A Dogwalker's Christmas Tale (2015)

[bunniefuu]

[jazz style "Nutcracker March"]

[alarm rings jingling bells]

Five days 'til Christmas.

Becky! Guess what?

What's going on?

Is there a fire?

Five days 'til Christmas!

Yeah, so?

Christmas shopping.

Okay.

You have a great time.

Come with us.

Come with us.

Come on, finals are over.

You can finally relax.

It'll be fine.

With Whit and Court?

Why do you even

hang out with them?

All they do

is shop and gossip.

They're actually

really sweet.

And remember?

You used to think that of me?

Yeah.

And now we're besties!

You're right.

We are.

And it's Christmas, the season

of love and giving.

Hmm-hmm.

So come on.

Be right there.

[alarm buzzing]

Fields of white,

skies are blue

The fire is bright

in the living room

And all I feel baby,

all are we are is today

Ooh-ahh,

Ahh-ha

The morning news

as the coffee brews

The record spins

those happy tunes

But all I feel baby,

all we are is today

So let those records play

And with me

let the snow just melt away

'Cause right here

makes a perfect holiday

Sleigh bells ring going,

let it sing

Neighbors pass by

with gifts to bring

Hey!

Hi, sweet pea.

And all I need, babe,

all I want is here today

- So let those records play

-[dog barks]

Come with me and

let the snow just melt away

'Cause right here

makes a perfect holiday

Okay, you guys ready

for a selfie?

-Picture with the bags.

-Oh, yeah.

Oh and some folks

like a holiday

On the beaches of LA

[indistinct]

-She's in...

-What is she doing?

Than just lyin' here together

in our sweaters

Watchin' snow melt away

Just use the rule of thirds.

Works every time.

You saved my life.

Thank you so much.

Don't mention it.

I won't. My boss

would totally k*ll me.

-See ya.

-Bye.

-[phone rings]

-Oh.

Stunning, both of you.

Thanks.

Are you thinking

what I'm thinking?

It will be perfect

for the New Year's party.

Luce, come here.

There's one for you too.

Oh. Oh, wow.

It looks just like the one

my grandmother used to wear.

You should totally get it.

It will look amazing on you,

and we'll all match.

Would you like to try it on?

It-- it's gorgeous.

I love it, but, um,

I came here to get that.

Oh, yes, the one you were

looking at last week.

Perfect.

Derek's gonna love it.

-Definitely.

-Make sure he's always

on time for you.

Exactly.

[Christmas bells music]

[dogs barking]

Can you believe they're

out of peppermint mocha?

It's the holidays.

They should be overstocked.

How were your finals?

Pretty good.

A's across the board,

I think.

Princeton grad school,

here he comes.

Okay, so for Christmas,

I was thinking

Christmas Eve we can go

to your parents' house,

'cause I remember you saying

your mom likes to

cook that night,

and then for Christmas day,

we can go to my house.

My mom does

this amazing spread.

We didn't talk about this.

About what?

Meeting your parents.

That's what couples do.

We're a couple?

We've been dating

for three months.

We have?

I'm sorry.

I just, uh, finals and...

Uh, we met at that

back-to-school party

on Friday, the 10th,

and then we had that

romantic movie on the 12th,

and then we went to

formal last month,

and I just thought

if we were exchanging gifts,

that you'd be up for

family shenanigans.

You got me a gift?

Hmm-hmm.

I'm sorry. I just--

I didn't know

that we were doing this.

Oh. It's okay.

I honestly thought

it was a little childish

to buy each other gifts

with our parents' money.

Why do you think I bought it

with my parents' money?

Did you get a job in

the last week that

I'm not aware of?

Okay, so I bought it

with my parents' money.

I can't accept this.

This-this is too generous

for where we are with our...

...thing.

Really, I'm just not

that into Christmas.

You're not that into

Christmas?

You and I are very

different, Luce.

What?

I mean, I thought

we were having fun.

What more do you want?

I don't know.

Substance?

Substance.

You know nothing

about substance.

I am a flavorful flawless

peppermint mocha.

And you're some-- some

day-old coffee with a

dinky packet of Splenda

trying to confuse the world

that you're actually sweet.

I'd like to return this watch

for that gorgeous necklace.

What happened?

[heavy breathing]

Never mind.

It's okay.

But, I'm sorry.

I can't.

We don't do returns

or exchanges.

B-but, Ella, it-it's me.

I-- I've practically paid

for all of your French

manicures this year

with that tennis bracelet

I bought my mom.

I would love to help you out,

but it's just our policy.

Maybe... maybe I can...

No-no. I don't want you

to get in trouble.

Um, I'll get

the necklace anyway.

My mom and dad

will forgive me.

They want me to have it,

especially after Derek.

Oh, goodness.

You three girls

are gonna look

so cute together

in your matching necklaces.

Thanks so much.

Hmm.

I'm sorry,

but your card was declined.

I'm sure

I just hit the wrong button.

[beep]

Um, do you have another card?

[sighs] Stupid watch.

I must be over my limit, again.

Um, you know,

I'll just call my parents.

Thanks, bye.

Uh-oh. Derek?

Derek?

Derek who?

Oh, you mean the guy

who didn't know

we were exclusively dating

for three months?

The one who I bought

a Christmas gift for,

maxed out my parents'

credit card,

and now I can't buy Christmas

gifts for anyone else?

Yeah, that one.

Ugh.

I got yours, though.

Oh, thanks, Luce.

I love it.

It'll go perfectly with

those shoes with the silver...

Not those ones.

Your blue ones.

How do you do that?

'Cause I have style, right?

Absolutely.

Of course.

But I have substance too,

right?

What do you mean

by substance?

Like, I'm--

I'm smart, and fun,

and a good

conversational companion.

Luce, you just need to date

someone who sees the real you.

But I have substance, right?

I think you're great.

You are sweet,

and generous, and...

You don't. You think

I'm unsubstantial.

You and Derek

are just different.

He's in to Nietzsche

and Kierkegaard

Keerka-what?

Philosophy.

We're both minors.

Oh.

Becky, he doesn't even

like Christmas.

You love Christmas.

I know.

I-I thought

we were so alike.

You don't want someone

just like you.

You need someone

who challenges you.

Like right now,

I'm challenging you

to go get pizza with me.

Hmm?

I can't.

I've been trying to get a hold

of my parents all day

to figure out

what's going on with the card,

and they're not answering.

I've gotta go home.

Hmm. Come here.

Thank you.

Always.

That's a good girl. Hmm.

Huh, you good?

You were good.

Hi! Look who I have.

-Yes.

-She was good.

-Oh, it's pay day.

-Oh, no.

-This is for you.

-No, no, no, no.

Just, you know,

give it to the people

down at the canned food drive.

I insist.

All right, well, moowah,

you were a good girl.

I will you see later,

all right?

Hello! I'm home!

[faint electric guitar

playing]

Mom?

Dad!

Hello?

Where are they?

Kevin, where's mom and dad?

They said they called you

this morning.

I know. I was shopping,

and I couldn't answer.

Can you stop playing

for a minute?

Where'd they go?

The charity thing

for the kids and stuff.

Remember?

Oh, the one in Botswana?

Oh, that's why their phones

aren't working.

But I didn't know

it was at Christmas.

How could they leave us

for Christmas?

I don't know. They probably

thought you were running around

with Mr. Perfect Hair.

Not anymore.

So, what are we gonna do

stuck here without them?

Mom left money

for food and stuff.

Anyways, they're doing good

for the world.

We can suck it up.

I suppose. So,

you wanna help me decorate?

Maybe later.

I gotta practice.

Fine.

[Kevin]

Hey, shut the door.

["Oh Christmas Tree"

on light piano]

Luther, come on, come on.

Let's go.

Let's go, baby.

Let's... come on.

Let's go.

Oh. Luce Lockhart?

Oh, my goodness,

I haven't seen you since...

High school probably.

Probably.

Gosh, how are you?

I'm good.

Uh, yeah, I, you know,

I've been really busy

in college, so...

Staying through New Year's?

Yeah, my mom and dad

are out of town.

Oh, that's right.

That's right.

The charity thing, Africa.

So exciting.

Well, hey, you and

Kevin must come over

on Christmas Eve.

We're throwing

our annual Christmas soire,

and, well,

you can't be alone

on Christmas,

so, uh, why don't you bring

some of your friends?

It'll be great fun.

That would be great,

Mrs. Paxton.

Oh, please, call me Missy.

So, uh, well,

how's Mr. Paxton doing?

Byron's good. Good.

You know, busy as usual

with our next big venture.

Yeah, well I just got dumped

by my latest venture.

Oh, sweetie.

Well, at your age,

you should be treating men

like your latest

pair of new shoes.

You wear 'em for a few months,

and then you toss 'em

aside for next season's

finest, right?

Where's that brother of yours?

I've gotta get moving.

Taking the mister to lunch.

Oh, oh, he's not home.

Oh, that stinker.

Hank wanted to see him.

Oh, yeah.

He's out with the band.

He'll be home tonight.

Hank really wanted

to play with him.

Oh-oh, what instrument

does he play? I mean.

If you give me his number,

I can...

Um, instrument?

Wait, uh, who's Hank?

My Hank.

This is Hank.

[Luce]

Oh.

Yeah, Kevin promised

to walk him this week,

and gosh, I just don't know

what I'm gonna do.

I'm swamped and I-I've got

all the party planning

and the charity events,

and all the shopping to do.

I don't know

what I'm gonna do--

How would you like to

make some extra cash

before Christmas?

Oh, no, no.

I'm not a dog person.

I wouldn't even know

what to do with him.

What's to know?

You just run him around

a little bit,

tell him he's a good boy,

and feed him--

just like a man really.

So simple.

Name your price.

Uh, well, there--

there was this ruby necklace

at Benald's Jewelers.

Done.

Every girl deserves a ruby

on Christmas, right?

I'll tell you what.

You take care of Hanky here,

and I'll be sure

you get that ruby.

Thanks, honey.

You're a life saver.

Bye, Hanky.

Great.

[dogs barking]

Looking good.

No more infection.

Looks like the cream helped.

Thank you for your assistance,

Nurse Cliff.

Of course, Dr. Dean.

Thank you,

thank you so much Dean.

We can't wait

'til you graduate.

Oh, I'm just excited

I get to practice on these guys

before I make it out

in the big world. Huh?

Maybe-- maybe Athena here

hopes that Auntie Lenore

will adopt her

and make her her own.

Isn't that right, Athena?

Huh?

I don't want my dog

a foster mom, Dean.

You're non-committal.

That's what you are.

Am I right?

Am I right? Huh?

Athena, do not answer

that question.

Say I'm right.

I just haven't found

the right guy yet.

Yeah. You're non-committal.

Oh, hey, Bea, how's it going?

Good morning!

Ahh! Loving that jog suit.

And you can't have it.

[Lenore]

I was talking to Moonpie.

Ugh.

What's that all about?

"Paxton Properties

Serenity Day Spa?"

[dog barking]

Ugh. Ugh.

Stop!

Whoa, whoa,

whoa, whoa, whoa!

Ah! Oh my gosh.

I can't handle that dog.

Yeah, I noticed.

-Here, let me...

-Just move that...

You're on... get off me.

You can get off me now.

You're on me.

-Oh, right.

-Yeah.

Whoa, here.

Ahh. Whoa.

Whoa!

-[dog barking]

-Oh, hey, no!

Come on, Sweet Pea.

Come on.

What a sweet good boy.

Everyone else gets a dog,

and I get a yak.

You're too big.

Hi, I'm Lenore.

And this is my foster pup,

Athena.

And that's Cliff,

and this here's Bea and Moonpie.

Hi, I'm Luce

and this is Hank.

Oh, aren't you adorable?

Thanks, I get that a lot.

Oh, not you.

Oh, I'm sorry, puppy...

[growl, bark]

Okay.

I'm gonna stay over here.

Hey. Did you guys hear

that the park is closing

before Christmas?

Closing?

What do you mean?

Like "closing

for the holidays" closing?

No, I mean,

th-- they just put up a sign.

Th-- that's a contractor's sign.

They're gonna

tear this place down.

You have got to be kidding.

No, it's--

it's ridiculous.

This is the only place

the dogs have to run,

and it's fenced in

and they can get their exercise.

I'm gonna have to call

city hall in the morning.

So, haven't seen you

around here before.

I'm a dog walker, kind of.

I mean for the moment.

Not-not really.

Watch out for this one,

everybody.

Don't get too close.

Excuse me?

What did I do to you?

Well, clearly,

you're not a dog walker.

So I'm pretty sure

this is some sort of scam.

Right.

Right.

So you admit it.

That's what you do.

You get handsome,

unassuming men.

You trap 'em up

in your dog leash,

and then you go through

their pockets

and you steal their wallets.

You done?

And what's worse

is that you have brought

this poor, innocent beast

into your criminal empire.

That is just-- that is wrong.

I do not have enough

caffeine to deal with this.

Come on, Hank,

I need a latte.

Hank!

Run, run, my friend.

Be free!

Freedom!

Hank, Hank, Hank!

You like her?

I think she just needs

a little more dog in her life.

All right, let's see

who we call about that sign.

Start with the city.

[Luce]

Hank!

Mr. Paxton.

Mr. Paxton.

Oh, I see we have

a new dog walker.

I'm Luce Lockhart.

Steve and Shirley's daughter

from down the street.

You used to think

my little brother, Kevin

was homeless

from the way he dresses.

Oh, yes, Kevin.

Well, I see

you're into that too.

Kids these days.

Honey.

Oh.

Just do a selection

of different hot and cold.

Small bites.

Darling.

I have to go back to work.

Hank, go eat your dinner.

Oh, and you know what, Deb?

We should get about

ten trays of ramahi.

That'd be great.

Ah, what happened to you?

Hank happened.

Oh. You kids have fun?

He loves getting walked.

Yeah.

More like he walked me.

I'm off.

Oh wait, no, um,

how did the closing go?

We start construction

next week.

Superb.

No, you're superb.

Oh.

[kissing]

Byron's building

a new day spa.

Gonna be nice and fancy.

They're gonna have these, um,

hot rocks they put on your back

while people

play the pan flute.

Really? Hopefully

somewhere near here.

I am so tired of driving

all the way downtown

and making appointments

at ten different places.

No, it's gonna be

at that small, run-down park

right by the market.

Oh, really?

I took Hank there today.

Oh, so you know

it's a great spot. Right?

Oh, yeah, I guess.

So, what's gonna happen

to the dog park?

Oh, that silly park

makes no money at all.

If dogs only paid rent, huh?

Yeah, but they're

gonna rebuild it

somewhere else, right?

Oh, no.

We definitely won't.

Byron's only interested

in investment opportunities.

He says the public agenda's

for the politicians

and the protesters.

Oh, excuse me, Hanky.

Yeah, hi, um, I'd like to

speak with Mr. Byron Paxton.

Okay, well, what time

will he be back in tomorrow?

Uh, this is Dean Stanton.

It's regarding

the new spa development.

Okay, yes, then I'd

like to leave a message.

[sigh] Worst Christmas ever.

Come on.

Well, it looks like things

are moving pretty fast.

I called the city.

I even called the

Humane Society.

They're bummed.

But they say

why care about this park

when they have

plenty of others.

We need to start strategizing

how to take

these developers down.

Maybe we can come up

with a peaceful solution.

It-it is the holidays,

remember?

This ain't Woodstock,

hippie chick.

No, but it is

the season of hope.

The season of I'm gonna

wring somebody's throat.

Bea, do you need to walk

a few laps?

Maybe grab

a ginseng sake shake?

Don't ginseng sake shake me.

Hey guys, look,

I got an idea.

What if we start

a city-wide petition, you know,

and-and that way we can show

Paxton Properties

what's-his-face,

like, how disappointed

everyone would be

if they bulldozed the park.

It'll never work.

Oh, I know

I smelled optimism.

And why won't it work?

Because the public agenda

is only for protestors

and politicians.

Um, who invited the nay-sayin'

stocking stuffer?

It's not me.

It's a quote from my boss,

Byron Paxton,

as in Paxton Properties

what's-his-face.

Stockin' stuffer

is a spy. Break!

-Wait.

-I'm not a spy.

I'm just a neighbor

of the Paxton's

and their holiday dog walker.

You work for Byron Paxton?

You're our Christmas miracle.

No, what?

You're gonna help

convince your boss

not to bulldoze the park.

Why would I do

anything for you?

Well, don't you care about your

canine friend, Hank's, future?

Aside from

the stench of his saliva,

I barely know him at all.

And I'm not a dog person,

remember?

Yeah, but he--

he loves you.

Look at him. Look.

You love her, don't you?

Yes, you do.

Look, I know you like

hanging out at this park,

but it's just a park.

Go find another park.

Yeah, but none of them

are like this one.

Well, you know,

when you teach these dogs

to give massages and mani/pedis,

then we'll talk.

Take a walk with me.

No, why?

Because I wanna teach you

how to handle his leash.

That way, he's not

dog walking you.

Does that mean

I have to dog walk her?

Who? Sweet Pea?

She likes you, right?

[dog growls]

Yeah, so you gotta

hold the leash like this.

Give him enough slack so that

way he can lower his head

and check his messages.

Check his messages?

Yeah, it's doggie code.

When they mark their spot,

they're leaving messages

for their friends--

kind of like when

you and your friends

text each other

all the latest gossip.

And have you always

wanted to be a dog walker?

You mean why'd I get

in the barkin' biz?

I don't know.

We just-- we had

a lot of pets growing up.

I mean, my folks right now

still have like two dogs,

three cats, and an indoor

rabbit named Daffodil.

Wow, E-I-E-I-O.

I know, right?

So I just started walking dogs

when I was a kid,

and I just fell in love

with dogs.

And, they just

make life better.

But right now,

I'm just walking Sweet Pea

for an old friend of mine.

Old friend, like girlfriend,

or old friend like...?

Old friend in like she's 70.

Listen, I-I'm sorry about

your doggy day camp,

but I really

can't help you, honestly.

Yes, you can.

Trust me,

you don't want my help.

I'm bad luck.

I respectfully disagree.

No, really.

I mean, I had a dream

that this Christmas

wouldn't be a total bust,

and look, here I am,

total bust.

You think your Christmas

is a total bust? Yours?

Hmm-hmm.

What about my friend,

Lenore, over here, huh?

She's been comin' to

this dog park every day

for almost a year now.

She keeps fostering dogs

ever since she got her divorce

from her husband.

He was a real jerk.

Well, there's two sides

to every story.

He left her for a woman

at his work.

Ouch.

Who was also ten years

older than her.

There should be jail time

for that.

Yep. Secretly,

I think Lenore thinks

that Mr. Right's gonna walk

through that gate over there

and sweep her off her feet.

She should try

online dating.

Yeah, right.

Have you ever tried that?

Me? No, I lack substance

and only date pretty jerks.

Well, I think Lenore

just has bad luck in men,

because even online,

it's not like it says,

"Hey, I like brunettes,

and I dig bowling,

"but I'm gonna cheat on you

"and I have a really serious

drinking problem,"

in their "about me" section.

And what does a guy in

a park with a dog have

that a dating website doesn't?

[Dean]

Well, people who have dogs

usually have some

substance, right?

Gonna be really tough

for Lenore to find Mr. Right

without this dog park here.

Oh, that's what this is.

You're trying to guilt-trip

the developer's dog walker.

Hmm, what?

Is it working?

Nope.

Okay, then-then, what about

my friend, Bea, over there?

Okay,

Bea used to weigh 280 pounds.

[Luce] Wow.

But then she started

coming to the park

with her pup, Moonpie,

and she'd circle

like 100 times,

twice a day, noon and night,

and she lost the weight.

Yeah, but I mean,

the park isn't much of

a necessity for her anymore.

I mean, she looks great.

No, no, no.

The woman can still eat.

She could explode

at any moment.

Yeah, but she can find

somewhere else to walk.

No. No other place

allows dogs.

Moonpie's her motivation.

Still workin'

on the guilt trip?

-Tryin'.

-Mm-hmm.

Look, I get what

you're trying to do here,

and it's sweet,

but I can make sentimental

arguments too, you know.

You know, like, uh...

Like this spa,

this temple of mani/pedis

is gonna bring jobs

to this town--

much needed jobs.

It's gonna bring people

together,

to be happy, healthy.

It's gonna pretty up this town

and bring pride

to this fenced in sandbox.

We can do this together.

We can get massages.

Yes, we can!

All right, you did it.

You convinced me.

Good.

Oh. What about you, buddy?

What're you gonna do when

this park closes down, huh?

Stay home, I suppose.

Yeah.

Do you know

that this park has been here

before the Austin Arbor

was built up?

The mayor at the time knew

how valuable this park was,

and he wouldn't let them

build on it.

I mean, how many--

how many years have you been

coming to this--

to this park, Cliff,

sitting on this very

bench, huh?

I don't know,

about 40 years.

Yeah.

Forty years ago, Cliff

had just gotten back

from Vietnam,

and he met his wife right

here in this very spot.

She was out here

walking her dog, uh...

-Samantha.

-Yes, Samantha, that's right.

Cliff went right up to her

and he said...

Good morning, beautiful.

And she said something like,

"Oh, my gosh, excuse me?

"I-I just woke up

and I-I have the flu,

"and I don't have

any makeup on

"and I can't believe

you're hitting on me."

And he said...

I was talkin'

to your dog.

[laughing]

It's a classic.

It's so good.

And then they went back there

and they carved

their love initials

right there on that post.

That was her, not me.

Okay. I get it.

This park has sentimental value

to Cliff and his wife.

But, I mean, you guys

can find new places to go.

I mean, you could get

a couple's massage at the spa.

Oh, Cliff, I'm sorry.

I-I'm sure Penny

was a wonderful woman.

Will you excuse us?

That was mean.

You tricked me.

You made everything seem so...

-What? Insignificant?

-No.

-Stupid?

-No.

I wanted you to come here

and see the truth. Okay?

I wanted you to see

how this park--

how it actually

affects real people.

You want the truth?

The truth is, money is the only

force driving Byron Paxton.

I mean, do I like that?

No.

But unless you,

or one of these dogs,

have a cool mil

in the bank,

you're barking up

the wrong tree.

Come on, Hank.

Hey, hey, hey,

look what I have.

Oh, there's my little

Sweet Pea.

[laughs]

Has she been

a good girl today?

Always.

Oh, Dean, be a sweetheart,

will you, and help me, uh,

with some of those cans

in the pantry.

Yeah.

I can't reach as high

with my bad hip.

Of course, no problem.

Are these for

the canned food drive?

Yep.

Oh, but take some home

with you if you'd like.

Oh, no. I'm good.

But I can take them down there

for you if you want.

Oh, thank you.

What're we gonna do without you

after you graduate?

Hey, I'll always

be here to help,

even if I can't save

poor Sweet Pea's park

from being torn down

next week.

It's still nice that you made

all those calls to the city.

I'm sure everyone at the park

appreciates it.

I know Sweet Pea sure does.

It's just frustrating

because there's this new

dog walker down there,

and apparently,

she works for the guy

that's bulldozing the park.

We tried to talk to her

to get her to help us,

but she refused.

I don't know,

I just... feel like

she could have made

a difference, you know?

Well if she's walking dogs,

she must have

some appreciation

for the park.

Maybe you just haven't

given her a good

enough reason yet.

I gave her three great ones,

but apparently, she wants

a spa instead, so...

Is this new dog walker

pretty?

Yeah, but what's that

got to do with anything?

I mean, hot or not, her looks

are still over-shadowed

by her self-indulgence.

So she's pretty,

but she's heartless.

Yes. Well, no.

I mean, I don't know

if she's heartless.

You say she keeps

coming back to the park,

so maybe she's looking

for something there,

but doesn't know it yet.

Or maybe her boss

sent her down there as a spy

to protect his investment.

There could be cameras

everywhere.

Be careful what you say.

Shh.

Or maybe,

she just needs someone

to help her find

what she's looking for.

I mean, it is the holidays,

remember?

Never hurts

to help someone in need.

See all these canned goods?

Helping those in need.

Good deed done.

Boom.

Thank you, dear.

See ya tomorrow.

[Dean]

Bye-bye now.

Here. Shake.

Yeah, I like you too, buddy.

Okay, come on. Good boy.

Come on.

Something smells like dog.

Hmm.

Smells like

flaky brother to me.

No. I totally forgot.

I covered for you.

Thanks.

No problem.

I needed the cash anyway.

Hey, do you wanna put lights up

on the house tonight?

I can't.

I got a gig tonight.

You wanna come?

No. I-I mean, I think I'm just

gonna sit and enjoy the tree.

Fine. See ya, dork.

Bye.

[door opens and closes]

["Nutcracker Suite"

on strings]

Two days 'til Christmas.

Two days 'til Christmas!

Two days 'til Christmas.

Oh, good morning.

You're early.

Yeah, I hope that's okay.

I needed a little Hank

in my life today.

Don't we all.

[background talking]

-Oh, is that--

is that the new plans

for the day spa? Can I see?

Well, um...

I'm not so sure

that's such a great idea...

Problem is,

we're trying to

figure out a way

to keep our reception area

from becoming a boiling pot

with the morning sun

coming through this glass.

So why don't you put in

a glass atrium--

yeah, with two separate doors,

one for entry

and then into reception.

That way, you trap the heat

and you reflect the sun.

I mean, you've got like

ten meters of extra space here.

You could put in

some bamboo trees.

They're beautiful

and they love the sun.

That's a great idea.

Don't you think so, honey?

Actually,

we may be able to see

if something like that

could work, yeah.

Great.

Thanks, sweetie.

Sure. I'll go get Hank.

Okay.

I didn't think she...

Oh, also, that wasted space

in the southern corner,

you should use a salt water

aquarium there.

It will relax your guests.

Salt water aquarium.

Relax the guests.

I thought you said

she was a dog walker.

[laughter]

-Hey. Luce, right?

-Hi, Lenore...

-Oh, and hi there... Athena?

-Yes.

You remember Luce,

right, Athena?

Hi, Athena.

So where is everyone?

I mean, the last time

I was here,

there were so many people

here with their dogs.

Most people are out of town,

or doing holiday stuff

with their families, I guess.

You done with your shopping?

Yeah, I did all of it

last week after finals.

Actually maxed out

my parents' credit card.

Ouch.

What's your family doing

for Christmas?

Well, my parents are in Africa

at this charity thing,

so it's just my brother and I

until they get back.

Probably be picking up

the cranberry

and stuffing and all of that

for the two of us.

Aw, well, it's nice

your brother's around.

Yeah, I mean, I don't get

to see him very much though.

He's been rehearsing

for this huge gig he has

on Christmas Eve.

[dog barking]

So Dean was telling me

that you've been

patrolling the park

for potential suitors?

[laughs] Hardly.

I am not desperate

for love or anything,

especially after that

nightmare of my last marriage,

but if fostering these pups

leads me to finally

finding a decent guy,

then I suppose

it'll be a double win.

Yeah, I just got out

of the bad boyfriend camp,

so I feel ya.

Dean's single and ready

to mingle this holiday season.

I could throw a bow on him

if you'd like.

We don't really agree

on anything,

so thank you,

but no thank you.

Okay, well, I gotta run,

but you take care, okay?

-Okay.

-See you soon.

Okay. Bye.

[dog barking]

[Dean]

Lucifer!

Lucifer-- cute. How

long did it take you to

come up with that one?

Like four hours.

It would have been three,

but I stopped for lunch.

So, uh, where's Cliff?

I mean, he's not on his bench.

Ah, yeah.

He didn't come in today.

I think he's

a little depressed.

Oh, look at you, buddy.

You're looking good.

[dog barking]

Oh, man, you know what,

he's got a little bit of

lenticular sclerosis

goin' on in his eyes here.

Don't worry, that's--

that's normal with age.

-How did you know that?

-I'm in vet school.

Oh, I thought you were

a full-time dog walker.

I wish. What about you?

What's your major?

Wait, no, let me guess.

You... design handbags.

No, wait, no, no, no.

You are...

majoring in shopping.

Interior design.

You're trying to

think of a way

to make fun of me,

aren't you?

Brain is working so hard

right now.

Ugh. Whatever.

You act like

you don't like it,

but you keep coming back

for more.

I come back for Hank,

not because of you.

It's the only place

I can take this yak.

Oh, you see that, Hank?

She does have a soft

spot in her heart

for you after all,

underneath all that

cashmere and all her

bling, and her...

Doesn't change my excitement

for this park being

bulldozed by a big rig.

Ha, who's laughing now?

Morning, Cliff.

Oh, Cliff, I'm so sorry.

I...

I know.

You heard her, boy.

But I'm sure

she's got a heart

under all that perfume

somewhere.

So what do you get

out of this?

Making fun of you?

Makes me feel better

about my own short-comings.

No, I mean, what do you get

out of this park?

I mean, all your friends here

have a reason

that they want this park

to keep going on.

What's yours?

None ya.

-None ya?

-None ya business.

Good boy.

[dog barking]

Are you following me?

Please.

Don't flatter yourself.

You are following me.

What? No, I'm not.

I was just gonna go get

some ice cream.

Good ice cream's over there.

I'm getting coffee.

Yeah, that's what I want--

coffee.

-That's not what you said.

-I meant coffee.

[chuckle]

Oh, we can't take

dogs in anyway.

Oh, here. Hold Sweet Pea.

I'll go get 'em.

No, you don't even know

what I like.

And she looks like

she's gonna k*ll me.

Hank, if she moves,

eat her.

[door opens]

[Dean]

I know. Yeah.

Luce?

Hey.

What are you doing here?

[Luce]

Oh, hi.

Wow, that shirt

looks great on you.

Thank you.

I just ran into Derek.

Super.

Where'd you get those dogs?

Oh, uh,

they're a friend of mine's.

I'm just waiting

until he gets back.

-He?

-They're so cute.

Yeah, I guess.

[growling]

I just heard that they're

opening up a new day spa

over at that old park,

and I know how much

you've been wanting one.

Actually, it's a dog park

and it's been there forever.

Oh, I didn't know that.

Oh, I got us two coffees.

I tried to get you a coffee

that was 90 percent sugar

and 10 percent coffee,

but all they had were

these peppermint mochas,

which is like 99 and one,

but who cares.

This is to my hard-working

dog walking fella.

I drank a lot of this

before I even came out here.

Hello. Cheers.

Hi.

Dog walker?

You got a job?

A job, uh, no.

This is Dean,

uh, he's my colleague.

We're working

to save the park.

Nice to meet you.

What?

Uh, yeah, this is Becky,

my roommate and friend,

and Derek.

We used to date, kind of.

Oh. Oh.

Oh. Oh-oh.

Yes, Luce and I are working

hard to save the park.

I mean, we are trying to show

the historical significance

and the social necessity

of the park.

You know, at first, we thought

Luce here had no substance.

I mean, none.

Under all those--

those designer clothes

and those-- those handbags

she's always carrying,

but then all of a sudden,

out of nowhere, boom!

She surprises us and starts

spearheading the campaign

to help save the park.

I mean, working tirelessly,

day and night.

We-- we are so lucky

to have her onboard with us.

She is our holiday miracle.

She really is.

She reall-- in fact, do you know

what she just said yesterday?

She said, and I quote,

"I promise you, Dean,

"that I am going to call

Byron Paxton himself,

and convince him to stop

building the day spa."

Did you not?

Yep. [chuckle]

Holiday miracle

right here.

Wow. That's great.

Yeah, Luce.

That is so exciting.

Good for you.

Well, I guess

we have a park to save.

Yeah,

we'll see you two later.

Okay.

See ya.

All right.

You should have said,

"See you latte." Oh!

Shut up and walk.

Thanks for that-- and this.

It's perfect.

So have you

made up your mind?

Well, now I have to.

I mean, you talked it all up

and went all crazy.

But this is gonna take

a lot more

than just a sit-down

with my boss.

I mean, Byron Paxton

barely even knows I exist.

But his wife is sweet

and she likes me,

and she loves Hank.

So if we can get

through to her

about how much people

care about the park,

then maybe she can help us

convince her husband.

Thank you, thank you,

thank you, thank you,

thank you, thank you,

thank you.

No, now don't get

your hopes up.

I already did.

It's probably

not gonna work.

It will. It's Christmas.

Come on.

A doggie what?

A doggie holiday festival.

We can make dog treats,

have fun games for the pups,

and decorate the entire park

like a beautiful

holiday spectacle.

Terrible idea.

These dogs don't care about

some silly festival.

They just want a place

where they can play and poo.

Yeah, but we're not

convincing the dogs.

We're trying to convince

the developers.

And how're we

gonna do that, huh?

Well, I'll invite my boss

to the festival,

and then maybe...

That sounds like

a big maybe.

I actually think it sounds

like a great idea.

Even if we lose the park

and they still close it,

at least we went out with

one big hurrah, right?

Exactly, and Bea,

you can make a bunch of those

delicious homemade doggy treats.

Yeah, and who knows?

I mean, if a bunch of

the owners love them,

you could maybe

start a business.

Hmm.

Fine.

You got my attention.

But where are we

gonna find somebody

to decorate the entire park

in that short of time?

I think we already

have someone.

You.

Fa la la

la la la la

Fa la la

la la la la

Fa la la

la la la la

Fa la la

la la la la

It feels like Christmas

It feels like Christmas

It feels like Christmas

Fa la la

la la la la

It feels like Christmas

Fa la la

la la la la

It feels like Christmas

Fa la la

La la la la

It feels like Christmas

Fa la la

la la la la

Hey!

Hey!

Hey!

Hey!

Yeah!

[Dean]

What do we do now?

Well, I'll put a flyer

in the Paxton's mailbox.

And Missy has her

Christmas party that day,

but she might be able to

go beforehand.

I mean, she'd do

anything for Hank.

I just hope it works.

-Ah, Christmas.

-Yes.

What're you doing

walking dogs?

I mean, you live in

the Paxton's neighborhood.

Your family

must be doing okay.

Yeah, my family's fine.

I just screwed up

with their credit card.

I was trying to buy

this ruby necklace.

It looked just like the one

my grandma used to wear.

I just fell in love with it.

Then you gotta get it.

You gotta get that necklace.

Oh, sarcasm. How original.

No. I'm serious.

You worked hard.

You deserve it.

Well, I mean, it was fun.

I bet the park's gonna look

beautiful tonight.

So why don't we go?

I mean, I gotta walk

Sweet Pea anyway.

Ms. Diggin's

having her annual

white elephant

Christmas exchange.

She doesn't like her to see

a bunch of 80-year-old women

fighting over

candles and soap.

It gets pretty ugly.

I mean, if you don't

have any plans.

Uh, no, no, I-I--

yeah, that'd be good.

All right, so pick you up

around eight?

Okay.

Oh, there's my furry

little man.

Hey.

Did you guys have fun?

-Yep.

-Yeah?

How's it going?

Oh, terrible.

I gave my housekeeper

the night off tonight

and I completely forgot

that there's a holiday event

for one of Byron's clients,

and I don't know what

I'm gonna do with Hank.

Well, I can take him

for tonight.

-Really?

-Well, yeah.

Of course.

We're buddies now.

Oh, my God.

You are a life saver.

Thank you so much.

Thank you, thank you,

thank you.

I almost forgot.

Do you have a c*ck dress

for the party tomorrow night?

Oh, I-I hadn't

thought about it.

You-you hadn't thought about

what you're going to wear?

Luce, honey,

what is wrong with you?

Come back to us, dear.

[Hank barks]

Well, I was out shopping today

for my own dress,

and I found this.

I thought it'd look

beautiful on you,

so think of it as an advance?

Thank you so much, Missy.

You're welcome.

It's gonna be so much fun.

[dog barking]

And you, my little man.

You are gonna have so much fun

at Luce's house tonight.

Do you like that?

You like that?

Yes, you do.

How about this one?

Yeah, you're right.

Too sorority shindig.

What about this one?

Yeah.

Too darling diva.

What? Don't judge me.

[Hank barks]

Are you sure?

[barking]

I think you're right.

[Dean]

He's a really good dog.

Oh, and there she is!

Our Christmas hostess

with the mostest-- Luce!

I'm telling all my friends.

They will just love it.

Thanks.

I had a lot of help.

Oh, no, no.

She is being modest.

We wouldn't be able to do

any of this without her.

All right, let's go.

Should we go?

-Yeah.

-Can I have my dog back?

All right, say,

"Bye, Sweet Pea."

Bye, Sweet Pea.

Bye-bye.

Come on.

Come on.

[Luce]

Come on.

Wow, this place

really looks beautiful.

Ah, it's gonna be great,

thanks to you.

So what made you

change your mind?

What do you mean?

Well, up until yesterday,

you were pretty hell bent

about getting

a spa built here.

But now it's like

you've become one of us

dog-obsessed weirdos.

I guess seeing

Derek and Becky,

it just made me wanna

prove something, you know,

show people that I don't

lack substance.

Ah, substance.

Right. Right, yeah.

You have no idea what

I'm talking about, do you?

I just don't get

why you're so obsessed

with this whole

substance thing.

I just don't want people

to think of me

as some silly girl

who only thinks about

fashion and shopping.

I mean, as great as

those may be.

Who thinks that?

Honestly, I think I did.

I mean, deep down,

I always saw myself that way.

But, I don't wanna

feel that way anymore.

I want to do something

that matters, you know?

And this seems to matter.

I mean, to park regulars,

to dogs, and you.

-Nope.

-Yes.

-No.

-Spill it.

Nope. Not happening.

Hmm-hmm.

I told you this was

none of your business.

But you are so impressed

with how open I was,

that now you're compelled

to tell me.

So why does the park

mean so much to you?

Okay.

I wanna be a vet, okay?

That-that's my--

that's my dream.

That is what I want.

And I-I work hard,

and I study hard,

and there is nothing

I wouldn't do

to see my dream come true.

But, thing is, I'm dyslexic.

It's not that big of a deal.

It just makes it really,

really hard to read sometimes.

And-and when I do,

when I get frustrated,

I come here,

and I work with the dogs,

and suddenly-- suddenly

it all makes sense.

I mean, I'm at the top

of my class because of

this place.

And, well, I just feel like

I owe it to the park to--

to try to protect it,

you know?

Okay. Thank you.

Hey, and ultimately,

if we can't save it

and it ends up

getting torn down,

at least we went out

with a bang, right?

Or a bark.

[dog barking]

Bark.

Come on, that was good.

-Mm-mm.

-It was.

-Nope.

-Oh.

What? No lights?

[Luce] Yeah, I've been bugging

my brother to help me.

He's too busy

being a 17-year-old.

Okay, I'll admit,

that grilled cheese

was really good.

Hey, don't thank me.

It's my mom's recipe.

Are you going home

for the holidays?

No, it's too expensive.

You mean,

your parents won't pay?

I-I'm sorry.

I shouldn't have asked that.

No, no, it's okay.

I mean, they would pay.

It's just... my dad,

he got laid off this past year,

and my mom,

she's a dental assistant,

so she doesn't make

that much money.

Things are just kind of

tough for them right now.

That's too bad.

Yeah, I know.

My mom's really bummed.

She wants me to come home.

I mean,

I'm sure your parents

would rather spend the money

and see you over the holidays.

I mean, maybe

you should have let them.

You think?

Yeah, I mean,

my parents took off.

I know they're doing really

great things for the world,

but when I have a family,

I want them to be with me

every year at Christmas.

I mean, that's what

the holidays are about, right?

It's not Christmas presents

and shopping specials,

and spas, and...

Okay.

What's your favorite

Christmas movie?

Hands down, Home Alone.

One and Two.

Home Alone movie marathon?

-Oh, yeah.

-Hmm?

[laughter]

-Hey, oh.

-What is this?

Hey, easy there, unless

you wanna be a Sweet Pea sundae.

Grr.

Wow.

They're just sketches.

Yeah, but they're--

they're good.

Gee, why am I not surprised?

I mean, why does she

hate me so much anyway?

She doesn't hate you.

She-she's just misunderstood.

Sounds a lot like

someone else I know.

Yeah, and you're

a lot like Hank--

overly excitable

and totally full of...

Ah-ah-ah,

not in front of the puppies.

Shh.

[door slamming]

Now, that's what I call

a dog pile.

Dog pile. Heh.

-Oh.

-Morning.

Oh. Morning.

Good night.

How about

a moonlight stroll? Huh?

Yeah, sure.

Oh, hey, uh!

Whoa, hey,

come here, come here!

Whoa!

[Luce] Oh my gosh!

[grunting, giggling]

Not funny.

You're heavy.

-Yeah, it's all muscle.

-No, it's not. Get off.

-What's the magic word?

-Move.

That's not the magic word.

Uh, that was a bad idea.

Really?

Anybody here who thinks

that was a bad idea,

raise a paw.

See?

Maybe it wasn't so bad.

Whatever.

Let me walk you home.

I live two houses down.

I think I can make it.

But I'm really strong.

I mean,

I can protect you from--

there's viscous dogs,

there's a lot of old ladies

in this neighborhood,

very dangerous.

I think I'll be okay.

All right. Good night.

Good night.

Next time.

-I only get one?

-Mm-hmm.

-Only one?

-Yep.

[dog barking]

Hmm.

One day 'til Christmas.

You wanna go for a walk?

[dog barking]

Yeah.

Come on, Sweet Pea.

She's on fire today.

-So...

-So?

So, will I see you

at the festival tonight?

Oh, I'm not gonna be there.

I'm going to

the Paxtons' party.

The Paxtons?

Why are you going

to a party with them?

It's their Christmas party.

It's a big deal.

I mean, I told Missy

I would be there.

All my friends

are gonna come,

and she got me

this really cute dress.

Wow, I-I just thought

this meant something to you,

that's all.

It's just a party.

Yeah, that's being thrown

by the same people

who are trying to

tear down our park.

It's not like that.

The same park

that you're trying to save.

They're nice people.

This is just complicated.

Just thought you cared.

What if they show up?

I mean, they can't know

that I set all of this up.

-Why?

-Because I could lose my job.

You think she'd fire you?

If her husband found out

I was conspiring against him,

he could fire me,

and he's huge

in business in this town.

I mean, I would never get

a designing job

after I graduate.

He would make sure of it.

This isn't easy for me.

That's the point.

Tough choices are never easy.

It's not supposed to be easy,

but you are choosing to go

to a party over our park,

over us.

You really think that?

I don't know what I think.

Fine.

Oh I need you here

To start off another year

Oh I gotta say

It's felt so cold

with you far away

And the tree

won't look right

Without you here tonight

So pretty baby

Here ya' go.

There you go. [chuckling]

Catch the midnight flight

Bright lights

and silver stars

Shine over my head

People go passin' by

I see them holding hands

The streets are all

covered with snow

There's no way to

drive yourself home

But there's not a cloud

up in the sky

So pretty baby

catch the midnight flight

I sit and wait

With your gift so patiently

The hour's late

So before they close

Hey, Luce,

is everything all right?

Sure. Sure, I'm fine.

Luce, those eyes don't lie.

Come on.

No. I-I'm fine.

Really.

I plan on meeting

my future husband here tonight.

What?

Courtney,

like every single guy here

is like twice your age.

So, I pick

the most handsome man,

and ask for his son's digits.

That's the holiday spirit.

Come on, let's go.

Okay, fine.

There you are.

You look stunning.

-Thanks, Missy.

-Hi, Mrs. Paxton.

Oh, please,

call me Missy.

Oh, your house

is so beautiful.

I aspire to be like you

one day.

Oh, well,

aren't you a peach?

And the dress you bought Luce

is so stylish.

-Your taste is impeccable.

-I know.

-I'm so glad you could make it.

-Thank you, again, Missy.

-Of course.

-And, uh, where's Hank?

Oh, he's in his crate pouting.

Well, you know, we can't have

him jumping on all the guests.

Well, look at us, like

four sisters going to the ball.

-This is beautiful.

-Oh, thanks.

Green, blue.

I almost forgot.

Your ruby necklace.

Let me get my purse.

Oh my God.

It's gonna be awesome.

-What?

-What's wrong, baby?

Dogs.

It's that park

over at the arbor.

Some of the regulars

decided to host

a holiday festival there.

-For dogs.

-Yes.

Yes, I actually got

the flyer for that.

I was gonna take Hank,

but I got side-tracked.

Oh, no.

Here it is.

It's all Christmassy, and--

and look over here,

there's a little dog

over there that looks

just like Hank.

They decorated

the entire park.

Fun.

Well, it's still

your park, Byron.

You're welcome to do

with it as you please.

You're right,

it is my park.

And I have half a mind

to go down there

and bulldoze the entire thing

right now.

I could try

calling the boys in.

-Please do.

-Oh, come on, honey.

It's Christmas Eve.

Tell them

I'm gonna pay 'em triple.

I mean, let them have

their festival.

It's harmless.

Sweetheart,

do you realize

what kind of bad press

I'm gonna get

if I let these idiots

get the whole town excited

about a little piece of land?

I'm gonna have to deal with

the mayor and everyone else.

They're gonna be on my case.

I don't need the headache.

I'm going down there.

'Tis the season to be jolly,

fa-la-la...

Let's go.

-Missy, I am so sorry.

-No, no, no. Don't be.

This party

was an absolute bore.

It'll make me

the talk of the town.

-Take that, Celeste.

-But Mr. Paxton's so angry.

Oh, men just get territorial,

start barking

and running around in circles.

You just have to feed them

and rub their heads,

and then they're

perfectly fine.

So you said you've been

taking Hank there, this park.

Yeah, I mean,

what they did is so nice.

The Christmas lights

are so pretty,

and everyone

is just friendly.

-Let's go.

-Well, what about your party?

Oh, what,

they'll never miss me,

especially not with what

Diane's wearing tonight.

Did you see that?

Are you sure?

Yes. I've never been

to that park.

And who knows?

Maybe if we hurry,

we'll see a g*ng fight.

Really?

Could that happen?

I don't know. That's what

makes it so exciting.

[Hank barking]

Oh, uh, we should

bring Hank too,

maybe say goodbye

to his friends?

-I'll go get him.

-I'll meet you out front.

Okay.

[phone ringing]

Hey, hey. I'm sorry.

Listen, we... what?

I thought you were calling

to yell at me.

-I've been such a jerk.

-No. I mean, maybe later.

But listen, right now,

Byron Paxton's on his way

over there.

That's awesome.

Th-that's great news.

-Thank you.

-No. No, not great.

He's so mad right now.

Well, I-I'll just

have to talk to him.

I mean, I've gotta

handle the situation

one way or another, right?

Okay.

Well, we're on our way too.

Um, this is such a mess.

They're gonna figure out

that I was involved, and then...

Hey, hey, hey.

Listen.

Your secret is safe with us,

okay?

Nobody here's

gonna let 'em know

that you were part of

Operation Save the Park.

Thank you.

Thanks for warning me.

That was really sweet of you.

I know I've been

kind of a jerk lately,

and I think it's just because

this whole situation

is so complicated.

And I don't want you

to jeopardize your future

over this, you know?

Dean, I'm-- I'm so sorry.

I know how important

this is to you, and you--

I promise I'll fix it.

I promise.

You will.

I believe in you.

-You are a Christmas mirac--

-Don't say it.

-Okay. I'll see you soon.

-Okay. Bye.

So what do you think

you're all doing down here?

We are gonna stop you

from bulldozing our park.

Your park?

There's tons of parks.

You see, I just left

my own wife's holiday party

to come down here.

Now, I'm sorry

that you have this, uh,

particular affection

for this giant heap of dirt

that happens to belong to me.

So I thank you kindly to leave.

Merry Christmas.

Get 'em out of here

and lock it up.

Bring it, boys!

Mama's got enough for everybody.

Okay, easy there, soldier.

Mr. Paxton.

Hi, I'm Dean Stanton.

I, uh, I work with the dogs

here at the park.

I'm just about to graduate

vet school

and I've been coming here

forever.

Look, I know you have

a considerable

investment in this park.

I'm sorry about

your problems, son,

but I'm not city council.

You see, the bottom line is

this park belongs to me,

and I've been allowing you

to use it free of charge.

So take my advice, leave,

before I get nasty.

Now.

Wow, you look beautiful.

I mean, hello, person

who I've never met before,

who is also really pretty.

Thank you.

They are friendly.

Hi.

Wow, this looks so great.

I mean, with all the lights.

Uh, yeah, yo-your brother,

he came down and helped us

set 'em all up.

-Really?

-Yeah.

Why-why don't you go

talk to him?

I gotta go talk to Mr. Paxton.

-Okay.

-I'll be right back.

Luce! Luce, Luce, Luce.

What are you doing here?

-Okay, who...

-Was that?

Oh, that was Dean.

-He's...

-He's adorable.

Hot.

And super smart,

and kind, and giving.

-Oh, he sounds perfect.

-Oh, he's not.

But, I mean, he's got

a really great heart,

and substance, so maybe

he's perfect for me.

-Oh.

-Oh, my gosh.

-Look at the Christmas tree.

-Oh, it's so pretty.

Can we go take a look?

Hello, I don't know you.

Dork, everyone already knows

you're my brother.

And what are you doing here?

I thought you had a huge gig.

My sister needed me.

Oh, thanks for coming

and setting up all the lights.

-It looks beautiful.

-No problem.

-Uh-oh.

-What?

What are you doing here?

We came to support your cause.

This is-- this is beautiful.

You can't be here.

You're mad.

I understand.

But I want you to know

that I-- I like Derek.

But I'm not gonna date him.

Because I just

wouldn't do that to you.

Okay?

No, no. I mean, you were

right about everything.

I found someone who sees me,

someone who challenges me,

makes me like myself.

Wow.

That-that's great.

And I want that for you too.

And, I mean, if Derek

does that for you,

makes you happy

with all his Derekness,

then you should go for it.

Thank you.

That-that's

the best present ever.

Thank you so much.

Okay, now you need

to get out of here

because my boss is raging,

and I don't want you to see it.

Okay.

I totally understand.

[mouths] Thank you.

-Where are my trucks?

-Sir, you have a dog.

You have to understand.

Yeah, I have a goldfish,

too, kid,

but that doesn't mean

I bought him a pond.

Luce.

This is amazing.

I'm so impressed

you set all this up.

Oh, no.

You did this?

Um...

I have to say,

I'm a bit shocked.

-Luce?

-I'm so sorry, Missy.

I just thought...

After all I've done

for you, Lucinda.

There's no inda.

It's just Luce.

What? Wait a minute.

Who are you?

-She walks Hank.

-Huh?

Oh, you.

You traitor.

-You dog walking traitor.

-Dog walker?

I thought you were on

the committee to save the park.

Uh, both?

Fa-la-la-la-la-la...

[horn blowing in distance]

Finally.

This place comes down now.

Are-- are you sure

that that's okay?

Sure. He'll be fine.

He loves it.

Might as well let him have

one last run around the park.

-Oh. Look at him go.

-Yeah.

See, it's small.

There's not a lot of grass

and it's fenced in.

And it might not be as great

as some of the more

modern parks in the city,

but, for a dog,

this place is perfect.

I can see that.

I just really thought

we could convince

Mr. Paxton, you know?

I mean, if he saw how people

cared about this place...

Byron barks loudly,

but he isn't mean.

[Byron] Everyone get out,

or I'm gonna throw you out.

It's just, he only

understands business.

I mean, that's all he knows.

So when you come in talking

about passion and-- and people,

he just doesn't understand.

It's just such a shame.

I mean, there's so much

that can be done

with this space.

Like what?

Well, what time

do you normally walk Hank

when I'm not around?

Oh, goodness.

That stinker gets me up

at the crack of dawn.

And believe me,

I am not a morning person.

You know,

this would be a perfect spot

for a high-end coffee stand.

Instead of being dragged

around in the morning,

you could let your puppy play

and get your caffeine fix.

Mmm.

Peppermint mochas, right?

And, you know, over there,

it would be a perfect spot

for the high-end caf.

You wouldn't only get

the morning crowd,

but you could also get

the people coming home

after work walking their dogs

who are too tired to cook.

Constant revenue.

Do you know why this park

looks so old?

-Why?

-It's because it is old.

And I bet with some paperwork,

and a few choice testimonials

from some honored w*r veterans

who have been coming here

for 40 years,

it probably

wouldn't take a lot

to make this

a historic landmark.

Which would mean

no property taxes.

Hmm.

A large dog owning market,

with the revenue of

high-demand coffee,

and low expenses

of the city-protected park...

And a trendy spa

may not last,

but people are always

gonna love their dogs.

And then you wouldn't

have to sink all that money

into the construction.

I bet you'd actually make

more of a profit

over a ten-year period

if you made this

an official dog park.

7.5 years, I'd say.

All right.

Let's do that.

Wait, what?

[Byron] Okay.

What we need to do

is we need to put a chain

on the entrance over there,

and we also need to put a chain

on the entrance over there,

which some people

like to call an exit.

We just need approval,

and we're all set.

Approval denied.

You can stop working.

We are going to turn this

into an official dog park.

What?

Bob, would you please

tell the boys

that we're awfully sorry

we brought them out here

on Christmas Eve?

And that they should grab

a drink, a cookie,

enjoy the lights, and, well,

they'll still get paid.

You got it, boss.

Wait.

You're the boss?

I know.

You must think I'm some

kind of model trophy wife,

or British royalty.

But no, I'm just the CEO of

a multinational construction

and development corporation.

Wow.

No, you wowed me.

This is a great plan.

Well done.

Very well done.

Honey, can we please

think about this for a moment?

I mean, we put so much time

and energy into this,

are you sure that you wanna

throw it all away

on a bunch of dogs?

-Shh, just a second, okay?

-Yes, dear.

Now, if we invest in this,

it'll need some renovation.

You know dogs,

you know this park.

If we pair you up with

a talented and savvy designer,

do you think that the two of you

could spearhead this project?

-Absolutely.

-Great.

Well, what my Missy wants,

my Missy gets.

She's the brains of the outfit,

and I trust her instincts.

Like that time

at the investment group?

Oh, the time that

they tried to bypass?

Right, and they thought,

"With those tax codes,

there's no way."

That's right.

Oh, all those brains

and beauty too.

-I'm a lucky guy.

-We make a great team.

-Merry Christmas, sweetie.

-Merry Christmas.

Wow, you did it.

I did, I guess.

No, I mean, you did it.

You saved the park.

I mean, I always knew

you could, but you did it.

I did it.

-It's a Christmas mirac--

-Nope.

No?

See, that one felt right.

-No.

-That--

Oh, oh, oh.

I almost forgot.

I put what I owe you

on this card.

Go get that necklace,

sweetheart.

Thank you so much.

-Here.

-Oh, necklace.

We can go get it.

-You think the store's open?

-Oh, we don't have to go there.

-Oh, you can do it online?

-Hmm-hmm.

Oh. Wow,

you're really good at that.

What're you trying to do,

start a fire?

Shh.

I can't type that fast

with my phone.

-Plus, my autocorrect hates me.

-Got it.

-I also have really fat thumbs.

-Done.

You can pick it up tomorrow.

Do you think the jewelry store

will be open tomorrow?

No, but the airport is.

Airport?

I bought you a ticket home.

What?

Go see your family.

I'll be here

when you get back.

I don't know what to say.

Yes, you do.

This is a Christmas miracle.

It was the perfect time

at the perfect place

You held me c*ptive

by your beautiful grace

I fell for you like

the snow fell around us

I never knew I could love

Fa-la-la-la fa-la-la-la

Fa-la-lling in love with you

Fa-la-la-la fa-la-la-la

Fa-la-lling in love with you

It was the perfect night

beneath December skies

The galaxy can't shine

as bright as your eyes

You made me feel like

a child does at Christmas

You are the best gift of all

Fa-la-la-la fa-la-la-la

Fa-la-lling in love

in love with you

Fa-la-la-la fa-la-la-la

Fa-la-lling in love with you

When you romance with me,

slow dance with me

The angels caroling our song

They're singing

Fa-la-la-la fa-la-la-la

Fa-la-lling in love with you

Fa-la-la-la fa-la-la-la

Fa-la-lling in love with you

Fa-la-la-la fa-la-la-la

Fa-la-lling in love with you

Fa-la-la-la fa-la-la-la

Fa-la-lling in love with you

Mmm

Falling in love

With you

Falling in love,

falling in love with you