A Cinderella Christmas Ball (2024) Movie Script
1
Was that okay?
That was amazing.
Those chan turns might
be better than mine.
Great dress rehearsal!
I'll see you all
Friday for the show.
Yeah!
How'd she do?
Incredible.
And she's really coming
out of her shell.
Is she still having a
tough time at school?
There are good and bad days.
The social worker told
us to be patient.
When you adopt a
child later in life,
it can take some time for
them to feel secure, so...
Well, she'll get there.
My mother used to say, "Each day
is a gift, wrapped in new paper."
That is lovely.
This program has been such
a blessing for our family.
I know that we're a
little behind on tuition
but I just wanna assure you,
we'll be able to catch up soon.
This is pay as you
go for a reason.
Don't worry about last month.
Thank you, Chelsea.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Your parents had some
really cool things.
Thank you. After storage
rates went up again,
can't afford to hold on
to all this anymore.
Oh, look!
It's little Chelsea.
Look at those front teeth.
Yeah.
I thought I'd lost this.
My adoption was finalized
three days before Christmas.
This was the first gift
I opened that year.
I bounced around to
different families
for a while but when I saw this,
our first Christmas,
I knew I was finally home.
Who is this?
That's my mother,
my birth mother.
Is she wearing a wedding dress?
Oh, the necklace.
I wonder what that pin means.
Yeah.
"Our place, Havenshire,
December 23, 1987."
That was nine months
before I was born.
"Havenshire is part of a
royal conglomerate of small,"
sovereign countries
near Luxembourg.
"Including Concordia, Eldoria."
Huh.
The man she's
holding hands with,
he's wearing a wedding ring.
Do you think this
could be your father?
I never knew my father. I
don't even know his name.
Well, what about your
birth certificate?
My mother left that line blank.
Why?
I'm not sure.
I'd like to think she planned
to tell me,
one day,
when I was old
enough to understand.
Maybe this is where you
could find your answers.
Woo!
You were all fantastic.
I am so proud of you.
You worked so hard, too.
And getting to see your
remarkable progress
has been the best Christmas gift
I ever could have asked for.
How about one more?
Merry Christmas.
Thank you. Oh.
A plane ticket?
Round trip to Havenshire along
with four nights' lodging.
Everyone chipped in.
This is too much.
I can't accept this.
You do so much for all of us.
I'll expect updates
when you get there.
I appreciate what you're
trying to do but...
I can't fly halfway across the
world so close to Christmas.
Aren't you curious about what
he's like... your birth father?
I've lived in the same
city my entire life.
He's never tried to contact me.
Maybe... just wasn't meant to
be or maybe he's gone, too.
But you could have siblings.
Or cousins. Or
nieces and nephews.
All waiting to meet you.
What if he doesn't
want to see me?
Anyone would be lucky
to call you family.
You always tell me that
every day is a new gift.
But Chels, in order
to see what's inside,
you've got to unwrap it.
Hello.
Hi, um, excuse me, I'm
looking for Claus?
Oh, you've found him.
- Oh.
- - Checking in?
Yes. Uh, Chelsea Jones.
Oh well, welcome to
Havenshire, Ms. Jones.
You have picked a wonderful
time of the year to visit.
Many festive things to do
here in our little hamlet.
Aw.
They've even asked me
to play Santa this year.
Well, with a name like yours,
I'm surprised they
didn't ask sooner.
Thank you.
Extra blankets
are in the closet.
Breakfast is served
from six 'til nine.
A lot of these events
involve dancing.
Dance is a large part of
the Havenshire culture.
We joke that before our
children learn to speak,
they learn to dance.
Well, dance is just
another form of expression.
Hmm. I do believe you're going to
enjoy your time here, Ms. Jones.
- Thank you.
- Take care.
Excuse me, do you
know where this is?
Thank you.
Oh.
Name?
Oh, I'm not on any list.
Castle is closed to the general
public until December 26th.
I'm not going to the castle.
I'm going to that building
right over there.
All entry past this point is
restricted
to the names on the last.
Please?
Oh, come on,
I... I travelled all the way
from America
just to get to that building.
Oh, that building?
Oh, of course! After Christmas.
Guard: Trying to
sneak in, are we?
H... hi. Hi, I was,
I was just gonna help
them with the tree?
Merry Christmas.
And he wished me merry
Christmas and he tossed me out.
Any advice on what to do?
Hmm, with all the royal
celebrations,
security is tight.
There'll be a lot of very
important people there.
It will be hard to access
that part of town.
Well, I, I never back
down from a challenge,
so I will figure out how
to get past that gate.
What publication are you with?
- Excuse me?
- I have to hand it
to the tabloids,
you are relentless.
Do the royal family really sell
that many papers that you'd risk
your freedom?
I'm not a reporter.
And I'm not interested in the
castle or the royal whoever.
Huh. See, most people
would be pretty eager
to have a bit of time
with the royal family.
Guess I'm not most people.
I'm looking for someone.
But half the village is
off limits so I'm stuck.
Ah, I see.
Well, they're playing my song.
Anyone on the dance floor,
half off your Christmas cocoa.
Well?
You want, you want to dance?
You want to pay full price?
Come on.
Let's see what you've got.
Oh.
Okay.
Ooh!
Ah.
Woo!
Who are you?
Chelsea Jones. And you are?
Grateful for the
dance, Ms. Jones.
What do I owe you?
It's been taken care of.
"Guards change at 10 a.m.
Sneak past if you're quick"?
First position.
Yes.
Hi. Before you turn,
tighten your stomach.
It's not a big movement.
Keep it small.
Yes! So much better.
We have provided you
with three instructors.
He sent them all the
way. Myself included.
There must be someone else.
I have given you my very best.
There's no one left.
What about her?
Well, she's not one of ours.
I need to go.
Well, who is she then?
I have no idea.
Ask her yourself.
- Excuse me, miss?
- Oh.
I couldn't help but notice you
and that young student there.
Oh, I'm sorry.
I didn't mean to overstep.
I just wanted to show
him some things I do
- with my own students.
- So, you are a teacher?
Yes, but um, I'm late
for an appointment, so.
My name's James.
I work for the royal family.
I've been tasked with finding
a dance instructor
for Prince Phillip.
Oh, thank you,
but I'm not looking for a job.
So nice to meet you.
It is a temporary position
in preparation
of the Christmas Eve gala.
We will, of course, pay
the standard rates.
I'm sorry, I'm only
in town for a few days
and I don't even have my
dance clothes or shoes.
And I've just missed
my appointment
so I'd like to get
back to my hotel.
We'll cover the
accommodation for the week.
Transportation to
and from the castle.
As far as clothes, well,
you can purchase what
you need with this.
The castle?
So, if I teach the prince then
I can go beyond the gate?
Naturally.
When do I start?
Hello again. Oh, that's me,
right there on the list. Yeah.
Chelsea Jones, J-O-N-E-S.
That's me.
Top of the list.
Thank you.
The dance you'll be teaching Prince Phillip
requires a particular sequence of moves.
There can be no room
for improvisation.
You must adhere to
a strict protocol.
No improv. Gotcha.
Is that an original?
Because of the lack of progress
with the other three teachers,
you will need to
practicese every day.
What happened to them anyway?
They were removed
from their posts.
Simply not up to the task.
Now, it will take immense
focus and concentration.
Oh, oh, sorry. Sorry. So cute.
Is that the prince?
Indeed. Everything you
need to know is in here.
Okay, great.
Oh, these are just variations on
the standard waltz technique.
This is gonna be adorable.
Pardon me?
Do we know who he's
dancing with yet?
Will she be here too?
This is not yet known.
It is, of course, an
enormous decision.
Not to be taken lightly.
I will let Prince Phillip
know you have arrived.
You may wait for him
in the east ballroom.
You have a ballroom?
We have three.
You will be using the east wing.
You have the week.
It's up to you to succeed
where others have failed.
Just down those stairs.
Don't worry. Just leave
the little guy to me.
Wow.
Hmm.
I see you found a way in.
It's you.
I thought you had no
interest in the castle.
And I thought you wore glasses.
Do you live here?
I suppose we were both misled.
Well, this is sort of
a recent development.
I've been hired to
teach Prince Phillip.
Is that so?
Yeah.
Apparently, he scared off
all the local instructors?
Oh, sorry, is he your son
or nephew or something?
Ah, there you
are. Your Highness,
I'd like to introduce you
to Ms. Chelsea Jones.
Ms. Jones,
Prince Phillip.
We've met.
Well, the clock is
ticking on your lesson.
I suggest you not
waste any more time.
- You're Prince Phillip?
- It would appear so.
Ah, so the photo in the hall?
That was taken many years ago.
Right. Huh.
Okay um, well uh,
I guess we can get started.
Uh, no,
I won't be
dancing with you today.
It's true, I usually
work with kids,
but I promise you,
I'm more than qualified
to teach you these steps.
Oh, I'm sure you are.
But I have no interest
in learning that dance.
But I was hired to
teach you that dance.
Indeed.
And you're here for our lesson.
Technically, yes.
You won't be dancing?
Now you're getting it.
Uh, you're welcome to
join me in a game.
Of chess?
Naturally.
Look, if, if you're
not gonna dance,
I have somewhere
else I could be.
Don't feel bad.
The finest instructors
in all of Havenshire
couldn't get me on that floor.
You stood little
chance of succeeding.
I'm not from Havenshire.
I'm from Chicago.
And I can be very patient.
On guard.
Now, did you know, Chelsea,
that when you move
into a position
to take your opponent's queen,
the gentlemanly thing to
do is to give a warning,
on guard.
Well, you'd be amazed
how many players
omit this common sense
of decency.
Is that so?
But I'm a gentleman, see.
So, I warned myself. On guard.
You know, it's funny. You're
actually one of the few people
who will take a queen someday.
Will you say, "On guard"?
Hmm.
Perhaps.
I can't tell
if that's romantic or arrogant?
Can't it be both?
Seems like our time is up.
Same time tomorrow?
Looking forward to it.
We shall bring that report to
parliament when they reconvene.
Merry Christmas to you as well.
Hi, sorry, I think
I took a wrong turn.
Or maybe five.
Oh, you're... the queen.
I am.
And you are?
Chelsea Jones.
Ah...
the new dance teacher.
How's my son progressing?
Well, it was just
the first lesson.
Hmm. My son can
be quite stubborn.
Well, fortunately, so can I.
I am glad to hear it.
They're... by the clock.
- Hmm?
- Your glasses.
Observant, too.
Well, um, it was an
honour to meet you.
I'll just see myself out.
Oh, sorry.
Sorry, which way is the exit?
Take a left at the
end of the hall.
Thank you. Thank you.
Finally. Okay, Mom,
why were you here?
"Havenshire Museum of
Art and Antiquities".
Of course I'd find it
on a Wednesday at five.
Mother, may I have a word?
Yes, of course.
I met your new instructor.
I had no idea James' search
for a suitable replacement
would take him all
the way to America.
Huh, yes. Well, Chelsea
seems very talented.
And just how did
you discern that
from behind your chessboard?
I'm not sure that I see
the need for these lessons.
I think you do.
Our guests arrive tomorrow.
Have you made your decision?
Well...
uh, that is why I
need more time.
And I've given it to you.
But there are
expectations, Phillip.
It must be this Christmas Eve.
Who will she be?
Me first!
On guard. Hmm.
Go right upstairs
and get washed up.
It's almost dinner.
Oh, to be young and
full of such energy.
Are those your grandchildren?
Well, no, my wife, Hannah,
and I foster Hans and Gregor.
They're brothers.
Have you considered
adopting them yourselves?
We would in a heartbeat.
My wife and I have
submitted the paperwork
but the process has
been difficult.
Apparently, there's some
backlog at the agency.
There are many challenges,
but they are worth it.
Now, who's winning?
Well, me.
- Oh!
- Also, I'm losing.
Oh.
May I ask what you're doing?
If you can play chess by
yourself, I can dance by myself.
Touch.
Besides, if someone walks by,
maybe they'll think we're really
doing a lesson
and then I won't lose my job.
You know, I'll happily double
whatever they're paying you.
Please, won't you sit down?
I'm sure ballroom style is different
from what you're used to but actually,
last night I read a quote
from a chess grandmaster.
"If you wish to succeed, you
must brave the risk of failure."
Of failure?
But you're not gonna fail.
You're gonna do great.
Look, it's not a
matter of difficulty,
it's a matter of desire.
I have no wish to learn.
Why? I mean, you
love to dance.
In the pub, you asked me.
Uh-uh, nobody knows
I was in the pub that day.
Is, is it not allowed?
No.
I'm required to travel
with a security detail
beyond the castle walls.
But a man can only spend so long
under the watchful
eye of others.
So, you put on a
hat and some glasses
and people really
don't know it's you?
No. Many indulge me.
It is exhausting to always
be in the spotlight.
I require a reprieve.
A reprieve where people
pretend not to recognize you?
But I don't expect
you to understand.
You're a dancer.
You flourish under
the bright lights.
I'm not some big-time
stage performer.
My mother was a real dancer.
I'm... I'm just a teacher.
Everyone in my life
expects something from me.
I need something that's
you know, mine alone.
Well, why can't
we have that here?
No expectations. Just
two people dancing.
Disguise optional.
Why are you here really?
Why did you have to get past the gates
if you had no interest in royalty?
And what brings a dance
teacher from America
to Havenshire in
the first place?
I'm looking for information
about my biological family.
My mother died when I
was very young but...
I found a photo of her from a
Christmas she spent here in Havenshire.
And she was with someone,
I think my father.
They were standing in
front of a building
that seemed really
important to them somehow.
Anyway, that's the museum
beyond the gate. So.
And if I don't dance,
you lose this job and any chance
to discover more about it.
Mm-hmm.
Best reason I've
had to dance yet.
Okay, in ballroom dance, the
most important thing is posture.
For the man, that's
straight up and down.
Like a Christmas tree.
Yeah, very good.
Then the arms stretch
out like the branches.
- Mm-hmm.
- Nice and tall. Yep.
I'm already quite tall.
Well, that's okay.
How tall is the woman
you're dancing with?
That is as yet unknown.
Well, you can bend your
knees a little if you want,
but your top half
should be upright.
Regal, actually.
Phew, well I've got that down.
And since we're doing a
strict waltz, we'll remain
in this basic position
the entire time.
Mm-hmm.
Yeah, that's good.
You've done this before.
Just enough to be dangerous.
Ah. Um, well, we can jump
into the choreography.
- Okay.
- Okay.
It starts with you
offering me your hand.
I step forward.
And in position, and then
we sway, one, two, three.
And now on the three step,
forward on your left,
and then one, two, three.
Very good. Now we
start a spin turn.
- Mm-hmm.
- Okay.
And...
Oh. Uh... oh, um,
it's called a spin turn but
you don't actually spin me.
We actually spin together
in that same position.
- Like this.
- Right.
One, two, yeah. There you go.
Let's try again from the top.
Ah, okay.
And don't spin me.
No, okay.
Okay, here we go.
And one, two, three.
Two, three. Oh.
Wonderful.
Oh, hello, Mother.
Your Majesty.
Well, it seems my
worries were unfounded.
You're progressing quite well.
But there's no spin.
Yes, Mother.
Of course, Your Highness.
I'm sorry to interrupt,
but our guests have arrived
ahead of schedule.
Your presence is requested
at the receiving line.
Of course.
I'm afraid we'll have to
leave it there for today.
Okay, um, great job.
Hmm.
Oh, sorry. I'm sorry.
Come with me.
Staff members are required
to form a greeting
line for the arriving
guests of the royal family,
as is protocol.
Who's that?
Tobias Celsbury.
The former Duke of Eldoria.
Havenshire's largest
trade partner.
Former?
Tobias, my dear friend,
I'm so happy you could join us.
As always, Your Majesty, the
pleasure is entirely mine.
And that?
Gwendolyn Harrington,
the Duchess of Concordia.
The Prince's dearest friend.
All this fuss.
Do you ever get used to it?
Merry Christmas, Gwen.
Merry Christmas.
Your Majesty.
Elizabeth Kent.
Daughter of a prominent
parliamentary member.
Hmm. Are they all staying
here at the castle?
Yes.
Are there enough bedrooms?
It is a castle.
So, we just stand here in the
greeting line and just like...
Yes.
Silently.
Thanks.
Ms. Jones! Ms. Jones.
You left this behind.
Uh, for you, in case you wanted to
look at the choreography for tomorrow.
Okay. Yeah.
Uh, let me walk you home.
I thought you weren't
supposed to go into town
without your security detail?
Ah.
Incognito.
Okay.
You know, your
mother, the queen,
thinks I'm teaching
you the dance wrong.
Why did you keep spinning me?
Well, I suppose that my desire for
freedom invades even my dance lessons.
Or maybe it's just that
spinning you is so much fun.
I don't get so much
of that in my life.
Fun? Or freedom?
Either.
Don't get me wrong,
I love my country.
I love serving my people.
The castle seems really fun.
Huh.
I mean, that's what you dream
about as a kid.
Living in a castle.
They're magical.
When I'm in the castle, I'm usually working
on diplomacy or other matters of state.
Slowly, but surely alleviating
my mother's workload.
Soon enough, I'll
take over completely.
My mother's expressed
a desire to step down.
So, you'll become a king?
Yes.
But in Havenshire, king is
expected to be married.
Uh, did you know that there is
an old Havenshire superstition
that if you put your Christmas
stocking underneath your pillow,
that night you will dream of
the one that you'll marry.
Really?
- No.
- C'mon!
Hey, did you just push
the Prince of Havenshire?
Only because he deserved it.
Hang on. No, stop!
I must defend a lady's honour!
Some of that? Oh! Ooh,
good arm, young man.
I've got you.
Kids: Ow. Retreat! Retreat!
Yeah, you'd better run.
That was fun.
Tomorrow it's the castle
Christmas breakfast,
10 a.m. Come.
Isn't that for the guests?
Yes. You'll be my guest.
Please.
We can't dance on
an empty stomach.
Okay, I'll be there.
Great.
Don't forget this.
Merry Christmas.
Ms. Jones. What are you doing?
I thought that's how
you greet the guests?
That was a chambermaid.
And this event is
invitation only.
Uh, yes. Yes, she has one.
It's most unorthodox,
Your Highness.
Oh well, let me worry
about that, James.
You look fantastic. Come in.
Thanks.
Chelsea, I'd like you
to meet Elizabeth Kent.
Elizabeth leads our commission
on monetary policy
and economic growth.
Wow. Uh, nice to
meet you. Or uh...
Are you with the
American Consulate?
Chelsea is my dance teacher.
Phillip?
Ah, I'm sorry, I have to leave.
But please do stay.
Enjoy the food.
We certainly have enough of it.
Oh!
That's decoration.
Oh, thank you.
You're welcome.
Would have been embarrassing.
Oh, that's also decoration.
Maybe I should
stick to the waffles.
This is a waffle, right?
Yes. May I recommend
the Christmas entremets,
or my favourite, the clafoutis.
Oh. I'll try it. Just
don't expect me to say it.
Thank you for your help.
I feel so out of place.
Well, we belong where
we decide we belong.
- I'm Gwen.
- Chelsea.
Such a pleasure to meet you.
- You too.
- How do you know Phillip?
I'm his dance teacher.
Oh. Oh, I do not envy you.
Phillip and I grew up together
and I am very familiar
with his stubborn streak.
Yes.
Are you staying at the castle?
No. No, no.
I'm actually between
accommodations right now.
I was staying at this
inn down the road
but my reservation is almost up.
Oh, well I'm sure we
can find you a room here.
Oh.
I will talk to the queen.
No, no, no, please
don't do that.
- No, it's no trouble at all.
- Uh, no, no. Uh...
That was quite presumptuous.
What?
Seems she's making
herself right at home.
She expects Phillip to propose
to her on Christmas Eve.
Oh.
This section
ends with an over sway.
Come around this way.
Yes, the more
stretch, the better.
- Mm-hmm.
- Remember, stay tall.
Like a Christmas tree.
Yeah. Beautiful.
That's what I was going to say.
Water break?
- Yes.
- Yes, great.
- Oh, thank you.
- You're welcome.
You know, it is taking every
ounce of my self-restraint not
to run and slide across
this floor.
Oh well, surely you've
slid across this floor
- in socks at some point?
- No.
What, not even as a kid?
Oh, come on!
Ballroom floors are
the best for sliding,
and this one has just
the right smoothness.
Believe it or not, there is
a protocol for how one walks
through public areas
of the castle.
No running, and
definitely no sliding.
No fun or freedom?
Exactly.
How was the breakfast?
I'm so sorry that I couldn't
spend more time with you.
I met Gwen.
She is, she's amazing.
She's beautiful
and she's so nice.
Congratulations.
How long have you been together?
Oh no. No, we're not.
Oh um, sorry, I
thought I heard...
That I was going to propose?
Yeah. That is a possibility.
I'm lost.
It's complicated.
Ah, sorry, you don't
have to tell me.
No, no, no, it's not that.
Would you like to go for a walk?
Sure.
The reason that I'm
reluctant to learn the dance
is that it's part of a
centuries' old tradition
that I've been putting
off for many years.
After dancing with various
guests throughout the evening,
I'm expected to perform that particular waltz
with the person that I choose to marry.
At the Christmas ball, I will
signal for the song to play.
And the bells will ring and everyone
will know my choice as the waltz begins.
That sounds like the
ball in Cinderella.
The prince dancing with
ladies then choosing a bride?
Indeed. It has gained the nickname
the Cinderella Christmas Ball.
Uh, but in modern times,
surely you would know ahead of
time who you're proposing to?
The dance is just a formality.
Right?
For generations now, yes.
But you haven't chosen yet.
No.
And you will before Christmas?
It is my duty to do so.
I have more to consider
than my happiness.
My mother, she's
earned her rest.
And here, I thought you were just
trying to get out of some dance lessons.
I'm sorry.
No, don't be.
You have been a
breath of fresh air.
Oh, Tobias,
I am so glad you could join us
for this momentous occasion.
Has Phillip shared his decision?
I am unsure if
one has been made.
He has faltered every
step of the way.
Hmm.
Well, it's not a choice
one should make lightly.
I wed Frederick when
we were teenagers.
It was the greatest
success of my life.
Not everyone has a love
story like you and Frederick.
Yet so, It turns out
it wasn't foie gras all along.
My mother's face was priceless.
Are you all right, Chelsea?
Who, who are they?
Uh yes, this is the
Holly Berry Ballet Company.
They perform at the
castle every Christmas.
Oh, would you excuse me?
Of course. I'll get your bag.
Thank you.
Um, excuse me.
I'm Chelsea. You don't know me.
I think my late mother might have been
a part of your ballet company years ago.
She, she was a dancer.
Um... this is her.
It looks like she might have been
wearing a Holly Berry Ballet pin?
It's possible your mother danced with
us as a guest soloist at some point.
Um, the picture
was taken in '87.
Were you a part of
the troupe back then?
No. I didn't take
over until much later.
But we do keep records
of past rosters.
I'd be happy to look
into it for you.
Oh my goodness,
thank you so much.
If your mother danced
with the troupe,
she most certainly performed
here, at the castle.
Oh wow. Oh wow.
Morning. There you go, Claus.
Good morning.
I am sorry we couldn't
extend your stay.
Were you able to find
suitable arrangements?
Yes, I was.
Happy to hear it.
Thank you for everything.
And I'll see you at the
Family Foster Santa event.
- Of course.
- Okay.
Oh, where will you be staying.
The castle, actually.
Um, I know. Uh, I'm teaching
the prince to dance.
It's a long story.
Wonderful.
I thought you two
got on well the other day.
You never know what
tomorrow might bring.
Each day is a gift from
God, wrapped in new paper.
My mother used to say that.
Sounds like your
mother was a smart lady.
Um, see ya.
Take care.
Moving in, are we?
Oh, does this fold
out into a bed?
This is the sitting room.
My room has a room?
If you have any questions,
please ask a footman.
I will be available after 2 p.m.
and I shall call upon you then.
Thanks.
I think my mother toured
with an international ballet company,
and danced here, at the castle!
- Really?
- Yeah!
I knew she was a dancer
but nobody could really tell me
much more than that.
Uh, so do you think somebody
at the castle might
remember her?
I hope so.
Okay, can we go back to the part
where you're moving in
with royalty?
And is that normal for a dance
instructor to move into the castle?
Nothing about this
trip has been normal.
Phillip is a dreamboat.
You should go for it.
Hey, back to the real world.
I'm gonna go ask around
the castle and see.
You could totally be Cinderella.
No, no, Snow White.
Goodbye, Rebecca.
Excuse me, does this
woman look familiar?
The Holly Berry Ballet Company.
She would have been here
the Christmas of '87?
Oh.
Here you go.
I attend to countless guests.
The odds of me recalling
a single dancer is slim.
Can you just look at the photo?
You know, if you loosened your tie you
might be a little more comfortable.
Oh, why stop there? I could
simply trade my uniform
for a t-shirt and a
pair of flip flops.
That's a tough look but I
think you could pull it off.
We have a dress code,
Ms. Jones. It is...
Protocol, right.
Oh, they never get these right.
Trade?
Do you recognize her?
She does... look
familiar but...
I couldn't say why.
You probably saw
her here, performing.
Her husband, my father,
might have been with her.
Do you have any memory at all?
Uh, I don't. Sorry, I, I
can't help more.
Okay, I got this.
Thank you.
So, tell me, how's the search
for information on your mother going?
Oh um, well I've been showing the photo to
some older staff members around the castle.
Nothing yet.
Well, can I see the photo?
Sure.
Ah. What's your mother's name?
Jane.
She's very beautiful.
You have her eyes.
Thank you.
She passed away when I was five so all
I have left of her are a few photos.
And this necklace.
Oh, it's lovely.
You know, this is
Havenshire Museum.
I'm hoping to find some answers
when it opens Monday morning, so.
May I keep this photo,
just for tonight?
I'd like to show my mother. See
if she can shed any light on it.
Thank you.
And she danced here?
Hmm, we believe so.
Do you recognize her?
Hmm. I'm not entirely sure.
But we have had many talented
dancers come through the castle.
Including her daughter,
your teacher.
Indeed.
Ah, she's waited a
lifetime for answers.
I hope to help her find them.
She's important to you.
As she's helping me,
I think it's only right
that I return the favour.
Of course.
Come in.
Hi.
Heading to the pub?
No. Somewhere very special.
Would you like to join me?
Sure.
This is incredible.
It's almost time.
What are we waiting for?
Havenshire does love its bells.
Bells to signal my choice of
a bride on Christmas Eve.
For generations, these bells have
rung every night of Christmas week.
These bells, they, well,
they bring me peace.
Especially when things
feel uncertain.
They're beautiful.
I envy you.
Me?
Mm-hmm.
You look at the world
with such...
possibility.
While I steal moments
behind a pair of glasses.
I wish you had known my father.
He was kind and brilliant.
Ruled with such self-assurance.
Strong and serious. Huh.
And now, my mother, she
leads with wisdom and grace.
The truth is...
the moment that I
make my choice,
the moment I step out on to
the floor for that dance,
I accept that incredible
responsibility.
I will be king.
How can I hope to live
up to their legacy?
I'm nothing like them.
Why do you have to be like them?
Well, there are expectations
that come with being king.
Can't go to the local pub.
You can't mix in crowds,
with or without a disguise.
Is it so bad to mix with crowds
in public from time to time?
It's not proper kingly
behaviour, I'm afraid.
Just, I don't know how I'd
understand people's needs from afar.
You know, to hear
bits of conversation,
hear their real concerns.
It sounds invaluable
as a leader.
Oh, you'd never, never
see my parents at the pub.
I just...
I can't shake the feeling
that I don't belong
on the throne.
Maybe you're meant to
forge your own path as king.
Apologies.
I don't mean to burden
you with my problems.
I don't feel burdened.
That's because you're
a wonderful person.
Thank you.
My mother, she said the woman in
the photograph did look familiar.
But she couldn't shed any
more light on it than that,
I'm afraid.
I really appreciate
you even asking.
We will find what
you are looking for.
I promise.
We?
You're not alone.
You know, I've never
brought anyone here before.
Well, thank you for
sharing it with me.
And... for whatever it's worth,
I think you'll make
an incredible king,
just the way you are.
I'm afraid we're going to have
to postpone our lesson tomorrow.
It's the
Christmas Tree Christmas Tea.
What is that?
Besides a mouthful.
Well, it is just a
little celebration
where guests bring ornaments
with sentimental meaning,
then we decorate the
royal Christmas tree.
While drinking tea?
Yes, yes, indeed.
Will I see you there?
Okay.
Excellent. Excellent that's...
Well, uh, good night, Chelsea.
Good night.
Phillip? Phillip?
Ah, welcome!
So glad you could make it.
Phillip? Over here.
Don't envy his position.
I'm Tobias Celsbury.
Oh, Chelsea Jones.
No need for such
formalities, Ms. Jones.
I just don't want
to offend anyone
so I've been doing it
to everyone I meet.
The footmen outside
were pretty confused
but in my defence, their uniforms
are very official looking.
I hear you've
made quite an impression
during your brief stay.
Is that good or bad?
Always good.
Sometimes the boat
needs to be rocked.
I'm, I'm not here
to rock any boats.
Hmm. You do remind me of the
heroine of an Eldorian fairytale
my grandmother used to
read me as a child.
Classic, yet unafraid
to buck the system.
It is so lovely to
see you, my dear.
How is Edwina? It has
been far too long.
She's well, thank you.
She sends her best.
Your Majesty, congratulations
on a superb event.
Why, thank you, Elizabeth.
The Christmas festivities
always have such profound
economic benefits
to the community.
That is a benefit, to be sure.
But Christmas reminds us to be
the best part of ourselves, hmm?
A little kinder, a
little more generous.
Think we can all drink to that.
That's an ornament.
How are you enjoying the spread?
Oh, it's great. It's great.
I just think there
should be more labels.
Phillip?
Tough being the most
popular guy in the room.
Huh, quite.
Since this is an occasion
all about ornaments,
I thought you might
like to have this.
You remembered.
From our walk.
Well, I uh,
I'd better do the rounds.
Yeah.
Elizabeth.
Lovely party, isn't it?
Oh, yes. Yes, very.
Did you know Tobias used to
be a duke back in his country?
Yeah, what... what happened?
He fell in love
with the wrong woman.
There are expectations for people
like Mr. Celsbury, and Phillip.
When they select a partner, they must
consider what is best for a nation.
Mr. Celsbury made a selfish
choice and it cost him dearly.
Phillip will not make
the same mistake.
I've been taking a few
waltz lessons of my own.
Oh?
I'll be ready for that dance
you're teaching him.
Enjoy the grapes.
I am happy that you are
progressing with your lessons,
but I worry you are becoming
distracted from your objective.
It's a relic, Mother.
All of this pomp and
pageantry, for what?
A diplomatic alliance?
I thought you were
fond of Gwendolyn?
I am. But...
Ah. Elizabeth
is a fine choice.
She is not royalty.
You know that Eldoria recently
opened its protocols,
allowing for established
political families
to intermarry with royalty.
We have no problem with it.
Gwen and Elizabeth both
have much to offer.
It is an opportunity
for happiness,
if only you would embrace it.
I will.
You are ready.
- To marry?
- To become king.
Your diplomatic
instincts are spot on.
Your reform proposals have
made a real improvement
with our domestic policies.
Why do you doubt yourself?
Why didn't you and father
ever go out in public?
You know, just go to a
restaurant? Talk to people?
Is that what's bothering you?
Sometimes I feel the need to...
To put on a hat and glasses
and pretend not to be royal?
You know about that?
Mm-hmm.
Ah.
Your father was a
very private king.
He didn't keep himself from the public
because, it was the kingly thing to do,
it's just that he was more
comfortable away from the crowds.
He...
and I have taken care of
our people from afar.
You might take care of
them from closer up.
Forge my own path.
Take courage, Phillip.
You're going to be just fine.
Phillip?
What are you doing here?
Today's the day!
You didn't think I'd miss it?
Shall we?
Another room.
This place is huge.
What exactly are we looking for?
I'm not sure.
Ah, so we'll know
it when we see it.
Hope so.
You know? With every
year that passes,
I feel like my mother
gets further away.
My memories of her get hazier.
I just thought this might be a
chance to connect with her somehow.
Well, I mean, this
is just one gallery.
There's so much of the
museum left to explore.
Oh my gosh.
What is it?
Do you recognize her?
Not her. This.
Your pendant.
It can't be a
coincidence, can it?
No, it can't be.
This is it.
Wow.
Oh, sorry.
No. No, I... gosh,
I'm so happy for you. This is...
There's no information
on the woman's identity.
And no artist.
Hold on. Ah, yes.
It says here that it was
donated by a private collector.
Artist and subject unknown.
Is there a theory on
who she might have been?
Uh,
it is unlikely to have
originated in Havenshire
due to the style
of the headpiece.
Not much more.
But I can certainly ask the board
of royal historians to look into it.
Thank you.
That is incredible.
Wow.
Do you think it could
be my mother's mother,
or my mother's mother's mother?
And here I thought
she was from Detroit.
Well, perhaps she was. Maybe
the necklace was a gift.
Oh.
And listen, before I forget,
I have made arrangements
for the royal dressmaker
to stop by your room
tomorrow before our lesson.
- For what?
- The ball.
I didn't realize
staff was invited.
Well, they're not.
But you're special.
You are the... the prince's
dance instructor.
You should see the
fruits of your labour.
I still think it's too much.
But you deserve every bit of it.
Uh, you know what? I should probably
change for the Family Foster Event.
You know about this event?
Know about it? I'm in it.
Would you like to join?
Yeah, well it's not... royal
family doesn't usually attend.
It's more for the
people to enjoy.
Not an event full of pomp and
circumstance, shall we say.
So, put your glasses on.
Gwen?
Are you all right?
Yes. Yes, I'm fine.
This week has just
been very stressful.
Do you wanna talk about it?
Yes.
Phillip and I were
born one month apart.
Did you know that?
Well, I came first and, well,
it's perhaps the only month
where I wasn't tied to him,
in the eyes of our parents.
I've known the engagement waltz
choreography
for the Cinderella Christmas
Ball for years now.
There's just always been this
expectation that we would wed.
Wait, you don't want to?
You must think I'm mad.
I mean, who wouldn't
want to be queen?
All of these other women would trade
positions with me in a heartbeat.
I know Elizabeth would.
I do love Phillip,
just as a dear friend.
What are you gonna do?
Well, if Phillip asks me to
marry him, I, of course, will.
Bells will ring and
we will waltz, and...
and it will be done.
It is my duty.
Thank you.
Thank you so much for listening.
How very kind.
Anytime.
Ho! Ho! Ho! Merry Christmas!
Thank you again
for helping today.
Oh, giving gifts has always been
my favourite part of Christmas.
Oh, a chip off the old block.
Yeah.
Merry Christmas.
Hello. Um, I'm Phillip.
And Santa is a really
good friend of mine.
He's very, very nice.
Oh, thank you.
So, will you come up
and meet him with me?
Great.
Oh! Hello.
How charming.
- Thank you.
- Are they yours?
Soon, God willing.
Claus, maybe after the event
you could tell Phillip more
about your foster journey?
I'd love to.
Fantastic. Excellent.
Sure.
There you go. Merry Christmas.
Ah.
I had to see for myself.
Oh, it was a lovely event.
I'm so glad that I came.
And I learned quite
a bit from...
from Santa, of all people.
Have you two been
good this year?
I have just a few
candy canes left.
Thank you, my dear.
I have decided
to increase funding
and resources
to the foster program.
I think that should help a lot
of these children
get adopted more expeditiously.
That... that would
be wonderful.
You know, today, these,
these kids they felt like...
like they belonged.
Like they were a
part of a community.
I'm told they look forward
to this event all year.
Could you hold monthly events?
I'm sure the foster families would
be happy to help organize them.
I don't see why not.
Tobias: Well, I'd be honoured
to fund the May event.
In honour of my grandmother,
who was born in May.
Always loved the
blooms of that season.
I presume other guests might also be eager
to contribute to such a worthy endeavour.
Thank you so much. Thank you.
Oh, duty calls.
Okay.
Woo! Oh!
Warming up for our lesson?
I had to. At least once.
It's pretty fun.
Oh, but I guess that wouldn't be
very becoming of a prince.
Ah, no. No, it would not.
Yeah, too bad.
Woo!
- Right?
- Here we come.
Oh!
Woo!
So...
Oh, uh from the uh, yeah.
Yes, absolutely.
Okay, uh-huh. And...
Oh, keep your feet
on the floor a little.
It's no good. It's not good. I
just, I can't get the pivots.
They're beyond me.
You know what?
Let's just waltz.
What do you mean?
Well, you know the choreography.
I want you to fall in love
with the feeling of the waltz.
You know, it's free,
unrestricted, like,
like sliding across
the floor in socks.
Uh, well, now that was fun.
Let me try something.
Okay. Free.
Just whatever you wanna do.
Yeah.
You're pivoting.
You got it. Yeah!
Phillip, my father
is waiting for us.
We were supposed to
meet him for dinner.
Yes. Yes, I am sorry.
I completely lost track of time.
Better hurry.
Until tomorrow.
Yeah.
I'm so sorry.
This is all... too much.
Just have fun with it.
How would I ever choose?
Try them all.
It's uh... nice.
I mean, you know, it's nice.
You don't look comfortable.
This is hopeless.
I'm not gonna put on a fancy
dress and suddenly fit in.
Well, the goal is not to fit in.
It's to stand out.
Ooh. Sorry to interrupt.
- Why, you look splendid.
- Thank you.
Why, I, I've brought you
the book we talked about.
Thought you might
like to read it.
I've bookmarked my
favourite for you.
The story features a necklace.
The one your grandmother
read to you as a child?
Indeed.
Thank you.
Well, I'll leave you to it.
Oh thanks. Yeah,
just a few more.
I've got my lesson with Phillip.
Oh boy.
Let's do it.
Just the person
I was looking for.
I have something for you.
What is it?
I didn't mention it earlier
because I didn't want
to get your hopes up.
But many of our performances
are recorded for posterity.
I had the director search the
archives for your mother's.
She found it.
Thank you.
Hi.
Oh.
Is that your...
My mother.
Wow.
Um, I, I need a minute.
Of course.
- Sorry.
- No, of course.
Take as long as you need.
Now, there you are.
Are you okay?
Seeing her like
that brought back
so many memories I
thought I'd lost.
She was a beautiful dancer.
Thank you.
For as long as I can remember,
that's been my connection to her.
Even though she was gone,
I could always find her there,
in dance.
You are the most extraordinary
woman I've ever met.
Oh, come on.
No. It's... no matter
what you think,
you are a real dancer, Chelsea,
and your mother
would be very proud.
Dance with me?
Um, it's...
it's late. I should probably go.
See you tomorrow?
Of course.
Good night.
Good night.
Claus.
Claus.
Claus? That's Claus?
Oh, my goodness.
Uh, uh...
Oh, hi, uh, thank
you. Thank you.
Ah, Ms. Jones.
I've been looking for you.
What is this?
Your compensation.
You said standard rate.
Yes. For a royal instructor.
Is this not sufficient?
This will fund my
dance program for years!
You did a wonderful
job, Ms. Jones.
You have our deepest gratitude.
Thank you.
Oh, the ball begins
in a few hours.
Where are you going?
To see someone I've
waited my whole life for.
This is about the
photograph you showed me?
You do know something.
I knew it. I knew it!
It was many years ago.
And I'm not one to repeat
unsubstantiated rumours.
Not protocol?
Good luck, dear.
Mwah!
Hmm.
- Claus?
- Chelsea!
Uh, are you busy?
For you, I always have time.
Um, I uh...
- I had a question.
- Hmm?
Does this woman look familiar?
Jane.
Yeah, Jane.
Well, it's been
many years but, yes.
I'd know that smile anywhere.
She was my mother.
Well... your mother and the
entire Holly Berry Ballet
would stay here at
the inn at Christmas.
She took the picture with my
father who, who I never knew.
Is that... you?
Oh dear, no. We were
friendly. Nothing more.
Oh. What made you
think it was me?
Um, I saw you, um, in an old
video after one of her shows.
You embraced.
The Nutcracker dance.
Oh, it was her
final performance.
She told me she'd made a
very difficult decision
and would be leaving
Havenshire that day.
I was to drive her
to the airport.
Decision?
Did she say what it was about?
Just that it was the
right thing to do.
Do you know, I mean, did she say
who my father is?
I'm sorry.
I didn't even know
that she had married.
I am, I'm so sorry.
This is so silly of me.
I'm, I'm sorry
for bothering you.
It would be an honour to
have a daughter like you.
Thank you.
It's almost time to
get ready for the ball.
Ms. Jones?
Mm-hmm.
Thank you.
If we were to redirect just
a small percentage of the annual budget.
From where?
Something would have
to be sacrificed.
That's just it.
We reinvest the new profits,
directing the surplus back
to the budget.
So, it is technically a
loan, not a sacrifice.
Wow. This is remarkable.
You are remarkable.
And I am going to
leave this with you.
Oh.
Really. Wow.
Chelsea! Chelsea, there you are.
You're a difficult
one to track down.
I was hoping that we could
talk about last night.
Last night was a mistake.
Was it?
Uh, this... this
isn't my world.
I don't belong here.
It wasn't a mistake for me.
You have a duty that's
greater than both of us.
Thank you for all
of your kindness.
I will never forget it.
Now why does that
sound like a goodbye?
You're gonna make a
wonderful king, Phillip.
And you belong on that throne.
I've never been more sure of
anything in my entire life.
And you're gonna do
great tonight. Just,
um, don't rush those pivots.
You live with such joy.
Thank you for bringing a
little bit of it into my life.
Keep finding those
moments, okay?
- Have you seen the news?
- No.
Photographs of you signing
autographs in the marketplace.
Apologies, Mother.
No! On the contrary.
They are saying you will
be the people's king.
Well done, my son.
Thank you.
And your idea for sponsoring
additional foster family events
sparked some real interest.
Thank was Chelsea's idea.
Was it? Hmm.
Very happy for you, my son.
This is a big night.
You're ready.
Yes.
You're very well
positioned tonight.
Thank you. I've waited
several years for this.
I have so many worthwhile enterprises
that this partnership will facilitate.
And...
Phillip is looking very
handsome tonight, isn't he?
Um, yes. Of course.
Hmm.
You all right?
Yes. Fine.
He has yet to signal the bells.
He will make his choice.
Hmm.
Go ahead, make the move.
It's a little risky, sure,
but if you wish to succeed,
you must brave the
risk of failure.
Why aren't you at the ball?
I could ask you the same.
Uh... I don't belong there.
Oh, um, thank you
for lending me this.
I love stories with
happy endings.
Hmm. Do you love him?
What?
That's not even...
Doesn't matter how I feel.
And even if Phillip...
he should be with someone
who's good for this country.
Someone like Elizabeth.
Elizabeth is smart but
kings have advisors.
She seems much better
suited for that role.
I didn't come here
to cause trouble.
Why did you?
To find family.
I... I never knew my father.
I think he took this
picture here in Havenshire.
But it's been over a week and
I'm no closer to finding him
than I was when I got here.
It's silly to think that
after all this time.
It's probably for
the best, right?
I mean, he would have reached
out by now if he wanted to.
Maybe he didn't know about you.
Your necklace.
So familiar.
Just like my grandmother's,
which I gave to the love of
my life, all those years ago.
I couldn't believe they
were one and the same.
She never told me.
She never said.
It's you?
I met your mother when she was
here in Havenshire performing.
She was the most beautiful
woman I'd ever seen.
She smiled at me from the stage
and I knew I was a goner.
We were married on the steps of
that museum, three days later.
Three days?
Yes.
We were young. And in love.
The painting in the museum,
that's of your grandmother?
My... great-grandmother?
You saw that, did you?
I... I brought it to
Havenshire. Donated it.
I suppose it was my secret
way of keeping that necklace
at our special place forever.
Why did things end?
When I presented her to my
parents, they did not approve.
So, I decided to
follow my heart.
Renounce my title for her.
When I told her, she was upset.
She believed we were
making a selfish choice.
Said that she'd be
returning to the States
and that my place was here.
Your mother did not want
to cause problems for me.
She did not feel
like she belonged.
Do not make the same mistake.
Oh!
You'd better get
dressed, my dear.
We belong where we
decide we belong?
We belong...
where God puts us.
"Dear Mr. and Mrs. Donner.
We have expedited your application for
adoption and are pleased to inform..."
Hannah! Oh.
Boys?
We've got our Christmas wish.
We're a family.
I want to make a
difference for my country.
There are many ways
to achieve that.
But what of love?
I'm sorry, uh, Elizabeth.
I can't.
Your Majesty,
I'd like to introduce
my daughter.
Well, fancy that.
I was afraid you weren't coming.
Have the bells rung?
Not yet.
You look beautiful.
Thank you.
On guard.
It's all yours.
Oh, it... it... is this
when... are we gonna...
Yes. If you
remember the steps.
Yes.
I think my son has
made his choice.
A very good choice. Indeed.
Yes.
Huh?
My queen.
My king.
Was that okay?
That was amazing.
Those chan turns might
be better than mine.
Great dress rehearsal!
I'll see you all
Friday for the show.
Yeah!
How'd she do?
Incredible.
And she's really coming
out of her shell.
Is she still having a
tough time at school?
There are good and bad days.
The social worker told
us to be patient.
When you adopt a
child later in life,
it can take some time for
them to feel secure, so...
Well, she'll get there.
My mother used to say, "Each day
is a gift, wrapped in new paper."
That is lovely.
This program has been such
a blessing for our family.
I know that we're a
little behind on tuition
but I just wanna assure you,
we'll be able to catch up soon.
This is pay as you
go for a reason.
Don't worry about last month.
Thank you, Chelsea.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Your parents had some
really cool things.
Thank you. After storage
rates went up again,
can't afford to hold on
to all this anymore.
Oh, look!
It's little Chelsea.
Look at those front teeth.
Yeah.
I thought I'd lost this.
My adoption was finalized
three days before Christmas.
This was the first gift
I opened that year.
I bounced around to
different families
for a while but when I saw this,
our first Christmas,
I knew I was finally home.
Who is this?
That's my mother,
my birth mother.
Is she wearing a wedding dress?
Oh, the necklace.
I wonder what that pin means.
Yeah.
"Our place, Havenshire,
December 23, 1987."
That was nine months
before I was born.
"Havenshire is part of a
royal conglomerate of small,"
sovereign countries
near Luxembourg.
"Including Concordia, Eldoria."
Huh.
The man she's
holding hands with,
he's wearing a wedding ring.
Do you think this
could be your father?
I never knew my father. I
don't even know his name.
Well, what about your
birth certificate?
My mother left that line blank.
Why?
I'm not sure.
I'd like to think she planned
to tell me,
one day,
when I was old
enough to understand.
Maybe this is where you
could find your answers.
Woo!
You were all fantastic.
I am so proud of you.
You worked so hard, too.
And getting to see your
remarkable progress
has been the best Christmas gift
I ever could have asked for.
How about one more?
Merry Christmas.
Thank you. Oh.
A plane ticket?
Round trip to Havenshire along
with four nights' lodging.
Everyone chipped in.
This is too much.
I can't accept this.
You do so much for all of us.
I'll expect updates
when you get there.
I appreciate what you're
trying to do but...
I can't fly halfway across the
world so close to Christmas.
Aren't you curious about what
he's like... your birth father?
I've lived in the same
city my entire life.
He's never tried to contact me.
Maybe... just wasn't meant to
be or maybe he's gone, too.
But you could have siblings.
Or cousins. Or
nieces and nephews.
All waiting to meet you.
What if he doesn't
want to see me?
Anyone would be lucky
to call you family.
You always tell me that
every day is a new gift.
But Chels, in order
to see what's inside,
you've got to unwrap it.
Hello.
Hi, um, excuse me, I'm
looking for Claus?
Oh, you've found him.
- Oh.
- - Checking in?
Yes. Uh, Chelsea Jones.
Oh well, welcome to
Havenshire, Ms. Jones.
You have picked a wonderful
time of the year to visit.
Many festive things to do
here in our little hamlet.
Aw.
They've even asked me
to play Santa this year.
Well, with a name like yours,
I'm surprised they
didn't ask sooner.
Thank you.
Extra blankets
are in the closet.
Breakfast is served
from six 'til nine.
A lot of these events
involve dancing.
Dance is a large part of
the Havenshire culture.
We joke that before our
children learn to speak,
they learn to dance.
Well, dance is just
another form of expression.
Hmm. I do believe you're going to
enjoy your time here, Ms. Jones.
- Thank you.
- Take care.
Excuse me, do you
know where this is?
Thank you.
Oh.
Name?
Oh, I'm not on any list.
Castle is closed to the general
public until December 26th.
I'm not going to the castle.
I'm going to that building
right over there.
All entry past this point is
restricted
to the names on the last.
Please?
Oh, come on,
I... I travelled all the way
from America
just to get to that building.
Oh, that building?
Oh, of course! After Christmas.
Guard: Trying to
sneak in, are we?
H... hi. Hi, I was,
I was just gonna help
them with the tree?
Merry Christmas.
And he wished me merry
Christmas and he tossed me out.
Any advice on what to do?
Hmm, with all the royal
celebrations,
security is tight.
There'll be a lot of very
important people there.
It will be hard to access
that part of town.
Well, I, I never back
down from a challenge,
so I will figure out how
to get past that gate.
What publication are you with?
- Excuse me?
- I have to hand it
to the tabloids,
you are relentless.
Do the royal family really sell
that many papers that you'd risk
your freedom?
I'm not a reporter.
And I'm not interested in the
castle or the royal whoever.
Huh. See, most people
would be pretty eager
to have a bit of time
with the royal family.
Guess I'm not most people.
I'm looking for someone.
But half the village is
off limits so I'm stuck.
Ah, I see.
Well, they're playing my song.
Anyone on the dance floor,
half off your Christmas cocoa.
Well?
You want, you want to dance?
You want to pay full price?
Come on.
Let's see what you've got.
Oh.
Okay.
Ooh!
Ah.
Woo!
Who are you?
Chelsea Jones. And you are?
Grateful for the
dance, Ms. Jones.
What do I owe you?
It's been taken care of.
"Guards change at 10 a.m.
Sneak past if you're quick"?
First position.
Yes.
Hi. Before you turn,
tighten your stomach.
It's not a big movement.
Keep it small.
Yes! So much better.
We have provided you
with three instructors.
He sent them all the
way. Myself included.
There must be someone else.
I have given you my very best.
There's no one left.
What about her?
Well, she's not one of ours.
I need to go.
Well, who is she then?
I have no idea.
Ask her yourself.
- Excuse me, miss?
- Oh.
I couldn't help but notice you
and that young student there.
Oh, I'm sorry.
I didn't mean to overstep.
I just wanted to show
him some things I do
- with my own students.
- So, you are a teacher?
Yes, but um, I'm late
for an appointment, so.
My name's James.
I work for the royal family.
I've been tasked with finding
a dance instructor
for Prince Phillip.
Oh, thank you,
but I'm not looking for a job.
So nice to meet you.
It is a temporary position
in preparation
of the Christmas Eve gala.
We will, of course, pay
the standard rates.
I'm sorry, I'm only
in town for a few days
and I don't even have my
dance clothes or shoes.
And I've just missed
my appointment
so I'd like to get
back to my hotel.
We'll cover the
accommodation for the week.
Transportation to
and from the castle.
As far as clothes, well,
you can purchase what
you need with this.
The castle?
So, if I teach the prince then
I can go beyond the gate?
Naturally.
When do I start?
Hello again. Oh, that's me,
right there on the list. Yeah.
Chelsea Jones, J-O-N-E-S.
That's me.
Top of the list.
Thank you.
The dance you'll be teaching Prince Phillip
requires a particular sequence of moves.
There can be no room
for improvisation.
You must adhere to
a strict protocol.
No improv. Gotcha.
Is that an original?
Because of the lack of progress
with the other three teachers,
you will need to
practicese every day.
What happened to them anyway?
They were removed
from their posts.
Simply not up to the task.
Now, it will take immense
focus and concentration.
Oh, oh, sorry. Sorry. So cute.
Is that the prince?
Indeed. Everything you
need to know is in here.
Okay, great.
Oh, these are just variations on
the standard waltz technique.
This is gonna be adorable.
Pardon me?
Do we know who he's
dancing with yet?
Will she be here too?
This is not yet known.
It is, of course, an
enormous decision.
Not to be taken lightly.
I will let Prince Phillip
know you have arrived.
You may wait for him
in the east ballroom.
You have a ballroom?
We have three.
You will be using the east wing.
You have the week.
It's up to you to succeed
where others have failed.
Just down those stairs.
Don't worry. Just leave
the little guy to me.
Wow.
Hmm.
I see you found a way in.
It's you.
I thought you had no
interest in the castle.
And I thought you wore glasses.
Do you live here?
I suppose we were both misled.
Well, this is sort of
a recent development.
I've been hired to
teach Prince Phillip.
Is that so?
Yeah.
Apparently, he scared off
all the local instructors?
Oh, sorry, is he your son
or nephew or something?
Ah, there you
are. Your Highness,
I'd like to introduce you
to Ms. Chelsea Jones.
Ms. Jones,
Prince Phillip.
We've met.
Well, the clock is
ticking on your lesson.
I suggest you not
waste any more time.
- You're Prince Phillip?
- It would appear so.
Ah, so the photo in the hall?
That was taken many years ago.
Right. Huh.
Okay um, well uh,
I guess we can get started.
Uh, no,
I won't be
dancing with you today.
It's true, I usually
work with kids,
but I promise you,
I'm more than qualified
to teach you these steps.
Oh, I'm sure you are.
But I have no interest
in learning that dance.
But I was hired to
teach you that dance.
Indeed.
And you're here for our lesson.
Technically, yes.
You won't be dancing?
Now you're getting it.
Uh, you're welcome to
join me in a game.
Of chess?
Naturally.
Look, if, if you're
not gonna dance,
I have somewhere
else I could be.
Don't feel bad.
The finest instructors
in all of Havenshire
couldn't get me on that floor.
You stood little
chance of succeeding.
I'm not from Havenshire.
I'm from Chicago.
And I can be very patient.
On guard.
Now, did you know, Chelsea,
that when you move
into a position
to take your opponent's queen,
the gentlemanly thing to
do is to give a warning,
on guard.
Well, you'd be amazed
how many players
omit this common sense
of decency.
Is that so?
But I'm a gentleman, see.
So, I warned myself. On guard.
You know, it's funny. You're
actually one of the few people
who will take a queen someday.
Will you say, "On guard"?
Hmm.
Perhaps.
I can't tell
if that's romantic or arrogant?
Can't it be both?
Seems like our time is up.
Same time tomorrow?
Looking forward to it.
We shall bring that report to
parliament when they reconvene.
Merry Christmas to you as well.
Hi, sorry, I think
I took a wrong turn.
Or maybe five.
Oh, you're... the queen.
I am.
And you are?
Chelsea Jones.
Ah...
the new dance teacher.
How's my son progressing?
Well, it was just
the first lesson.
Hmm. My son can
be quite stubborn.
Well, fortunately, so can I.
I am glad to hear it.
They're... by the clock.
- Hmm?
- Your glasses.
Observant, too.
Well, um, it was an
honour to meet you.
I'll just see myself out.
Oh, sorry.
Sorry, which way is the exit?
Take a left at the
end of the hall.
Thank you. Thank you.
Finally. Okay, Mom,
why were you here?
"Havenshire Museum of
Art and Antiquities".
Of course I'd find it
on a Wednesday at five.
Mother, may I have a word?
Yes, of course.
I met your new instructor.
I had no idea James' search
for a suitable replacement
would take him all
the way to America.
Huh, yes. Well, Chelsea
seems very talented.
And just how did
you discern that
from behind your chessboard?
I'm not sure that I see
the need for these lessons.
I think you do.
Our guests arrive tomorrow.
Have you made your decision?
Well...
uh, that is why I
need more time.
And I've given it to you.
But there are
expectations, Phillip.
It must be this Christmas Eve.
Who will she be?
Me first!
On guard. Hmm.
Go right upstairs
and get washed up.
It's almost dinner.
Oh, to be young and
full of such energy.
Are those your grandchildren?
Well, no, my wife, Hannah,
and I foster Hans and Gregor.
They're brothers.
Have you considered
adopting them yourselves?
We would in a heartbeat.
My wife and I have
submitted the paperwork
but the process has
been difficult.
Apparently, there's some
backlog at the agency.
There are many challenges,
but they are worth it.
Now, who's winning?
Well, me.
- Oh!
- Also, I'm losing.
Oh.
May I ask what you're doing?
If you can play chess by
yourself, I can dance by myself.
Touch.
Besides, if someone walks by,
maybe they'll think we're really
doing a lesson
and then I won't lose my job.
You know, I'll happily double
whatever they're paying you.
Please, won't you sit down?
I'm sure ballroom style is different
from what you're used to but actually,
last night I read a quote
from a chess grandmaster.
"If you wish to succeed, you
must brave the risk of failure."
Of failure?
But you're not gonna fail.
You're gonna do great.
Look, it's not a
matter of difficulty,
it's a matter of desire.
I have no wish to learn.
Why? I mean, you
love to dance.
In the pub, you asked me.
Uh-uh, nobody knows
I was in the pub that day.
Is, is it not allowed?
No.
I'm required to travel
with a security detail
beyond the castle walls.
But a man can only spend so long
under the watchful
eye of others.
So, you put on a
hat and some glasses
and people really
don't know it's you?
No. Many indulge me.
It is exhausting to always
be in the spotlight.
I require a reprieve.
A reprieve where people
pretend not to recognize you?
But I don't expect
you to understand.
You're a dancer.
You flourish under
the bright lights.
I'm not some big-time
stage performer.
My mother was a real dancer.
I'm... I'm just a teacher.
Everyone in my life
expects something from me.
I need something that's
you know, mine alone.
Well, why can't
we have that here?
No expectations. Just
two people dancing.
Disguise optional.
Why are you here really?
Why did you have to get past the gates
if you had no interest in royalty?
And what brings a dance
teacher from America
to Havenshire in
the first place?
I'm looking for information
about my biological family.
My mother died when I
was very young but...
I found a photo of her from a
Christmas she spent here in Havenshire.
And she was with someone,
I think my father.
They were standing in
front of a building
that seemed really
important to them somehow.
Anyway, that's the museum
beyond the gate. So.
And if I don't dance,
you lose this job and any chance
to discover more about it.
Mm-hmm.
Best reason I've
had to dance yet.
Okay, in ballroom dance, the
most important thing is posture.
For the man, that's
straight up and down.
Like a Christmas tree.
Yeah, very good.
Then the arms stretch
out like the branches.
- Mm-hmm.
- Nice and tall. Yep.
I'm already quite tall.
Well, that's okay.
How tall is the woman
you're dancing with?
That is as yet unknown.
Well, you can bend your
knees a little if you want,
but your top half
should be upright.
Regal, actually.
Phew, well I've got that down.
And since we're doing a
strict waltz, we'll remain
in this basic position
the entire time.
Mm-hmm.
Yeah, that's good.
You've done this before.
Just enough to be dangerous.
Ah. Um, well, we can jump
into the choreography.
- Okay.
- Okay.
It starts with you
offering me your hand.
I step forward.
And in position, and then
we sway, one, two, three.
And now on the three step,
forward on your left,
and then one, two, three.
Very good. Now we
start a spin turn.
- Mm-hmm.
- Okay.
And...
Oh. Uh... oh, um,
it's called a spin turn but
you don't actually spin me.
We actually spin together
in that same position.
- Like this.
- Right.
One, two, yeah. There you go.
Let's try again from the top.
Ah, okay.
And don't spin me.
No, okay.
Okay, here we go.
And one, two, three.
Two, three. Oh.
Wonderful.
Oh, hello, Mother.
Your Majesty.
Well, it seems my
worries were unfounded.
You're progressing quite well.
But there's no spin.
Yes, Mother.
Of course, Your Highness.
I'm sorry to interrupt,
but our guests have arrived
ahead of schedule.
Your presence is requested
at the receiving line.
Of course.
I'm afraid we'll have to
leave it there for today.
Okay, um, great job.
Hmm.
Oh, sorry. I'm sorry.
Come with me.
Staff members are required
to form a greeting
line for the arriving
guests of the royal family,
as is protocol.
Who's that?
Tobias Celsbury.
The former Duke of Eldoria.
Havenshire's largest
trade partner.
Former?
Tobias, my dear friend,
I'm so happy you could join us.
As always, Your Majesty, the
pleasure is entirely mine.
And that?
Gwendolyn Harrington,
the Duchess of Concordia.
The Prince's dearest friend.
All this fuss.
Do you ever get used to it?
Merry Christmas, Gwen.
Merry Christmas.
Your Majesty.
Elizabeth Kent.
Daughter of a prominent
parliamentary member.
Hmm. Are they all staying
here at the castle?
Yes.
Are there enough bedrooms?
It is a castle.
So, we just stand here in the
greeting line and just like...
Yes.
Silently.
Thanks.
Ms. Jones! Ms. Jones.
You left this behind.
Uh, for you, in case you wanted to
look at the choreography for tomorrow.
Okay. Yeah.
Uh, let me walk you home.
I thought you weren't
supposed to go into town
without your security detail?
Ah.
Incognito.
Okay.
You know, your
mother, the queen,
thinks I'm teaching
you the dance wrong.
Why did you keep spinning me?
Well, I suppose that my desire for
freedom invades even my dance lessons.
Or maybe it's just that
spinning you is so much fun.
I don't get so much
of that in my life.
Fun? Or freedom?
Either.
Don't get me wrong,
I love my country.
I love serving my people.
The castle seems really fun.
Huh.
I mean, that's what you dream
about as a kid.
Living in a castle.
They're magical.
When I'm in the castle, I'm usually working
on diplomacy or other matters of state.
Slowly, but surely alleviating
my mother's workload.
Soon enough, I'll
take over completely.
My mother's expressed
a desire to step down.
So, you'll become a king?
Yes.
But in Havenshire, king is
expected to be married.
Uh, did you know that there is
an old Havenshire superstition
that if you put your Christmas
stocking underneath your pillow,
that night you will dream of
the one that you'll marry.
Really?
- No.
- C'mon!
Hey, did you just push
the Prince of Havenshire?
Only because he deserved it.
Hang on. No, stop!
I must defend a lady's honour!
Some of that? Oh! Ooh,
good arm, young man.
I've got you.
Kids: Ow. Retreat! Retreat!
Yeah, you'd better run.
That was fun.
Tomorrow it's the castle
Christmas breakfast,
10 a.m. Come.
Isn't that for the guests?
Yes. You'll be my guest.
Please.
We can't dance on
an empty stomach.
Okay, I'll be there.
Great.
Don't forget this.
Merry Christmas.
Ms. Jones. What are you doing?
I thought that's how
you greet the guests?
That was a chambermaid.
And this event is
invitation only.
Uh, yes. Yes, she has one.
It's most unorthodox,
Your Highness.
Oh well, let me worry
about that, James.
You look fantastic. Come in.
Thanks.
Chelsea, I'd like you
to meet Elizabeth Kent.
Elizabeth leads our commission
on monetary policy
and economic growth.
Wow. Uh, nice to
meet you. Or uh...
Are you with the
American Consulate?
Chelsea is my dance teacher.
Phillip?
Ah, I'm sorry, I have to leave.
But please do stay.
Enjoy the food.
We certainly have enough of it.
Oh!
That's decoration.
Oh, thank you.
You're welcome.
Would have been embarrassing.
Oh, that's also decoration.
Maybe I should
stick to the waffles.
This is a waffle, right?
Yes. May I recommend
the Christmas entremets,
or my favourite, the clafoutis.
Oh. I'll try it. Just
don't expect me to say it.
Thank you for your help.
I feel so out of place.
Well, we belong where
we decide we belong.
- I'm Gwen.
- Chelsea.
Such a pleasure to meet you.
- You too.
- How do you know Phillip?
I'm his dance teacher.
Oh. Oh, I do not envy you.
Phillip and I grew up together
and I am very familiar
with his stubborn streak.
Yes.
Are you staying at the castle?
No. No, no.
I'm actually between
accommodations right now.
I was staying at this
inn down the road
but my reservation is almost up.
Oh, well I'm sure we
can find you a room here.
Oh.
I will talk to the queen.
No, no, no, please
don't do that.
- No, it's no trouble at all.
- Uh, no, no. Uh...
That was quite presumptuous.
What?
Seems she's making
herself right at home.
She expects Phillip to propose
to her on Christmas Eve.
Oh.
This section
ends with an over sway.
Come around this way.
Yes, the more
stretch, the better.
- Mm-hmm.
- Remember, stay tall.
Like a Christmas tree.
Yeah. Beautiful.
That's what I was going to say.
Water break?
- Yes.
- Yes, great.
- Oh, thank you.
- You're welcome.
You know, it is taking every
ounce of my self-restraint not
to run and slide across
this floor.
Oh well, surely you've
slid across this floor
- in socks at some point?
- No.
What, not even as a kid?
Oh, come on!
Ballroom floors are
the best for sliding,
and this one has just
the right smoothness.
Believe it or not, there is
a protocol for how one walks
through public areas
of the castle.
No running, and
definitely no sliding.
No fun or freedom?
Exactly.
How was the breakfast?
I'm so sorry that I couldn't
spend more time with you.
I met Gwen.
She is, she's amazing.
She's beautiful
and she's so nice.
Congratulations.
How long have you been together?
Oh no. No, we're not.
Oh um, sorry, I
thought I heard...
That I was going to propose?
Yeah. That is a possibility.
I'm lost.
It's complicated.
Ah, sorry, you don't
have to tell me.
No, no, no, it's not that.
Would you like to go for a walk?
Sure.
The reason that I'm
reluctant to learn the dance
is that it's part of a
centuries' old tradition
that I've been putting
off for many years.
After dancing with various
guests throughout the evening,
I'm expected to perform that particular waltz
with the person that I choose to marry.
At the Christmas ball, I will
signal for the song to play.
And the bells will ring and everyone
will know my choice as the waltz begins.
That sounds like the
ball in Cinderella.
The prince dancing with
ladies then choosing a bride?
Indeed. It has gained the nickname
the Cinderella Christmas Ball.
Uh, but in modern times,
surely you would know ahead of
time who you're proposing to?
The dance is just a formality.
Right?
For generations now, yes.
But you haven't chosen yet.
No.
And you will before Christmas?
It is my duty to do so.
I have more to consider
than my happiness.
My mother, she's
earned her rest.
And here, I thought you were just
trying to get out of some dance lessons.
I'm sorry.
No, don't be.
You have been a
breath of fresh air.
Oh, Tobias,
I am so glad you could join us
for this momentous occasion.
Has Phillip shared his decision?
I am unsure if
one has been made.
He has faltered every
step of the way.
Hmm.
Well, it's not a choice
one should make lightly.
I wed Frederick when
we were teenagers.
It was the greatest
success of my life.
Not everyone has a love
story like you and Frederick.
Yet so, It turns out
it wasn't foie gras all along.
My mother's face was priceless.
Are you all right, Chelsea?
Who, who are they?
Uh yes, this is the
Holly Berry Ballet Company.
They perform at the
castle every Christmas.
Oh, would you excuse me?
Of course. I'll get your bag.
Thank you.
Um, excuse me.
I'm Chelsea. You don't know me.
I think my late mother might have been
a part of your ballet company years ago.
She, she was a dancer.
Um... this is her.
It looks like she might have been
wearing a Holly Berry Ballet pin?
It's possible your mother danced with
us as a guest soloist at some point.
Um, the picture
was taken in '87.
Were you a part of
the troupe back then?
No. I didn't take
over until much later.
But we do keep records
of past rosters.
I'd be happy to look
into it for you.
Oh my goodness,
thank you so much.
If your mother danced
with the troupe,
she most certainly performed
here, at the castle.
Oh wow. Oh wow.
Morning. There you go, Claus.
Good morning.
I am sorry we couldn't
extend your stay.
Were you able to find
suitable arrangements?
Yes, I was.
Happy to hear it.
Thank you for everything.
And I'll see you at the
Family Foster Santa event.
- Of course.
- Okay.
Oh, where will you be staying.
The castle, actually.
Um, I know. Uh, I'm teaching
the prince to dance.
It's a long story.
Wonderful.
I thought you two
got on well the other day.
You never know what
tomorrow might bring.
Each day is a gift from
God, wrapped in new paper.
My mother used to say that.
Sounds like your
mother was a smart lady.
Um, see ya.
Take care.
Moving in, are we?
Oh, does this fold
out into a bed?
This is the sitting room.
My room has a room?
If you have any questions,
please ask a footman.
I will be available after 2 p.m.
and I shall call upon you then.
Thanks.
I think my mother toured
with an international ballet company,
and danced here, at the castle!
- Really?
- Yeah!
I knew she was a dancer
but nobody could really tell me
much more than that.
Uh, so do you think somebody
at the castle might
remember her?
I hope so.
Okay, can we go back to the part
where you're moving in
with royalty?
And is that normal for a dance
instructor to move into the castle?
Nothing about this
trip has been normal.
Phillip is a dreamboat.
You should go for it.
Hey, back to the real world.
I'm gonna go ask around
the castle and see.
You could totally be Cinderella.
No, no, Snow White.
Goodbye, Rebecca.
Excuse me, does this
woman look familiar?
The Holly Berry Ballet Company.
She would have been here
the Christmas of '87?
Oh.
Here you go.
I attend to countless guests.
The odds of me recalling
a single dancer is slim.
Can you just look at the photo?
You know, if you loosened your tie you
might be a little more comfortable.
Oh, why stop there? I could
simply trade my uniform
for a t-shirt and a
pair of flip flops.
That's a tough look but I
think you could pull it off.
We have a dress code,
Ms. Jones. It is...
Protocol, right.
Oh, they never get these right.
Trade?
Do you recognize her?
She does... look
familiar but...
I couldn't say why.
You probably saw
her here, performing.
Her husband, my father,
might have been with her.
Do you have any memory at all?
Uh, I don't. Sorry, I, I
can't help more.
Okay, I got this.
Thank you.
So, tell me, how's the search
for information on your mother going?
Oh um, well I've been showing the photo to
some older staff members around the castle.
Nothing yet.
Well, can I see the photo?
Sure.
Ah. What's your mother's name?
Jane.
She's very beautiful.
You have her eyes.
Thank you.
She passed away when I was five so all
I have left of her are a few photos.
And this necklace.
Oh, it's lovely.
You know, this is
Havenshire Museum.
I'm hoping to find some answers
when it opens Monday morning, so.
May I keep this photo,
just for tonight?
I'd like to show my mother. See
if she can shed any light on it.
Thank you.
And she danced here?
Hmm, we believe so.
Do you recognize her?
Hmm. I'm not entirely sure.
But we have had many talented
dancers come through the castle.
Including her daughter,
your teacher.
Indeed.
Ah, she's waited a
lifetime for answers.
I hope to help her find them.
She's important to you.
As she's helping me,
I think it's only right
that I return the favour.
Of course.
Come in.
Hi.
Heading to the pub?
No. Somewhere very special.
Would you like to join me?
Sure.
This is incredible.
It's almost time.
What are we waiting for?
Havenshire does love its bells.
Bells to signal my choice of
a bride on Christmas Eve.
For generations, these bells have
rung every night of Christmas week.
These bells, they, well,
they bring me peace.
Especially when things
feel uncertain.
They're beautiful.
I envy you.
Me?
Mm-hmm.
You look at the world
with such...
possibility.
While I steal moments
behind a pair of glasses.
I wish you had known my father.
He was kind and brilliant.
Ruled with such self-assurance.
Strong and serious. Huh.
And now, my mother, she
leads with wisdom and grace.
The truth is...
the moment that I
make my choice,
the moment I step out on to
the floor for that dance,
I accept that incredible
responsibility.
I will be king.
How can I hope to live
up to their legacy?
I'm nothing like them.
Why do you have to be like them?
Well, there are expectations
that come with being king.
Can't go to the local pub.
You can't mix in crowds,
with or without a disguise.
Is it so bad to mix with crowds
in public from time to time?
It's not proper kingly
behaviour, I'm afraid.
Just, I don't know how I'd
understand people's needs from afar.
You know, to hear
bits of conversation,
hear their real concerns.
It sounds invaluable
as a leader.
Oh, you'd never, never
see my parents at the pub.
I just...
I can't shake the feeling
that I don't belong
on the throne.
Maybe you're meant to
forge your own path as king.
Apologies.
I don't mean to burden
you with my problems.
I don't feel burdened.
That's because you're
a wonderful person.
Thank you.
My mother, she said the woman in
the photograph did look familiar.
But she couldn't shed any
more light on it than that,
I'm afraid.
I really appreciate
you even asking.
We will find what
you are looking for.
I promise.
We?
You're not alone.
You know, I've never
brought anyone here before.
Well, thank you for
sharing it with me.
And... for whatever it's worth,
I think you'll make
an incredible king,
just the way you are.
I'm afraid we're going to have
to postpone our lesson tomorrow.
It's the
Christmas Tree Christmas Tea.
What is that?
Besides a mouthful.
Well, it is just a
little celebration
where guests bring ornaments
with sentimental meaning,
then we decorate the
royal Christmas tree.
While drinking tea?
Yes, yes, indeed.
Will I see you there?
Okay.
Excellent. Excellent that's...
Well, uh, good night, Chelsea.
Good night.
Phillip? Phillip?
Ah, welcome!
So glad you could make it.
Phillip? Over here.
Don't envy his position.
I'm Tobias Celsbury.
Oh, Chelsea Jones.
No need for such
formalities, Ms. Jones.
I just don't want
to offend anyone
so I've been doing it
to everyone I meet.
The footmen outside
were pretty confused
but in my defence, their uniforms
are very official looking.
I hear you've
made quite an impression
during your brief stay.
Is that good or bad?
Always good.
Sometimes the boat
needs to be rocked.
I'm, I'm not here
to rock any boats.
Hmm. You do remind me of the
heroine of an Eldorian fairytale
my grandmother used to
read me as a child.
Classic, yet unafraid
to buck the system.
It is so lovely to
see you, my dear.
How is Edwina? It has
been far too long.
She's well, thank you.
She sends her best.
Your Majesty, congratulations
on a superb event.
Why, thank you, Elizabeth.
The Christmas festivities
always have such profound
economic benefits
to the community.
That is a benefit, to be sure.
But Christmas reminds us to be
the best part of ourselves, hmm?
A little kinder, a
little more generous.
Think we can all drink to that.
That's an ornament.
How are you enjoying the spread?
Oh, it's great. It's great.
I just think there
should be more labels.
Phillip?
Tough being the most
popular guy in the room.
Huh, quite.
Since this is an occasion
all about ornaments,
I thought you might
like to have this.
You remembered.
From our walk.
Well, I uh,
I'd better do the rounds.
Yeah.
Elizabeth.
Lovely party, isn't it?
Oh, yes. Yes, very.
Did you know Tobias used to
be a duke back in his country?
Yeah, what... what happened?
He fell in love
with the wrong woman.
There are expectations for people
like Mr. Celsbury, and Phillip.
When they select a partner, they must
consider what is best for a nation.
Mr. Celsbury made a selfish
choice and it cost him dearly.
Phillip will not make
the same mistake.
I've been taking a few
waltz lessons of my own.
Oh?
I'll be ready for that dance
you're teaching him.
Enjoy the grapes.
I am happy that you are
progressing with your lessons,
but I worry you are becoming
distracted from your objective.
It's a relic, Mother.
All of this pomp and
pageantry, for what?
A diplomatic alliance?
I thought you were
fond of Gwendolyn?
I am. But...
Ah. Elizabeth
is a fine choice.
She is not royalty.
You know that Eldoria recently
opened its protocols,
allowing for established
political families
to intermarry with royalty.
We have no problem with it.
Gwen and Elizabeth both
have much to offer.
It is an opportunity
for happiness,
if only you would embrace it.
I will.
You are ready.
- To marry?
- To become king.
Your diplomatic
instincts are spot on.
Your reform proposals have
made a real improvement
with our domestic policies.
Why do you doubt yourself?
Why didn't you and father
ever go out in public?
You know, just go to a
restaurant? Talk to people?
Is that what's bothering you?
Sometimes I feel the need to...
To put on a hat and glasses
and pretend not to be royal?
You know about that?
Mm-hmm.
Ah.
Your father was a
very private king.
He didn't keep himself from the public
because, it was the kingly thing to do,
it's just that he was more
comfortable away from the crowds.
He...
and I have taken care of
our people from afar.
You might take care of
them from closer up.
Forge my own path.
Take courage, Phillip.
You're going to be just fine.
Phillip?
What are you doing here?
Today's the day!
You didn't think I'd miss it?
Shall we?
Another room.
This place is huge.
What exactly are we looking for?
I'm not sure.
Ah, so we'll know
it when we see it.
Hope so.
You know? With every
year that passes,
I feel like my mother
gets further away.
My memories of her get hazier.
I just thought this might be a
chance to connect with her somehow.
Well, I mean, this
is just one gallery.
There's so much of the
museum left to explore.
Oh my gosh.
What is it?
Do you recognize her?
Not her. This.
Your pendant.
It can't be a
coincidence, can it?
No, it can't be.
This is it.
Wow.
Oh, sorry.
No. No, I... gosh,
I'm so happy for you. This is...
There's no information
on the woman's identity.
And no artist.
Hold on. Ah, yes.
It says here that it was
donated by a private collector.
Artist and subject unknown.
Is there a theory on
who she might have been?
Uh,
it is unlikely to have
originated in Havenshire
due to the style
of the headpiece.
Not much more.
But I can certainly ask the board
of royal historians to look into it.
Thank you.
That is incredible.
Wow.
Do you think it could
be my mother's mother,
or my mother's mother's mother?
And here I thought
she was from Detroit.
Well, perhaps she was. Maybe
the necklace was a gift.
Oh.
And listen, before I forget,
I have made arrangements
for the royal dressmaker
to stop by your room
tomorrow before our lesson.
- For what?
- The ball.
I didn't realize
staff was invited.
Well, they're not.
But you're special.
You are the... the prince's
dance instructor.
You should see the
fruits of your labour.
I still think it's too much.
But you deserve every bit of it.
Uh, you know what? I should probably
change for the Family Foster Event.
You know about this event?
Know about it? I'm in it.
Would you like to join?
Yeah, well it's not... royal
family doesn't usually attend.
It's more for the
people to enjoy.
Not an event full of pomp and
circumstance, shall we say.
So, put your glasses on.
Gwen?
Are you all right?
Yes. Yes, I'm fine.
This week has just
been very stressful.
Do you wanna talk about it?
Yes.
Phillip and I were
born one month apart.
Did you know that?
Well, I came first and, well,
it's perhaps the only month
where I wasn't tied to him,
in the eyes of our parents.
I've known the engagement waltz
choreography
for the Cinderella Christmas
Ball for years now.
There's just always been this
expectation that we would wed.
Wait, you don't want to?
You must think I'm mad.
I mean, who wouldn't
want to be queen?
All of these other women would trade
positions with me in a heartbeat.
I know Elizabeth would.
I do love Phillip,
just as a dear friend.
What are you gonna do?
Well, if Phillip asks me to
marry him, I, of course, will.
Bells will ring and
we will waltz, and...
and it will be done.
It is my duty.
Thank you.
Thank you so much for listening.
How very kind.
Anytime.
Ho! Ho! Ho! Merry Christmas!
Thank you again
for helping today.
Oh, giving gifts has always been
my favourite part of Christmas.
Oh, a chip off the old block.
Yeah.
Merry Christmas.
Hello. Um, I'm Phillip.
And Santa is a really
good friend of mine.
He's very, very nice.
Oh, thank you.
So, will you come up
and meet him with me?
Great.
Oh! Hello.
How charming.
- Thank you.
- Are they yours?
Soon, God willing.
Claus, maybe after the event
you could tell Phillip more
about your foster journey?
I'd love to.
Fantastic. Excellent.
Sure.
There you go. Merry Christmas.
Ah.
I had to see for myself.
Oh, it was a lovely event.
I'm so glad that I came.
And I learned quite
a bit from...
from Santa, of all people.
Have you two been
good this year?
I have just a few
candy canes left.
Thank you, my dear.
I have decided
to increase funding
and resources
to the foster program.
I think that should help a lot
of these children
get adopted more expeditiously.
That... that would
be wonderful.
You know, today, these,
these kids they felt like...
like they belonged.
Like they were a
part of a community.
I'm told they look forward
to this event all year.
Could you hold monthly events?
I'm sure the foster families would
be happy to help organize them.
I don't see why not.
Tobias: Well, I'd be honoured
to fund the May event.
In honour of my grandmother,
who was born in May.
Always loved the
blooms of that season.
I presume other guests might also be eager
to contribute to such a worthy endeavour.
Thank you so much. Thank you.
Oh, duty calls.
Okay.
Woo! Oh!
Warming up for our lesson?
I had to. At least once.
It's pretty fun.
Oh, but I guess that wouldn't be
very becoming of a prince.
Ah, no. No, it would not.
Yeah, too bad.
Woo!
- Right?
- Here we come.
Oh!
Woo!
So...
Oh, uh from the uh, yeah.
Yes, absolutely.
Okay, uh-huh. And...
Oh, keep your feet
on the floor a little.
It's no good. It's not good. I
just, I can't get the pivots.
They're beyond me.
You know what?
Let's just waltz.
What do you mean?
Well, you know the choreography.
I want you to fall in love
with the feeling of the waltz.
You know, it's free,
unrestricted, like,
like sliding across
the floor in socks.
Uh, well, now that was fun.
Let me try something.
Okay. Free.
Just whatever you wanna do.
Yeah.
You're pivoting.
You got it. Yeah!
Phillip, my father
is waiting for us.
We were supposed to
meet him for dinner.
Yes. Yes, I am sorry.
I completely lost track of time.
Better hurry.
Until tomorrow.
Yeah.
I'm so sorry.
This is all... too much.
Just have fun with it.
How would I ever choose?
Try them all.
It's uh... nice.
I mean, you know, it's nice.
You don't look comfortable.
This is hopeless.
I'm not gonna put on a fancy
dress and suddenly fit in.
Well, the goal is not to fit in.
It's to stand out.
Ooh. Sorry to interrupt.
- Why, you look splendid.
- Thank you.
Why, I, I've brought you
the book we talked about.
Thought you might
like to read it.
I've bookmarked my
favourite for you.
The story features a necklace.
The one your grandmother
read to you as a child?
Indeed.
Thank you.
Well, I'll leave you to it.
Oh thanks. Yeah,
just a few more.
I've got my lesson with Phillip.
Oh boy.
Let's do it.
Just the person
I was looking for.
I have something for you.
What is it?
I didn't mention it earlier
because I didn't want
to get your hopes up.
But many of our performances
are recorded for posterity.
I had the director search the
archives for your mother's.
She found it.
Thank you.
Hi.
Oh.
Is that your...
My mother.
Wow.
Um, I, I need a minute.
Of course.
- Sorry.
- No, of course.
Take as long as you need.
Now, there you are.
Are you okay?
Seeing her like
that brought back
so many memories I
thought I'd lost.
She was a beautiful dancer.
Thank you.
For as long as I can remember,
that's been my connection to her.
Even though she was gone,
I could always find her there,
in dance.
You are the most extraordinary
woman I've ever met.
Oh, come on.
No. It's... no matter
what you think,
you are a real dancer, Chelsea,
and your mother
would be very proud.
Dance with me?
Um, it's...
it's late. I should probably go.
See you tomorrow?
Of course.
Good night.
Good night.
Claus.
Claus.
Claus? That's Claus?
Oh, my goodness.
Uh, uh...
Oh, hi, uh, thank
you. Thank you.
Ah, Ms. Jones.
I've been looking for you.
What is this?
Your compensation.
You said standard rate.
Yes. For a royal instructor.
Is this not sufficient?
This will fund my
dance program for years!
You did a wonderful
job, Ms. Jones.
You have our deepest gratitude.
Thank you.
Oh, the ball begins
in a few hours.
Where are you going?
To see someone I've
waited my whole life for.
This is about the
photograph you showed me?
You do know something.
I knew it. I knew it!
It was many years ago.
And I'm not one to repeat
unsubstantiated rumours.
Not protocol?
Good luck, dear.
Mwah!
Hmm.
- Claus?
- Chelsea!
Uh, are you busy?
For you, I always have time.
Um, I uh...
- I had a question.
- Hmm?
Does this woman look familiar?
Jane.
Yeah, Jane.
Well, it's been
many years but, yes.
I'd know that smile anywhere.
She was my mother.
Well... your mother and the
entire Holly Berry Ballet
would stay here at
the inn at Christmas.
She took the picture with my
father who, who I never knew.
Is that... you?
Oh dear, no. We were
friendly. Nothing more.
Oh. What made you
think it was me?
Um, I saw you, um, in an old
video after one of her shows.
You embraced.
The Nutcracker dance.
Oh, it was her
final performance.
She told me she'd made a
very difficult decision
and would be leaving
Havenshire that day.
I was to drive her
to the airport.
Decision?
Did she say what it was about?
Just that it was the
right thing to do.
Do you know, I mean, did she say
who my father is?
I'm sorry.
I didn't even know
that she had married.
I am, I'm so sorry.
This is so silly of me.
I'm, I'm sorry
for bothering you.
It would be an honour to
have a daughter like you.
Thank you.
It's almost time to
get ready for the ball.
Ms. Jones?
Mm-hmm.
Thank you.
If we were to redirect just
a small percentage of the annual budget.
From where?
Something would have
to be sacrificed.
That's just it.
We reinvest the new profits,
directing the surplus back
to the budget.
So, it is technically a
loan, not a sacrifice.
Wow. This is remarkable.
You are remarkable.
And I am going to
leave this with you.
Oh.
Really. Wow.
Chelsea! Chelsea, there you are.
You're a difficult
one to track down.
I was hoping that we could
talk about last night.
Last night was a mistake.
Was it?
Uh, this... this
isn't my world.
I don't belong here.
It wasn't a mistake for me.
You have a duty that's
greater than both of us.
Thank you for all
of your kindness.
I will never forget it.
Now why does that
sound like a goodbye?
You're gonna make a
wonderful king, Phillip.
And you belong on that throne.
I've never been more sure of
anything in my entire life.
And you're gonna do
great tonight. Just,
um, don't rush those pivots.
You live with such joy.
Thank you for bringing a
little bit of it into my life.
Keep finding those
moments, okay?
- Have you seen the news?
- No.
Photographs of you signing
autographs in the marketplace.
Apologies, Mother.
No! On the contrary.
They are saying you will
be the people's king.
Well done, my son.
Thank you.
And your idea for sponsoring
additional foster family events
sparked some real interest.
Thank was Chelsea's idea.
Was it? Hmm.
Very happy for you, my son.
This is a big night.
You're ready.
Yes.
You're very well
positioned tonight.
Thank you. I've waited
several years for this.
I have so many worthwhile enterprises
that this partnership will facilitate.
And...
Phillip is looking very
handsome tonight, isn't he?
Um, yes. Of course.
Hmm.
You all right?
Yes. Fine.
He has yet to signal the bells.
He will make his choice.
Hmm.
Go ahead, make the move.
It's a little risky, sure,
but if you wish to succeed,
you must brave the
risk of failure.
Why aren't you at the ball?
I could ask you the same.
Uh... I don't belong there.
Oh, um, thank you
for lending me this.
I love stories with
happy endings.
Hmm. Do you love him?
What?
That's not even...
Doesn't matter how I feel.
And even if Phillip...
he should be with someone
who's good for this country.
Someone like Elizabeth.
Elizabeth is smart but
kings have advisors.
She seems much better
suited for that role.
I didn't come here
to cause trouble.
Why did you?
To find family.
I... I never knew my father.
I think he took this
picture here in Havenshire.
But it's been over a week and
I'm no closer to finding him
than I was when I got here.
It's silly to think that
after all this time.
It's probably for
the best, right?
I mean, he would have reached
out by now if he wanted to.
Maybe he didn't know about you.
Your necklace.
So familiar.
Just like my grandmother's,
which I gave to the love of
my life, all those years ago.
I couldn't believe they
were one and the same.
She never told me.
She never said.
It's you?
I met your mother when she was
here in Havenshire performing.
She was the most beautiful
woman I'd ever seen.
She smiled at me from the stage
and I knew I was a goner.
We were married on the steps of
that museum, three days later.
Three days?
Yes.
We were young. And in love.
The painting in the museum,
that's of your grandmother?
My... great-grandmother?
You saw that, did you?
I... I brought it to
Havenshire. Donated it.
I suppose it was my secret
way of keeping that necklace
at our special place forever.
Why did things end?
When I presented her to my
parents, they did not approve.
So, I decided to
follow my heart.
Renounce my title for her.
When I told her, she was upset.
She believed we were
making a selfish choice.
Said that she'd be
returning to the States
and that my place was here.
Your mother did not want
to cause problems for me.
She did not feel
like she belonged.
Do not make the same mistake.
Oh!
You'd better get
dressed, my dear.
We belong where we
decide we belong?
We belong...
where God puts us.
"Dear Mr. and Mrs. Donner.
We have expedited your application for
adoption and are pleased to inform..."
Hannah! Oh.
Boys?
We've got our Christmas wish.
We're a family.
I want to make a
difference for my country.
There are many ways
to achieve that.
But what of love?
I'm sorry, uh, Elizabeth.
I can't.
Your Majesty,
I'd like to introduce
my daughter.
Well, fancy that.
I was afraid you weren't coming.
Have the bells rung?
Not yet.
You look beautiful.
Thank you.
On guard.
It's all yours.
Oh, it... it... is this
when... are we gonna...
Yes. If you
remember the steps.
Yes.
I think my son has
made his choice.
A very good choice. Indeed.
Yes.
Huh?
My queen.
My king.