have, uh,

reservations to get to,

so we'll have

to catch up later.

Okay, big brother?

-Bye.

-bye.

Here, I'll get

the door.

[Lizzie]:

so...

What's after the holidays?

Athens.

Oh.

Ah, they have some

of the most incredible

architectural feats

in the world,

and growing up at ashford,

i knew I had to see it.

I had to see the museums.

I had to see the ruins.

I had to see everything.

Experiencing other cultures

through

their artistic expression.

That's exactly

how I feel about it.

That's why I majored

in art history.

Well, you think

it's fascinating in books?

It doesn't even compare

to seeing it in person.

Oh, I bet.

I'll have to take your word

for it, though.

I haven't traveled much.

There's so much to see

in the world, Lizzie.

I even carry my passport

in my back pocket sometimes.

In case you need

to leave the country

at a moment's notice?

Sure.

Hey, you never know

when you have to bolt

in the middle

of the night...

[Laughs]

Or, hey,

maybe you get invited

to Athens or something.

Oh! oh, what?

What's wrong?

Oh, I'm so sorry.

No, I...

They... they...

They put me in this room

because it was

close to pippa,

and weren't coming

home for Christmas.

No, no, no, no.

It makes...

Um, I...

I should have talked to Gerard

about the room arrangements.

I'm the one who should be sorry.

I will go somewhere else.

No, no, no,

no, no, no.

It makes sense

that you'd be in here.

Um, I'll just go

to one of

the guest rooms.

I'll, um...

I'll leave you to it.

No, no, no,

that's okay.

I wasn't here long enough

to unpack...

Much.

So, uh...

How was your dinner

with my brother?

It was a tasting

for the Christmas Eve gala.

But it became a date.

No, absolutely not.

That would be inappropriate.

No, no, I'm...

I'm here to work.

We kept it all about the food.

Trust me, to kip,

it was a date.

That guy goes zero to 60

faster than a Tesla,

which he has one of those,

corvette,

Maserati, Ferrari...

All paid for

by the estate.

Must have cost him tonight,

though,

climbing to the top

spot at strozzi.

Look, the food was great,

but if it was a date...

And I don't

think it was...

Ah...

I would prefer

something more creative,

like spending $20, Max.

Well, that would

require imagination.

Yes, it would.

It's... it's a challenge

my mother gave my father

on their first date.

And what did he do for $20?

Well,

my mother loves grilled cheese,

so he bought some ingredients,

and they had

a grilled cheese cook-off.

[They laugh]

He said, "if you're going

to make it a challenge,

I'm going

to make it a challenge."

She said

that that was the night

she knew

he was the one for her.

Hmm. so who won?

They both did.

Hmm.

Well...

It's an

interesting challenge.

I'm going to have

to think about it.

[Clears throat]

Uh...

Good night, Lizzie.

Good night.

Um, it looks...

Festive.

Uh, the whole house does.

It's, uh...

Mm...

Beautiful?

Mm... hmm....

Comforting?

Mm.

Warm?

Uh, unusual.

[They laugh]

You know

what your problem is?

You haven't done Christmas

right.

Christmas wasn't

a very happy time for us

after my parents, uh...

You know,

here at ashford,

it's, uh, it's all

about appearances.

Throw an extravagant party,

spend a few hours

with guests and colleagues,

get in the newspaper,

and then go

your separate ways.

Hmm.

Well, it's never too late

to start new traditions.

[Laughs]

Yes, my family

takes decorating

very seriously...

And food as well, so...

This is the best

of both worlds.

I give you

the popcorn garland.

[Munching]

[Laughs] it's for

the garland.

Oh, okay.

Popcorn garland.

Yeah.

Through here?

Slowly. nice.

You're a natural.

You know,

usually we have the staff

do all the sewing, but...

[Lizzie]: well, why should

they have all the fun?

[They laugh]

[Kip]:

fun?

I like fun.

What are we doing?

Oh, this is popcorn garland.

Ooh!

Yeah, join us.

Sure.

[Meg]: the crown molding

throughout is original,

and the chandelier

is quite exquisite.

Everything in this house is.

Now, let's head upstairs.

I'll just take

a little of this.

Hey, stop, stop, stop.

I've been working

on this.

So uptight.

Well, you're ruining

my popcorn garland.

Yeah.

Hey, I had a fun

time last night.

Kip...

Don't be inappropriate,

all right?

Lizzie is just trying

to do her job.

Oh...

Robert, you may be the

executor of the estate,

but you're not

the executor of me.

[Robert chuckles]

You see, Robert here,

he calls the shots,

and we just go along

for the ride.

Oh...

Yeah, you don't have

any problem with that

when you're cashing the checks,

do you, kip?

I've told him

he can come work with me

whenever he wants.

Oh, that's nice.

Work for you, not with you.

Until you learn

the ropes,

yes, kip.

There's a learning curve.

And again,

I'm not interested.

You've done enough

calling the shots all my life,

and now you're

selling the house?

And pippa?

I haven't seen pippa

like this in I don't...

-Uncle Robert!

-Hey!

Uncle kip!

There they are,

my boys!

Oh!

-Who's hungry?

-[Both]: Me!

There's popcorn here,

but look out, there's a shark.

Two trains, three delays,

and one case of motion sickness,

but we are finally here.

Hallelujah.

Where is the wine?

And who might you be?

Uh, this is Lizzie,

our new house manager.

And you're still here

after three weeks!

Wow, that's

refreshing.

I'm Sloane, the little sister.

Where's grandmother?

Uh, hello.

Hi.

Uh, she's

upstairs.

She hasn't really come

out of her room lately.

[Sloane]:

hmm, I wonder why.

Mm-hmm.

Well, do you want

to go see her?

-Yes.

-okay.

Uh, boys?

You want

to go see pippa?

Yeah!

All right, grab some popcorn,

and let's go.

[Robert]:

hey, careful, okay?

Don't get that everywhere.

You got...

[Kip]: come on!

Oh, you got handfuls.

[Sloane]:

careful, careful.

Home together at Christmas.

It's going to be a fun reunion.

[Lizzie]:

at Christmas,

my father would line

a row of poinsettias

down each side

of our driveway.

I want to do

the same thing

for the gala,

but with a silver bow

around each one.

I was thinking

these would be nice

for the centerpieces.

You have a gift for this.

You think so?

Well, planning it

has been so much fun.

I feel invigorated.

I just hope

miss pippa approves.

Well, let me

put it this way.

If she didn't,

you'd already be gone.

That's very true.

Where will

she go, Gerard,

after the house is sold?

Do you know?

I can't say I'm privy

to that information.

[Lizzie]:

i don't understand.

I mean,

she loves this house so much.

Do they need the money?

[Robert]:

trust me,

it's not about the money.

Pippa will be well

taken care of.

I'll start lining up

the poinsettias outside.

I don't mean to be nosy.

Well, you're

quite good at it.

Only because pippa

very clearly wants to stay here.

She can't.

Why not?

Lizzie,

you don't have to get involved

with this, all right?

It's already been decided.

I know. It...

It just makes me so sad for her.

You know, she barely

comes out of her room.

I'm only saying this

because I want her

to be happy.

And I want her to be safe.

She has a heart arrhythmia.

The stairs are too

much of a strain.

I've tried

every possible solution

for her to stay,

but it's not up to me.

I tried to get her

to move downstairs.

She refused.

I even looked

into installing an elevator,

but she won't do it.

She says

that it "ruins the integrity

of the architecture."

You're doing this for her.

Yes.

And I promise you,

I will find a nice,

practical home for her.

Then why is everyone

so upset with you about this?

Because I have to make

the tough decisions,

and you always

sh**t the messenger.

They don't understand,

so...

they make me the bad guy.

It's fine.

I'm used to it.

Why don't you keep the house?

I don't want it.

[Phone rings]

Hmm, it's your sister.

Megan?

Uh-huh.

An offer?

Okay.

Let me call you back

when I get to the office.

Lizzie!

The whole place

looks great.

Well, it's just like

with the art.

It's about placement...

How to accent the beauty

of an already perfect home.

Well, you definitely

made this place

look more beautiful

than it was before.

Thank you,

but there's still

something missing.

What could

be missing?

It looks good.

It feels good.

It's like a gift to the senses.

That's it.

Smell!

Everything is beautiful,

but this house needs

to smell like...

Like cinnamon, cookies,

and... pine.

Thank you, kip.

Yeah!

Uh, so what do we do?

Do we go to a tree lot?

Do we order one off Amazon?

What?

We go to the woods.

Oh.

Well, we have woods

on the property.

[Laughs]

of course you do.

Well,

i have to go meet

some old high school friends,

but first thing tomorrow,

we are chopping down a tree.

The fact

that I have no idea how?

Totally irrelevant.

I know how.

Of course you do.

You never cease to amaze me,

Lizzie richfield.

Family dinner

will now be served

in the formal

dining room.

Well, since you're all home,

I thought you might like

to do a family dinner...

To visit...

Catch up?

It's what

my extended family does

when we haven't seen each other

in a while.

So I had Anna prepare

something special,

a holiday meal

with a yule log for dessert.

Don't you just love

a good yule log?

Um... okay.

Yeah, sure.

Why not?

[Anna]: all right.

Please, follow me.

Okay.

[]

Thank you, Anna.

The young gentlemen

thoroughly enjoyed

their hot chocolate,

and they are both sound asleep.

Thank you, Gerard.

[Lizzie]:

this is a yule log.

It's my mother's recipe.

Anna made it.

It is the quintessential

holiday dessert.

Prepare for your world

to be rocked.

[They laugh]

Enjoy.

Wait, you're not

joining us?

Oh, it's a...

It's a family dinner.

I'll eat

with the staff.

Oh, no, no.

No, no, we insist.

Anna, would you

please set a place?

Certainly.

Thank you, Anna.

We're not really

your typical family anyway.

I'm sure Lizzie's

already gathered that.

Join us, please.

I suppose.

Thank you.

Thanks.

All right.

I love this.

My mother and sister and i

do it every week.

Thank you.

Enjoy.

After my father

passed away,

my mother worked

a lot of nights,

but our weekly family dinner

was the one constant.

Mm.

It's nice to catch up

and share stories,

remember the good times,

especially

around the holidays.

I have a holiday memory.

Do you remember when grandfather

used to dress up

like Santa claus,

and he would sneak past

that window right there

when he knew

that we were at the table?

Yeah,

and kip would start crying.

I would not start crying.

[Robert]:

oh, no, kip, come on.

No, admit it.

It's all right.

You were afraid of Santa claus.

Maybe it was one time,

and I was, what,

three years old?

Oh, you were

a lot older than that.

[Kip]:

no!

Definitely older.

You were, like, what, six?

Seven, maybe?

17?

I was not 17!

I was a child.

Oh, emotionally,

you were a child, yes.

Enough, please.

Well, at least

we were all behaving

when we thought

Santa was watching.

[Pippa]: well, that was

your father's plan,

why he enlisted your grandfather

to do it.

You know, I think I still have

that ratty old costume

somewhere...

Unless that closet

has already been cleaned out.

Nothing has yet.

You'll be able to keep

whatever you'd like,

grandmother.

You know what would be fun?

If we'd get that

old Santa suit out.

Robert could put it

on for the boys.

I don't want

to scare kip.

Ah, just drop it already,

please.

Oh, you must...

For your nephews.

It'll soften the blow of

their father not being here.

Why isn't Jackson here?

He's been unemployed

for so long

that I had to dip

into my trust fund.

But that's what

it's there for,

the rough patches.

But he wants

to provide for his family.

I told him

my money is his money,

but he hates to spend it.

That's why he's not here,

because this house,

it reminds him of everything

that he can't give us.

What...

what can we do?

I wish I knew.

[Pippa]: that's what

we're all here for.

We'll figure this out.

Don't look now, but...

You're kind of acting

like a typical family.

Did you find him?

Mr. kip is still in bed.

He said he was out late

and he, quote,

"needs more sleep,

a lot more sleep.

Come back later."

Unquote.

It's okay,

but I should probably

get going.

We've got deliveries

coming this afternoon.

You can't chop down a tree

by yourself, Lizzie.

I will assist.

[Robert]:

no, Gerard.

I'll go.

If you're sure, sir.

[Lizzie]:

thank you,

but you might want

to change first.

Why, what's...

What's wrong with this?

You really are a bunch

of indoor people, aren't you?

[Laughs]

You know there are services

that cut down trees for you.

I mean,

we've used them many times.

I know,

but this is the fun part

of Christmas...

Mm.

And you could use

a little more fun, Mr. Marley.

Oh, is that so?

Mm.

Might I suggest clothes

where mud is welcome, sir?

Right.

I'll be back in five.

Okay.

Gerard, do you know

what you just did?

You called me Lizzie!

No "miss,"

no "richfield,"

not even

the full formal "Elizabeth."

Did I?

We're making

great progress.

Well, I'll go

see to Mr. Robert.

What do you say

we stop right here?

We can grab this tree

and call it a day, huh?

Not big enough.

We're trying to make

a statement with it.

What are we

trying to say?

[Heavy accent]

Welcome.

Is the tree Dracula?

Yeah, I don't know

what that accent was all about,

but the thing is,

it is the first thing

people see

when they walk in the door,

so we...

You know, let's...

Let's greet them properly.

But let's also sit

and see what Anna has

packed us for lunch.

Okay, you eat.

I'm going to look for a tree.

You have a vision, huh?

Yeah. I do.

You know, the last year

has been pretty rough for me.

I kept my head down,

and I got through it,

but then I came to ashford,

and I... looked up.

That is a very different effect

than ashford has on most people.

Most people?

Or you?

Before my parents died,

it was a happy place.

Afterwards, not so much.

Well, a home is all

about who fills it.

It must have felt

so empty without them.

Is that why

there's so much friction

between you and pippa?

I was 13

when my parents

passed away.

Kip and Sloane

were eight and six,

and...

Pippa was overwhelmed.

She had her hands full.

Because of that,

I probably wasn't

the easiest kid

to deal with.

They got very close,

and I became comfortable

being a stranger in my own home.

Perhaps because of that,

i, uh...

Became

a bit rough around the edges.

Well, I find that

hard to believe.

I mean, you know they all

call you Mr. warm and fuzzy

behind your back?

No, they don't.

No, they don't.

So, wait, I had a thought.

About?

That $20 date.

Come on, you said

it's a challenge,

and I never back down

from a challenge.

Okay, let's hear it.

Okay.

So, um...

To start off with, we...

My date and I...

We would go to the pond

behind ashford at dusk,

and from there,

we'd watch

the sun disappear

behind the mountains.

That would cost

nothing.

Then we'd listen to

my mom's favorite song

on the record player

in the library.

A record?

Yeah, you know,

an lp.

No, I know what it is.

I just...

Forget it.

Keep going.

Okay.

Then I'd plug the

Christmas lights in,

so that would be

the only light

illuminating us.

I'd twirl her around

a little bit.

So if we're talking

five senses,

that covers

sight and sound.

For taste,

I'd make her dinner

using only $20 worth

of ingredients.

Given that

it's the holidays,

perhaps a yule log.

That's my favorite entree.

Oh.

Then we'd walk

to the solarium,

and I'd pick her

a white Rose.

Smell.

Then we'd walk back,

and I'd take her hand.

Touch.

What was your mother's

favorite song?

Silver bells.

It always signified that

Christmas had arrived.

I had no idea

when I chose that theme.

I know,

but it's okay.

It's a good thing.

Well, you...

You certainly know

how to rise to a challenge.

Mm, it's a good challenge.

But I... I couldn't

help but notice

that it all takes place

at ashford,

which you seem so eager

to escape.

Hmm.

I know it was a sad place

for a long time,

but it's okay

to like it again.

You can...

Look up too.

Oh, there you are.

I should have known

you'd take her to the bench.

I had a rough night,

but I rallied.

I hope I didn't

let you down.

No, no, no.

We actually have not

found the tree yet.

What do you mean?

You walked right past it.

Look at this thing.

It's perfect.

I mean, we wanted

to make a statement, right?

Yeah...

you're right.

That's the one.

That's gorgeous.

Yeah!

It's a good thing

you came along when you did.

Yeah, it was a good thing.

Ah, here, big bro,

i will, uh...

Oh yeah...

Show you how it's done.

Can't wait.

Sorry, I didn't know

anyone was in here.

Oh no, I'm just wrapping

some gifts for the staff.

Do you want some help?

I'd love some.

Sloane,

are you okay?

[Tearful]

yeah.

[Sniffs]

Jackson didn't get this job

that looked promising...

And he really doesn't want

to come here for Christmas,

and he's stressing

about presents for the boys.

And what is it

that you want?

I don't even care

about presents.

I just want my family

together

in a place where we used

to celebrate Christmas

with my parents.

This is going to be our

last one ever at ashford.

The Christmas spirit

costs nothing.

You know what?

Homemade gifts are

even more special.

What matters is

being together.

Hey...

How about we put a moratorium

on store-bought gifts

this year?

Everything

must be homemade.

That could work.

Fight for your husband, Sloane.

I know you can come up

with a compromise.

You know, and i

can watch the boys

until you get back.

I worked my way through

college as a nanny.

And I'll help too.

[Both]: you will?

Yes.

Why are you guys so shocked?

I can take care of kids.

Go back to D.C.,

and bring your husband home

for Christmas.

Okay.

I'm going to go look

at train schedules.

You know, don't worry.

I... I...

You know, I know

a little bit more about kids

than I do

about chopping down trees.

Oh yeah?

Just a little

bit more?

Just a little bit more.

Little more... yeah,

we're in big trouble.

[Laughing]

You guys have been so

good since your mom left.

I emailed Santa,

and guess what?

He's watching.

[Boy]:

you think so?

I know so.

You guys ready?

[Boys]:

yes!

-Ready for what?

-I don't know.

[Robert]:

um...

Ready for this!

I'm going to get you!

Ha ha!

Hey!

Oh no!

You know, I can email Santa

back, you know,

tell him you've changed

into a bunch of mean meanies.

She wouldn't dare.

She's bluffing!

Get her!

Yeah!

No, no!

Hey, what's going on here?

Oh, my god!

[Lizzie]:

look what you've created!

My monsters turned against me!

[Laughs]

You're not supposed

to hit me!

[Robert]:

oh no!

I'm sorry.

Oh, I got him. Yes!

[Cheering, yelling]

[Robert]:

he's a sharp-sh**ter.

Hey, hey, hey!

Don't g*ng up on me.

Ah!

[]

I'm going to write "daddy"

on the roof in candy.

[Laughs]

I think this is going

to be the best present

he's ever gotten.

And mine will be

the best too.

[They laugh]

Well, you can never have

too many gingerbread houses,

trust me.

I think I'm going

to go two stories.

Oh yeah?

Is that a challenge?

Because I can

go condo.

Mm.

Multi-unit gingerbread house

with a low h.O.A.

[Robert]: so, guys,

when Lizzie gets back,

we're going to make

some necklaces for your mom

using some beads

we found

in your great-grandma's

sewing kit.

Cool.

Whoa, wow.

Aren't you and Lizzie

just the cleavers?

A snowman and craft kits

and now necklaces?

I'm helping out

our sister, kip.

That's all.

Oh, that's good.

Then you won't mind

if I ask Lizzie

to go to Athens with me

after the holidays.

Does she want to go to Athens?

Bro, who doesn't want

to go to Athens?

Look, you and Lizzie aren't...

What?

Things are looking up

for her...

After a very tough time.

She needs to be surrounded

by people...

By... who?

By you?

By people who care about her.

People who understand her.

Well, I think

Lizzie needs to be inspired,

and I'm willing to give

her that inspiration.

You just want to win, kip.

That's all you've ever wanted

is the win.

Will you just give me

a little bit of credit here?

Okay, maybe at one point,

that was true,

but I'm not a monster.

I actually...

[Sighs]

I actually think

this might be... real.

[Scoffs]

I just don't see it...

The two of you

together.

Well, it's a good thing

that you don't have to.

[Knocking]

Yes?

Um, I'm sorry if

this is a bad time.

I can...

Come in.

I, uh, I came to

find that Santa suit

to surprise the boys.

Christmas

is very important to you.

It was my father's favorite,

and now,

during the

holidays,

I... I can feel him

more than at other

times of the year.

That's probably why

i go so overboard.

Loving it as much as he did

is how I keep him with me.

My late husband, Bernard,

the gala

was his favorite night.

That's why it is

so important to me

that this last one

is perfect.

I will do everything I can

to make sure that it is.

What will you be wearing?

Oh, I brought a nice dress.

Unacceptable.

you need a gown.

The local boutique

is sending me some options

this afternoon.

I'll have them pull dresses

for you as well.

We'll find you

an appropriate one.

I appreciate that.

Gerard!

[]

Hmm.

That one would do.

It's... beautiful.

But I like

the first one better,

and I will lend you

a diamond necklace.

Thank you.

[Chuckles]

What do you think

of my grandson?

Which one?

You have two.

Ha, I'm aware of that.

I'm speaking of the one

who has piqued

your interest.

Oh, that was not a date.

It was a dinner

for the gala.

It was actually a tasting

that kip had, like...

Oh, so it is kip

who has piqued your interest?

Yes.

Uh, no. I mean no.

I... I mean...

I mean, they both have.

You know, they...

Everyone has.

I have grown very fond

of your whole family.

And they of you.

Hmm.

Let me tell you something

about my grandsons.

I love them both dearly,

but the differences

are quite monumental.

That's evident.

One is driven by conquest

and satisfaction,

while the other is driven

by duty and responsibility,

and they are both wrong...

And right...

But I think that's why

they're always at odds.

They would each do well

to be more like the other...

Kip to stay in one place,

and Robert to let go,

but I do think

you've had quite an effect

on both of them.

Well, I did get them

to cut down a tree in the woods.

[Laughs]

A shock to us all.

[Laughs]

But seeing

what being around you

has done to Robert

is quite substantial.

What does it do to him?

He's awake.

There comes a time

when our foundation

is shaken

in transformative ways.

For me, it's leaving ashford.

For him...

I believe

it's finding it again.

You know,

Robert told me

it was your

doctor's decision...

Why you have to move.

Well, that's quite true.

You know,

something I learned

when my foundation was shaken...

It's not always a bad thing.

Yes, I do believe your presence

has had an impact on us all.

Definitely the first dress.

[Kip]:

coconut, coc

crack!

I'm going to crack

all of you,

because it's dinner

time, all right?

You sit down.

Let's fly you into here.

Oh, there we go.

Oh, look who it is!

Daddy!

Aw, hey, guys.

[Boy]: we made

you gifts!

I heard,

and I made you some too.

Yay!

[Kip]: it's good to see you,

Jackson.

[High fives]

Jackson.

Oh, so wonderful

that you could make it.

[]

This is good.

It feels great.

Well,

it's been too long.

[Bells ring]

[Lizzie]: what was that?

Do you hear that?

[Gasps]

look!

-Whoa!

-who's that?

It's Santa claus!

He's watching!

You said he was watching.

I guess he is.

[Laughing]

Pretty cool,

guys, huh?

Yes, pretty cool indeed.

[Chuckles]

You're not joining us?

Oh, with Jackson here,

it feels

like it should be just family.

Nonsense.

you are family.

Sit.

Thanks.

Of course.

There you are.

[Clearing throat]

[Kip]:

there he is.

Hey. sorry,

that was a long call.

Did I miss anything?

Santa was here!

What?

where?

There!

I missed him.

[Laughter]

Okay, can we eat?

Because I'm starving.

[Laughter]

Good morning.

Good morning.

Happy Christmas Eve.

Happy Christmas Eve.

[Lizzie]:

big day today.

I just wanted to center myself

for a few minutes,

the calm before the storm.

The party's going

to be great.

Oh, please.

Oh, thank you.

Of course.

It's been so long

since I've been out here,

I've forgotten

how much I love it.

The mountains,

the pond,

everything.

In fact,

it's been years

since I've been

to ashford at all.

Um...

But lately,

I've been seeing it

through fresh eyes.

I've been looking up.

Well, that's because

you came home for Christmas.

You know, the holidays

have that effect on people.

No, Lizzie,

it's not Christmas, it's you.

Look, I know that technically,

you work for us,

but there's something

i want to say.

Since you arrived

here, I've...

There you are!

They told me

you'd be out here.

You're not answering your phone.

I tried calling 10 times.

Oh yeah, I left

it up at the house.

Mm.

Counter accepted.

Ashford estate

is officially in escrow.

Anna,

are the appetizers

in process yet?

Yes, absolutely.

Great.

Oh, look at you,

and you don't even

need a ladder.

Nope.

Thank you, all of you,

for helping so much.

Note to self,

10% more staffers

next time.

Next time?

If I choose

to throw another party

anywhere.

I'm glad

you've decided to come home.

Me too, grandmother.

Oh...

My wonderful

great-grandchildren.

[Lizzie]:

yeah, nice bows, guys.

Really good work.

[Whispering] don't worry,

I'll fix it.

Thank you.

[Whispering]

I'll help.

Thank you.

Did you see the listing

i sent you

for that lovely house?

Uh, Gerard will be taking me by

next week.

Oh, good.

It's rather small.

It's almost

4,000 square feet.

That's true.

It would be an adjustment,

but at least

there's room for my art.

Well, some of it.

Well, that's the idea,

so you can bring ashford

with you.

We should all be surrounded

by the beauty that inspires us.

The hair

and makeup people

are upstairs, ma'am.

Perhaps it's time

to go get ready...

Both of you.

Go. we can finish

up from here.

Really?

-Yeah.

-hey, yeah...

No, we can definitely

get it done.

I could be ready

for the oscars

in 15 minutes,

and actually, uh,

i kind of did that once.

Oh, and hey,

will you save a dance

for me?

Sure.

Thank you for

all you do, Gerard.

My pleasure, ma'am.

[]

Good evening. Good evening.

Hi. kip Marley.

Enjoy yourself.

Thank you for coming.

Enjoy yourself.

Uh, wow. Uh...

Lizzie, you look...

Exquisite.

Shall we have

that dance now?

[Man]: kip,

someone you need to meet.

Don, right now?

I just...

One minute.

Yeah.

Mom! Meg! Hi!

Merry Christmas!

Oh, merry

Christmas, honey.

Merry Christmas.

Nice party,

and everyone

is saying

it's the best gala

they've ever been to.

Oh...

I'm just happy that we c

all be together tonight...

Mm-hmm.

And in

the most incredible house

I've ever seen.

Yeah, you just had

to make us work

on Christmas Eve.

Um, you begged to come to work

with me on Christmas Eve.

I know,

and I'm not

complaining.

It's a really wonderful

party, Lizzie.

Um, mom, this is kip Marley,

and you know my sister, Megan.

It's a pleasure

to meet you, Mrs. richfield.

And you as well.

Your daughter is...

Well,

she's something else.

Uh, they both are.

Yes, they are.

They certainly are.

I can see

why planning this

has been such a joy for you.

Well, go.

Enjoy yourself,

enjoy your party.

We promise to

as well, okay?

You look incredible!

Aw, thank you.

Courtesy of your grandmother.

Oh, no, no, no,

it's you, Lizzie.

It's always you.

Kip, could you help

your old grandmother?

I have to greet

the kents,

and would like

to do that

with my handsome

grandson on my arm.

Well, I can't say no to pippa.

Uh, don't go anywhere?

I can't anyway.

I'm on the clock.

Right.

I thought

he'd never leave.

Oh!

[laughs]

[Laughs]

[ Playing

silver bells ]

This whole house

feels alive again.

Maybe it's not the house.

Maybe it's you.

Uh, I was thinking...

[Kip]: hey, uh, excuse me.

Sorry to interrupt,

but, uh, there's an emergency.

Pippa needs you outside.

There's something going on

with the desserts, I don't know.

Oh, okay.

Rain check on that dance?

Definitely.

After you.

Pippa shouldn't

be out here.

It's too cold.

[Kip]:

oh, here.

Huh? oh!

Thank you.

No problem.

Actually, uh,

pippa's inside.

I'm the one who

wanted to talk to you.

I've been doing

a lot of thinking these days.

I know that some

people inside

might think

that's a dangerous idea.

[Laughs]

Lizzie...

You deserve

a life that inspires you...

To see the world

through the artistic expression

of ancient civilizations.

So...

Here.

Thank you.

[Laughs]

Well, what are

you waiting for?

Go ahead, open it.

Come to Athens with me.

It won't cost you a dime.

Now, I know that

I'm a bit of a nomad.

I tend to live life

in a little bit of a

faster Lane than most,

but something's

changed in me

since you got here.

There's a light inside you,

Lizzie,

and I don't even know

if you realize it.

When you're around anyone,

you...

You make them better,

just by being

around them.

I mean, look at me.

I mean, suddenly,

settling down

doesn't make me want

to run and hide.

Come to Athens with me,

and then let's just see

where it goes.

[Lizzie]: kip,

this is...

The kindest thing

anyone has ever said

or done for me,

and I would love nothing more

than to go to

Athens with you...

[Kip laughs]

But I can't.

You're a good man, kip...

But my heart belongs

to someone else.

I think

I just realized that tonight.

I'm sorry.

Um, well...

My brother is a good man,

and really,

i just want you...

And him...

To be happy.

I think I'm going

to go upstairs.

I'm done celebrating

for the night.

Thank you.

Merry Christmas,

Lizzie richfield.

Merry Christmas.

Have a good night.

Thank you very

much for coming.

Hey, Sloane,

any sign of Robert?

No.

Hmm.

Hey, have you guys seen Robert?

No, not in a while.

Lizzie?

I am Gladys vanderton.

Yes, of the Virginia

vandertons,

and you have done

the most exceptional

job here.

Thank you.

That really means a lot to me.

Anyway,

I'm having a little soiree

on Valentine's day...

Small, intimate,

only 200 people,

and I would love

to retain your services.

To plan it.

You do plan parties,

don't you?

She does.

She plans the most

magnificent ones around.

I believe that.

Here's my card.

Call me.

Thank you.

[They laugh]

What did I tell you?

Sometimes your

thing finds you.

Robert, where

are you going?

I'm going

back to the city.

Why?

Because there's nothing

left for me here, Sloane.

Don't go.

It's Christmas Eve.

This has been the best

Christmas we've had

in years.

We're all just starting

to find each other.

I can finish

the sale from D.C.

Have either of you seen Robert?

All we know

is that he left,

and kip is holed up

in his room

and doesn't want

to talk to anyone.

Well, that's probably my fault.

Everything was going so well.

We were together.

Why would Robert leave

without saying anything?

Evidently,

his work here was done.

That's what he told Sloane.

Go home, Lizzie.

Spend the rest of your Christmas

with your mother

and your sister.

I'm sure they'd rather be home

tonight anyway.

No, I don't want

to leave you alone.

Sloane and Jackson

and the two boys are here.

We'll have Christmas together.

But there's so much to be done.

Cleaning up

after the party, and...

Gerard and i

will take care of it.

Everyone should be

with their family

on Christmas.

[Fire crackling]

I left him two messages

saying I need to talk to him.

No response.

Last night, everything

seemed so clear.

The job and Robert...

It felt

like something was happening.

You know,

he was different

the past few weeks...

In a good way, I mean.

You know,

i let myself get too close.

I got caught up

in their world...

But this is me.

Here is where I belong.

And who knows

what the future holds?

And now you've seen

what happens

when you're open

to all the possibilities.

Yes, you found

yourself there, Lizzie.

You found your thing.

"Events by Lizzie."

[Laughs]

It doesn't have

a terrible ring to it.

It's all happening.

So...

Maybe try calling him again.

[Phone rings]

[Footsteps approach]

Grandmother.

Uh, what are you doing here?

It's Christmas.

Don't families see each

other on Christmas?

You're a hard

one to find.

My first mistake was not

checking your office.

No rest for

the weary.

Hmm.

I'll go take a walk, ma'am.

Call when she's ready

for me to come get her.

When you get to be my age,

Robert,

you start to consider,

what will my legacy be?

We never want to be defined

by our mistakes.

After the accident,

I went from weekend grandmother

to single guardian of three

in the blink of an eye.

You did the best you could.

I could have done better

by you.

Well...

But these past few weeks,

seeing how you've changed,

I wish I hadn't

let you shut down.

It should have been my job

to open you up...

But I didn't do it.

Lizzie did.

It doesn't matter,

grandmother.

She chose kip.

[Sighs]

Dear boy.

I love your brother

with all my heart,

but Lizzie

would have never chosen kip.

What are you talking about?

Your brother got on a plane

to Greece this morning...

Alone.

She didn't go with him?

This was under

the tree this morning,

with your name on it.

Open it.

It's from Lizzie.

Oh...

Tell Gerard

that I'm ready to go,

since you have places to be.

Mwah!

Gerard!

[Doorbell rings]

Who could that be?

Oh, well,

maybe it's Santa claus

because he forgot

to bring me something,

like the love of my life.

-Hi.

-hi.

Can I talk to you?

-Alone?

-yeah.

Why did you leave

last night

without saying goodbye?

I saw you with kip...

And I made an assumption.

It was more

than that. I...

Being at ashford

suddenly felt right,

and that is a very

foreign feeling to me.

A home isn't just

a house, right?

It's about

the people who fill it,

and it only felt right again

when you were there.

I've decided

not to sell ashford.

What?

I'm sorry, Megan.

I really am.

There will be penalties,

Robert.

I understand,

and I will have other work

for you, I promise.

Sorry, she's kind of

emotional about work.

I can see that.

The house needs to stay

in the Marley family.

It's just a matter

of filling it

with the right people...

Whenever

that might happen.

Maybe we just need

more christmases

like this one.

What...

What do you think of all this?

I found myself at ashford,

not because of the grandeur

or finding my passion...

But because of you.

I looked up...

And saw you.

I was hoping you'd say that.

Thank you for my present.

You got it?

It's perfect,

and I have something

for you too.

Can I steal you away

for a little bit?

As long as I can be back

in time for Christmas dinner

with my family.

We don'tkitraditions.

I have a thought to run by you

about that tradition.

[]

Here Christmas comes!

[Everyone]:

oh!

[Chatter]

[Applause]

Oh, thank you so much.

I still have to give

you your present.

Homemade, for $20.

[Everyone chats happily]

[Record player plays]

silver bells

silver bells

it's christmastime

in the city

ring-a-ling

Merry Christmas,

Lizzie.

Merry Christmas, Robert.

Soon it will be

Christmas day

city sidewalks

busy sidewalks...