Jingle Bell Love (2024) Movie Script
- Merry Christmas.
- Oh, OK.
See, it's getting better.
But still...
- The hair.
- Hello?
- In here, Dad.
- Oh, kind of cute.
- What kind of trouble
are you ladies getting into?
- Trying to find Terri
a boyfriend.
- Don't make me sound
so desperate.
We're just scouring
one of the apps I'm on.
- What's an app?
- Dad!
- I'm kidding.
You're on Facechat.
- Ooh. He looks kind of cool.
A musician.
- Whoa, Terri.
No musicians, trust me.
- Dad, maybe you should
get on one of these.
- I'm seeing someone.
Thank you.
- Victoria?
- You know her name's Veronica.
And she's coming
to dinner later.
In the meantime, you go upstairs
and finish packing for tomorrow.
I saw that.
- Wasn't hiding it.
- She'll be fine.
It's gonna be tough
for anyone who tries
to fill Kate's shoes.
- I hope keeping
the lakeside tradition going
makes it easier for her.
First Christmas in a loft.
- What about you?
How are you doing?
- Meh...
I think it's time
I started looking ahead.
- Exactly.
New year.
- New beginning.
- Well, I got to go.
- OK, thank you.
- Well, maybe it'll be
a merry Christmas after all.
I got a match.
Ooh, a lawyer.
- Better.
- Yeah.
- Well, don't let us
cramp your style.
Go.
- Bye, Terri.
- See you soon, girl.
- I changed my mind.
We don't need
to go see Santa this year.
- Wait, what?
- You know that I'm 10,
not 2, right?
I still say
I'm too old for this.
- You're never too old for
a picture with the big guy.
Mommy!
- Fine.
- Ho, ho, ho!
Merry Christmas!
Ho, ho, ho.
And what do you want
for Christmas this year,
little girl?
- I'm 10.
- Oh, pardon me.
Big girl.
- What I want,
you can't help me with.
- Oh, don't be so sure
about that.
Santa's got helpers
all over the world.
- OK, Santa. You're on.
Can you find a new girlfriend
for my dad?
I'm hungry.
- Veronica will be here
any minute.
- Are you gonna marry her?
- Whoa.
Grace, I am not marrying anyone
any time soon.
- She's nothing like Mom.
- No one will ever replace
your mother.
- I just want you
to find someone
who loves you
as much as Mom did.
And I don't think it's...
Sorry.
- She cancelled, huh?
- Yeah.
It's a really busy time of year.
You know what?
Let's grab some pizza.
And maybe a hot chocolate after.
- You had me at "pizza."
- I'll grab your jacket.
- Nice work, Santa.
- Uh-huh.
Yes, um, I understand,
but I just...
- So, I was thinking
that we should totally
do a mistletoe setup
at the fro...
- Uh, what... what if I made
a partial payment today?
Then how much time would I have
to make a full payment?
Yes, I know there's been
a history of late payments.
I...
What about another loan?
Yes, I understand.
Well, I'm sorry too.
OK, thank you for your time.
And merry Christmas to you too.
- So, uh...
I take it Mr. Scrooge
didn't have a change of heart?
- Not so much.
- What'd he say?
- He said I have to
come up with $25,000
by Christmas Eve,
or the bank's gonna
foreclose on Maisie's.
- Christmas Eve?
- It's a totally
real deadline, Ivan.
I thought I could fix all this.
- Hey, you did
everything you could, OK?
Maisie was like
a second mother to me.
And I know that she'd be
so proud of you right now.
You gave up a lot.
Not everyone would do that.
- Well, we still have 5 days.
Maybe you could conjure up
a Christmas miracle.
- No problem.
I'm on it.
- Grace, make sure you
double check your bags.
Make sure you have everything
for the ride.
And, oh, don't forget
your drumsticks.
- Oh shoot!
- Hey, Veronica.
What are you doing here?
- Oh, I wanted to see you off.
Hi, Gracie.
- It's Grace!
- Sorry I didn't
make it over last night.
But I was going through
the list for Martin,
and there's a property
in Lakeside that's prime
to be a new Regal Roaster.
If we can get it acquired
by the end of the year...
- It'll boost
our 4th quarter numbers,
then we are guaranteed
promotions.
Exactly.
- I promised Grace I wouldn't
work over Christmas.
- OK, but this is a no-brainer.
You're gonna be there, anyway.
The owner's having
financial problems.
It'll be quick and easy.
Grace won't even notice.
Martin's counting on us.
- I'll take care of it.
It's a win-win
for both of us, right?
- Thanks, babe.
OK, have a safe drive
- Got something on your mind?
- No. You?
- No. You?
- When you and Mom met,
what did you like
most about her?
- Everything.
First of all, she was beautiful.
And smart.
And sassy, like you.
I just knew from the start
she was really thoughtful.
Oh, and she was never afraid
of a challenge,
even when she knew
she would lose.
Every day was...
- Like living the happy ending
of the best Christmas movie
of all time?
- I never thought of it
that way, but...
yeah, exactly.
- And what about Veronica?
- Grace.
- Seriously.
I'm just trying to understand.
She seems more Jack Frost
than Love Actually.
- It's not the same thing.
Your mom was
the love of my life.
Veronica and I
just started dating.
- But what is it
you like most about her?
- Uh, uh...
She's...
nice.
And we work together, so it's...
- Convenient?
I get it, Dad. It's OK.
Lots of people like Jack Frost.
- Oh my goodness!
- Grandma!
- I've missed you so much!
Ooh! Look how much
you've grown!
How you doing, Jack?
Yeah? How was the drive?
- Mostly peaceful.
- Well, I hope you're hungry.
I got some gingerbread cookies
fresh out of the oven.
- I'll grab the bags.
- Come on, let him do that.
We're gonna have...
...cookies!
- Yes!
- Ah!
Started with the head first.
Going, gone.
- Mmm!
- Well, I guess we don't have
to worry about lunch now.
- What's my policy, Jack?
- Your house, your rules.
- Uh-huh.
- Is Robert at the shop?
- Where else would he be?
- Yeah.
How's he doing
after the surgery?
- Good.
Not quite as good
as he claims, but good.
- Mm-hmm.
- And how are you doing?
- Good.
- Can we go to the shop
and surprise Grandpa?
- You just want
to go play the drums.
- And see Grandpa.
- Go, you can unpack
when you get back.
- Well, let's do it.
- I'll go grab my sticks.
- Hey, Tim.
Robert in?
- Hey, Jack.
Yeah, I'll go get him.
- Thank you.
- Can I go play
in the drum room?
- Sure. Go get them, Ringo.
- Sounds nice.
- Hey.
- So you're still writing?
- Yeah.
- We are so happy that you came.
- Ah, it's good to be here.
- How's business?
- Can't complain.
One thing about a small town
is I don't have to compete
with those big
music superstores.
And how is the lovely world
of commercial acquisitions
treating you?
- Not bad, actually.
I'm in line for a promotion.
- Good for you.
- Grandpa!
- Ha, ha!
Kiddo!
Wow, look at you.
- Can I show you
what I've been practicing?
- I would be disappointed
if you didn't.
- While you guys do that,
I need a coffee.
I'm gonna hit Maisie's.
Do you want something?
- I've had my one cup
for the day.
Mary's been watching me
like a hawk.
- Can I get a latte?
- Uh, we're not in Chicago,
and you're 10.
- A decaf, then?
- Closer.
- Thanks, Dad.
Come on, Grandpa!
- Maybe you have a doppelganger
here in Lakeside that's, like,
an heiress of some kind.
You don't know!
It could totally happen.
- Ivan!
How about you refill
the coffee...
...put out the cookies
I just made,
and I will try to sell them,
and we'll make
some actual money.
- Ooh.
See?
I'm telling you, this day
is starting to turn around.
Smile. He's coming over.
Smile.
- Ugh, Ivan...
Hi. Welcome to Maisie's.
How can I help you?
- A hot chocolate with
whipped cream and sprinkles.
It's for my daughter.
I'll take a black coffee.
- Thank God.
- Coming right up.
- Is this the, uh,
Ricochet Christmas album?
- Yeah, good catch.
I love this album.
Their harmonies...
- Are you new in town?
- I live in Chicago.
But I'm here with my daughter
for the holidays with family.
Uh, Mary and Robert Bishop?
- I'm... I'm so sorry
for your loss.
- Thanks. I guess I forget
everyone knows everyone here.
- Kind of.
- But I've been coming
to Lakeside for years.
I don't think
I've ever seen you here before.
- Um...
- Dad.
- What happened to the drums?
- Grandpa said the student
has become the master,
but I think
he just needed a break.
He asked to bring home Maisie's
coffee cake for tomorrow.
It's Grandma's favorite.
- I guess we'll take
a coffee cake too.
- Hi, I'm Grace.
- Hi, Grace. I'm Jessica.
And this...
must be for you.
- Thanks, Jessica.
- You know what would go
good with that?
- What?
- It's gingerbread
with peppermint frosting.
On the house.
- Thanks.
- So that's two
gingerbread cookies,
a hot chocolate and a cake pop,
and we haven't been here
an hour.
- Uh, there you go.
- Thanks.
- Uh, that'll be $34.50.
Well, it was nice
to meet you, Grace.
And you too.
- Yeah, uh...
Jack.
- Jack.
Um, hope to see you guys
in here again soon.
- I'm sure you will.
Grace loves her hot chocolate.
I have to take this.
Meet you at the shop.
I'll be real quick. Promise.
Hey.
- Hi. How was the drive?
- Easy.
- Good.
Did you check your email?
- Oh, no, sorry.
I've been super busy
since we've been here.
- Well, I sent you
the property address.
It's called Maisie's cafe.
- Of course.
- You know it?
- I just walked out of there,
actually.
It's kind of an institution
around here.
- Well, an institution that's
majorly going out of business.
The bank is planning
to foreclose.
- Hmm, so much for
the Christmas spirit.
The town's not gonna be happy
about this one.
- Well, that's a they problem,
not a we problem.
Our problem would be
letting it go to auction,
and then possibly having
to overpay for it
or lose it to another bidder.
We need them to accept the offer
by Christmas Eve.
- Copy that.
- Promotion, here we come.
OK, I'll talk to you later.
- Great.
Wow, Mary, you did not have
to go to all this trouble.
And on our first night.
- We are just so happy
to have you here.
We felt like a little
extra effort was warranted.
- This was your mom's
favorite dish.
- I know.
- She always helped me make it.
- She really loved Christmas.
I know she'd be happy
that we're all here together,
carrying on our traditions.
- And creating some new ones.
- To traditions, old and new.
- Mmm!
Speaking of traditions,
how did your rehearsal go today?
You didn't overdo it, did you?
- Just some holiday tunes,
nothing crazy.
You can't have
the Christmas market
without Bishop's
Music Emporium there.
- You didn't rock too hard,
did you?
How's the old ticker
after the surgery?
- I'll be fine.
You know, I've been thinking
of retiring, but...
I don't know who I could trust
to take over the store.
It would have to be someone
who understands music
and business.
- Robert.
- What?
I... I'm not pressuring him.
I'm just saying if it's
something that interested him...
- If you took over
Grandpa's store,
does that mean
we'd move to Lakeside?
- No.
Yes, if we...
That's...
Gracie, I have a job.
- You see what you started?
- I wasn't trying
to start anything.
- It's fine.
Why don't we talk
about something else.
- Hmm, how are things going
with Veronica?
- Can I be excused?
- Gracie, we just sat down.
And... and your grandmother
went to all this trouble.
- Jack, it's fine.
Grace, if you're done,
please take your plate
to the kitchen.
- Of all the things
she's adjusting to...
this is the hardest one.
- Give her time.
- If you really like Veronica,
I'm sure Grace will come around.
- Do you guys think
I'm moving too fast?
- Kate would want you
to be happy.
And so do we.
- It's all gonna work out.
Are you sure you can't
do anything about it?
- Can I come in?
- Sure.
- I brought you your dinner.
- I'm not hungry.
- Maybe some peppermint
hot chocolate, your favorite.
- Thanks, Grandma,
but I've reached my sugar limit
for the day.
- You OK?
- Yeah.
I'm good.
- Just you seemed
to get a little upset
when I asked about
your dad's girlfriend.
Don't you want him to be happy?
I know it's tough, but...
he's going to have to go out
with other people
if he's ever going
to find love again.
- Can't we help him
find the right person?
- It doesn't work that way,
sweetheart.
- Maybe it should.
Maybe he just needs
a little push
in the right direction.
- You are so much
like your mother.
- Dad says that too.
- I'll see you in the morning.
Maybe eat a little something.
Sometimes,
these things just
aren't possible.
Looks like
if I want my Christmas miracle
to happen, I'm gonna have
to do it myself.
- Morning.
- Oh, morning, Jack.
Grace wants to come
to the store with me today.
I told her she'd probably
get bored, but she insisted.
- I got to practice.
Keith Moon didn't become
the greatest drummer
of all time by sitting at home.
- If it's OK with you.
- No problem.
- I have to take care of
something in town, anyway.
So I can pick her up in a bit.
- All right.
Grab your stuff.
Let's get going.
- Can I use your printer?
- Of course.
- Thank you.
- Come on, kiddo. Let's go.
- Have fun.
- Hey, Tim, I got
a lesson starting up.
You mind keeping
an eye on Grace?
- Yeah, you got it.
Hey, guys.
Checking out this one?
- Hey.
- Grace, hi.
You back for
another hot chocolate?
- Yes, please.
- Where's your dad?
- I was hoping I could talk
to you about something.
- Sure, what's up?
- Actually,
it's kind of personal.
Do you think
we can talk in private?
- I got you covered.
- Sure.
There you go.
So...
what can I do for you?
- I know we just met
and you don't know me very well,
but I wanted to ask your help
with something.
- OK.
- Can you ask my dad out
on a date?
- Uh, hi.
I just thought Grace
might want a little treat.
- Thanks!
- Thank you, Ivan.
Grace...
your dad seems like
a really nice guy.
- He's more than nice.
- I bet.
Why do you want me
to ask your dad on a date?
- It's kind of hard to explain.
- I'm a good listener.
Did you know I knew your mom?
- Really?
- Mm-hmm.
She was kind of a big deal
around here.
She was a couple years
older than me,
and I wanted to be
just like her.
She had an amazing voice.
I bet you miss her a lot.
Can I share
something else with you?
I lost my mom last year too.
So I know a little bit about
what you're going through.
- What was her name?
- Maisie.
She was amazing.
This is her place.
So we kind of have
something in common.
And I want you to know
you can trust me.
- My mom wanted to make sure
that my dad fell in love again.
He's seeing this woman
named Veronica,
but she's totally wrong for him.
I asked Santa to find him
a new girlfriend,
but I don't think
he's gonna be much help.
So I decided to take matters
into my own hands.
And yesterday
when he was talking to you,
that was the first time
I've seen him smile like that
in a long time.
- Grace, I'm so flattered.
But if your dad
is already seeing someone,
then he's trying
to move forward.
And you might not like her now,
but maybe she'll grow on you.
Just give it time.
- I doubt it.
I like you way more.
And this is only
the second time we've met.
- I like you too.
Hey...
Your dad is gonna
find happiness again.
Trust me.
Now, can I ask you something?
Does anyone know
where you are right now?
- No, I'm supposed to be
in the drum room.
That's what I thought.
Let's get you back.
- Are you gonna tell him
what I said?
- No.
But I think you should.
- Hey, Tim.
Grace?
You know where Grace is?
- She's not in the...
Tim?
- Hey, look who I found.
- Hey.
What are you doing
running off like that
without telling anybody?
You know better than that.
- I didn't mean to scare you.
I'm sorry.
- I got to get back, but, um,
you take care
of yourself, Grace.
And remember what I told you.
- I know. I will.
- Thanks, Jess.
- Of course.
- Yeah, tha...
Thanks again.
- It's no problem.
She's been through a lot.
- Yeah. Uh...
What'd she say?
- I'm gonna let her tell you.
She promised she would, so...
Good luck.
- Yeah, you too.
- What do I need luck for?
- Pfft... General luck.
Christmas stuff, right?
- OK.
- Thanks.
- Martin.
- I knew I'd find you here.
One of the many reasons you
and Jack are my favorite team.
- Jack is actually
on the ground,
securing a fabulous
new Regal Roasters location
in Lakeside.
- I thought he was on vacation.
- That's how committed we are.
- That's what I like to hear.
We can't lose this account.
And if you and Jack
can get this location
before the New Year,
you're the team to bring
Regal Roasters global.
Don't let me down.
- Consider it done.
- Hey, what are you doing there?
So what's going on?
- Nothing.
You're just gonna tell me
it's stupid.
- Stupid?
You're smarter than me.
It's just, you know,
I'm a little concerned.
It's not like you to run off
without telling anybody.
- Dad, it's Lakeside.
There's, like, one stoplight.
- That's a good point.
So, what... what's
this all about?
- I went to the coffee shop
to see if Jessica
would ask you out on a date.
- You what?
- I saw the way
you looked at her.
I haven't seen you
look at anyone like that
in a long time.
And I thought if you liked her,
you would stop dating Veronica.
- Grace, why don't
you like Veronica?
- Because she's not
right for you.
She only cares about her job.
And you deserve
someone so much better.
And...
I promised Mom that I would
make sure you were happy.
Come here.
Listen to me.
It's the other way around.
I'm here to take care of you.
- Jessica really didn't tell you
what happened?
- No.
She had your back.
- She's pretty cool, isn't she?
Objectively, of course.
- Yeah, she is.
Time for bed.
- Good night.
- What did she say?
- She wanted Jessica
to ask me out on a date.
- Why did she say that?
- She promised Kate she would
make sure I was happy.
- At least Jessica was
a good sport about it.
She was looking out for Grace.
- Yeah, she made sure
that Grace told me the truth.
- Well, Jessica always did have
a good head on her shoulders.
- She was one of the most
talented students I ever had.
You know she had a record deal
in Nashville?
But she gave it up to come back
and look after her mom.
- Maisie.
She was a sweet woman.
She passed away last year.
- That's why she's behind.
- Behind what?
- Nothing.
Um...
Hey, I got to run an errand.
- Is everything OK?
- Uh, yeah.
- Say hi to Jessica for us.
- I'm sorry, but she literally
threw down moves from, like,
three different holiday movies.
I mean, she asked Santa
for a new mom.
- I think she asked for
a new girlfriend for her dad.
There is a difference.
- Uh, whatever.
Either way, don't you see
what's happening here?
The holiday spirit is upon us.
- Really?
Because I don't think
there's any way
I could come up with that money
in the next four days.
Ivan...
I think maybe we need to accept
that this is our last
Christmas at Maisie's.
I know. Come on.
Jess!
Jessica!
Look who's back.
What are you doing?
It's cold out.
Go... go get him.
- OK. OK.
- Have fun.
- Hey.
- Oh, I thought you were closed.
- I was just locking up.
Uh, come on in.
It's cold.
- Oh, yeah.
Thanks.
So...
Grace... Grace told me
what happened.
And I just wanted
to say thank you.
- Of course.
I mean, she's pretty amazing
for a 10 year old.
- Yeah.
More like 10 going on 25.
- Definitely more
emotionally mature
than most adults I know,
so you're doing something right.
- Thanks.
Sometimes, it's hard to see
the forest through the trees.
- Isn't it "for the trees"?
I think...
Um...
It's been a long day.
I was just gonna grab a drink.
Did you want to join me?
- Oh. I...
- You know what?
Don't worry about it. We don...
- Oh, no, no.
No, I... I'd love to, actually.
But it's on me.
It's the least I can do.
- Sure.
- Great. Um...
Do you know a place?
- Course I do.
Thank you!
Thank you!
So...
Nashville, huh?
Yeah, yeah, I sang backup
for some people,
wrote some songs.
- I heard it was
a record contract.
- I started recording an album.
But then my mom...
- I... I heard.
I'm... I'm really sorry.
- Thank you.
What about you?
Robert always said you were
an incredible musician.
- Yeah, well,
I'm more of a songwriter.
Did he tell you about
my Fuddrucker days?
- The burger chain?
- No, it was the name
of my band in college.
Yeah, I played keyboards
and wrote songs.
- So, like, leather jackets
and long hair?
- Eh... less leather,
more plaid.
It was college in the '90s.
- Nice.
So, what got you
from keyboards to corporate?
- Well, I met Kate.
And we wanted to start a family.
And I knew music wasn't
gonna pay the bills.
- Sounds pretty noble to me.
- Mmm... maybe.
- Grace mentioned you're
seeing someone in Chicago,
and I... I think
that's really great
that you're trying
to move forward.
- Can you, uh,
can you tell Grace that?
She's not a very big fan
of Veronica.
- She mentioned that too.
- Yeah.
How about you?
Anyone special in your life?
- I had a boyfriend
in Nashville,
but he didn't want to give up
his dreams and leave, so...
And, honestly, I haven't really
had time since I've been here.
But it looks like I'm gonna have
a lot more free time
on my hands pretty soon.
- What does that mean?
- I'm gonna lose Maisie's.
I have four days until
the bank forecloses.
- What about selling it?
I'm in real-estate.
I'm sure you could get
a really decent offer.
- Oh, no. I've had them.
I've had them and
I've considered some, but...
the people who want to buy,
they don't want Maisie's.
They want to... they want
to knock it down
and put in some terrible
cookie-cutter chain,
and I just... I can't do it.
So at least
if the bank forecloses,
they're the ones
taking the wrecking ball
to it, you know?
That's what I keep
telling myself, anyway.
So, I am waiting
for a Christmas miracle.
- I have an idea.
I'll be right back.
- Where are you going?
- Trust me.
Ladies and gentlemen,
we have a very
special treat tonight.
Singing a very magical
holiday mashup...
No!
- ...please welcome
to the stage... Jessica.
- I'm gonna kill you.
- Show me what you got.
That's exciting. Why not?
- Hello.
A mashup.
Ooh!
- Oh yeah!
- Me?
- Yeah!
- Whoo!
- Thank you.
- Wow.
Uh, first of all,
you're a sport.
I mean, you shine up there.
- Thank you.
- When was the last time
you were on stage?
- I got to headline a night
at the Bluebird
right before I left Nashville.
It was incredible.
- I know that smile.
It feels good, right?
- It does.
- Yeah.
- What about you?
When's the last time
you performed?
- Oh, more years
than I can count.
- Well, there's no time
like the present.
- So I discovered Robert's stash
a few years ago.
- I used to spend hours sitting
at a piano like this,
searching for
that perfect melody.
- Hmm.
- I feel alive when I sing.
- Well, you sure look alive
when you're on stage.
- All right, enough stalling.
Let's hear it.
And no covers.
Jack originals only, please.
- Jack origi...
OK.
Well, only because there's
a song that's been...
running around in my head,
but I haven't finished it.
So...
no judging.
- I promise nothing.
- I haven't played this
for anyone.
So it could be really bad.
- Just play.
- OK.
- Jack...
Wow.
That was...
Wow.
There it is.
- Yeah.
- Why didn't you finish it?
- Didn't have the heart.
- You should finish it.
And I should go.
- Uh, yeah.
Yeah, yeah, me too.
- It's late.
- Uh, Grace and I are going to
the Christmas market tomorrow.
Um, do you want
to grab dinner beforehand?
- Oh, no, I...
I mean, I would love to,
but I can't.
- Yeah.
- I have a booth at the market.
- Of course.
- Every dollar counts right now.
- Yeah.
- Um...
Do you and Grace want
to just come by and say hi,
get a hot chocolate?
- Sounds like a plan.
- OK.
See you tomorrow.
All right.
Good morning!
- Hi.
- Good morning.
How you doing?
- Hey, Dad.
- Hey.
- So, how was your date
last night?
- I don't know what
your grandparents told you,
but I had an errand to run
last night.
- Oh, they said that.
Then we all agreed
that you were heading over
to see Jessica.
- Uh, OK, I don't think I like
where this is heading.
We talked about this.
- We did, but I can't help it
if the universe has
different plans for you.
- OK, shush, shush.
Leave your dad be.
I'm sure he just wanted
to thank Jessica again
for being so nice to you.
- Pancakes?
- Sure.
And thank you.
So, to recap:
I had an errand to run
last night,
and then I ran into Jessica,
and then maybe we talked
for a little bit.
But it wasn't a date!
- Were you at a restaurant?
- Maybe.
- Was there music playing
in the background?
- Yes.
- Then it was a date!
Wait, did you guys talk
about me?
- Hmm.
Yeah, we talked about you
the whole time.
- Dad!
- OK, let your dad eat in peace.
Why don't you run upstairs
and get ready,
and maybe we can get
some shopping in
before we head
to the Christmas market.
- Oh, actually, uh,
Jessica said she has a booth
and I should take you by
for a hot chocolate.
- Cool!
I'll ask about your date
when we see her later.
Kidding.
Not kidding!
- So...
how did that thank you
really go?
- I bought her a drink.
Anyway, how many guys you got
in the band tonight?
- Just me and Tim.
We're only there
for the background noise.
- Oh, sorry.
I got to take this.
Hey, what's up?
- I was kind of surprised
I didn't hear from you
last night.
- Uh, yeah, the day
got away from me.
There was some drama with Grace.
- What happened?
- Uh, it's kind of complicated.
I'll tell you about it
some other time.
But everything's OK.
- OK, well,
any luck with the property?
Martin was really impressed
that we were able
to get things in motion
so close to the end of the year.
- Yeah, um, I made contact
with the owner.
But...
to do this
right before Christmas,
I mean...
- OK, Jack, I don't love
the timing of this either,
but we're not the only firm
waiting this one out.
I assured Martin this was ours.
- The owner doesn't want to sell
to a developer or a chain.
She thinks if she does,
she might as well be
destroying the place herself.
What... what if
I get her to agree
to a small extension
from the bank?
And when that deadline comes
and she still can't make
the payments,
we make sure
that she sells to us.
- You think you can get the bank
to agree to an extension?
- Yes, yes, this is
Kate's hometown.
I know people here.
- I don't know, Jack.
What if she finds another way
to get the money?
- She's not gonna make 25 grand
selling lattes and coffee cakes.
Look, this is a win
for everybody, right?
We derail the potential buyers
without looking like monsters,
and Jessica feels like
she has one more chance
to save her business.
- Jessica?
- Yeah, uh, um,
that's... that's the owner's name.
- You really think
you can convince her?
- Yes, I do.
- OK.
I'll get Martin on board
on this end, but...
you've got to get this done.
- I will.
- Keep me posted.
I'll talk to you later.
- OK.
- Hey.
- Hey.
- Sorry I'm late.
- All good.
- How was ping pong?
- Good.
How was your night?
- Fine.
We just grabbed a drink.
- Just fine, huh?
- We just had a drink.
- I think you were on a date.
- No, it was definitely
not a date?
- It was a date.
- Ugh, yo...
The market is opening soon.
We need to finish setting up.
- Pretty chipper for someone
who was "not on a date."
- You're the worst.
Ho, ho, ho!
And what would you like
for Christmas?
Oh!
Beautiful!
Oh, nice!
- Wow.
- Great.
Ho, ho, ho!
- Those lights!
- Thank you!
- Hey, Jessica!
- Hey, you. Did you want
another hot chocolate?
- Yeah.
- Uh, do you think your dad
would want one?
- Sure, and my grandma too.
- Hey, guys.
- Here you go.
Just the way you like it.
- Thanks.
- Mary, so good to see you.
- You too, Jess.
- Robert is sounding
amazing as usual.
- I will tell him you said that.
I'm sure it'll make his day.
- Here you go.
- Perfect.
One for you and one for you.
- Thank you.
- Grandma, can you take me over
to see Santa?
- Mmm.
- I thought you were
too old for Santa.
- We may have
some unfinished business.
- Sure, honey. Come on.
- Uh, do you have a second?
- Yes, she does.
I... I got this.
You kids, uh, have fun.
- Thank you, Ivan.
- Oh, he's ready, honey.
Here.
- Thanks.
- Ho, ho, ho!
And what would you like
for Christmas this year, li...
- Listen,
I already asked another Santa
back home for something,
but I need to change
what I want.
Is that gonna be a problem?
- Um...
- It's OK.
I know you're not Santa
anymore than he was,
but can you get my wish
to the real guy?
- I can definitely try.
- Great. You see that woman
and man over there?
- Yes.
- I told the other Santa
that I wanted
a new girlfriend for my dad.
But now I know
that I want it to be her.
Can you make that happen?
- I can certainly
pass along the message.
- Great!
And nice beard, by the way.
It looks totally real.
- So, I was thinking about
your situation with the bank.
- Yeah?
- And I think I have
an idea to help.
How about a fundraiser?
- I've already done
a Go Fund Me.
People have given so much.
I... I can't ask for more.
- No, no, no.
This isn't a Go Fund Me.
I'm talking about a concert.
A Christmas concert
with you as the headliner.
- No, I... I can't do that.
I mean, I haven't performed
in a very long time.
- I saw you up there
the other night.
You're amazing.
- Jack, this is crazy.
I mean, how could I possibly
get it together so fast?
- That's where we come in.
I already talked to Mary
and Robert about it.
They think it's a great idea.
The town will love a concert!
Maisie's is Lakeside.
We have to try to save it.
- Jack, the payment
is due in three days.
I mean, I was seriously
considering just selling
to the next buyer
that makes an offer.
- Trust me,
you don't want to do that.
Let us help you.
- So, what'd she say?
Did you tell her
that I could be her drummer?
- Well?
- Let's get to work.
- Yes!
- Whoo!
- Yeah!
Nice.
- We got it.
- Gonna be great.
It's gonna be great!
- Can't believe
we're actually doing this.
- See? All we needed was
a little Christmas spirit
and my super savvy
marketing skills.
- Very impressive, by the way.
- Thank you.
- No, thank you.
- I think this calls
for a toast.
- That's a great idea.
To... a second chance.
- In more ways than one.
- Stop it!
You know I'm talking about
the concert and saving Maisie's.
- Of course. Of course.
But why not allow
for the possibility
that Jack may want
to save you too?
- Oh, OK, first of all,
I do not need a man to save me.
Not to mention the fact that
he's already dating someone.
So why are we even
talking about this?
- Are you kidding me?
That guy's working his tail off
to make sure
this fundraiser happens.
Now, I may be single,
but I know a romantic gesture
when I see one.
And this, my friend...
is one massive gesture.
- Robert, are you OK?
- Yeah, I'm just a little tired.
This was all a lot easier
when I was your age.
- Did you see what I did
on that last chorus, Grandpa?
Straight fire.
- Just, uh, nod and smile.
- Straight fire.
- Uh, where'd your dad go?
- Back in Grandpa's office.
- Come help your Grandpa load up
the gear, all right?
- Hey, done for the day?
- Yeah.
What are you working on?
- Just looking
at the event page.
Ivan just sent over
the newest version.
- Can I see?
- Yeah, of course.
OK, so, we're gonna have
a QR-code stand at the door
so people can make donations.
Tickets are $20, but they can
get more if they want to.
We already have a bunch
of followers on social media,
and that keeps climbing,
so we're in good shape.
- Wow.
And you made sure
that everyone can get
their money back
if we fall short?
- Yes, Ivan took care of that.
- Wow, I cannot believe you guys
pulled this together so fast.
I... I don't know what I did
to deserve it.
- Well, I, uh,
I think you were due.
- Thank you.
- Jessica...
- I'm... I'm so sorry.
- No, no, don't be sorry.
- I thought that...
- No, no.
I do, I do.
That's not it.
- You have a girlfriend.
- Uh, yes.
But there's another reason.
- Then what is it?
- I...
I need to tell you something.
- That sounds ominous.
- No, no, I just...
I just want you to know
everything up front.
- OK.
- Dad, Dad, come in here!
Dad!
- What happened?
- We were cleaning up then,
all of a sudden,
he just lost his breath
and fell down.
- I'm fine.
I... I'm just a little winded.
That's all.
- Whoa, what are you doing?
Stay there.
- I'm gonna call an ambulance.
- Good idea.
- I'm OK. I don't need it.
- You need it.
Hello?
We need an ambulance
at Bishop's Music Emporium.
Right away.
Hey.
There you go.
- I'm sure it's not
as good as yours.
- Probably not,
but it'll keep you awake.
How are you doing?
- Meh.
I don't love hospitals much.
- Me either.
He's gonna be OK, Jack.
- Thanks for being here.
Of course.
- Oh, Mary, what did
the doctor say?
- Is he...
- He... he's gonna be fine.
- Another heart attack?
- No, just a warning.
The doctor says
he's been pushing himself
a little too hard
the last few days.
That old fool has never known
how to take it easy.
- So, he's OK?
- Yes, sweetheart.
Mmm!
Jessica, would you do me a favor
and take Grace in?
I just want to talk
to Jack for a second.
- Of course.
- Robert is too proud
to ask you,
but you're gonna have to step in
for him tomorrow.
- But, Mary, I haven't been
on stage in years.
- Jack, you were and are
an amazing musician.
You sit at that piano
and it's magic.
- Mary.
- Look.
This isn't difficult stuff,
and you know it.
I'm guessing you've heard it
enough over the last few days
to play it in your sleep.
Look, I'm... I'm worried
about him, Jack.
The man has one speed.
And I'm just afraid
of what's gonna happen
if he keeps pushing himself.
- Hey.
Well, you look a lot better
than you did a couple hours ago.
- Yeah.
- Thanks for not
listening to me.
- Yeah, I've gotten
pretty good at that
over the years, haven't I?
- So, we were just talking,
and I think it's probably best
if we cancel the show.
I mean, there's... there's
no way we can do it now.
- Yeah, there is.
- How?
- I'll take his place.
- What?
- I think that's a great idea.
- Yeah, my dad
can totally do it.
- I'm no Robert Bishop,
but I can handle
a few Christmas tunes.
- Jack, I can't ask you
to do that.
You've already done
too much for me.
- The show...
...must go on.
- OK, on one condition.
- What?
- We play your song.
I think this is the perfect
chance for you to finish it.
- OK.
But we do it together.
- Deal.
Hey, welcome.
Scan right there.
Thank you so much.
Enjoy the show.
Thank you show much.
Enjoy the show.
Hey.
- How are we doing, Ivan?
- We're doing good,
but we still got a ways to go.
- Fingers crossed.
- Fingers crossed.
Hi!
- Hey.
- Welcome.
- Thank you.
- Thank you so much.
Enjoy the show.
- It's almost time.
You ready?
- Ready as I'll ever be.
You?
- You know Jacky-Jack's ready.
It's... it's a '90s thing.
Come on,
let's get you backstage.
- OK.
Uh, wait.
Jack, I just...
Before we go, I want to say:
No matter what happens tonight,
I am so incredibly
grateful to you
for everything you've done.
- Everything we've done.
Let's go.
- Are you guys ready?
- Yeah?
- Yeah.
- All right, here it goes.
Hello, Lakeside!
Thank you all for being here
tonight and coming out
to support one of our town's
favorite daughters
and her family's
long-time business.
Please welcome to the stage
Jessica McFall!
- Thank you, Mary.
Wow, thank you so much!
I... I hope we can live up
to that incredible welcome.
Before we get started,
there is one person
I want to single out
for helping put
this all together.
And that is Jack Cooper.
Thank you, Jack, for everything.
This first song is very special.
It's for those we love
and for those we miss.
And I hope you enjoy it.
- Whoo!
- Thank you.
Thank you so much.
You know, my mom,
she would have been so touched
to know how much Maisie's
means to all of you.
And, uh, I just feel so lucky
to come from a town
like Lakeside,
where I have so much support.
So let's keep this party going.
- Hi.
Are you here for the concert?
- Not exactly.
- Uh, excuse me.
A donation is required.
- Well, we're just gonna
take a quick break.
And we'll be right back.
- Veronica, wait!
- You know, I thought it was
weird I hadn't heard from you
in a couple days, but I thought:
"Maybe he needs a little help.
I mean, it is Christmas,
after all."
So I called the bank,
and guess what I found out?
You lied about
securing the extension.
The bank had no idea
what I was talking about.
- Veronica, let me explain.
- You must be Veronica.
I'm Jessica, and Jack's been
trying to help me save my cafe.
He's... he's been amazing.
- Your cafe.
She has no idea, does she?
- Uh, about what?
- Do you want to tell her,
or should I?
- Uh, tell me what, Jack?
- Jack and I work
for Granville Property.
And we wanted to buy Maisie's.
And Jack told us that
he'd get the bank to agree
to an extension so that when
you couldn't raise the money,
he'd convince you to sell to us.
But clearly,
he has other plans in mind.
- Dad, is that true?
- Yes.
But it...
It... it's more complicated
than that.
Jessica, please listen to me.
Jessica, wait, wait.
Please, let me try to explain!
- Explain what?
How you played on my emotions?
How you... you actually
convinced me
that we could save Maisie's
when it was... it was your job
to come here and destroy it!
- No! That wasn't
the plan at all.
I didn't even know the property
was Maisie's until after we met.
And you opened up to me,
and we had this connection.
And then I couldn't
let you lose Maisie's.
I just...
- You just what?
You just took pity on me?
- No, no, I was trying to help!
- How, Jack?
By dragging me into this mess?
By... by convincing me
we could do this
and embarrassing me
in front of the whole town?
You...
You just wanted
to save your job.
- That...
I tried to tell you this
the other day.
- I trusted you.
- I re... I really believed
that this would work.
- How could you even say that
when you had a backup plan
in your pocket?
Oh God!
- Jessica, wait.
Jessica, Jessica!
Listen. Listen.
It doesn't have to be this way.
You can go back in there
and you can finish.
You're so close!
- I thought it was "we."
- You know I'm gonna have to
tell Martin what you did, right?
He's gonna have to fire you.
- Do you really think I care
about that at all right now?
- Goodbye, Jack.
I hope you know
what you're doing.
- Where's Jessica?
- Jack, we're still short.
What are we gonna do?
- Tell everybody
the show's over.
And make sure everybody
gets their money back.
- How'd it go?
What happened?
- You go. She needs you now.
I'll fill him in.
Not a good night.
- I don't know
what to say, Grace.
I really screwed up.
- Why didn't you just
tell her the truth?
That's what you always
tell me to do.
- I know, but I was scared
to tell her who I was
and who I worked for,
'cause I was afraid
she wouldn't like me very much.
But here we are.
So...
I guess you're right.
I should have
told her the truth.
- Well, I wasn't
totally honest with you.
So, maybe it's my fault.
- What are you talking about?
- I wasn't just trying
to get Jessica
to ask you out on a date.
I told Santa that I wanted her
to be your new girlfriend.
And there's more.
I didn't just promise Mom
that I would make sure
you were happy.
Mom wanted you
to fall in love again,
and I promised I'd help.
- Grace...
- You like her, Dad.
I know you do.
But now it's a mess.
- Yeah, it is.
- How do we fix it?
- I don't think that's possible.
- Maybe Santa still has time
to finish the job?
- The big guy?
- Yeah.
At the very least, you have
to tell her how you feel.
You have to try, Dad.
- Why are you so smart?
- I watch a lot
of Christmas movies,
but also because I'm like Mom.
- Yeah, you are.
I love you so much.
Boy, did I blow it?
- You sure did.
But maybe there's still time
for you to fix it.
- How?
- We have an idea we'd like
to talk to you about.
- You did your best.
- Did I?
- Yes.
- I let everyone down.
I let you down.
- You could never let me down.
And don't you worry
about me, OK?
I've had people like you
and Maisie in my life.
I'm gonna be fine.
- Come here.
- Call me later?
- Yeah.
I'm sorry, Mom.
We're closed.
- Maybe not.
Before you tell me to leave,
just hear me out.
I think we have a plan
to keep this place open.
- Your last plan didn't work out
so well, did it?
Besides, it's too late, Jack.
We missed the deadline.
It's already Christmas.
- It's never too late
for a Christmas miracle.
- What?
- Since I seem to have found
myself in need of a job,
I'm taking over the day-to-day
at the music shop.
And we have a business
proposition for you.
We want to invest in Lakeside,
$25,000 to be exact.
We believe in Maisie's
and we believe in you.
- I don't want your charity.
- It's not charity.
- It is, Jack.
You barely know me.
- I know we just met...
but I do know you.
You're kind and you're genuine.
And you stand up for
what you believe in,
even when you know
you might lose.
I should have
told you the truth.
And I'm sorry I didn't.
But when I met you,
I felt feelings
that I haven't felt
in a really long time.
You even brought music
back into my life.
I know where Grace
and I belong now.
It's here with you.
What do you say?
- I say...
Merry Christmas.
Oh.
- And there you go.
- Thanks for coming in.
- See you guys tonight.
- OK.
- Dad says he finished
his lesson
and we can meet him at the shop.
- Perfect. OK, Ivan?
We're heading over.
See you there.
- OK, bye.
- Seriously, what should
we get for him?
- Maybe a drum set?
- I know. A guitar.
Custom, right?
- Yes!
Ooh, with his name on it!
- Yes! And maybe
you could paint it?
- Look at that timing!
- Hey, you.
- I love it when
a plan comes together.
Dad, Jess!
Coming.
- Hey, guys.
- Grandpa!
- Ah, hey.
- Mary.
- Ah!
You guys all ready
for your concert tonight?
It sold out!
- Yeah!
Ready as we'll ever be.
- Yeah, we are.
- Grace, you want
to go see Santa?
- No thanks, Grandma.
I'm good.
I've got everything
I want already.
- Can we get that in writing?
- Oh, OK.
See, it's getting better.
But still...
- The hair.
- Hello?
- In here, Dad.
- Oh, kind of cute.
- What kind of trouble
are you ladies getting into?
- Trying to find Terri
a boyfriend.
- Don't make me sound
so desperate.
We're just scouring
one of the apps I'm on.
- What's an app?
- Dad!
- I'm kidding.
You're on Facechat.
- Ooh. He looks kind of cool.
A musician.
- Whoa, Terri.
No musicians, trust me.
- Dad, maybe you should
get on one of these.
- I'm seeing someone.
Thank you.
- Victoria?
- You know her name's Veronica.
And she's coming
to dinner later.
In the meantime, you go upstairs
and finish packing for tomorrow.
I saw that.
- Wasn't hiding it.
- She'll be fine.
It's gonna be tough
for anyone who tries
to fill Kate's shoes.
- I hope keeping
the lakeside tradition going
makes it easier for her.
First Christmas in a loft.
- What about you?
How are you doing?
- Meh...
I think it's time
I started looking ahead.
- Exactly.
New year.
- New beginning.
- Well, I got to go.
- OK, thank you.
- Well, maybe it'll be
a merry Christmas after all.
I got a match.
Ooh, a lawyer.
- Better.
- Yeah.
- Well, don't let us
cramp your style.
Go.
- Bye, Terri.
- See you soon, girl.
- I changed my mind.
We don't need
to go see Santa this year.
- Wait, what?
- You know that I'm 10,
not 2, right?
I still say
I'm too old for this.
- You're never too old for
a picture with the big guy.
Mommy!
- Fine.
- Ho, ho, ho!
Merry Christmas!
Ho, ho, ho.
And what do you want
for Christmas this year,
little girl?
- I'm 10.
- Oh, pardon me.
Big girl.
- What I want,
you can't help me with.
- Oh, don't be so sure
about that.
Santa's got helpers
all over the world.
- OK, Santa. You're on.
Can you find a new girlfriend
for my dad?
I'm hungry.
- Veronica will be here
any minute.
- Are you gonna marry her?
- Whoa.
Grace, I am not marrying anyone
any time soon.
- She's nothing like Mom.
- No one will ever replace
your mother.
- I just want you
to find someone
who loves you
as much as Mom did.
And I don't think it's...
Sorry.
- She cancelled, huh?
- Yeah.
It's a really busy time of year.
You know what?
Let's grab some pizza.
And maybe a hot chocolate after.
- You had me at "pizza."
- I'll grab your jacket.
- Nice work, Santa.
- Uh-huh.
Yes, um, I understand,
but I just...
- So, I was thinking
that we should totally
do a mistletoe setup
at the fro...
- Uh, what... what if I made
a partial payment today?
Then how much time would I have
to make a full payment?
Yes, I know there's been
a history of late payments.
I...
What about another loan?
Yes, I understand.
Well, I'm sorry too.
OK, thank you for your time.
And merry Christmas to you too.
- So, uh...
I take it Mr. Scrooge
didn't have a change of heart?
- Not so much.
- What'd he say?
- He said I have to
come up with $25,000
by Christmas Eve,
or the bank's gonna
foreclose on Maisie's.
- Christmas Eve?
- It's a totally
real deadline, Ivan.
I thought I could fix all this.
- Hey, you did
everything you could, OK?
Maisie was like
a second mother to me.
And I know that she'd be
so proud of you right now.
You gave up a lot.
Not everyone would do that.
- Well, we still have 5 days.
Maybe you could conjure up
a Christmas miracle.
- No problem.
I'm on it.
- Grace, make sure you
double check your bags.
Make sure you have everything
for the ride.
And, oh, don't forget
your drumsticks.
- Oh shoot!
- Hey, Veronica.
What are you doing here?
- Oh, I wanted to see you off.
Hi, Gracie.
- It's Grace!
- Sorry I didn't
make it over last night.
But I was going through
the list for Martin,
and there's a property
in Lakeside that's prime
to be a new Regal Roaster.
If we can get it acquired
by the end of the year...
- It'll boost
our 4th quarter numbers,
then we are guaranteed
promotions.
Exactly.
- I promised Grace I wouldn't
work over Christmas.
- OK, but this is a no-brainer.
You're gonna be there, anyway.
The owner's having
financial problems.
It'll be quick and easy.
Grace won't even notice.
Martin's counting on us.
- I'll take care of it.
It's a win-win
for both of us, right?
- Thanks, babe.
OK, have a safe drive
- Got something on your mind?
- No. You?
- No. You?
- When you and Mom met,
what did you like
most about her?
- Everything.
First of all, she was beautiful.
And smart.
And sassy, like you.
I just knew from the start
she was really thoughtful.
Oh, and she was never afraid
of a challenge,
even when she knew
she would lose.
Every day was...
- Like living the happy ending
of the best Christmas movie
of all time?
- I never thought of it
that way, but...
yeah, exactly.
- And what about Veronica?
- Grace.
- Seriously.
I'm just trying to understand.
She seems more Jack Frost
than Love Actually.
- It's not the same thing.
Your mom was
the love of my life.
Veronica and I
just started dating.
- But what is it
you like most about her?
- Uh, uh...
She's...
nice.
And we work together, so it's...
- Convenient?
I get it, Dad. It's OK.
Lots of people like Jack Frost.
- Oh my goodness!
- Grandma!
- I've missed you so much!
Ooh! Look how much
you've grown!
How you doing, Jack?
Yeah? How was the drive?
- Mostly peaceful.
- Well, I hope you're hungry.
I got some gingerbread cookies
fresh out of the oven.
- I'll grab the bags.
- Come on, let him do that.
We're gonna have...
...cookies!
- Yes!
- Ah!
Started with the head first.
Going, gone.
- Mmm!
- Well, I guess we don't have
to worry about lunch now.
- What's my policy, Jack?
- Your house, your rules.
- Uh-huh.
- Is Robert at the shop?
- Where else would he be?
- Yeah.
How's he doing
after the surgery?
- Good.
Not quite as good
as he claims, but good.
- Mm-hmm.
- And how are you doing?
- Good.
- Can we go to the shop
and surprise Grandpa?
- You just want
to go play the drums.
- And see Grandpa.
- Go, you can unpack
when you get back.
- Well, let's do it.
- I'll go grab my sticks.
- Hey, Tim.
Robert in?
- Hey, Jack.
Yeah, I'll go get him.
- Thank you.
- Can I go play
in the drum room?
- Sure. Go get them, Ringo.
- Sounds nice.
- Hey.
- So you're still writing?
- Yeah.
- We are so happy that you came.
- Ah, it's good to be here.
- How's business?
- Can't complain.
One thing about a small town
is I don't have to compete
with those big
music superstores.
And how is the lovely world
of commercial acquisitions
treating you?
- Not bad, actually.
I'm in line for a promotion.
- Good for you.
- Grandpa!
- Ha, ha!
Kiddo!
Wow, look at you.
- Can I show you
what I've been practicing?
- I would be disappointed
if you didn't.
- While you guys do that,
I need a coffee.
I'm gonna hit Maisie's.
Do you want something?
- I've had my one cup
for the day.
Mary's been watching me
like a hawk.
- Can I get a latte?
- Uh, we're not in Chicago,
and you're 10.
- A decaf, then?
- Closer.
- Thanks, Dad.
Come on, Grandpa!
- Maybe you have a doppelganger
here in Lakeside that's, like,
an heiress of some kind.
You don't know!
It could totally happen.
- Ivan!
How about you refill
the coffee...
...put out the cookies
I just made,
and I will try to sell them,
and we'll make
some actual money.
- Ooh.
See?
I'm telling you, this day
is starting to turn around.
Smile. He's coming over.
Smile.
- Ugh, Ivan...
Hi. Welcome to Maisie's.
How can I help you?
- A hot chocolate with
whipped cream and sprinkles.
It's for my daughter.
I'll take a black coffee.
- Thank God.
- Coming right up.
- Is this the, uh,
Ricochet Christmas album?
- Yeah, good catch.
I love this album.
Their harmonies...
- Are you new in town?
- I live in Chicago.
But I'm here with my daughter
for the holidays with family.
Uh, Mary and Robert Bishop?
- I'm... I'm so sorry
for your loss.
- Thanks. I guess I forget
everyone knows everyone here.
- Kind of.
- But I've been coming
to Lakeside for years.
I don't think
I've ever seen you here before.
- Um...
- Dad.
- What happened to the drums?
- Grandpa said the student
has become the master,
but I think
he just needed a break.
He asked to bring home Maisie's
coffee cake for tomorrow.
It's Grandma's favorite.
- I guess we'll take
a coffee cake too.
- Hi, I'm Grace.
- Hi, Grace. I'm Jessica.
And this...
must be for you.
- Thanks, Jessica.
- You know what would go
good with that?
- What?
- It's gingerbread
with peppermint frosting.
On the house.
- Thanks.
- So that's two
gingerbread cookies,
a hot chocolate and a cake pop,
and we haven't been here
an hour.
- Uh, there you go.
- Thanks.
- Uh, that'll be $34.50.
Well, it was nice
to meet you, Grace.
And you too.
- Yeah, uh...
Jack.
- Jack.
Um, hope to see you guys
in here again soon.
- I'm sure you will.
Grace loves her hot chocolate.
I have to take this.
Meet you at the shop.
I'll be real quick. Promise.
Hey.
- Hi. How was the drive?
- Easy.
- Good.
Did you check your email?
- Oh, no, sorry.
I've been super busy
since we've been here.
- Well, I sent you
the property address.
It's called Maisie's cafe.
- Of course.
- You know it?
- I just walked out of there,
actually.
It's kind of an institution
around here.
- Well, an institution that's
majorly going out of business.
The bank is planning
to foreclose.
- Hmm, so much for
the Christmas spirit.
The town's not gonna be happy
about this one.
- Well, that's a they problem,
not a we problem.
Our problem would be
letting it go to auction,
and then possibly having
to overpay for it
or lose it to another bidder.
We need them to accept the offer
by Christmas Eve.
- Copy that.
- Promotion, here we come.
OK, I'll talk to you later.
- Great.
Wow, Mary, you did not have
to go to all this trouble.
And on our first night.
- We are just so happy
to have you here.
We felt like a little
extra effort was warranted.
- This was your mom's
favorite dish.
- I know.
- She always helped me make it.
- She really loved Christmas.
I know she'd be happy
that we're all here together,
carrying on our traditions.
- And creating some new ones.
- To traditions, old and new.
- Mmm!
Speaking of traditions,
how did your rehearsal go today?
You didn't overdo it, did you?
- Just some holiday tunes,
nothing crazy.
You can't have
the Christmas market
without Bishop's
Music Emporium there.
- You didn't rock too hard,
did you?
How's the old ticker
after the surgery?
- I'll be fine.
You know, I've been thinking
of retiring, but...
I don't know who I could trust
to take over the store.
It would have to be someone
who understands music
and business.
- Robert.
- What?
I... I'm not pressuring him.
I'm just saying if it's
something that interested him...
- If you took over
Grandpa's store,
does that mean
we'd move to Lakeside?
- No.
Yes, if we...
That's...
Gracie, I have a job.
- You see what you started?
- I wasn't trying
to start anything.
- It's fine.
Why don't we talk
about something else.
- Hmm, how are things going
with Veronica?
- Can I be excused?
- Gracie, we just sat down.
And... and your grandmother
went to all this trouble.
- Jack, it's fine.
Grace, if you're done,
please take your plate
to the kitchen.
- Of all the things
she's adjusting to...
this is the hardest one.
- Give her time.
- If you really like Veronica,
I'm sure Grace will come around.
- Do you guys think
I'm moving too fast?
- Kate would want you
to be happy.
And so do we.
- It's all gonna work out.
Are you sure you can't
do anything about it?
- Can I come in?
- Sure.
- I brought you your dinner.
- I'm not hungry.
- Maybe some peppermint
hot chocolate, your favorite.
- Thanks, Grandma,
but I've reached my sugar limit
for the day.
- You OK?
- Yeah.
I'm good.
- Just you seemed
to get a little upset
when I asked about
your dad's girlfriend.
Don't you want him to be happy?
I know it's tough, but...
he's going to have to go out
with other people
if he's ever going
to find love again.
- Can't we help him
find the right person?
- It doesn't work that way,
sweetheart.
- Maybe it should.
Maybe he just needs
a little push
in the right direction.
- You are so much
like your mother.
- Dad says that too.
- I'll see you in the morning.
Maybe eat a little something.
Sometimes,
these things just
aren't possible.
Looks like
if I want my Christmas miracle
to happen, I'm gonna have
to do it myself.
- Morning.
- Oh, morning, Jack.
Grace wants to come
to the store with me today.
I told her she'd probably
get bored, but she insisted.
- I got to practice.
Keith Moon didn't become
the greatest drummer
of all time by sitting at home.
- If it's OK with you.
- No problem.
- I have to take care of
something in town, anyway.
So I can pick her up in a bit.
- All right.
Grab your stuff.
Let's get going.
- Can I use your printer?
- Of course.
- Thank you.
- Come on, kiddo. Let's go.
- Have fun.
- Hey, Tim, I got
a lesson starting up.
You mind keeping
an eye on Grace?
- Yeah, you got it.
Hey, guys.
Checking out this one?
- Hey.
- Grace, hi.
You back for
another hot chocolate?
- Yes, please.
- Where's your dad?
- I was hoping I could talk
to you about something.
- Sure, what's up?
- Actually,
it's kind of personal.
Do you think
we can talk in private?
- I got you covered.
- Sure.
There you go.
So...
what can I do for you?
- I know we just met
and you don't know me very well,
but I wanted to ask your help
with something.
- OK.
- Can you ask my dad out
on a date?
- Uh, hi.
I just thought Grace
might want a little treat.
- Thanks!
- Thank you, Ivan.
Grace...
your dad seems like
a really nice guy.
- He's more than nice.
- I bet.
Why do you want me
to ask your dad on a date?
- It's kind of hard to explain.
- I'm a good listener.
Did you know I knew your mom?
- Really?
- Mm-hmm.
She was kind of a big deal
around here.
She was a couple years
older than me,
and I wanted to be
just like her.
She had an amazing voice.
I bet you miss her a lot.
Can I share
something else with you?
I lost my mom last year too.
So I know a little bit about
what you're going through.
- What was her name?
- Maisie.
She was amazing.
This is her place.
So we kind of have
something in common.
And I want you to know
you can trust me.
- My mom wanted to make sure
that my dad fell in love again.
He's seeing this woman
named Veronica,
but she's totally wrong for him.
I asked Santa to find him
a new girlfriend,
but I don't think
he's gonna be much help.
So I decided to take matters
into my own hands.
And yesterday
when he was talking to you,
that was the first time
I've seen him smile like that
in a long time.
- Grace, I'm so flattered.
But if your dad
is already seeing someone,
then he's trying
to move forward.
And you might not like her now,
but maybe she'll grow on you.
Just give it time.
- I doubt it.
I like you way more.
And this is only
the second time we've met.
- I like you too.
Hey...
Your dad is gonna
find happiness again.
Trust me.
Now, can I ask you something?
Does anyone know
where you are right now?
- No, I'm supposed to be
in the drum room.
That's what I thought.
Let's get you back.
- Are you gonna tell him
what I said?
- No.
But I think you should.
- Hey, Tim.
Grace?
You know where Grace is?
- She's not in the...
Tim?
- Hey, look who I found.
- Hey.
What are you doing
running off like that
without telling anybody?
You know better than that.
- I didn't mean to scare you.
I'm sorry.
- I got to get back, but, um,
you take care
of yourself, Grace.
And remember what I told you.
- I know. I will.
- Thanks, Jess.
- Of course.
- Yeah, tha...
Thanks again.
- It's no problem.
She's been through a lot.
- Yeah. Uh...
What'd she say?
- I'm gonna let her tell you.
She promised she would, so...
Good luck.
- Yeah, you too.
- What do I need luck for?
- Pfft... General luck.
Christmas stuff, right?
- OK.
- Thanks.
- Martin.
- I knew I'd find you here.
One of the many reasons you
and Jack are my favorite team.
- Jack is actually
on the ground,
securing a fabulous
new Regal Roasters location
in Lakeside.
- I thought he was on vacation.
- That's how committed we are.
- That's what I like to hear.
We can't lose this account.
And if you and Jack
can get this location
before the New Year,
you're the team to bring
Regal Roasters global.
Don't let me down.
- Consider it done.
- Hey, what are you doing there?
So what's going on?
- Nothing.
You're just gonna tell me
it's stupid.
- Stupid?
You're smarter than me.
It's just, you know,
I'm a little concerned.
It's not like you to run off
without telling anybody.
- Dad, it's Lakeside.
There's, like, one stoplight.
- That's a good point.
So, what... what's
this all about?
- I went to the coffee shop
to see if Jessica
would ask you out on a date.
- You what?
- I saw the way
you looked at her.
I haven't seen you
look at anyone like that
in a long time.
And I thought if you liked her,
you would stop dating Veronica.
- Grace, why don't
you like Veronica?
- Because she's not
right for you.
She only cares about her job.
And you deserve
someone so much better.
And...
I promised Mom that I would
make sure you were happy.
Come here.
Listen to me.
It's the other way around.
I'm here to take care of you.
- Jessica really didn't tell you
what happened?
- No.
She had your back.
- She's pretty cool, isn't she?
Objectively, of course.
- Yeah, she is.
Time for bed.
- Good night.
- What did she say?
- She wanted Jessica
to ask me out on a date.
- Why did she say that?
- She promised Kate she would
make sure I was happy.
- At least Jessica was
a good sport about it.
She was looking out for Grace.
- Yeah, she made sure
that Grace told me the truth.
- Well, Jessica always did have
a good head on her shoulders.
- She was one of the most
talented students I ever had.
You know she had a record deal
in Nashville?
But she gave it up to come back
and look after her mom.
- Maisie.
She was a sweet woman.
She passed away last year.
- That's why she's behind.
- Behind what?
- Nothing.
Um...
Hey, I got to run an errand.
- Is everything OK?
- Uh, yeah.
- Say hi to Jessica for us.
- I'm sorry, but she literally
threw down moves from, like,
three different holiday movies.
I mean, she asked Santa
for a new mom.
- I think she asked for
a new girlfriend for her dad.
There is a difference.
- Uh, whatever.
Either way, don't you see
what's happening here?
The holiday spirit is upon us.
- Really?
Because I don't think
there's any way
I could come up with that money
in the next four days.
Ivan...
I think maybe we need to accept
that this is our last
Christmas at Maisie's.
I know. Come on.
Jess!
Jessica!
Look who's back.
What are you doing?
It's cold out.
Go... go get him.
- OK. OK.
- Have fun.
- Hey.
- Oh, I thought you were closed.
- I was just locking up.
Uh, come on in.
It's cold.
- Oh, yeah.
Thanks.
So...
Grace... Grace told me
what happened.
And I just wanted
to say thank you.
- Of course.
I mean, she's pretty amazing
for a 10 year old.
- Yeah.
More like 10 going on 25.
- Definitely more
emotionally mature
than most adults I know,
so you're doing something right.
- Thanks.
Sometimes, it's hard to see
the forest through the trees.
- Isn't it "for the trees"?
I think...
Um...
It's been a long day.
I was just gonna grab a drink.
Did you want to join me?
- Oh. I...
- You know what?
Don't worry about it. We don...
- Oh, no, no.
No, I... I'd love to, actually.
But it's on me.
It's the least I can do.
- Sure.
- Great. Um...
Do you know a place?
- Course I do.
Thank you!
Thank you!
So...
Nashville, huh?
Yeah, yeah, I sang backup
for some people,
wrote some songs.
- I heard it was
a record contract.
- I started recording an album.
But then my mom...
- I... I heard.
I'm... I'm really sorry.
- Thank you.
What about you?
Robert always said you were
an incredible musician.
- Yeah, well,
I'm more of a songwriter.
Did he tell you about
my Fuddrucker days?
- The burger chain?
- No, it was the name
of my band in college.
Yeah, I played keyboards
and wrote songs.
- So, like, leather jackets
and long hair?
- Eh... less leather,
more plaid.
It was college in the '90s.
- Nice.
So, what got you
from keyboards to corporate?
- Well, I met Kate.
And we wanted to start a family.
And I knew music wasn't
gonna pay the bills.
- Sounds pretty noble to me.
- Mmm... maybe.
- Grace mentioned you're
seeing someone in Chicago,
and I... I think
that's really great
that you're trying
to move forward.
- Can you, uh,
can you tell Grace that?
She's not a very big fan
of Veronica.
- She mentioned that too.
- Yeah.
How about you?
Anyone special in your life?
- I had a boyfriend
in Nashville,
but he didn't want to give up
his dreams and leave, so...
And, honestly, I haven't really
had time since I've been here.
But it looks like I'm gonna have
a lot more free time
on my hands pretty soon.
- What does that mean?
- I'm gonna lose Maisie's.
I have four days until
the bank forecloses.
- What about selling it?
I'm in real-estate.
I'm sure you could get
a really decent offer.
- Oh, no. I've had them.
I've had them and
I've considered some, but...
the people who want to buy,
they don't want Maisie's.
They want to... they want
to knock it down
and put in some terrible
cookie-cutter chain,
and I just... I can't do it.
So at least
if the bank forecloses,
they're the ones
taking the wrecking ball
to it, you know?
That's what I keep
telling myself, anyway.
So, I am waiting
for a Christmas miracle.
- I have an idea.
I'll be right back.
- Where are you going?
- Trust me.
Ladies and gentlemen,
we have a very
special treat tonight.
Singing a very magical
holiday mashup...
No!
- ...please welcome
to the stage... Jessica.
- I'm gonna kill you.
- Show me what you got.
That's exciting. Why not?
- Hello.
A mashup.
Ooh!
- Oh yeah!
- Me?
- Yeah!
- Whoo!
- Thank you.
- Wow.
Uh, first of all,
you're a sport.
I mean, you shine up there.
- Thank you.
- When was the last time
you were on stage?
- I got to headline a night
at the Bluebird
right before I left Nashville.
It was incredible.
- I know that smile.
It feels good, right?
- It does.
- Yeah.
- What about you?
When's the last time
you performed?
- Oh, more years
than I can count.
- Well, there's no time
like the present.
- So I discovered Robert's stash
a few years ago.
- I used to spend hours sitting
at a piano like this,
searching for
that perfect melody.
- Hmm.
- I feel alive when I sing.
- Well, you sure look alive
when you're on stage.
- All right, enough stalling.
Let's hear it.
And no covers.
Jack originals only, please.
- Jack origi...
OK.
Well, only because there's
a song that's been...
running around in my head,
but I haven't finished it.
So...
no judging.
- I promise nothing.
- I haven't played this
for anyone.
So it could be really bad.
- Just play.
- OK.
- Jack...
Wow.
That was...
Wow.
There it is.
- Yeah.
- Why didn't you finish it?
- Didn't have the heart.
- You should finish it.
And I should go.
- Uh, yeah.
Yeah, yeah, me too.
- It's late.
- Uh, Grace and I are going to
the Christmas market tomorrow.
Um, do you want
to grab dinner beforehand?
- Oh, no, I...
I mean, I would love to,
but I can't.
- Yeah.
- I have a booth at the market.
- Of course.
- Every dollar counts right now.
- Yeah.
- Um...
Do you and Grace want
to just come by and say hi,
get a hot chocolate?
- Sounds like a plan.
- OK.
See you tomorrow.
All right.
Good morning!
- Hi.
- Good morning.
How you doing?
- Hey, Dad.
- Hey.
- So, how was your date
last night?
- I don't know what
your grandparents told you,
but I had an errand to run
last night.
- Oh, they said that.
Then we all agreed
that you were heading over
to see Jessica.
- Uh, OK, I don't think I like
where this is heading.
We talked about this.
- We did, but I can't help it
if the universe has
different plans for you.
- OK, shush, shush.
Leave your dad be.
I'm sure he just wanted
to thank Jessica again
for being so nice to you.
- Pancakes?
- Sure.
And thank you.
So, to recap:
I had an errand to run
last night,
and then I ran into Jessica,
and then maybe we talked
for a little bit.
But it wasn't a date!
- Were you at a restaurant?
- Maybe.
- Was there music playing
in the background?
- Yes.
- Then it was a date!
Wait, did you guys talk
about me?
- Hmm.
Yeah, we talked about you
the whole time.
- Dad!
- OK, let your dad eat in peace.
Why don't you run upstairs
and get ready,
and maybe we can get
some shopping in
before we head
to the Christmas market.
- Oh, actually, uh,
Jessica said she has a booth
and I should take you by
for a hot chocolate.
- Cool!
I'll ask about your date
when we see her later.
Kidding.
Not kidding!
- So...
how did that thank you
really go?
- I bought her a drink.
Anyway, how many guys you got
in the band tonight?
- Just me and Tim.
We're only there
for the background noise.
- Oh, sorry.
I got to take this.
Hey, what's up?
- I was kind of surprised
I didn't hear from you
last night.
- Uh, yeah, the day
got away from me.
There was some drama with Grace.
- What happened?
- Uh, it's kind of complicated.
I'll tell you about it
some other time.
But everything's OK.
- OK, well,
any luck with the property?
Martin was really impressed
that we were able
to get things in motion
so close to the end of the year.
- Yeah, um, I made contact
with the owner.
But...
to do this
right before Christmas,
I mean...
- OK, Jack, I don't love
the timing of this either,
but we're not the only firm
waiting this one out.
I assured Martin this was ours.
- The owner doesn't want to sell
to a developer or a chain.
She thinks if she does,
she might as well be
destroying the place herself.
What... what if
I get her to agree
to a small extension
from the bank?
And when that deadline comes
and she still can't make
the payments,
we make sure
that she sells to us.
- You think you can get the bank
to agree to an extension?
- Yes, yes, this is
Kate's hometown.
I know people here.
- I don't know, Jack.
What if she finds another way
to get the money?
- She's not gonna make 25 grand
selling lattes and coffee cakes.
Look, this is a win
for everybody, right?
We derail the potential buyers
without looking like monsters,
and Jessica feels like
she has one more chance
to save her business.
- Jessica?
- Yeah, uh, um,
that's... that's the owner's name.
- You really think
you can convince her?
- Yes, I do.
- OK.
I'll get Martin on board
on this end, but...
you've got to get this done.
- I will.
- Keep me posted.
I'll talk to you later.
- OK.
- Hey.
- Hey.
- Sorry I'm late.
- All good.
- How was ping pong?
- Good.
How was your night?
- Fine.
We just grabbed a drink.
- Just fine, huh?
- We just had a drink.
- I think you were on a date.
- No, it was definitely
not a date?
- It was a date.
- Ugh, yo...
The market is opening soon.
We need to finish setting up.
- Pretty chipper for someone
who was "not on a date."
- You're the worst.
Ho, ho, ho!
And what would you like
for Christmas?
Oh!
Beautiful!
Oh, nice!
- Wow.
- Great.
Ho, ho, ho!
- Those lights!
- Thank you!
- Hey, Jessica!
- Hey, you. Did you want
another hot chocolate?
- Yeah.
- Uh, do you think your dad
would want one?
- Sure, and my grandma too.
- Hey, guys.
- Here you go.
Just the way you like it.
- Thanks.
- Mary, so good to see you.
- You too, Jess.
- Robert is sounding
amazing as usual.
- I will tell him you said that.
I'm sure it'll make his day.
- Here you go.
- Perfect.
One for you and one for you.
- Thank you.
- Grandma, can you take me over
to see Santa?
- Mmm.
- I thought you were
too old for Santa.
- We may have
some unfinished business.
- Sure, honey. Come on.
- Uh, do you have a second?
- Yes, she does.
I... I got this.
You kids, uh, have fun.
- Thank you, Ivan.
- Oh, he's ready, honey.
Here.
- Thanks.
- Ho, ho, ho!
And what would you like
for Christmas this year, li...
- Listen,
I already asked another Santa
back home for something,
but I need to change
what I want.
Is that gonna be a problem?
- Um...
- It's OK.
I know you're not Santa
anymore than he was,
but can you get my wish
to the real guy?
- I can definitely try.
- Great. You see that woman
and man over there?
- Yes.
- I told the other Santa
that I wanted
a new girlfriend for my dad.
But now I know
that I want it to be her.
Can you make that happen?
- I can certainly
pass along the message.
- Great!
And nice beard, by the way.
It looks totally real.
- So, I was thinking about
your situation with the bank.
- Yeah?
- And I think I have
an idea to help.
How about a fundraiser?
- I've already done
a Go Fund Me.
People have given so much.
I... I can't ask for more.
- No, no, no.
This isn't a Go Fund Me.
I'm talking about a concert.
A Christmas concert
with you as the headliner.
- No, I... I can't do that.
I mean, I haven't performed
in a very long time.
- I saw you up there
the other night.
You're amazing.
- Jack, this is crazy.
I mean, how could I possibly
get it together so fast?
- That's where we come in.
I already talked to Mary
and Robert about it.
They think it's a great idea.
The town will love a concert!
Maisie's is Lakeside.
We have to try to save it.
- Jack, the payment
is due in three days.
I mean, I was seriously
considering just selling
to the next buyer
that makes an offer.
- Trust me,
you don't want to do that.
Let us help you.
- So, what'd she say?
Did you tell her
that I could be her drummer?
- Well?
- Let's get to work.
- Yes!
- Whoo!
- Yeah!
Nice.
- We got it.
- Gonna be great.
It's gonna be great!
- Can't believe
we're actually doing this.
- See? All we needed was
a little Christmas spirit
and my super savvy
marketing skills.
- Very impressive, by the way.
- Thank you.
- No, thank you.
- I think this calls
for a toast.
- That's a great idea.
To... a second chance.
- In more ways than one.
- Stop it!
You know I'm talking about
the concert and saving Maisie's.
- Of course. Of course.
But why not allow
for the possibility
that Jack may want
to save you too?
- Oh, OK, first of all,
I do not need a man to save me.
Not to mention the fact that
he's already dating someone.
So why are we even
talking about this?
- Are you kidding me?
That guy's working his tail off
to make sure
this fundraiser happens.
Now, I may be single,
but I know a romantic gesture
when I see one.
And this, my friend...
is one massive gesture.
- Robert, are you OK?
- Yeah, I'm just a little tired.
This was all a lot easier
when I was your age.
- Did you see what I did
on that last chorus, Grandpa?
Straight fire.
- Just, uh, nod and smile.
- Straight fire.
- Uh, where'd your dad go?
- Back in Grandpa's office.
- Come help your Grandpa load up
the gear, all right?
- Hey, done for the day?
- Yeah.
What are you working on?
- Just looking
at the event page.
Ivan just sent over
the newest version.
- Can I see?
- Yeah, of course.
OK, so, we're gonna have
a QR-code stand at the door
so people can make donations.
Tickets are $20, but they can
get more if they want to.
We already have a bunch
of followers on social media,
and that keeps climbing,
so we're in good shape.
- Wow.
And you made sure
that everyone can get
their money back
if we fall short?
- Yes, Ivan took care of that.
- Wow, I cannot believe you guys
pulled this together so fast.
I... I don't know what I did
to deserve it.
- Well, I, uh,
I think you were due.
- Thank you.
- Jessica...
- I'm... I'm so sorry.
- No, no, don't be sorry.
- I thought that...
- No, no.
I do, I do.
That's not it.
- You have a girlfriend.
- Uh, yes.
But there's another reason.
- Then what is it?
- I...
I need to tell you something.
- That sounds ominous.
- No, no, I just...
I just want you to know
everything up front.
- OK.
- Dad, Dad, come in here!
Dad!
- What happened?
- We were cleaning up then,
all of a sudden,
he just lost his breath
and fell down.
- I'm fine.
I... I'm just a little winded.
That's all.
- Whoa, what are you doing?
Stay there.
- I'm gonna call an ambulance.
- Good idea.
- I'm OK. I don't need it.
- You need it.
Hello?
We need an ambulance
at Bishop's Music Emporium.
Right away.
Hey.
There you go.
- I'm sure it's not
as good as yours.
- Probably not,
but it'll keep you awake.
How are you doing?
- Meh.
I don't love hospitals much.
- Me either.
He's gonna be OK, Jack.
- Thanks for being here.
Of course.
- Oh, Mary, what did
the doctor say?
- Is he...
- He... he's gonna be fine.
- Another heart attack?
- No, just a warning.
The doctor says
he's been pushing himself
a little too hard
the last few days.
That old fool has never known
how to take it easy.
- So, he's OK?
- Yes, sweetheart.
Mmm!
Jessica, would you do me a favor
and take Grace in?
I just want to talk
to Jack for a second.
- Of course.
- Robert is too proud
to ask you,
but you're gonna have to step in
for him tomorrow.
- But, Mary, I haven't been
on stage in years.
- Jack, you were and are
an amazing musician.
You sit at that piano
and it's magic.
- Mary.
- Look.
This isn't difficult stuff,
and you know it.
I'm guessing you've heard it
enough over the last few days
to play it in your sleep.
Look, I'm... I'm worried
about him, Jack.
The man has one speed.
And I'm just afraid
of what's gonna happen
if he keeps pushing himself.
- Hey.
Well, you look a lot better
than you did a couple hours ago.
- Yeah.
- Thanks for not
listening to me.
- Yeah, I've gotten
pretty good at that
over the years, haven't I?
- So, we were just talking,
and I think it's probably best
if we cancel the show.
I mean, there's... there's
no way we can do it now.
- Yeah, there is.
- How?
- I'll take his place.
- What?
- I think that's a great idea.
- Yeah, my dad
can totally do it.
- I'm no Robert Bishop,
but I can handle
a few Christmas tunes.
- Jack, I can't ask you
to do that.
You've already done
too much for me.
- The show...
...must go on.
- OK, on one condition.
- What?
- We play your song.
I think this is the perfect
chance for you to finish it.
- OK.
But we do it together.
- Deal.
Hey, welcome.
Scan right there.
Thank you so much.
Enjoy the show.
Thank you show much.
Enjoy the show.
Hey.
- How are we doing, Ivan?
- We're doing good,
but we still got a ways to go.
- Fingers crossed.
- Fingers crossed.
Hi!
- Hey.
- Welcome.
- Thank you.
- Thank you so much.
Enjoy the show.
- It's almost time.
You ready?
- Ready as I'll ever be.
You?
- You know Jacky-Jack's ready.
It's... it's a '90s thing.
Come on,
let's get you backstage.
- OK.
Uh, wait.
Jack, I just...
Before we go, I want to say:
No matter what happens tonight,
I am so incredibly
grateful to you
for everything you've done.
- Everything we've done.
Let's go.
- Are you guys ready?
- Yeah?
- Yeah.
- All right, here it goes.
Hello, Lakeside!
Thank you all for being here
tonight and coming out
to support one of our town's
favorite daughters
and her family's
long-time business.
Please welcome to the stage
Jessica McFall!
- Thank you, Mary.
Wow, thank you so much!
I... I hope we can live up
to that incredible welcome.
Before we get started,
there is one person
I want to single out
for helping put
this all together.
And that is Jack Cooper.
Thank you, Jack, for everything.
This first song is very special.
It's for those we love
and for those we miss.
And I hope you enjoy it.
- Whoo!
- Thank you.
Thank you so much.
You know, my mom,
she would have been so touched
to know how much Maisie's
means to all of you.
And, uh, I just feel so lucky
to come from a town
like Lakeside,
where I have so much support.
So let's keep this party going.
- Hi.
Are you here for the concert?
- Not exactly.
- Uh, excuse me.
A donation is required.
- Well, we're just gonna
take a quick break.
And we'll be right back.
- Veronica, wait!
- You know, I thought it was
weird I hadn't heard from you
in a couple days, but I thought:
"Maybe he needs a little help.
I mean, it is Christmas,
after all."
So I called the bank,
and guess what I found out?
You lied about
securing the extension.
The bank had no idea
what I was talking about.
- Veronica, let me explain.
- You must be Veronica.
I'm Jessica, and Jack's been
trying to help me save my cafe.
He's... he's been amazing.
- Your cafe.
She has no idea, does she?
- Uh, about what?
- Do you want to tell her,
or should I?
- Uh, tell me what, Jack?
- Jack and I work
for Granville Property.
And we wanted to buy Maisie's.
And Jack told us that
he'd get the bank to agree
to an extension so that when
you couldn't raise the money,
he'd convince you to sell to us.
But clearly,
he has other plans in mind.
- Dad, is that true?
- Yes.
But it...
It... it's more complicated
than that.
Jessica, please listen to me.
Jessica, wait, wait.
Please, let me try to explain!
- Explain what?
How you played on my emotions?
How you... you actually
convinced me
that we could save Maisie's
when it was... it was your job
to come here and destroy it!
- No! That wasn't
the plan at all.
I didn't even know the property
was Maisie's until after we met.
And you opened up to me,
and we had this connection.
And then I couldn't
let you lose Maisie's.
I just...
- You just what?
You just took pity on me?
- No, no, I was trying to help!
- How, Jack?
By dragging me into this mess?
By... by convincing me
we could do this
and embarrassing me
in front of the whole town?
You...
You just wanted
to save your job.
- That...
I tried to tell you this
the other day.
- I trusted you.
- I re... I really believed
that this would work.
- How could you even say that
when you had a backup plan
in your pocket?
Oh God!
- Jessica, wait.
Jessica, Jessica!
Listen. Listen.
It doesn't have to be this way.
You can go back in there
and you can finish.
You're so close!
- I thought it was "we."
- You know I'm gonna have to
tell Martin what you did, right?
He's gonna have to fire you.
- Do you really think I care
about that at all right now?
- Goodbye, Jack.
I hope you know
what you're doing.
- Where's Jessica?
- Jack, we're still short.
What are we gonna do?
- Tell everybody
the show's over.
And make sure everybody
gets their money back.
- How'd it go?
What happened?
- You go. She needs you now.
I'll fill him in.
Not a good night.
- I don't know
what to say, Grace.
I really screwed up.
- Why didn't you just
tell her the truth?
That's what you always
tell me to do.
- I know, but I was scared
to tell her who I was
and who I worked for,
'cause I was afraid
she wouldn't like me very much.
But here we are.
So...
I guess you're right.
I should have
told her the truth.
- Well, I wasn't
totally honest with you.
So, maybe it's my fault.
- What are you talking about?
- I wasn't just trying
to get Jessica
to ask you out on a date.
I told Santa that I wanted her
to be your new girlfriend.
And there's more.
I didn't just promise Mom
that I would make sure
you were happy.
Mom wanted you
to fall in love again,
and I promised I'd help.
- Grace...
- You like her, Dad.
I know you do.
But now it's a mess.
- Yeah, it is.
- How do we fix it?
- I don't think that's possible.
- Maybe Santa still has time
to finish the job?
- The big guy?
- Yeah.
At the very least, you have
to tell her how you feel.
You have to try, Dad.
- Why are you so smart?
- I watch a lot
of Christmas movies,
but also because I'm like Mom.
- Yeah, you are.
I love you so much.
Boy, did I blow it?
- You sure did.
But maybe there's still time
for you to fix it.
- How?
- We have an idea we'd like
to talk to you about.
- You did your best.
- Did I?
- Yes.
- I let everyone down.
I let you down.
- You could never let me down.
And don't you worry
about me, OK?
I've had people like you
and Maisie in my life.
I'm gonna be fine.
- Come here.
- Call me later?
- Yeah.
I'm sorry, Mom.
We're closed.
- Maybe not.
Before you tell me to leave,
just hear me out.
I think we have a plan
to keep this place open.
- Your last plan didn't work out
so well, did it?
Besides, it's too late, Jack.
We missed the deadline.
It's already Christmas.
- It's never too late
for a Christmas miracle.
- What?
- Since I seem to have found
myself in need of a job,
I'm taking over the day-to-day
at the music shop.
And we have a business
proposition for you.
We want to invest in Lakeside,
$25,000 to be exact.
We believe in Maisie's
and we believe in you.
- I don't want your charity.
- It's not charity.
- It is, Jack.
You barely know me.
- I know we just met...
but I do know you.
You're kind and you're genuine.
And you stand up for
what you believe in,
even when you know
you might lose.
I should have
told you the truth.
And I'm sorry I didn't.
But when I met you,
I felt feelings
that I haven't felt
in a really long time.
You even brought music
back into my life.
I know where Grace
and I belong now.
It's here with you.
What do you say?
- I say...
Merry Christmas.
Oh.
- And there you go.
- Thanks for coming in.
- See you guys tonight.
- OK.
- Dad says he finished
his lesson
and we can meet him at the shop.
- Perfect. OK, Ivan?
We're heading over.
See you there.
- OK, bye.
- Seriously, what should
we get for him?
- Maybe a drum set?
- I know. A guitar.
Custom, right?
- Yes!
Ooh, with his name on it!
- Yes! And maybe
you could paint it?
- Look at that timing!
- Hey, you.
- I love it when
a plan comes together.
Dad, Jess!
Coming.
- Hey, guys.
- Grandpa!
- Ah, hey.
- Mary.
- Ah!
You guys all ready
for your concert tonight?
It sold out!
- Yeah!
Ready as we'll ever be.
- Yeah, we are.
- Grace, you want
to go see Santa?
- No thanks, Grandma.
I'm good.
I've got everything
I want already.
- Can we get that in writing?