Inventing the Christmas Prince (2022) Movie Script
1
Far, far away at the
very top of the North Pole,
right next to Santa's Village
lives a very special man,
his name is the
Christmas Prince,
the magical ruler
of the North Pole.
Every day, the Christmas
Prince, he tours the North Pole,
granting wishes for the
reindeer and the elves
and even Santa and Mrs. Claus
and at the end of the day,
he heads to his palace
to make hot chocolate
with peppermint sticks
and when he's finished,
he invites Santa
and Mrs. Claus and all the elves
to a Christmas tea in
his royal dining room
to thank them for all their
hard work for making toys.
And after they've eaten
and drank their fill,
he hooks up his beautiful,
white horse, Snowball
and takes them on a merry ride
around Santa's village
in his royal carriage.
Tell them about the wishes
he granted to the elves, Mommy.
Well, one elf got a sweater
knitted from the hair of
the Abominable Snowman.
Whoa!
But here's the
really special thing
about the Christmas Prince,
he was so good at spreading joy,
Santa gave him a new job.
Each year, during
the Christmas season,
the Christmas Prince would
choose one boy or girl
to be his king or queen
and that lucky boy or
girl gets 12 wishes,
one for each day
leading up to Christmas.
How come my mom and dad
never told me about this guy?
Not everybody knows
about the Christmas Prince,
just my family, my
dad told me about him,
my grandpa told my dad
and my great grandpa
told my grandpa.
Okay, kids, Story
Time is done for today.
Tomorrow, Sherman's mom's coming
to read Sherman's
favorite Christmas book.
But for now, Miss Shelby
has to be getting to work.
My mom builds rockets,
so they can answer all the
questions of the universe.
Let's say thank
you to Grace's mom
for coming to Parent Story Time.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
All right, Princess, bye, muah!
- Bye, Mommy.
- Bye.
10, nine, eight, seven,
six, five, four,
three, two, one, zero,
lift off.
- Whoo!
- Yes!
Whoo hoo hoo!
- We did it!
- We did it!
Oh!
Oh!
Oh!
- A toast.
- Yes.
To the culmination
of seven years
and to the best
supervisor in history.
And to one of the
best rocket engineers
I have ever worked with.
That feels good.
Oh, and to our fearless
leader, Dr. Spock
called the worst
director in history.
Finally emerged from
the Vulcan Cave, I see.
You know, I'm still not sure
if he even knows my first name.
You've been working
here for four years,
how is that even possible?
Same reason he doesn't know
you're a single mom, I guess.
It's almost kind of impressive
how he can consistently
be so oblivious.
That's his superpower clearly.
The Board is very
happy about this launch.
Thank you, Scott, frankly,
I was a little worried,
when you said you wanted
to speak with me today.
Actually, I was easing
my way into this next part.
Can we talk in your office?
Ah, okay, yeah.
Bottom line, the
Board is concerned
about your performance.
But you just said-
It's not your technical
skills that are the problem,
it's your management.
I see.
Losing three key players
in the last six months
is way above norm
and they all cite you
as the reason for leaving.
I understand that
Look, the point is,
we can't afford to
lose any more people.
The Board's concerned
you're gonna fall behind
on this next phase and
if we miss the window
for the deployment
of the solar array.
I understand, it
will cost us millions.
It won't be a problem,
I'll make sure that everyone
puts in some extra hours.
Don't push so hard and if
you lose any more employees,
you're headed for review.
I didn't realize
it was that dire.
Look, I personally
love the fact,
that you don't have a life,
but it might be good for you
to remember that some
of your employees do.
Okay.
And try to have a little fun.
All right, next is Mars.
Yay!
You did it on your own this
year, you are growing so fast.
That's what Daddy
always used to say.
He did say that, didn't he?
Hm, what do you think?
Hm.
A couple more ornaments maybe?
Okay.
How was school today?
Sherman told me he didn't think
the Christmas Prince was real.
Well, Sherman doesn't
know everything.
I know.
All my friends like the
Christmas Prince story
better than any of
the other stories
the other moms and dads
told for Story Time.
I'm glad, love bug,
that makes me happy.
Okay, snuggle in.
Mommy, is the
Christmas Prince real?
He is if you believe in him.
But how would I know him,
you know, if I saw him?
Well,
he is tall,
dark and very handsome
and most of all,
the Prince has a little
mark on his hand right here,
where Rudolph kissed
him when he was a baby.
Wow, that's cool.
I know.
Okay, are you snug as a bug?
Yep.
One kiss?
Muah!
Two kiss?
Muah, muah!
Three kiss?
Muah, muah, muah!
Four kiss?
Muah, muah, muah, muah!
And.
Last kiss.
Muah!
Sleep tight, love bug.
Night, Mommy.
Christmas Prince,
it's me, Grace.
I wanted to ask you a favor.
See, it's been a
really hard year.
Sherman bugs me and
since I moved schools,
I still don't have
a lot of friends,
but most of all, I really,
really miss my daddy.
So it would be really nice,
if you could make me your
queen this year, please.
- Hey!
- Hey!
You saved my life.
The boss is
tightening the screws.
- Oh, that's unusual.
- Right?
I owe you like 123 pickups.
124, not that I'm counting.
Oh, hey, heads up, Grace
was a little outta sorts,
when I picked her up today.
What happened? Hi, honey.
The school announced
that they're having
the annual Christmas Dance
when we bring the whole family.
Perfect. What
are you gonna do?
Luckily my brother said
he'd come, so that helps.
Sometimes I really wonder why
I moved away from my family.
Hey, you have me and the group,
what more could a gal want?
True and speaking of the group,
Toy Drive wrapping tonight?
Yep. Jessie, we gotta go, hun.
Six o'clock at my place.
Okay, I'll be there.
All right, bye.
Bye, guys.
You're gonna have to
stay in the break room
and play on your iPad, okay?
Okay.
My boss is sort of
a Grumpus, remember?
So no coming out.
Okay.
Hey,
Nicole said that
you were worried
about that Christmas Dance.
Kinda.
Well, you know, some families
only have a couple of people
and that's okay, right?
Not everybody has a big family.
I know, just not
anyone in my school.
Don't worry, I'm gonna make this
the best Christmas ever,
I promise.
Okay?
Okay.
Love you, love bug.
Bye.
Bye.
Ah, excuse me, everyone.
I-I have an announcement.
As we all know, a successful
launch, while positive
is hardly a time to
run a victory life.
He's gonna ask us
to work on Christmas.
No, he's not, even
for him, that's just-
I understand it's
the holiday season,
but since we are
slightly understaffed,
we are all going to have
to put in some extra hours
to hit our target date-
No, no, no.
Please don't say it.
For the next phase.
You really don't, really
don't have to say it.
So everyone should
expect to work
a full day on Christmas Eve
and if necessary, a
half day on Christmas.
Are you crazy?
She doesn't mean that.
No, no, that is
exactly what I mean.
People have families
and problems.
And in the spirit
of this happy season,
let's all take a
deep breath and-
And just be happy, huh?
So Merry Christmas Time
and thank you for
understanding and listening.
That's it, he's leaving?
You're just leaving?
I'm, I'm sorry you find this
so distressing, but this
is not a normal job.
We are rocket
engineers, scientists.
Which is why I work
weekends, over time
and more holidays than
I can care to remember.
Well then, you understand
the importance of sacrifice,
even on Christmas and
if you don't like it,
then you can just-
What?
Quit?
If you insist on being
so inflexible, then-
Inflexible?
I'm the one who's inflexible?
That's it, I am out of here.
This is very inappropriate.
Inappropriate?
You're the one
who's inappropriate
with your Merry Christmas
work on Christmas,
because I'm a rocking
engineer speech.
Why do you think people are
dropping like flies around here?
I need a box.
- Shelby, please don't go.
- Does anybody have a box?
Don't help.
Thank you.
You're making a scene.
I realize that.
And...
That is all I have to say.
Mommy, my iPad isn't working.
Honey, we are leaving.
You came, you came.
Ah.
I knew you'd come.
Hm.
Grace, stop
hugging the nice man.
He's not the nice man,
he's the Christmas Prince.
- Honey.
- The what?
He's my boss, he is
not the Christmas Prince.
He is too.
Look, he has a reindeer
kiss burn mark.
This is gonna be the
best Christmas ever.
She thinks you're who?
The Christmas Prince,
whatever that is, very odd.
So what's the plan, genius?
You know, I hate it
when you call me that.
Fine, what's the plan, brainiac?
I don't have one, only
I can't let her quit.
I thought she did quit.
She did, although
I'm surprised I noticed
with her daughter clinging
to my pant leg like she was.
Have you told your
boss any of this?
Not yet.
Good, then all you have
to do is butter her up,
get her back before
you get booted.
Butter her up?
I may be wrong, but I
don't think I'm skilled
at buttering up anyone.
Then you'd better learn quick.
You do revel in
torturing me, don't you?
I'm your sister, it's my job.
It's probably too late anyway,
she probably had it worked
out to the finest detail.
No one quits without
a backup plan.
Hm, you'd be surprised.
I don't know what I'm gonna do.
The one thing I do know is
that I made a complete idiot
of myself in front
of my entire team.
What happened?
Please, I don't wanna relive it.
The point is, I can't
not just have a job,
especially now, it's Christmas.
Well, what about that
other job you applied to
at Skyrocket a while ago?
Oh yeah, you said
that was your dream job.
Well, it wasn't really
a serious application
and landing a job like
that is next to impossible.
Besides, I love my work,
it's Evan I can't stand.
Oh, which still isn't a terrible
reason to take a new job.
Skyrocket's in California,
besides, Grace has
had a hard enough time
changing schools in
the same district,
let alone moving to
a different state.
And then she'd have
to make all new friends.
And you wouldn't have all of us.
I don't have the
Skyrocket job anyway.
Okay, okay, let's remember
our number one rule.
One thing at a time.
What are you gonna do
about this whole
Christmas Prince thing?
Well, I mean, I can't tell Grace
the Christmas Prince
isn't, you know, real.
What is the Christmas
Prince anyway?
It's this story that has
been in our family for years
and it's Grace's
favorite Christmas thing.
No, no, danger.
I know, right and
the worst part is
the Prince's magical powers
have grown every year.
I know your pain,
our Christmas elf went from
showing up in a new room
every morning to
arriving with a gift,
then it was arriving
with a gift and a poem
and then it was a clue to
some elaborate scavenger hunt
to find the elf, the
gift and the poem
and this happens every
single day until Christmas.
So what are you gonna do?
Well, I'm not gonna ask my boss
to be the Christmas
Prince, that's for sure.
Okay, no, I am
not gonna do that.
He wouldn't even
do it, trust me.
I don't know, too bad you
don't have some dirt on him.
Oh, yeah, you
could blackmail him
into being the Christmas Prince.
Solved it.
Blackmail it is.
Wait a minute,
that actually is the
perfect solution.
So you're blackmailing me?
Think of it more as
a symbiotic bargain.
I won't quit if you play the
role of the Christmas Prince.
Who is magical and
grants every single wish
your daughter comes up with.
In a nutshell, yes.
I have a counter offer.
Okay, there are professionals
that do this kind of thing.
Okay, so you don't quit
and I will cover the cost
for you to hire a pro.
No, it has to be you.
Why? Look, I-I am
not good with children.
Heck, I wasn't good at
being a child myself.
It's because you
have that on your hand.
What, my birthmark?
It's the mark left when
Rudolph kissed the baby Prince.
Rudolph?
Rudolph.
Why would you keep up
such a ludicrous facade?
Well, excuse me, for trying
to keep the magic
alive for my daughter,
goodness knows, she'll
get her innocence
knocked right out
of her soon enough.
I just don't understand
why parents keep up-
You don't have to understand.
Do you want the deal or not?
Um, what type of
wishes are we talking about?
I will take care of that,
nothing too outrageous.
If you don't wanna be the
Christmas Prince for Grace,
then ask yourself this,
do you really wanna gamble
on losing another
employee right now?
So Egon the Terrible
is actually going to be
the Christmas Prince?
Strange, but apparently true.
How is he gonna
pull off 12 wishes?
Oh, please don't
say that out loud.
What, you're the one
who came up with it.
Don't say that out loud either.
So what's the plan?
I'll have a talk with Grace.
Maybe I can get her down
to one or two wishes.
The Christmas Prince isn't real.
You don't know what
you're talking about, Sherman.
Oh-oh, looks like we've
got a showdown in the yard.
It is too and I
am so going to be
the Christmas Princess
Queen this year.
I don't believe you.
You're gonna feel
like a dumb-dumb,
when he grants all
of Grace's wishes
and you only get stuff
from Santa Claus.
Don't say dumb-dumb,
Jess, it's not polite.
But Sherman said the Christmas
Prince isn't real again.
Grace, let's not
fight with our friends.
Sometimes they believe
in different things
and it doesn't make-
But you're the one,
who says Sherman
doesn't know everything.
Well, I might have
mentioned something like that,
but I didn't mean it.
Even if he is real,
you're probably gonna
ask for something easy,
so that your mom can
make it come true.
Oh yeah, wanna see my list?
Grace, no, no, now
is not the time to do-
Whoa, you're gonna get a
pony to live in your closet?
Wow, Grace really brought
out the big guns, huh?
Pony is the least of my concern.
Evan's gonna be the
Christmas Prince.
You're right, the pony is
the least of your concerns.
I know, it's bad.
He's actually doing it?
He'd better.
Morning.
Yes, it is.
Good chat, gotta work.
So you take cream, huh?
Is there a reason I shouldn't?
No, no, no, no, I was,
I was just noticing.
Did you want something?
Actually, yes.
Would you mind if I get
you a cup of coffee?
A good one.
Okay, "Watch a Christmas
movie with Santa and the elves.
A giant size gingerbread
house to play in.
A pony to live in my closet.
A grand piano.
A ride with Snowball?"
Who, who's Snowball?
You know, the horse that
pulls your Christmas carriage.
The elves love it.
Why would you put something
like that in a story?
I don't know, it sounded
good when I made it up.
And the list goes on,
"Make a snowman come to life.
Kiss a
reindeer." Ah-huh.
"First prize at the
most Christmassy house."
What?
Our block has this
thing, the Williams,
they have won 20 years in a row,
so that, that one might
be a little tricky.
Oh, okay and top it all
off with, "Tea at La Maison."
That last one
shouldn't be too hard.
If you're the President
or an A-list celebrity.
No reason to be hyperbolic.
No one gets a reservation there.
Like they say in my group,
let's just focus on
one thing at a time.
Which practically
speaking means what?
If you're gonna play the
role of the Christmas Prince,
you have got to lose the
pocket protector vibe.
I like my pocket protector,
it keeps pen marks off my shirt.
Well, the Christmas
Prince doesn't wear one.
How would you
know? He is not real.
Well, he is now and you're him.
Meaning what exactly?
Sorry, I might be a little
late picking up Grace.
Oh, that's okay.
Absolutely not.
Hold on, Nicole.
Why not?
Um, I don't know, maybe
because I'm not accustomed
to wearing jingle bells.
I'm sorry, I
actually was kidding.
Here, try this.
So how's My Fair
Scrooge's makeover coming?
About as bad as
you might expect.
Oh, I wish I could
be a fly on the wall.
Why of all people
in the universe
did Grace choose
Evan for this job?
Hey, maybe he is
the Christmas Prince.
I mean, what are the chances
he would have a reindeer
kiss on his wrist?
It's a birthmark, Nicole
and I am too
stressed for sarcasm.
I gotta go.
That'll be fine.
Now all we have to do is
make sure that Grace's list
is a little more manageable.
Wow, very Prince Harry-ish, Ev,
I didn't know you had it in you.
This sweater was $200.
So?
Who pays $200 for a sweater?
It's obviously cashmere and
you can more than afford it.
Well, that doesn't
change the fact,
that it is completely impractical.
Look at this, it's
dry cleaning only,
who buys something
that you can't wash?
Everyone in the universe
except you obviously.
Just roll with it.
I don't see how, this
entire charade is ridiculous
on many levels, least of
which it is very unlikely,
that I can convince a child,
that I am anything
other than what I am.
I for one, think it
will be good for you.
Why?
It'll help you get in
touch with your inner child.
I never had an inner
child to begin with.
True, you were the only
kid I'd ever heard of,
who hated recess.
Never saw the point of it.
It's called fun, I
highly recommend it.
Yeah, well, that's
easy for you to say
and you've always been
comfortable around everyone.
I'm not hardwired like that.
You just need a little
loosening up, that's all
and you're gonna rock it.
You're in good hands.
Meaning what exactly?
I don't know, just that
Shelby is not only brilliant
and accomplished, but
she's also very pretty.
I never noticed.
Well, maybe you should.
Okay, I'm going back to work.
Bye.
Frosty, thanks, Mommy.
You're very welcome.
I still have one wish
left to figure out,
I can't decide between a
sleepover or 100 more wishes.
A sleepover sounds
much more fun.
Yeah, I guess you're right,
sleepover.
You know, maybe we
should make your wishes
a little less ambitious?
What does that mean?
Well, remember how we talked
about asking Santa for things?
Yeah.
What did we say?
That it's not polite to
ask for too many big things,
'cause Santa has lots
of presents to give out.
That's right and it's
exactly the same thing
with the Christmas
Prince and wishes.
But doesn't the Christmas
Prince only have one person
to give wishes for?
Yes.
So then we have
nothing to worry about.
That is true, but you wouldn't
want the Christmas Prince
to think you're
greedy, you know?
Hm, okay, then I'll
cross off the pony,
then I'll get the
Christmas Prince to help
with your group's Toy
Drive for needy children
and then I'll keep
the rest of the wishes
just the way they are.
I thought you said you were
going to manage the wishes.
At least we don't have
to come up with a pony.
Don't try and
spin this positive.
You didn't let me finish.
I talked Grace out
of kissing a reindeer
and making a snowman come
alive, that would've been tough.
I still have to come
up with 12 wishes.
No, I convinced her that
you were super slammed
with royal business
during the week,
so instead of 12 wishes,
you only have eight.
Where did that number come from?
Well, you're doing royal stuff
during Monday through Friday,
which just leaves us three
weekends until Christmas,
add two wishes per weekend.
It's been a
relatively long time,
since I solved a word problem,
but I'm pretty sure
that's six wishes.
I threw in a couple
for good behavior,
she's been brushing her
teeth for two minutes now.
And that buys two wishes?
Two minutes of teeth brushing
is a really big deal
for a seven year old.
Why am I attempting to
speak in logical terms?
I mean, this whole
thing is insanity.
Anyways, your first wish
is really, really easy.
You can, you know, kind of
work your way into the role.
Okay, well, what's
my first wish?
A Christmas-themed sleepover
with Grace's friends.
You want me to sleep
over with children?
No, no.
Okay.
You're just meeting
them, you know.
Okay.
So that Grace can introduce
you and show everyone
what a kind,
generous and fun Prince you are.
Okay, when is this Christmas
sleepover supposed to happen?
- Tonight.
- What?
It'll be over in no time.
Oh, my gosh, oh, my
gosh, are you okay?
Calm down, calm down.
Okay, look, just
introduce yourself,
maybe answer a quick question
or two and you'll be done.
Easy peasy.
Huh.
I did tell you I wasn't
good with children, didn't I?
I think you might
have mentioned that.
- Yeah, I can't do this.
- Yes, yes, yes, yes,
yes, you can, you can,
I am here to help.
How?
I, well, I'm not
exactly sure, but-
No, no, no, no, no,
that's it, I can't do this,
I really can't do this, okay,
I am the last person in
the world that can do this.
Don't you think I know that?
Good, okay, then tell Grace
that I got sick for the year
or-or something.
No, no.
You are the Christmas Prince,
this is a wish and you
do not have a choice.
I have a choice, okay and
I'm choosing not to do this.
Yes, you are, my daughter
has had a hard life
and I am not gonna let
her down just because you-
- Oh, my goodness!
- Oh!
Did she see me?
Yep, she's, she's
coming out here.
Get down, smile.
No.
Come on, stop it.
Smile like a good Prince.
I have no idea what a
good Prince smiles like.
Christmas Prince you came!
My friends can't
wait to meet you.
Wonderful.
How did you get to
be Santa's best friend?
Well, that is a, a
very good question.
What do elves like to eat?
You-you mean the-the little
people with the-the pointy-
Why don't you have
a Christmas Princess?
Okay, girls, let's not
ask the Christmas Prince
all of our questions at once.
I know, tell us a story.
A-a story?
The Christmas Prince
is the best storyteller
of the whole North Pole.
A-actually, the-the
North Pole's population
is-is pretty low,
so I'm not really-
Tell us the one about
you and the elves,
I love that story, it's really
funny, but then it gets sad
and there's a surprise
twist at the end
and you'll never guess.
You know, Christmas
Prince, once upon a time.
Right, yes, once upon a time.
A week before Christmas.
Yes.
The elves were running behind
on their toy making, because-
Mommy, let the
Christmas Prince tell it.
Okay, um, once upon a time,
a-a week before Christmas,
the elves were off schedule
with their, ah,
toy manufacturing.
Tell them why.
Because there was a, ah,
reindeer plague.
Then Santa Claus, he um,
passed the legislation with
a protracted court battle
and Godzilla moved out.
The end.
That was the single most
humiliating thing of my life.
It was worse watching it.
You're welcome very much.
I'm sorry, but Godzilla
living at the North Pole?
It was the only
story I can remember.
This isn't gonna work.
That is exactly what I
was trying to tell you.
Well, what am I
gonna tell Grace?
Anything that
doesn't involve me.
Christmas Prince,
Christmas Prince,
I didn't get to say goodbye,
my friends love you,
they think you're really funny.
Oh, um,
w-well, good, I-I suppose.
I made you this.
Is this me and-and you?
Ah-huh, I made you fairy hands
and see, I made your eyes
brown just like mine.
But we're-we're holding hands.
Do you like it?
I do very much.
Good, because I've decided
to change one of my wishes,
I want you guys to go
on a real life date.
Are you kidding me right now?
You're going on a
date with Mr. Spock?
It's not funny.
I'm nominating you for Best
Mother of the Year Award.
This is, this is
beyond the pale.
I knew I can count on
you to make me feel worse.
Can you video it? I wanna
put it on my Insta Story.
It's not funny!
Okay, okay.
But it kind of is.
Stop.
If it's that bad, can't
you just talk her out of it?
No, not now, he's
the Christmas Prince
and he has chosen her.
Meaning?
The Christmas
Prince is a huge deal,
to her, the Christmas Prince
is the biggest A-list celebrity
of all times and if
we were up to Grace,
she would want me to marry
the Christmas Prince.
Let's not even go there.
Good idea.
So.
I guess,
I see you have carrots.
Yep, I have carrots.
Do you eat carrots often?
So have you always wanted
to be a rocket scientist?
Ah, yes,
as a young boy, my father
used to spin stories
about the stars
and constellations
and I've been
fascinated ever since.
You?
I guess I always wanted
to answer questions
about the universe that people
have asked for centuries.
Not many people get
to do stuff like that.
I absolutely agree.
I feel very lucky to have a
profession that I love so much,
even if the managing
portion is challenging.
Really, why is that, if
you don't mind me asking?
Well, it's a bit
difficult to connect,
when your moniker is Dr. Spock.
It's not unwarranted,
rubbing elbows with employees
never really interested me.
So you just don't care?
No, I didn't say that.
It's just that some
people aren't comfortable
being, I don't know,
social butterflies.
Okay, fine,
but you really could try.
How?
Engage, do something
for your employees,
ask about their lives, tell
them you appreciate them.
Just don't hide in
your office 24/7.
Okay, I get it, yeah, thanks.
Well,
this is- Excruciating.
I was gonna say interesting,
but I mean, you know,
I'm just trying to
make the best of it.
Can we just pretend that we
went on a date and just leave?
If we say we are going on a
date, we are going on a date,
I don't lie to my daughter.
This entire thing is a lie.
Not really, it's a Santa lie.
- What's that?
- When you make something up
to make your kid's
life more magical.
If I was a parent,
I wouldn't fill my kid's
head with fantasies.
That is exactly
what your father did,
you wouldn't be who you are,
if he didn't fill your
head with fantasies.
Well, that may be,
but this entire ruse
with Grace is excessive.
I really don't understand why
you keep on going so far with-
If you really wanna know,
Grace has had a very hard life.
Okay, you keep saying that,
but how hard could it be?
She's eight.
Her father died,
when she was five.
That was kind of hard, okay.
Ah,
I-I'm sorry, I-I didn't know.
Why would you, you only
authorized my bereavement leave?
I don't remember that.
You didn't even ask who died.
Maybe we should go.
Of course.
Excuse me, I'll take
the check please.
It was bad.
It hurts my teeth
just thinking about it.
And we have four wishes left.
Well, what's next?
We're driving to La
Maison this afternoon
to beg the maitre d' for a
table for their Christmas Tea.
Are you kidding? That place
is impossible to get into.
I mean, good luck with that.
- Let me talk to him.
- No, let me,
An old colleague of
mine has connections,
he's already spoken
with the maitre d'.
Fine, but I'm better with
people and I can handle-
May I help you?
Yes.
Ah, Eric Grunewald
told you I'd be coming,
my name is Evan McCormick.
About a reservation
for our Christmas tomorrow, I believe?
Yes, about 4:30 works
very nicely for us.
I'm sorry, sir, but
we're completely booked.
There must be something
that you can do.
I'm afraid not, as I said,
sir, we're completely booked.
Yes, you've already
said that, but-
Would you like to see
tomorrow's seating chart?
Yes, that is an excellent idea.
I have a solution, simply
move this table of five here
and these tables of two and
three to these corners here
and that will open up plenty
of room for a table of two,
we'll take that.
Sir, at the risk
of being redundant.
What was your name?
George.
George, do you
think you can give us
one itsy bitsy second?
Just let me handle this.
I don't know what
you can possibly do,
that man is clearly unreasonable.
Just let me handle this.
Okay, but if you
just listen to what-
Just, just, just don't talk.
Okay.
George, would it be
possible for you and I
to have a quick moment?
It'll be super duper fast.
If you can assure me that
it will be super duper fast,
I'm about to take my lunch.
Promise me you'll have
your Aunt Alma call,
you have my number.
I do and don't forget
about New Year's Eve,
my house, eight,
heavy hors d'oeuvres.
Please, won't you
let me bring something?
No, no, just yourself.
Hello, sir, we look
forward to seeing you
tomorrow at our Christmas Tea,
I'll be sure to give
Grace our best table.
Shall we get back to work now?
What did you do to him?
I was just asking him
questions, that's all.
You got an impossible
to get reservation
by just asking questions?
It's not about
getting something,
it's about getting to
know someone, you know?
Actually, I don't know.
It's simple, once someone feels
like you're really listening,
they'll usually show
you their chewy center,
no matter how hard the
shelling, once you get that.
Chewy center?
Which one?
Hm, you know what?
You should actually
wear your gray suit.
All right
and a tie?
I only own three, I'm, I'm
not sure what they go with.
Evan, it's tea with
a seven year old.
And-and what kind
of questions do I ask?
It's not an interview, Ev,
just, you know,
be in the moment.
Okay, but-but like
what if I'm trying
to get where she's
coming from, you know?
Wow, you're really
starting to care
about this little
girl, aren't you?
No, no, I-I didn't say that.
It's just that her and her mom
have had a, a difficult time
and I feel compelled to
make them feel better,
although I'm not quite sure how.
You've got a huge heart, Ev,
why don't you just try
and let them see that?
I think the rest
will work itself out.
That's him, that's him,
that's the Christmas Prince!
Hi.
Um, you look fancy.
Thank you, so do you,
only you look handsome.
Are-are you ready for tea?
Ah-huh.
Now remember, this
is a very nice tea,
so be sure to use
your best manners.
Don't worry, Mommy, I will.
I've never had a real grown
up tea before, have you?
Actually, I haven't.
I'll be right here, honey.
Okay, Mommy.
The Christmas music is
so pretty, isn't it?
It is lovely.
I've been wanting to
learn how to play a piano
for years and years.
Have you?
Ah-huh, I want to take lessons,
so I can learn how to play
Christmas songs just like this.
Daddy used to like
Christmas songs a lot.
Good afternoon, miss,
may I present our tea?
We have a selection of
Christmas-inspired scones
and pastries and of course,
our world famous
finger sandwiches.
Thank you very much, sir.
You are quite welcome, miss
and please say hello
to your mother for me.
He's nice, isn't he?
Very.
I have a question.
All right.
What do you do when
you're not granting wishes
or visiting Santa?
Well, I do enjoy
looking up at the stars.
So does Mommy.
I bet the stars are super
bright at the North Pole.
Yes, I-I suppose they are.
Mommy says they're
filled with stories,
could you tell me one?
I, um, I'm not
sure I know a story.
Oh.
Although have you heard
the one about Pegasus?
What's a Pegasus?
A flying horse.
Cool.
The Pegasus
belonged to Poseidon,
God of the sea,
earthquakes and storms
and one day, on one of
his special missions,
Poseidon was in trouble,
so he whistled and
he called for Pegasus
and he came flying out of
the ocean, he saved him.
Shall we?
Suddenly, this whole
thing just feels weird.
I don't get it, he's
fulfilling all the wishes,
that's what you wanted, right?
I know, but the whole
reason I don't date
is so that Grace
doesn't have to deal
with another man in her life.
Okay, but she's the one
going for tea, not you, so.
So you should just see
the way she lights up,
when she's around Evan.
What are you afraid of?
What if Grace gets her
heart broken a second time?
Then I guess you'll just
have to pick up the pieces
all over again.
One more question.
All right.
Why don't you have a Princess?
Well, it's not always easy
to find a Princess sometimes.
I think it's hard for my
mom to find somebody too.
Why is that?
Well, Mommy doesn't even
date and she promised me,
that she'd never
get married again.
I see.
But I never even asked her
to make the promise
in the first place.
Everyone needs someone
to love them the best,
don't you think?
You are a very smart
young lady, Grace.
Thanks.
There's Mommy, hi, Mommy!
Hi, love bug, did you have fun?
I had the best time ever.
Yes, I believe we did
have the best time ever.
That's great.
Did you say thank you?
Thank you, you're the
best Christmas Prince ever.
Thanks.
My pleasure.
Come on.
I mean, it sounds like the tea
was a big success.
It was all Grace would
talk about this morning
and about Evan.
Stop talking.
I know and when
he brought her back,
I, I can't describe it,
but he actually was
sort of charming.
What?
I know, this,
this whole thing is,
it's-it's a little unnerving.
Yeah, no kidding.
Do you think he could
actually be good for Grace?
I mean, even Spock was
half human.
Hang on.
Look, these numbers
can't be right.
Looks like the
satellite is drifting.
Let's get Evan in here.
So you're saying we still
have a chance to correct it?
We think so, but
we're gonna need to run
a couple of simulations.
And we need to do it now.
It's gonna be a long night.
I gotta make a call.
You have tickets to
that midnight showing
of "It's a Wonderful
Life," don't you?
I-I mean, yeah, but I mean,
this is really important.
No, we could handle
it, can't we, Shelby?
Ah, sure.
Good, it's settled then.
Okay, thank you.
Now,
now that should be,
it.
Now all we have to do
is run the simulator,
it should take an hour or two.
I think I'm gonna grab a coffee
and head to the roof.
Do you wanna join me?
Sure.
Shelby,
what's it like being
a, a single mom?
It can be a little
tricky sometimes,
being both Mom and Dad.
Does it ever get lonely?
Sometimes,
but I have Grace and my group.
Your-your group?
Yeah, it takes a village.
It's a parent support
group I formed
after my husband passed.
You formed a support group?
Well, my family was
halfway across the country
and I didn't wanna quit here,
'cause I have worked
hard on that mission.
I looked around, but I
just couldn't find anything
for single parents, so.
So you created
your own solution?
I guess so.
Shelby?
Yes?
I don't believe I ever told you,
but I think you are an
extraordinary engineer
and I really do appreciate
all your hard work.
Like tonight, for example,
you're amazing.
It's my job.
Besides, you're the one
going the extra mile for me
with this whole Christmas
Prince thing, so.
Well, you did blackmail me, so.
Did you just make a joke?
How'd I do?
It was clever.
Hey.
It looks like the torque
rods and the thrusters
are gonna be our solution.
Perfect, that,
that's great news.
I can make the adjustments
from here on out,
no need to stay.
Okay, I'll see you
tomorrow afternoon then
and-and please don't hurry
in, you should get some rest.
Thanks, Evan, you too.
I'll be fine.
I guess I'll leave
you to it then.
Hey, Shelby, something's
been bothering me.
I was wrong not to say
anything about your husband
and although it's belated,
I want you to know,
that I'm truly
sorry for your loss.
Thanks, Evan,
I appreciate that.
Something's wrong.
Everything was fine before I
left, why didn't you call me?
It's not the satellite,
you're never gonna believe it.
Come on.
I think it's some sort
of Christmas party.
Was this Evan's idea?
Yep.
Oh!
Are we all about to get fired?
No.
I think he's trying.
Cookie?
It's a reindeer, I
decorated it myself.
Have a snowman instead.
You made a Christmas party?
I hadn't thought of
it exactly that way,
but I'm glad you think so.
They're good.
Oh and speaking of Christmas,
I have to make an announcement.
Can I have everyone's
attention please?
As Shelby here pointed
out on a previous date,
many of you have family
obligations during this season
and well, in keeping
with that idea,
just this morning, I
spoke with two young,
excellent candidates
out of Cape Canaveral,
they're gonna join the team
and help us with
the solar array,
which in turn will
allow us to push through
the next phase in
a timely manner.
Working on Christmas
and Christmas Eve
will no longer be necessary.
Wow!
So I hope that helps
and Merry Christmas.
This is great news.
Really good news.
So what's next on
Grace's wish list?
Well, the piano
wish is still left,
which is a little
rough, I checked,
grand pianos start
at around 20 grand.
I think I have an idea,
can I bring it over tonight?
Yeah.
Okay.
But how are you gonna, oh!
- Oh, sorry, can you?
- Oh!
Thank you.
I just gotta take this in
my office, just one minute.
Hi, Scott, can you
hold just one moment?
Hey, sorry, Scott,
please go ahead.
Evan, listen, I
wanted to talk to you
before you heard it
from someone else.
Heard what?
The situation's a little
more advanced than I hoped.
I'm afraid you're under review.
I am?
Does that mean
I'm getting fired?
I really don't know,
we're just gonna
have to wait and see.
Okay, well, thank you
for letting me know, Scott.
My tongue is
getting kind of dry and yucky.
Addressing Christmas cards
is not for the faint of heart.
Who's that?
Let's go see.
Hi, Christmas Prince.
Hello, Grace.
What's under your coat?
One of your wishes.
Really, what is it?
Your piano.
That's a piano?
It is a piano, but
it's not just any piano.
You wanna hear the story?
The elves made this?
They did many, many years ago
and like all of Santa's
toys, it was very special.
It was?
Yes, see, this piano was
meant to bring great joy
to whoever was lucky
enough to play it,
but year by year,
nobody wanted it.
Why not?
Well, some children
thought it was too small,
some wanted a grand piano
and some wanted a piano
made only of wood.
So each year, this
piano got passed by
and it became more and more sad.
It did?
Yes, because more than anything,
it just wanted to be
played and enjoyed
and to bring whoever was
lucky enough to play it great?
Joy?
That's right, but it needed
a special, little girl,
a girl with a big,
generous heart,
the kind of girl that
cared about others,
who gave up her own wishes
to help other people
in things like toy drives.
It was waiting for me?
Yeah, that's exactly right,
it waited all those
years just for you
and when you play it,
you both can enjoy it
the way it was always
meant to be enjoyed.
Ready?
Okay.
It's beautiful.
Is she finally asleep?
I thought she was
gonna be up all night
on that magical
elf piano of yours.
I'm sorry, I didn't
mean to ruin her bedtime.
It is a school night.
I don't know how
to say thank you.
You've been wonderful.
She's wonderful
and I understand now
why you would do
anything for her.
If you don't mind me asking,
what was your husband like?
Well,
he was larger than life for one.
He was a big guy
with a big laugh
and even bigger personality.
But the one thing I
loved most about him
was that he was so solid
and dependable.
I guess that's why
it hurt so badly.
What do you mean?
It just never occurred
to me he'd leave.
He left you?
Not intentionally, I, I know
this doesn't make any sense.
He was sick, it wasn't
his fault and it just,
I couldn't help feeling like,
I don't know, like...
He just abandoned us.
Anyway, I'm sorry, I didn't
mean to like get heavy
all of a sudden.
No, no, no, no,
I'm glad you feel
like you can tell me.
What kept you guys? You're late.
Santa!
Ho ho ho!
I hear you'd like to watch
a Christmas movie together?
Yeah, I've got
popcorn, come on, hurry.
Wow, my own gingerbread house!
I still can't believe the
whole Christmas Prince thing
is almost over.
And that he's doing a good job.
That really is the
most amazing part.
It's almost too good to be true.
So what's left?
This Toy Drive, of course
and the Christmas Dance.
I still think it's so cute,
that Grace is using one of
her wishes for the Toy Drive.
She's got a heart
of gold, that one.
Exactly why I can't
stand to break it,
especially if we end up moving.
Wait, what?
Skyrocket called several times.
I finally called them back.
And?
I got a job
interview for next week
and they already hinted that
the job is mine, if I want it.
I thought you said that
job was impossible to get.
They lost one of
their key engineers.
Are you serious about taking it?
I should be, this is
a great opportunity,
but I'd have to
start right away,
it was one of
their stipulations.
Well, right away as in when?
After the first of the year.
What are you gonna do?
I don't know, everything
is just, it's going so fast,
I don't know what to think.
The Christmas
Prince is coming to the Dance,
I know he is.
- What are you gonna wear?
- I don't know,
probably something
really pretty.
Same.
Hi, Grace.
Hey, Jessie.
Hi, Sherman.
The Christmas Dance is
this weekend, you know.
I know.
Too bad you guys can't go.
Yes, we can.
No, you can't, you guys don't
have any family to go with,
just moms.
You don't know anything,
I'm going with my
mom and my uncle.
But you don't have an uncle.
I don't need one, I
have the Christmas Prince.
He's like family and he's
coming to the Christmas Dance.
He's a made up Prince,
who's not even gonna come,
not even if he was real.
Is everything okay?
I was just kidding
around with Grace.
No, you weren't.
That's what he always says
when he knows he's wrong,
even though he really
meant it to begin with.
Tell your mom I said
hi and thank her again
for contributing
to the Toy Drive.
Yeah, the Christmas Prince
is probably waiting for us
right now to give out
toys because he's nice
and that's what real Princes do.
See you later, buddy.
Grace, what has been going on?
Merry Christmas.
This is a really good one.
I wrapped it, so I know.
Thank you.
- Merry Christmas.
- Merry Christmas.
Everything okay?
Yeah, why?
You just seem a
little preoccupied.
No, I'm good.
Okay.
Merry Christmas.
Four kisses and last kiss, muah!
Did you have a good day?
Super good.
It's been fun, hasn't it?
It's not over yet, Mommy,
we still have the
Christmas Dance.
Out of all the wishes,
that's the one I want most.
- Really?
- Yep.
You're still coming, right?
I wouldn't miss
it for the world.
Good, goodnight, Christmas
Prince, I love you.
I love you too, little one.
It's a
beautiful night, isn't it?
Very beautiful.
You know, I used to love stories
about the constellation too.
What's your favorite?
Andromeda.
It's so- Romantic.
Yeah.
It's my favorite too.
You know, if you would've
told me that a month ago,
I wouldn't believe you.
But now?
I do.
Our satellite is
out there somewhere.
Yes, it is.
Sometimes I think I would
like to be up there too,
just floating.
I used to think the same thing.
Used to?
Lately, I'd rather be down
here on earth right where I am.
Yeah,
I guess I would too.
I want you to know
this has been the best
Christmas I've ever had
and I have you to thank for it.
I should be the
one thanking you.
I really had fun today.
Me too.
Goodnight, Shelby.
Night, Evan.
I really wanna say thank you
for considering me for
the position at Skyrocket,
but after a lot of thought,
I've decided to stay
at my current position.
Hey, Merry Christmas.
Oh, thank you, Lorenzo,
you didn't have to do that.
Oh, it wasn't me.
There you go, Merry Christmas.
Wow!
I know, right?
Personalized and everything,
I didn't even know he
knew everyone's names.
I mean, the gifts themselves
aren't personalized,
everybody got the same thing.
It's not exactly something
I had on my list,
practical, I'll give him that.
Hey, Brenda.
I'm sure it's exhausting
with the new baby,
but if you need more time off,
just let me know and
we'll work it out.
Oh, sorry.
Let me get this,
Merry Christmas.
Oh, I don't understand.
Why does the Board
wanna meet with me?
To be honest, I think it
might be not very good news.
Well, are they firing me?
I don't know, all I know is
they wanna see you right away
tomorrow at five p.m.
Tomorrow?
I have plans, a Christmas Dance,
it's very important actually.
This is not something
you can reschedule,
they're flying in from
all over the country,
whatever you have, you're
gonna have to cancel it.
I've gotta go, talk soon.
You're gonna look
just like a proper Princess.
You mean a Queen?
Oh, right, what was I thinking?
You know, this has been a
really, really good Christmas,
hasn't it, Mommy?
It has.
It feels like it did
when Daddy was still here,
don't you think?
I do.
What time is it?
It is a little past 9:30.
Do you think that's too
early to start getting ready?
Maybe a little, the
Dance isn't until tonight.
I bet that's the
Christmas Prince.
Maybe it's not too early, Mommy.
Let's go see.
Told you it's the
Christmas Prince.
Mommy, I should get my dress on.
What's wrong?
I have some bad news.
Grace, honey, why don't
you go play in your room?
The Christmas Prince
and I need to talk.
Can't you reschedule?
I already asked, but the
entire Board is coming.
- Why, what's wrong?
- I don't know,
but it's important if
they're all flying in.
You sure you can't make it?
I really wish I could.
You really know how important
this is to her, right?
Oh, let me talk to
her, I could try to-
No.
I'll do it.
Okay, Shelby.
She's not gonna understand why.
The only thing she's
gonna understand
is that you're not there.
So you just go and you just
do what you have to do.
- Okay, Shelby, please.
- No, no, no, no.
This is my fault,
you were right,
I should have never lied
to her in the first place.
I'll just handle it myself.
Okay, Shelby.
Is the Christmas
Prince still here?
No, honey,
he left.
What did he want?
Gracie, I
am really, really sorry,
but the Christmas Prince can't
come to the Dance tonight.
But it was one of my wishes
and the Christmas Prince-
Maybe the Christmas
Prince isn't as magical
as we thought he'd be.
- Yes, he is.
- Gracie.
No, you're just too
old to believe in magic,
but that doesn't mean
there's no such thing.
Grace.
It's okay, Mommy, you'll
see, he'll come to the Dance.
He promised he would.
Honey, he'd be here
already if he was coming.
Look, we don't need
the Christmas Prince
to have fun at the Dance, do we?
Oh, come on, we
don't wanna be late.
I'll go get my purse
and we'll go, okay.
Okay.
Christmas is my
baby time with you
Christmas is my
baby time with you
Hi.
- Hi.
- Hi.
Hey, Grace, you look pretty.
Thanks, you too.
I hope Sherman doesn't show up.
I know, he's such a bully.
- So where is he?
- Who?
You know, the Christmas Prince.
He'll be here, just,
just not yet.
What happened, did
his royal carriage
break down or something?
Grace, honey, let's go
get something to drink.
Grace!
I am so sorry, honey.
I wish I could just make
him be here for you.
I'm not sad about that, Mommy.
You're not?
Well then, why are you crying?
I feel like you
don't believe anymore.
Believe in what?
In him, the Christmas
Prince, don't you know that?
Oh, Grace.
No, just because
he's late to the Dance
doesn't mean he's not
the Christmas Prince.
He's smart and he's handsome
and he's a really
good storyteller too
and he's very, very
kind, just like you said,
so that's how I know
he's the Christmas Prince
and you should know that too.
How did you ever
get to be so smart?
Are you okay, Mommy?
I will be.
Muah!
Jingle bells, jingle
bells, jingle all the way
Hi, can you watch Grace?
What's going on?
- I need to do something.
- Sure.
Thanks.
Um.
(I music)
Probably
the one we want to talk to.
You'll talk to her.
Evan, thanks for coming.
Take a seat.
Let me get right to it.
It's not often that
the Board gets together
to address a single
issue, namely you,
but in this case, we
felt it was necessary.
John, why don't
you take the floor?
Thank you, Evan, I know
that Scott spoke to you
a few weeks ago about
your performance.
Ah, yes, he did.
Listen, if you're gonna fire me,
please just let me
know right now, please.
Oh, oh, no, look,
we're not firing you,
we'd like to promote you.
Excuse me?
We're interested in exploring
the habitability
of Saturn's moons.
And we think
you're the right man
to head up the probe build.
I-I don't understand.
You told me my job
was on the line.
It was, not anymore.
We've received some
excellent feedback on you
in the past several weeks.
And we were very impressed
with how you righted
the ship, Evan.
It takes a big man to realize
he needs to change his ways.
Oh, plus a little girl
and an amazing woman.
Excuse me?
A long story, regardless, I
am flattered with your offer
and of course, I
would love to accept.
Good, well then, people,
let's get down to discussing
the details of rolling
out this project.
Most of us have turnaround
flights in the morning.
I'm sorry, I-I can't.
What's that?
I-I can't stay.
That's funny.
I always say that Evan
doesn't have a life,
it's kind of an inside joke
between us, but he can stay.
Actually, I didn't have
a life, but now I do.
I would love to discuss
the project further,
but tonight, I have
a royal appointment.
Don't ask.
Ah.
Three hot chocolates, please.
My mom's getting
us hot chocolate.
Now is the time for
you to see me there
Grace.
- Thank you.
- You're welcome.
He'll come and your
mom will be right back.
Shelby?
Hi, it's Shelby,
I mean, I know you know that.
But anyway-
- Shelby.
- Wait, can you,
can you just wait a second?
There's something I need to
say and it's really hard for me
and if you could
just not interrupt,
that would be,
well, really good.
I'm sorry, go ahead.
The thing is,
I was afraid for so long,
that I tried to insulate
Grace and I from everything,
so neither of us could get hurt.
What I'm trying to say is,
is I don't wanna
do that anymore.
The point is.
All the days
are growing cold
It's not just
Grace that loves you.
The nights are long
I think the same thing
is happening to me.
Christmas
I hear voices young and old
Turn around.
They sing a song
It's almost Christmas
I open up my arms
and it surrounds me
Christmas Prince!
I open up my heart
and I can see
Whoa!
There is magic
I hope I'm not too late.
I had a little trouble
with the royal carriage.
Still can feel
Real carriage?
Snowball, I get to have
a ride of Snowball?
Would you like that?
Still believe in
And Grace,
your crown.
It's almost Christmas
Wow!
Hold the ones
you love so close
You look really pretty.
What you love
Thank you.
Your Majesty, may I?
Of course.
Queen Grace.
Allow me to accompany you.
To open up my arms
and let it surround me
To open up my
heart so I can see
That there is
magic in the air
I know it's there
I still can feel it
Hi.
Bye, Christmas Prince!
I still believe
I told you.
I was just kidding, I
knew he was real all long.
Giddy up!
It's almost Christmas
It's almost Christmas
This is so pretty.
Oh.
It's almost Christmas
Who's that for?
If you would do me the honor?
I would love to.
See all the
wonder everywhere
I know it's there
Does that mean you're the
Christmas Princess, Mommy?
I...
Well, like my group says,
one thing at a time.
Well, perhaps we
can start with this?
It's all right there
Can you believe it
Open up your arms,
let it surround you
Open up your arms
Open up your heart
so you can see
Now.
It's almost Christmas
Far, far away at the
very top of the North Pole,
right next to Santa's Village
lives a very special man,
his name is the
Christmas Prince,
the magical ruler
of the North Pole.
Every day, the Christmas
Prince, he tours the North Pole,
granting wishes for the
reindeer and the elves
and even Santa and Mrs. Claus
and at the end of the day,
he heads to his palace
to make hot chocolate
with peppermint sticks
and when he's finished,
he invites Santa
and Mrs. Claus and all the elves
to a Christmas tea in
his royal dining room
to thank them for all their
hard work for making toys.
And after they've eaten
and drank their fill,
he hooks up his beautiful,
white horse, Snowball
and takes them on a merry ride
around Santa's village
in his royal carriage.
Tell them about the wishes
he granted to the elves, Mommy.
Well, one elf got a sweater
knitted from the hair of
the Abominable Snowman.
Whoa!
But here's the
really special thing
about the Christmas Prince,
he was so good at spreading joy,
Santa gave him a new job.
Each year, during
the Christmas season,
the Christmas Prince would
choose one boy or girl
to be his king or queen
and that lucky boy or
girl gets 12 wishes,
one for each day
leading up to Christmas.
How come my mom and dad
never told me about this guy?
Not everybody knows
about the Christmas Prince,
just my family, my
dad told me about him,
my grandpa told my dad
and my great grandpa
told my grandpa.
Okay, kids, Story
Time is done for today.
Tomorrow, Sherman's mom's coming
to read Sherman's
favorite Christmas book.
But for now, Miss Shelby
has to be getting to work.
My mom builds rockets,
so they can answer all the
questions of the universe.
Let's say thank
you to Grace's mom
for coming to Parent Story Time.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
All right, Princess, bye, muah!
- Bye, Mommy.
- Bye.
10, nine, eight, seven,
six, five, four,
three, two, one, zero,
lift off.
- Whoo!
- Yes!
Whoo hoo hoo!
- We did it!
- We did it!
Oh!
Oh!
Oh!
- A toast.
- Yes.
To the culmination
of seven years
and to the best
supervisor in history.
And to one of the
best rocket engineers
I have ever worked with.
That feels good.
Oh, and to our fearless
leader, Dr. Spock
called the worst
director in history.
Finally emerged from
the Vulcan Cave, I see.
You know, I'm still not sure
if he even knows my first name.
You've been working
here for four years,
how is that even possible?
Same reason he doesn't know
you're a single mom, I guess.
It's almost kind of impressive
how he can consistently
be so oblivious.
That's his superpower clearly.
The Board is very
happy about this launch.
Thank you, Scott, frankly,
I was a little worried,
when you said you wanted
to speak with me today.
Actually, I was easing
my way into this next part.
Can we talk in your office?
Ah, okay, yeah.
Bottom line, the
Board is concerned
about your performance.
But you just said-
It's not your technical
skills that are the problem,
it's your management.
I see.
Losing three key players
in the last six months
is way above norm
and they all cite you
as the reason for leaving.
I understand that
Look, the point is,
we can't afford to
lose any more people.
The Board's concerned
you're gonna fall behind
on this next phase and
if we miss the window
for the deployment
of the solar array.
I understand, it
will cost us millions.
It won't be a problem,
I'll make sure that everyone
puts in some extra hours.
Don't push so hard and if
you lose any more employees,
you're headed for review.
I didn't realize
it was that dire.
Look, I personally
love the fact,
that you don't have a life,
but it might be good for you
to remember that some
of your employees do.
Okay.
And try to have a little fun.
All right, next is Mars.
Yay!
You did it on your own this
year, you are growing so fast.
That's what Daddy
always used to say.
He did say that, didn't he?
Hm, what do you think?
Hm.
A couple more ornaments maybe?
Okay.
How was school today?
Sherman told me he didn't think
the Christmas Prince was real.
Well, Sherman doesn't
know everything.
I know.
All my friends like the
Christmas Prince story
better than any of
the other stories
the other moms and dads
told for Story Time.
I'm glad, love bug,
that makes me happy.
Okay, snuggle in.
Mommy, is the
Christmas Prince real?
He is if you believe in him.
But how would I know him,
you know, if I saw him?
Well,
he is tall,
dark and very handsome
and most of all,
the Prince has a little
mark on his hand right here,
where Rudolph kissed
him when he was a baby.
Wow, that's cool.
I know.
Okay, are you snug as a bug?
Yep.
One kiss?
Muah!
Two kiss?
Muah, muah!
Three kiss?
Muah, muah, muah!
Four kiss?
Muah, muah, muah, muah!
And.
Last kiss.
Muah!
Sleep tight, love bug.
Night, Mommy.
Christmas Prince,
it's me, Grace.
I wanted to ask you a favor.
See, it's been a
really hard year.
Sherman bugs me and
since I moved schools,
I still don't have
a lot of friends,
but most of all, I really,
really miss my daddy.
So it would be really nice,
if you could make me your
queen this year, please.
- Hey!
- Hey!
You saved my life.
The boss is
tightening the screws.
- Oh, that's unusual.
- Right?
I owe you like 123 pickups.
124, not that I'm counting.
Oh, hey, heads up, Grace
was a little outta sorts,
when I picked her up today.
What happened? Hi, honey.
The school announced
that they're having
the annual Christmas Dance
when we bring the whole family.
Perfect. What
are you gonna do?
Luckily my brother said
he'd come, so that helps.
Sometimes I really wonder why
I moved away from my family.
Hey, you have me and the group,
what more could a gal want?
True and speaking of the group,
Toy Drive wrapping tonight?
Yep. Jessie, we gotta go, hun.
Six o'clock at my place.
Okay, I'll be there.
All right, bye.
Bye, guys.
You're gonna have to
stay in the break room
and play on your iPad, okay?
Okay.
My boss is sort of
a Grumpus, remember?
So no coming out.
Okay.
Hey,
Nicole said that
you were worried
about that Christmas Dance.
Kinda.
Well, you know, some families
only have a couple of people
and that's okay, right?
Not everybody has a big family.
I know, just not
anyone in my school.
Don't worry, I'm gonna make this
the best Christmas ever,
I promise.
Okay?
Okay.
Love you, love bug.
Bye.
Bye.
Ah, excuse me, everyone.
I-I have an announcement.
As we all know, a successful
launch, while positive
is hardly a time to
run a victory life.
He's gonna ask us
to work on Christmas.
No, he's not, even
for him, that's just-
I understand it's
the holiday season,
but since we are
slightly understaffed,
we are all going to have
to put in some extra hours
to hit our target date-
No, no, no.
Please don't say it.
For the next phase.
You really don't, really
don't have to say it.
So everyone should
expect to work
a full day on Christmas Eve
and if necessary, a
half day on Christmas.
Are you crazy?
She doesn't mean that.
No, no, that is
exactly what I mean.
People have families
and problems.
And in the spirit
of this happy season,
let's all take a
deep breath and-
And just be happy, huh?
So Merry Christmas Time
and thank you for
understanding and listening.
That's it, he's leaving?
You're just leaving?
I'm, I'm sorry you find this
so distressing, but this
is not a normal job.
We are rocket
engineers, scientists.
Which is why I work
weekends, over time
and more holidays than
I can care to remember.
Well then, you understand
the importance of sacrifice,
even on Christmas and
if you don't like it,
then you can just-
What?
Quit?
If you insist on being
so inflexible, then-
Inflexible?
I'm the one who's inflexible?
That's it, I am out of here.
This is very inappropriate.
Inappropriate?
You're the one
who's inappropriate
with your Merry Christmas
work on Christmas,
because I'm a rocking
engineer speech.
Why do you think people are
dropping like flies around here?
I need a box.
- Shelby, please don't go.
- Does anybody have a box?
Don't help.
Thank you.
You're making a scene.
I realize that.
And...
That is all I have to say.
Mommy, my iPad isn't working.
Honey, we are leaving.
You came, you came.
Ah.
I knew you'd come.
Hm.
Grace, stop
hugging the nice man.
He's not the nice man,
he's the Christmas Prince.
- Honey.
- The what?
He's my boss, he is
not the Christmas Prince.
He is too.
Look, he has a reindeer
kiss burn mark.
This is gonna be the
best Christmas ever.
She thinks you're who?
The Christmas Prince,
whatever that is, very odd.
So what's the plan, genius?
You know, I hate it
when you call me that.
Fine, what's the plan, brainiac?
I don't have one, only
I can't let her quit.
I thought she did quit.
She did, although
I'm surprised I noticed
with her daughter clinging
to my pant leg like she was.
Have you told your
boss any of this?
Not yet.
Good, then all you have
to do is butter her up,
get her back before
you get booted.
Butter her up?
I may be wrong, but I
don't think I'm skilled
at buttering up anyone.
Then you'd better learn quick.
You do revel in
torturing me, don't you?
I'm your sister, it's my job.
It's probably too late anyway,
she probably had it worked
out to the finest detail.
No one quits without
a backup plan.
Hm, you'd be surprised.
I don't know what I'm gonna do.
The one thing I do know is
that I made a complete idiot
of myself in front
of my entire team.
What happened?
Please, I don't wanna relive it.
The point is, I can't
not just have a job,
especially now, it's Christmas.
Well, what about that
other job you applied to
at Skyrocket a while ago?
Oh yeah, you said
that was your dream job.
Well, it wasn't really
a serious application
and landing a job like
that is next to impossible.
Besides, I love my work,
it's Evan I can't stand.
Oh, which still isn't a terrible
reason to take a new job.
Skyrocket's in California,
besides, Grace has
had a hard enough time
changing schools in
the same district,
let alone moving to
a different state.
And then she'd have
to make all new friends.
And you wouldn't have all of us.
I don't have the
Skyrocket job anyway.
Okay, okay, let's remember
our number one rule.
One thing at a time.
What are you gonna do
about this whole
Christmas Prince thing?
Well, I mean, I can't tell Grace
the Christmas Prince
isn't, you know, real.
What is the Christmas
Prince anyway?
It's this story that has
been in our family for years
and it's Grace's
favorite Christmas thing.
No, no, danger.
I know, right and
the worst part is
the Prince's magical powers
have grown every year.
I know your pain,
our Christmas elf went from
showing up in a new room
every morning to
arriving with a gift,
then it was arriving
with a gift and a poem
and then it was a clue to
some elaborate scavenger hunt
to find the elf, the
gift and the poem
and this happens every
single day until Christmas.
So what are you gonna do?
Well, I'm not gonna ask my boss
to be the Christmas
Prince, that's for sure.
Okay, no, I am
not gonna do that.
He wouldn't even
do it, trust me.
I don't know, too bad you
don't have some dirt on him.
Oh, yeah, you
could blackmail him
into being the Christmas Prince.
Solved it.
Blackmail it is.
Wait a minute,
that actually is the
perfect solution.
So you're blackmailing me?
Think of it more as
a symbiotic bargain.
I won't quit if you play the
role of the Christmas Prince.
Who is magical and
grants every single wish
your daughter comes up with.
In a nutshell, yes.
I have a counter offer.
Okay, there are professionals
that do this kind of thing.
Okay, so you don't quit
and I will cover the cost
for you to hire a pro.
No, it has to be you.
Why? Look, I-I am
not good with children.
Heck, I wasn't good at
being a child myself.
It's because you
have that on your hand.
What, my birthmark?
It's the mark left when
Rudolph kissed the baby Prince.
Rudolph?
Rudolph.
Why would you keep up
such a ludicrous facade?
Well, excuse me, for trying
to keep the magic
alive for my daughter,
goodness knows, she'll
get her innocence
knocked right out
of her soon enough.
I just don't understand
why parents keep up-
You don't have to understand.
Do you want the deal or not?
Um, what type of
wishes are we talking about?
I will take care of that,
nothing too outrageous.
If you don't wanna be the
Christmas Prince for Grace,
then ask yourself this,
do you really wanna gamble
on losing another
employee right now?
So Egon the Terrible
is actually going to be
the Christmas Prince?
Strange, but apparently true.
How is he gonna
pull off 12 wishes?
Oh, please don't
say that out loud.
What, you're the one
who came up with it.
Don't say that out loud either.
So what's the plan?
I'll have a talk with Grace.
Maybe I can get her down
to one or two wishes.
The Christmas Prince isn't real.
You don't know what
you're talking about, Sherman.
Oh-oh, looks like we've
got a showdown in the yard.
It is too and I
am so going to be
the Christmas Princess
Queen this year.
I don't believe you.
You're gonna feel
like a dumb-dumb,
when he grants all
of Grace's wishes
and you only get stuff
from Santa Claus.
Don't say dumb-dumb,
Jess, it's not polite.
But Sherman said the Christmas
Prince isn't real again.
Grace, let's not
fight with our friends.
Sometimes they believe
in different things
and it doesn't make-
But you're the one,
who says Sherman
doesn't know everything.
Well, I might have
mentioned something like that,
but I didn't mean it.
Even if he is real,
you're probably gonna
ask for something easy,
so that your mom can
make it come true.
Oh yeah, wanna see my list?
Grace, no, no, now
is not the time to do-
Whoa, you're gonna get a
pony to live in your closet?
Wow, Grace really brought
out the big guns, huh?
Pony is the least of my concern.
Evan's gonna be the
Christmas Prince.
You're right, the pony is
the least of your concerns.
I know, it's bad.
He's actually doing it?
He'd better.
Morning.
Yes, it is.
Good chat, gotta work.
So you take cream, huh?
Is there a reason I shouldn't?
No, no, no, no, I was,
I was just noticing.
Did you want something?
Actually, yes.
Would you mind if I get
you a cup of coffee?
A good one.
Okay, "Watch a Christmas
movie with Santa and the elves.
A giant size gingerbread
house to play in.
A pony to live in my closet.
A grand piano.
A ride with Snowball?"
Who, who's Snowball?
You know, the horse that
pulls your Christmas carriage.
The elves love it.
Why would you put something
like that in a story?
I don't know, it sounded
good when I made it up.
And the list goes on,
"Make a snowman come to life.
Kiss a
reindeer." Ah-huh.
"First prize at the
most Christmassy house."
What?
Our block has this
thing, the Williams,
they have won 20 years in a row,
so that, that one might
be a little tricky.
Oh, okay and top it all
off with, "Tea at La Maison."
That last one
shouldn't be too hard.
If you're the President
or an A-list celebrity.
No reason to be hyperbolic.
No one gets a reservation there.
Like they say in my group,
let's just focus on
one thing at a time.
Which practically
speaking means what?
If you're gonna play the
role of the Christmas Prince,
you have got to lose the
pocket protector vibe.
I like my pocket protector,
it keeps pen marks off my shirt.
Well, the Christmas
Prince doesn't wear one.
How would you
know? He is not real.
Well, he is now and you're him.
Meaning what exactly?
Sorry, I might be a little
late picking up Grace.
Oh, that's okay.
Absolutely not.
Hold on, Nicole.
Why not?
Um, I don't know, maybe
because I'm not accustomed
to wearing jingle bells.
I'm sorry, I
actually was kidding.
Here, try this.
So how's My Fair
Scrooge's makeover coming?
About as bad as
you might expect.
Oh, I wish I could
be a fly on the wall.
Why of all people
in the universe
did Grace choose
Evan for this job?
Hey, maybe he is
the Christmas Prince.
I mean, what are the chances
he would have a reindeer
kiss on his wrist?
It's a birthmark, Nicole
and I am too
stressed for sarcasm.
I gotta go.
That'll be fine.
Now all we have to do is
make sure that Grace's list
is a little more manageable.
Wow, very Prince Harry-ish, Ev,
I didn't know you had it in you.
This sweater was $200.
So?
Who pays $200 for a sweater?
It's obviously cashmere and
you can more than afford it.
Well, that doesn't
change the fact,
that it is completely impractical.
Look at this, it's
dry cleaning only,
who buys something
that you can't wash?
Everyone in the universe
except you obviously.
Just roll with it.
I don't see how, this
entire charade is ridiculous
on many levels, least of
which it is very unlikely,
that I can convince a child,
that I am anything
other than what I am.
I for one, think it
will be good for you.
Why?
It'll help you get in
touch with your inner child.
I never had an inner
child to begin with.
True, you were the only
kid I'd ever heard of,
who hated recess.
Never saw the point of it.
It's called fun, I
highly recommend it.
Yeah, well, that's
easy for you to say
and you've always been
comfortable around everyone.
I'm not hardwired like that.
You just need a little
loosening up, that's all
and you're gonna rock it.
You're in good hands.
Meaning what exactly?
I don't know, just that
Shelby is not only brilliant
and accomplished, but
she's also very pretty.
I never noticed.
Well, maybe you should.
Okay, I'm going back to work.
Bye.
Frosty, thanks, Mommy.
You're very welcome.
I still have one wish
left to figure out,
I can't decide between a
sleepover or 100 more wishes.
A sleepover sounds
much more fun.
Yeah, I guess you're right,
sleepover.
You know, maybe we
should make your wishes
a little less ambitious?
What does that mean?
Well, remember how we talked
about asking Santa for things?
Yeah.
What did we say?
That it's not polite to
ask for too many big things,
'cause Santa has lots
of presents to give out.
That's right and it's
exactly the same thing
with the Christmas
Prince and wishes.
But doesn't the Christmas
Prince only have one person
to give wishes for?
Yes.
So then we have
nothing to worry about.
That is true, but you wouldn't
want the Christmas Prince
to think you're
greedy, you know?
Hm, okay, then I'll
cross off the pony,
then I'll get the
Christmas Prince to help
with your group's Toy
Drive for needy children
and then I'll keep
the rest of the wishes
just the way they are.
I thought you said you were
going to manage the wishes.
At least we don't have
to come up with a pony.
Don't try and
spin this positive.
You didn't let me finish.
I talked Grace out
of kissing a reindeer
and making a snowman come
alive, that would've been tough.
I still have to come
up with 12 wishes.
No, I convinced her that
you were super slammed
with royal business
during the week,
so instead of 12 wishes,
you only have eight.
Where did that number come from?
Well, you're doing royal stuff
during Monday through Friday,
which just leaves us three
weekends until Christmas,
add two wishes per weekend.
It's been a
relatively long time,
since I solved a word problem,
but I'm pretty sure
that's six wishes.
I threw in a couple
for good behavior,
she's been brushing her
teeth for two minutes now.
And that buys two wishes?
Two minutes of teeth brushing
is a really big deal
for a seven year old.
Why am I attempting to
speak in logical terms?
I mean, this whole
thing is insanity.
Anyways, your first wish
is really, really easy.
You can, you know, kind of
work your way into the role.
Okay, well, what's
my first wish?
A Christmas-themed sleepover
with Grace's friends.
You want me to sleep
over with children?
No, no.
Okay.
You're just meeting
them, you know.
Okay.
So that Grace can introduce
you and show everyone
what a kind,
generous and fun Prince you are.
Okay, when is this Christmas
sleepover supposed to happen?
- Tonight.
- What?
It'll be over in no time.
Oh, my gosh, oh, my
gosh, are you okay?
Calm down, calm down.
Okay, look, just
introduce yourself,
maybe answer a quick question
or two and you'll be done.
Easy peasy.
Huh.
I did tell you I wasn't
good with children, didn't I?
I think you might
have mentioned that.
- Yeah, I can't do this.
- Yes, yes, yes, yes,
yes, you can, you can,
I am here to help.
How?
I, well, I'm not
exactly sure, but-
No, no, no, no, no,
that's it, I can't do this,
I really can't do this, okay,
I am the last person in
the world that can do this.
Don't you think I know that?
Good, okay, then tell Grace
that I got sick for the year
or-or something.
No, no.
You are the Christmas Prince,
this is a wish and you
do not have a choice.
I have a choice, okay and
I'm choosing not to do this.
Yes, you are, my daughter
has had a hard life
and I am not gonna let
her down just because you-
- Oh, my goodness!
- Oh!
Did she see me?
Yep, she's, she's
coming out here.
Get down, smile.
No.
Come on, stop it.
Smile like a good Prince.
I have no idea what a
good Prince smiles like.
Christmas Prince you came!
My friends can't
wait to meet you.
Wonderful.
How did you get to
be Santa's best friend?
Well, that is a, a
very good question.
What do elves like to eat?
You-you mean the-the little
people with the-the pointy-
Why don't you have
a Christmas Princess?
Okay, girls, let's not
ask the Christmas Prince
all of our questions at once.
I know, tell us a story.
A-a story?
The Christmas Prince
is the best storyteller
of the whole North Pole.
A-actually, the-the
North Pole's population
is-is pretty low,
so I'm not really-
Tell us the one about
you and the elves,
I love that story, it's really
funny, but then it gets sad
and there's a surprise
twist at the end
and you'll never guess.
You know, Christmas
Prince, once upon a time.
Right, yes, once upon a time.
A week before Christmas.
Yes.
The elves were running behind
on their toy making, because-
Mommy, let the
Christmas Prince tell it.
Okay, um, once upon a time,
a-a week before Christmas,
the elves were off schedule
with their, ah,
toy manufacturing.
Tell them why.
Because there was a, ah,
reindeer plague.
Then Santa Claus, he um,
passed the legislation with
a protracted court battle
and Godzilla moved out.
The end.
That was the single most
humiliating thing of my life.
It was worse watching it.
You're welcome very much.
I'm sorry, but Godzilla
living at the North Pole?
It was the only
story I can remember.
This isn't gonna work.
That is exactly what I
was trying to tell you.
Well, what am I
gonna tell Grace?
Anything that
doesn't involve me.
Christmas Prince,
Christmas Prince,
I didn't get to say goodbye,
my friends love you,
they think you're really funny.
Oh, um,
w-well, good, I-I suppose.
I made you this.
Is this me and-and you?
Ah-huh, I made you fairy hands
and see, I made your eyes
brown just like mine.
But we're-we're holding hands.
Do you like it?
I do very much.
Good, because I've decided
to change one of my wishes,
I want you guys to go
on a real life date.
Are you kidding me right now?
You're going on a
date with Mr. Spock?
It's not funny.
I'm nominating you for Best
Mother of the Year Award.
This is, this is
beyond the pale.
I knew I can count on
you to make me feel worse.
Can you video it? I wanna
put it on my Insta Story.
It's not funny!
Okay, okay.
But it kind of is.
Stop.
If it's that bad, can't
you just talk her out of it?
No, not now, he's
the Christmas Prince
and he has chosen her.
Meaning?
The Christmas
Prince is a huge deal,
to her, the Christmas Prince
is the biggest A-list celebrity
of all times and if
we were up to Grace,
she would want me to marry
the Christmas Prince.
Let's not even go there.
Good idea.
So.
I guess,
I see you have carrots.
Yep, I have carrots.
Do you eat carrots often?
So have you always wanted
to be a rocket scientist?
Ah, yes,
as a young boy, my father
used to spin stories
about the stars
and constellations
and I've been
fascinated ever since.
You?
I guess I always wanted
to answer questions
about the universe that people
have asked for centuries.
Not many people get
to do stuff like that.
I absolutely agree.
I feel very lucky to have a
profession that I love so much,
even if the managing
portion is challenging.
Really, why is that, if
you don't mind me asking?
Well, it's a bit
difficult to connect,
when your moniker is Dr. Spock.
It's not unwarranted,
rubbing elbows with employees
never really interested me.
So you just don't care?
No, I didn't say that.
It's just that some
people aren't comfortable
being, I don't know,
social butterflies.
Okay, fine,
but you really could try.
How?
Engage, do something
for your employees,
ask about their lives, tell
them you appreciate them.
Just don't hide in
your office 24/7.
Okay, I get it, yeah, thanks.
Well,
this is- Excruciating.
I was gonna say interesting,
but I mean, you know,
I'm just trying to
make the best of it.
Can we just pretend that we
went on a date and just leave?
If we say we are going on a
date, we are going on a date,
I don't lie to my daughter.
This entire thing is a lie.
Not really, it's a Santa lie.
- What's that?
- When you make something up
to make your kid's
life more magical.
If I was a parent,
I wouldn't fill my kid's
head with fantasies.
That is exactly
what your father did,
you wouldn't be who you are,
if he didn't fill your
head with fantasies.
Well, that may be,
but this entire ruse
with Grace is excessive.
I really don't understand why
you keep on going so far with-
If you really wanna know,
Grace has had a very hard life.
Okay, you keep saying that,
but how hard could it be?
She's eight.
Her father died,
when she was five.
That was kind of hard, okay.
Ah,
I-I'm sorry, I-I didn't know.
Why would you, you only
authorized my bereavement leave?
I don't remember that.
You didn't even ask who died.
Maybe we should go.
Of course.
Excuse me, I'll take
the check please.
It was bad.
It hurts my teeth
just thinking about it.
And we have four wishes left.
Well, what's next?
We're driving to La
Maison this afternoon
to beg the maitre d' for a
table for their Christmas Tea.
Are you kidding? That place
is impossible to get into.
I mean, good luck with that.
- Let me talk to him.
- No, let me,
An old colleague of
mine has connections,
he's already spoken
with the maitre d'.
Fine, but I'm better with
people and I can handle-
May I help you?
Yes.
Ah, Eric Grunewald
told you I'd be coming,
my name is Evan McCormick.
About a reservation
for our Christmas tomorrow, I believe?
Yes, about 4:30 works
very nicely for us.
I'm sorry, sir, but
we're completely booked.
There must be something
that you can do.
I'm afraid not, as I said,
sir, we're completely booked.
Yes, you've already
said that, but-
Would you like to see
tomorrow's seating chart?
Yes, that is an excellent idea.
I have a solution, simply
move this table of five here
and these tables of two and
three to these corners here
and that will open up plenty
of room for a table of two,
we'll take that.
Sir, at the risk
of being redundant.
What was your name?
George.
George, do you
think you can give us
one itsy bitsy second?
Just let me handle this.
I don't know what
you can possibly do,
that man is clearly unreasonable.
Just let me handle this.
Okay, but if you
just listen to what-
Just, just, just don't talk.
Okay.
George, would it be
possible for you and I
to have a quick moment?
It'll be super duper fast.
If you can assure me that
it will be super duper fast,
I'm about to take my lunch.
Promise me you'll have
your Aunt Alma call,
you have my number.
I do and don't forget
about New Year's Eve,
my house, eight,
heavy hors d'oeuvres.
Please, won't you
let me bring something?
No, no, just yourself.
Hello, sir, we look
forward to seeing you
tomorrow at our Christmas Tea,
I'll be sure to give
Grace our best table.
Shall we get back to work now?
What did you do to him?
I was just asking him
questions, that's all.
You got an impossible
to get reservation
by just asking questions?
It's not about
getting something,
it's about getting to
know someone, you know?
Actually, I don't know.
It's simple, once someone feels
like you're really listening,
they'll usually show
you their chewy center,
no matter how hard the
shelling, once you get that.
Chewy center?
Which one?
Hm, you know what?
You should actually
wear your gray suit.
All right
and a tie?
I only own three, I'm, I'm
not sure what they go with.
Evan, it's tea with
a seven year old.
And-and what kind
of questions do I ask?
It's not an interview, Ev,
just, you know,
be in the moment.
Okay, but-but like
what if I'm trying
to get where she's
coming from, you know?
Wow, you're really
starting to care
about this little
girl, aren't you?
No, no, I-I didn't say that.
It's just that her and her mom
have had a, a difficult time
and I feel compelled to
make them feel better,
although I'm not quite sure how.
You've got a huge heart, Ev,
why don't you just try
and let them see that?
I think the rest
will work itself out.
That's him, that's him,
that's the Christmas Prince!
Hi.
Um, you look fancy.
Thank you, so do you,
only you look handsome.
Are-are you ready for tea?
Ah-huh.
Now remember, this
is a very nice tea,
so be sure to use
your best manners.
Don't worry, Mommy, I will.
I've never had a real grown
up tea before, have you?
Actually, I haven't.
I'll be right here, honey.
Okay, Mommy.
The Christmas music is
so pretty, isn't it?
It is lovely.
I've been wanting to
learn how to play a piano
for years and years.
Have you?
Ah-huh, I want to take lessons,
so I can learn how to play
Christmas songs just like this.
Daddy used to like
Christmas songs a lot.
Good afternoon, miss,
may I present our tea?
We have a selection of
Christmas-inspired scones
and pastries and of course,
our world famous
finger sandwiches.
Thank you very much, sir.
You are quite welcome, miss
and please say hello
to your mother for me.
He's nice, isn't he?
Very.
I have a question.
All right.
What do you do when
you're not granting wishes
or visiting Santa?
Well, I do enjoy
looking up at the stars.
So does Mommy.
I bet the stars are super
bright at the North Pole.
Yes, I-I suppose they are.
Mommy says they're
filled with stories,
could you tell me one?
I, um, I'm not
sure I know a story.
Oh.
Although have you heard
the one about Pegasus?
What's a Pegasus?
A flying horse.
Cool.
The Pegasus
belonged to Poseidon,
God of the sea,
earthquakes and storms
and one day, on one of
his special missions,
Poseidon was in trouble,
so he whistled and
he called for Pegasus
and he came flying out of
the ocean, he saved him.
Shall we?
Suddenly, this whole
thing just feels weird.
I don't get it, he's
fulfilling all the wishes,
that's what you wanted, right?
I know, but the whole
reason I don't date
is so that Grace
doesn't have to deal
with another man in her life.
Okay, but she's the one
going for tea, not you, so.
So you should just see
the way she lights up,
when she's around Evan.
What are you afraid of?
What if Grace gets her
heart broken a second time?
Then I guess you'll just
have to pick up the pieces
all over again.
One more question.
All right.
Why don't you have a Princess?
Well, it's not always easy
to find a Princess sometimes.
I think it's hard for my
mom to find somebody too.
Why is that?
Well, Mommy doesn't even
date and she promised me,
that she'd never
get married again.
I see.
But I never even asked her
to make the promise
in the first place.
Everyone needs someone
to love them the best,
don't you think?
You are a very smart
young lady, Grace.
Thanks.
There's Mommy, hi, Mommy!
Hi, love bug, did you have fun?
I had the best time ever.
Yes, I believe we did
have the best time ever.
That's great.
Did you say thank you?
Thank you, you're the
best Christmas Prince ever.
Thanks.
My pleasure.
Come on.
I mean, it sounds like the tea
was a big success.
It was all Grace would
talk about this morning
and about Evan.
Stop talking.
I know and when
he brought her back,
I, I can't describe it,
but he actually was
sort of charming.
What?
I know, this,
this whole thing is,
it's-it's a little unnerving.
Yeah, no kidding.
Do you think he could
actually be good for Grace?
I mean, even Spock was
half human.
Hang on.
Look, these numbers
can't be right.
Looks like the
satellite is drifting.
Let's get Evan in here.
So you're saying we still
have a chance to correct it?
We think so, but
we're gonna need to run
a couple of simulations.
And we need to do it now.
It's gonna be a long night.
I gotta make a call.
You have tickets to
that midnight showing
of "It's a Wonderful
Life," don't you?
I-I mean, yeah, but I mean,
this is really important.
No, we could handle
it, can't we, Shelby?
Ah, sure.
Good, it's settled then.
Okay, thank you.
Now,
now that should be,
it.
Now all we have to do
is run the simulator,
it should take an hour or two.
I think I'm gonna grab a coffee
and head to the roof.
Do you wanna join me?
Sure.
Shelby,
what's it like being
a, a single mom?
It can be a little
tricky sometimes,
being both Mom and Dad.
Does it ever get lonely?
Sometimes,
but I have Grace and my group.
Your-your group?
Yeah, it takes a village.
It's a parent support
group I formed
after my husband passed.
You formed a support group?
Well, my family was
halfway across the country
and I didn't wanna quit here,
'cause I have worked
hard on that mission.
I looked around, but I
just couldn't find anything
for single parents, so.
So you created
your own solution?
I guess so.
Shelby?
Yes?
I don't believe I ever told you,
but I think you are an
extraordinary engineer
and I really do appreciate
all your hard work.
Like tonight, for example,
you're amazing.
It's my job.
Besides, you're the one
going the extra mile for me
with this whole Christmas
Prince thing, so.
Well, you did blackmail me, so.
Did you just make a joke?
How'd I do?
It was clever.
Hey.
It looks like the torque
rods and the thrusters
are gonna be our solution.
Perfect, that,
that's great news.
I can make the adjustments
from here on out,
no need to stay.
Okay, I'll see you
tomorrow afternoon then
and-and please don't hurry
in, you should get some rest.
Thanks, Evan, you too.
I'll be fine.
I guess I'll leave
you to it then.
Hey, Shelby, something's
been bothering me.
I was wrong not to say
anything about your husband
and although it's belated,
I want you to know,
that I'm truly
sorry for your loss.
Thanks, Evan,
I appreciate that.
Something's wrong.
Everything was fine before I
left, why didn't you call me?
It's not the satellite,
you're never gonna believe it.
Come on.
I think it's some sort
of Christmas party.
Was this Evan's idea?
Yep.
Oh!
Are we all about to get fired?
No.
I think he's trying.
Cookie?
It's a reindeer, I
decorated it myself.
Have a snowman instead.
You made a Christmas party?
I hadn't thought of
it exactly that way,
but I'm glad you think so.
They're good.
Oh and speaking of Christmas,
I have to make an announcement.
Can I have everyone's
attention please?
As Shelby here pointed
out on a previous date,
many of you have family
obligations during this season
and well, in keeping
with that idea,
just this morning, I
spoke with two young,
excellent candidates
out of Cape Canaveral,
they're gonna join the team
and help us with
the solar array,
which in turn will
allow us to push through
the next phase in
a timely manner.
Working on Christmas
and Christmas Eve
will no longer be necessary.
Wow!
So I hope that helps
and Merry Christmas.
This is great news.
Really good news.
So what's next on
Grace's wish list?
Well, the piano
wish is still left,
which is a little
rough, I checked,
grand pianos start
at around 20 grand.
I think I have an idea,
can I bring it over tonight?
Yeah.
Okay.
But how are you gonna, oh!
- Oh, sorry, can you?
- Oh!
Thank you.
I just gotta take this in
my office, just one minute.
Hi, Scott, can you
hold just one moment?
Hey, sorry, Scott,
please go ahead.
Evan, listen, I
wanted to talk to you
before you heard it
from someone else.
Heard what?
The situation's a little
more advanced than I hoped.
I'm afraid you're under review.
I am?
Does that mean
I'm getting fired?
I really don't know,
we're just gonna
have to wait and see.
Okay, well, thank you
for letting me know, Scott.
My tongue is
getting kind of dry and yucky.
Addressing Christmas cards
is not for the faint of heart.
Who's that?
Let's go see.
Hi, Christmas Prince.
Hello, Grace.
What's under your coat?
One of your wishes.
Really, what is it?
Your piano.
That's a piano?
It is a piano, but
it's not just any piano.
You wanna hear the story?
The elves made this?
They did many, many years ago
and like all of Santa's
toys, it was very special.
It was?
Yes, see, this piano was
meant to bring great joy
to whoever was lucky
enough to play it,
but year by year,
nobody wanted it.
Why not?
Well, some children
thought it was too small,
some wanted a grand piano
and some wanted a piano
made only of wood.
So each year, this
piano got passed by
and it became more and more sad.
It did?
Yes, because more than anything,
it just wanted to be
played and enjoyed
and to bring whoever was
lucky enough to play it great?
Joy?
That's right, but it needed
a special, little girl,
a girl with a big,
generous heart,
the kind of girl that
cared about others,
who gave up her own wishes
to help other people
in things like toy drives.
It was waiting for me?
Yeah, that's exactly right,
it waited all those
years just for you
and when you play it,
you both can enjoy it
the way it was always
meant to be enjoyed.
Ready?
Okay.
It's beautiful.
Is she finally asleep?
I thought she was
gonna be up all night
on that magical
elf piano of yours.
I'm sorry, I didn't
mean to ruin her bedtime.
It is a school night.
I don't know how
to say thank you.
You've been wonderful.
She's wonderful
and I understand now
why you would do
anything for her.
If you don't mind me asking,
what was your husband like?
Well,
he was larger than life for one.
He was a big guy
with a big laugh
and even bigger personality.
But the one thing I
loved most about him
was that he was so solid
and dependable.
I guess that's why
it hurt so badly.
What do you mean?
It just never occurred
to me he'd leave.
He left you?
Not intentionally, I, I know
this doesn't make any sense.
He was sick, it wasn't
his fault and it just,
I couldn't help feeling like,
I don't know, like...
He just abandoned us.
Anyway, I'm sorry, I didn't
mean to like get heavy
all of a sudden.
No, no, no, no,
I'm glad you feel
like you can tell me.
What kept you guys? You're late.
Santa!
Ho ho ho!
I hear you'd like to watch
a Christmas movie together?
Yeah, I've got
popcorn, come on, hurry.
Wow, my own gingerbread house!
I still can't believe the
whole Christmas Prince thing
is almost over.
And that he's doing a good job.
That really is the
most amazing part.
It's almost too good to be true.
So what's left?
This Toy Drive, of course
and the Christmas Dance.
I still think it's so cute,
that Grace is using one of
her wishes for the Toy Drive.
She's got a heart
of gold, that one.
Exactly why I can't
stand to break it,
especially if we end up moving.
Wait, what?
Skyrocket called several times.
I finally called them back.
And?
I got a job
interview for next week
and they already hinted that
the job is mine, if I want it.
I thought you said that
job was impossible to get.
They lost one of
their key engineers.
Are you serious about taking it?
I should be, this is
a great opportunity,
but I'd have to
start right away,
it was one of
their stipulations.
Well, right away as in when?
After the first of the year.
What are you gonna do?
I don't know, everything
is just, it's going so fast,
I don't know what to think.
The Christmas
Prince is coming to the Dance,
I know he is.
- What are you gonna wear?
- I don't know,
probably something
really pretty.
Same.
Hi, Grace.
Hey, Jessie.
Hi, Sherman.
The Christmas Dance is
this weekend, you know.
I know.
Too bad you guys can't go.
Yes, we can.
No, you can't, you guys don't
have any family to go with,
just moms.
You don't know anything,
I'm going with my
mom and my uncle.
But you don't have an uncle.
I don't need one, I
have the Christmas Prince.
He's like family and he's
coming to the Christmas Dance.
He's a made up Prince,
who's not even gonna come,
not even if he was real.
Is everything okay?
I was just kidding
around with Grace.
No, you weren't.
That's what he always says
when he knows he's wrong,
even though he really
meant it to begin with.
Tell your mom I said
hi and thank her again
for contributing
to the Toy Drive.
Yeah, the Christmas Prince
is probably waiting for us
right now to give out
toys because he's nice
and that's what real Princes do.
See you later, buddy.
Grace, what has been going on?
Merry Christmas.
This is a really good one.
I wrapped it, so I know.
Thank you.
- Merry Christmas.
- Merry Christmas.
Everything okay?
Yeah, why?
You just seem a
little preoccupied.
No, I'm good.
Okay.
Merry Christmas.
Four kisses and last kiss, muah!
Did you have a good day?
Super good.
It's been fun, hasn't it?
It's not over yet, Mommy,
we still have the
Christmas Dance.
Out of all the wishes,
that's the one I want most.
- Really?
- Yep.
You're still coming, right?
I wouldn't miss
it for the world.
Good, goodnight, Christmas
Prince, I love you.
I love you too, little one.
It's a
beautiful night, isn't it?
Very beautiful.
You know, I used to love stories
about the constellation too.
What's your favorite?
Andromeda.
It's so- Romantic.
Yeah.
It's my favorite too.
You know, if you would've
told me that a month ago,
I wouldn't believe you.
But now?
I do.
Our satellite is
out there somewhere.
Yes, it is.
Sometimes I think I would
like to be up there too,
just floating.
I used to think the same thing.
Used to?
Lately, I'd rather be down
here on earth right where I am.
Yeah,
I guess I would too.
I want you to know
this has been the best
Christmas I've ever had
and I have you to thank for it.
I should be the
one thanking you.
I really had fun today.
Me too.
Goodnight, Shelby.
Night, Evan.
I really wanna say thank you
for considering me for
the position at Skyrocket,
but after a lot of thought,
I've decided to stay
at my current position.
Hey, Merry Christmas.
Oh, thank you, Lorenzo,
you didn't have to do that.
Oh, it wasn't me.
There you go, Merry Christmas.
Wow!
I know, right?
Personalized and everything,
I didn't even know he
knew everyone's names.
I mean, the gifts themselves
aren't personalized,
everybody got the same thing.
It's not exactly something
I had on my list,
practical, I'll give him that.
Hey, Brenda.
I'm sure it's exhausting
with the new baby,
but if you need more time off,
just let me know and
we'll work it out.
Oh, sorry.
Let me get this,
Merry Christmas.
Oh, I don't understand.
Why does the Board
wanna meet with me?
To be honest, I think it
might be not very good news.
Well, are they firing me?
I don't know, all I know is
they wanna see you right away
tomorrow at five p.m.
Tomorrow?
I have plans, a Christmas Dance,
it's very important actually.
This is not something
you can reschedule,
they're flying in from
all over the country,
whatever you have, you're
gonna have to cancel it.
I've gotta go, talk soon.
You're gonna look
just like a proper Princess.
You mean a Queen?
Oh, right, what was I thinking?
You know, this has been a
really, really good Christmas,
hasn't it, Mommy?
It has.
It feels like it did
when Daddy was still here,
don't you think?
I do.
What time is it?
It is a little past 9:30.
Do you think that's too
early to start getting ready?
Maybe a little, the
Dance isn't until tonight.
I bet that's the
Christmas Prince.
Maybe it's not too early, Mommy.
Let's go see.
Told you it's the
Christmas Prince.
Mommy, I should get my dress on.
What's wrong?
I have some bad news.
Grace, honey, why don't
you go play in your room?
The Christmas Prince
and I need to talk.
Can't you reschedule?
I already asked, but the
entire Board is coming.
- Why, what's wrong?
- I don't know,
but it's important if
they're all flying in.
You sure you can't make it?
I really wish I could.
You really know how important
this is to her, right?
Oh, let me talk to
her, I could try to-
No.
I'll do it.
Okay, Shelby.
She's not gonna understand why.
The only thing she's
gonna understand
is that you're not there.
So you just go and you just
do what you have to do.
- Okay, Shelby, please.
- No, no, no, no.
This is my fault,
you were right,
I should have never lied
to her in the first place.
I'll just handle it myself.
Okay, Shelby.
Is the Christmas
Prince still here?
No, honey,
he left.
What did he want?
Gracie, I
am really, really sorry,
but the Christmas Prince can't
come to the Dance tonight.
But it was one of my wishes
and the Christmas Prince-
Maybe the Christmas
Prince isn't as magical
as we thought he'd be.
- Yes, he is.
- Gracie.
No, you're just too
old to believe in magic,
but that doesn't mean
there's no such thing.
Grace.
It's okay, Mommy, you'll
see, he'll come to the Dance.
He promised he would.
Honey, he'd be here
already if he was coming.
Look, we don't need
the Christmas Prince
to have fun at the Dance, do we?
Oh, come on, we
don't wanna be late.
I'll go get my purse
and we'll go, okay.
Okay.
Christmas is my
baby time with you
Christmas is my
baby time with you
Hi.
- Hi.
- Hi.
Hey, Grace, you look pretty.
Thanks, you too.
I hope Sherman doesn't show up.
I know, he's such a bully.
- So where is he?
- Who?
You know, the Christmas Prince.
He'll be here, just,
just not yet.
What happened, did
his royal carriage
break down or something?
Grace, honey, let's go
get something to drink.
Grace!
I am so sorry, honey.
I wish I could just make
him be here for you.
I'm not sad about that, Mommy.
You're not?
Well then, why are you crying?
I feel like you
don't believe anymore.
Believe in what?
In him, the Christmas
Prince, don't you know that?
Oh, Grace.
No, just because
he's late to the Dance
doesn't mean he's not
the Christmas Prince.
He's smart and he's handsome
and he's a really
good storyteller too
and he's very, very
kind, just like you said,
so that's how I know
he's the Christmas Prince
and you should know that too.
How did you ever
get to be so smart?
Are you okay, Mommy?
I will be.
Muah!
Jingle bells, jingle
bells, jingle all the way
Hi, can you watch Grace?
What's going on?
- I need to do something.
- Sure.
Thanks.
Um.
(I music)
Probably
the one we want to talk to.
You'll talk to her.
Evan, thanks for coming.
Take a seat.
Let me get right to it.
It's not often that
the Board gets together
to address a single
issue, namely you,
but in this case, we
felt it was necessary.
John, why don't
you take the floor?
Thank you, Evan, I know
that Scott spoke to you
a few weeks ago about
your performance.
Ah, yes, he did.
Listen, if you're gonna fire me,
please just let me
know right now, please.
Oh, oh, no, look,
we're not firing you,
we'd like to promote you.
Excuse me?
We're interested in exploring
the habitability
of Saturn's moons.
And we think
you're the right man
to head up the probe build.
I-I don't understand.
You told me my job
was on the line.
It was, not anymore.
We've received some
excellent feedback on you
in the past several weeks.
And we were very impressed
with how you righted
the ship, Evan.
It takes a big man to realize
he needs to change his ways.
Oh, plus a little girl
and an amazing woman.
Excuse me?
A long story, regardless, I
am flattered with your offer
and of course, I
would love to accept.
Good, well then, people,
let's get down to discussing
the details of rolling
out this project.
Most of us have turnaround
flights in the morning.
I'm sorry, I-I can't.
What's that?
I-I can't stay.
That's funny.
I always say that Evan
doesn't have a life,
it's kind of an inside joke
between us, but he can stay.
Actually, I didn't have
a life, but now I do.
I would love to discuss
the project further,
but tonight, I have
a royal appointment.
Don't ask.
Ah.
Three hot chocolates, please.
My mom's getting
us hot chocolate.
Now is the time for
you to see me there
Grace.
- Thank you.
- You're welcome.
He'll come and your
mom will be right back.
Shelby?
Hi, it's Shelby,
I mean, I know you know that.
But anyway-
- Shelby.
- Wait, can you,
can you just wait a second?
There's something I need to
say and it's really hard for me
and if you could
just not interrupt,
that would be,
well, really good.
I'm sorry, go ahead.
The thing is,
I was afraid for so long,
that I tried to insulate
Grace and I from everything,
so neither of us could get hurt.
What I'm trying to say is,
is I don't wanna
do that anymore.
The point is.
All the days
are growing cold
It's not just
Grace that loves you.
The nights are long
I think the same thing
is happening to me.
Christmas
I hear voices young and old
Turn around.
They sing a song
It's almost Christmas
I open up my arms
and it surrounds me
Christmas Prince!
I open up my heart
and I can see
Whoa!
There is magic
I hope I'm not too late.
I had a little trouble
with the royal carriage.
Still can feel
Real carriage?
Snowball, I get to have
a ride of Snowball?
Would you like that?
Still believe in
And Grace,
your crown.
It's almost Christmas
Wow!
Hold the ones
you love so close
You look really pretty.
What you love
Thank you.
Your Majesty, may I?
Of course.
Queen Grace.
Allow me to accompany you.
To open up my arms
and let it surround me
To open up my
heart so I can see
That there is
magic in the air
I know it's there
I still can feel it
Hi.
Bye, Christmas Prince!
I still believe
I told you.
I was just kidding, I
knew he was real all long.
Giddy up!
It's almost Christmas
It's almost Christmas
This is so pretty.
Oh.
It's almost Christmas
Who's that for?
If you would do me the honor?
I would love to.
See all the
wonder everywhere
I know it's there
Does that mean you're the
Christmas Princess, Mommy?
I...
Well, like my group says,
one thing at a time.
Well, perhaps we
can start with this?
It's all right there
Can you believe it
Open up your arms,
let it surround you
Open up your arms
Open up your heart
so you can see
Now.
It's almost Christmas