Love and Sunshine (2019) Movie Script
Ally?
Ally Craig?
Hi!
Sorry to disturb
your morning exercise.
Oh, that's all right.
What can I do for you, Corine?
Hello, Sunshine!
I need to replace the bushes
down the side of my house.
The deer got the old ones.
I'm looking
for something flowering
and it's kind of shady there.
What do you think?
Flowering bush, semi-shaded
and deer-resistant...
I'm thinking astilbe visions,
red or purple.
I love red.
If you love red,
there's also heuchera red!
Oh, it's great, it's got
these wispy, delicate
little red flowers
and vibrant red leaves.
Do you have those
at the nursery,
or do you need
to order them in?
We have a whole section!
You can come down
and take your pick.
Well, in that case, you will
see me this afternoon.
Enjoy your walk.
Thanks!
Another satisfied customer.
Ahh!
Oh, my gosh!
Welcome home, honey.
It's so good
to see you guys.
Not as good as it is to see you
and to have you home safe!
What?
You guys don't stop growing,
do you?
It just happens!
I don't even try.
In school, I had to draw
a picture of a role model,
and I chose you, Uncle Jake.
Whoa!
That's just like me.
You're a great artist.
You can keep it
and put it on your refrigerator.
Well, that is exactly what
we're gonna do.
Yeah, it is.
-Great idea.
-Welcome home, Jake.
Good to see you, Barb.
What about this guy?
Get in there!
I've seen you my whole life.
I missed you, bro.
Oh, I missed you, too.
-You look good.
-You too, man.
Good? He's skin and bones.
Don't they feed you in the army?
Your mom has been cooking
for two days straight--
all your favorites.
Braised ribs,
Southern fried chicken...
Oh, ho.
...All the fixings.
Well, in that case...
what are we standing
around here for?
-Oh!
-Let's go!
That's how it's gonna be, huh?
That's exactly
how it's gonna be.
Come on, come on!
Personally,
I like the purples...
but the reds are also nice.
Yeah.
And even the yellows,
they're really beautiful
this year.
Oh...
I-I'm just not sure
what will go best
against a white fence.
Go with the purple.
Really? You're sure?
Trust me.
Oh, thanks, Ally.
I appreciate it.
They want your opinion.
Trust your instincts.
I'm trying.
I just don't have your eye.
You're doing great.
I hope so.
Hello, Sunshine.
Oh, he's such a good doggy.
Oh, no.
Look what the cat dragged in.
Are you kidding me?
That'll be $23.85.
What's he doing here?
Ask him.
I don't want to talk to him.
Thank you.
No, no, no, no.
We had a deal.
Ben is not supposed to come in
when I'm here.
Apparently, he lost the memo.
He could break off
our engagement over the phone,
but when it comes
to buying hydrangea,
that has to be done in person.
You know what?
I have orders to place,
so I'm gonna go to the office,
and you can deal with him.
-Uh... or not.
-Hey.
So close.
Good morning
to you, too, Emma.
What can I do for you, Ben?
Ally, it's been
over two months.
Two months and 11 days.
Not that anyone's counting.
I know that I hurt you,
and I'm sorry...
...but I still own
a landscaping business
and you still have
the best nursery in the area,
so we have to do business
together.
Actually, we don't.
Uh, actually,
I'm your biggest customer,
and I don't want to go
all the way to Bloomfield
to buy plants,
because they don't even have
half the selection you do.
But mostly...
they don't know me
like you do.
Which is an even better reason
for you to go to Bloomfield.
-Excuse me.
-Oh.
Sorry.
Apparently,
I didn't know you at all.
Yes, you did.
You know me better
than anyone.
Look, I handled this wrong
on every level.
You think?
Well, that's the problem,
I didn't think.
I called you to talk,
to-to tell you
how I was feeling,
and the more we talked,
the more scared I got,
and before I knew it,
I just... said it.
And I heard it.
And I'm sorry.
Can we just go to dinner
so that we can talk about this?
Ben, there's nothing
to talk about.
Thanks.
Oh, thank you, Sadie.
See you next time.
Listen, I'm gonna be in here
all the time.
You got the best eye when
it comes to choosing plants
and I value your opinion.
I just want to salvage
this part of our relationship.
Dinner? One time?
Please?
Where are you using this?
What? Oh, I'm adding them
to a rock garden display.
That gray stone that you like?
Exactly.
Okay, then I would go with
an emerald-blue creeping phlox.
See? This is what I mean.
You're the best.
Can I get 20 trays
by Friday?
But, you know what?
Let's do
the red creeping phlox.
It pops.
If you really want the red,
head over to Bloomfield.
I bet you they could get it
by Thursday.
Or we could order it here.
Perfect.
It was great to see you.
I hate to admit it, but...
he's right.
He is our biggest customer.
I will keep it professional.
I'm not sure I can.
Yeah, yeah, I've picked up
a lot of mad skills
since you've been gone.
"Mad skills"?
-Mad skills!
-Mad!
So, as soon as you're ready...
-Ready?
-Mm-hmm.
I've been ready for two years.
Listen, I'm proud of you.
You kept the company afloat
while I was gone,
now I'm back.
I want to get my hands dirty
and learn
some of these "mad skills"
you keep bragging about.
All right!
Hey, kids!
Strawberries and ice cream!
-Hey!
-Thanks, Mom.
Thank you, Grandma.
Oh, hold on, you two.
Gotta get you dried off.
Come on.
Oh, my gosh, strawberries
are so sweet this summer.
Yeah, they certainly are. Oh.
I missed this.
-So...
-Thanks, Mom.
...what are the chances that
they're gonna call you back?
Well, there's always
a chance, Mom.
I'm not active duty anymore,
but they can call me back
when they want.
I don't want to worry
about that right now.
I'm just happy to be home
with my family.
Yeah, well,
we're happy to have you.
Mm.
So, when are you
picking up Sunshine?
The sooner the better.
I have to get in touch with
the woman who was assigned
to take care of her,
see what works.
I still don't get
why you didn't get her sent
to us or Mom.
Rules.
You're not vetted
by American Humane.
Good point.
You think
she's gonna remember you?
It's been a couple of months
since you've seen her.
Sunshine was by my side
every minute
till they retired her,
sent her stateside,
I'm not worried.
There's a bond.
I knew she'd never
let anything happen to me.
I certainly wasn't gonna let
anything happen to her.
Nothing comes between
you and your dog.
Hello?
Hi. I hope it's not too early,
This is Jake Terry.
I was Sunshine's handler.
Oh... hi.
I mean, welcome home.
Thanks. And I really
want to thank you
for fostering Sunshine
till I got stateside.
Any chance I could
pick her up today or tomorrow?
Uh, yeah, yeah. Uh...
How about tomorrow?
9:00 a.m.?
I'll text you the address.
Perfect.
Okay. See you then.
Oh...
I've been dreading this.
I'm gonna miss you.
You've been
the perfect friend...
just when I needed
someone to listen to me talk.
After Ben and I...
well, you know the story.
You've heard it enough.
But you helped me
through a lot of tears.
I don't think I could've made it
through everything without you.
You've been the best girlfriend
I could've ever asked for.
And I promise,
from now on,
I'll make better choices.
Are you talking to the dog?
Oh...
You need to wear a bell.
Yes. You're probably right.
Sorry. It's a--
It's a last-minute thing,
but I wanted to introduce you
to my clients--
Hey, guys, come on over.
This is Denver
and Trisha Collins.
They own Sweet Lady T's.
Hi.
The bakery?
I love your desserts.
Yeah, me too.
Oh, thank you.
I'm redesigning
their landscape,
so I thought
it would be good for them
to come in
and have a look around,
see what they might like.
Ally here
has the best selection
and the best eye
when it comes to plants,
so if you have any questions,
she is the person to ask.
But, you know, um,
before we get to that,
why don't we have a look
at those pavers
that you and I
were talking about?
Uh, can we
look at the plants first?
Sure, yeah, why don't, uh,
why don't you two get started,
and we'll be right back?
The pavers are just over here.
Uh--
and off they go.
So tell me,
what are you looking to do
with your yard?
What do I want to do,
or what do Ben and Denver
already have planned?
They want a lot of stone,
and I love color.
I'm with you 100%.
That's why
I got into this business.
It's all about vibrant colors
and wonderful aromas.
It's always full of life.
Yes! Exactly.
Ben is a wonderful
landscape architect,
and Denver loves his plans,
but for me,
I just envision myself
being surrounded
by lots of colorful flowers.
I have an idea.
Let me show you some flowers
that are just--
Oh. Well, hang on.
I think I even have
a better idea.
Is there any chance
that you'd be able
to come out to the house,
and you could see the space
and maybe share
your design ideas?
Oh, that's--
that's Ben's department.
I mean, I can tell you
what flowers work in a space,
but I'm not
a landscape architect.
Oh, but listen,
I am not looking
for a landscape architect.
I'm looking for an opinion.
Maybe I can bribe you
with ice tea
and some of my special desserts?
Including
the lemon custard tarts?
Especially
the lemon custard tarts!
Oh! That is so tempting...
but I can't.
Ben is your landscape architect
and he's really good at it.
Look, I know Ben.
You just got to tell him
what you want
and make sure he listens.
Notice who's not
in that conversation.
Please...
I just need
a fresh perspective.
Otherwise, I'm afraid
I'm gonna wind up
with something
that I'm going to regret.
Lemon custard tarts?
Throw in
a slice of key lime pie
and I'm totally caving.
Done!
Now let me show you
these flowers.
Absolutely.
Hello.
Mind telling me
why I had to find out
from your brother
that you're back in town?
It's good to see you, Donna.
So you are talking to me?
I'm not mad.
I get it.
I'm not the first guy
in the military
to get a "Dear John" letter.
Brought you an apology pie.
It's Georgia peach,
your favorite.
I appreciate the pie.
You don't have to apologize.
We didn't know
when I was getting back.
We didn't know...
We didn't know
a lot of things,
and I couldn't expect you
to sit around and wait for me.
I'm sorry anyway.
Okay, well, I assume
you still have my number?
Thanks for the pie, Donna.
I appreciate it.
Hello?
Did you get something
for the woman
who's been taking care
of Sunshine?
Jacob Terry.
I raised you better.
I know,
it completely slipped my mind.
Oh, wait. Hold on, Mom.
I got it covered.
Oh, hi. I need some help.
I need a "thank you" gift
for a woman who's been
taking care of my dog.
Looking after your dog?
It's a military dog.
Long story.
Oh.
I have just the thing.
Follow me.
Ah. Oh...
You're such a good girl.
Tsk. Okay.
Oh, there she is.
Hi-- Sit.
Ten-hut!
Who's my good girl?
There's my girl!
I missed you so much.
Did you miss me?
Hi. Sorry. I'm Jake Terry.
I kinda guessed that.
Ally Craig.
Come in.
Come on.
Let's go.
Oh, this is, uh, it's just
a little something
to say thanks
for fostering Sunshine.
You stopped by
the nursery right off
the highway, didn't you?
Yeah.
Yeah, the woman there said--
Am I missing something?
That was my sister.
- I own the nursery.
- Are you serious?
Yeah. Yeah.
You probably gave her
too much information.
This is her idea of a joke.
Ha-ha. Well, at least the plant
will be among good company here.
Thank you.
It was very thoughtful.
Oh, Sunshine looks so good!
You took great care of her.
It was my pleasure.
Oh, I have everything you need
documented--
um, shots, diet, exercise.
And there's some papers
from American Humane
that you need to sign.
Okay. No problem.
I'm sure you did everything.
I just can't wait
to get her home
and introduce her to my family.
She's a great dog.
Yeah.
Oh, and I have her stuff.
Um, bowls, food,
a couple of toys
she really likes.
It's all yours,
if you want it.
Great.
I-I, really,
I can't thank you enough.
Oh...
I see she loves you, too!
The feeling is mutual.
Uh, y-you probably
have to go,
so I'll get your stuff.
Do you want to go for a walk?
W-With Sunshine, I mean.
You know, we don't have
far to go,
but I'm sure one more walk
would do her good.
That would be nice.
Okay, let me just call my sister
and tell her that I will be in
after my meeting,
and to tell her she'll be
processing your refund--
No, come on.
Uh! ...For the beautiful gift
that I'm keeping.
I can see why this is
Sunshine's favorite walk.
Well, truth be known...
it's mine, too.
How long have you
been volunteering
with American Humane?
Not very long.
Actually, Sunshine
is only the second service dog
I've taken care of,
and the first was just
for a few weeks.
Sunshine, she is...
special.
Yeah, couldn't agree more.
I was really lucky
to have her as a partner.
It's not hard to see how someone
could become attached to her.
Oh...
Thank you.
You okay?
Yeah. I...
Well, it's just...
Sunshine came into my life
at a time
when I really needed her.
I was engaged,
planning a wedding.
Everything was paid for
and I--
Oh, my gosh, I'm sorry.
No, no. You don't have
to explain anything.
-No, no, I just--
-I get it.
-I mean, I didn't mean to pry.
-No, you didn't!
I'm basically
a complete stranger. I...
Well, almost
a complete stranger.
We shared a dog.
-Well...
-No, I'm sorry.
No, no!
I'm happy to listen.
I-I really am.
I mean...
After all, we share a dog.
He broke up with me
over the phone.
Ouch.
Yeah.
Well, it certainly beats
my "Dear John" Letter.
Double-ouch.
Yeah.
Well, I guess we share
more than just a dog.
Ice cream? My treat?
If you insist.
-I insist.
-Okay.
Hi.
I'll have a Fudge Pop.
My favorite!
Make it two, please.
-There you go.
-Thank you.
There you go.
-Thank you.
-You're very welcome.
Thanks. Appreciate it.
There you go.
Whoa!
I'm so sorry!
Oh-- OH, my gosh.
You know,
if you wanted something else,
you could've just said so.
Yeah, I mean--
It's okay, it's okay.
I'll wash it when I get home.
We should probably
both be getting home.
Yeah. Here, take mine.
Oh...
-Are you sure?
-It's fine. Come on, let's go.
-Oh, my goodness.
-Thank you.
Okay. Thank you.
Come on, Sunshine.
Thank you.
Make sure you soak that shirt
right away when you get home.
Yes, ma'am.
Well, I guess
we should get going.
Hey, Sunshine,
say your goo-byes.
Oh.
Oh, you are the best.
Love you, girl.
I hope my next foster
is as wonderful as you.
Okay. It's time.
All right.
Come on.
Come on.
Yeah, we're gonna go home now.
Uh, Jake?
Thank you for your service.
Thanks for yours.
Who's a good girl?
Who's a good girl?
Come on, you ready?
Up.
Oh!
Wait, Jake!
We didn't sign the papers!
Oh...
That's perfect.
I can see how this yard
sold you on the house.
Yes! Now, I know
it's a bit of a mess,
but look at this view.
I really wanted
something special
for myself here,
but I got kind of overwhelmed.
Well, it's a blank canvas...
With so many possibilities.
Oh, I'd love to hear them.
Oh.
Uh... Well, I was thinking,
first of all, flowers.
Just-- Just color.
Big planters...
You know what else
we could do...
We could put in an archway
right here,
leading to your own
personal sanctuary,
and we could cover the arch
with, like, a flowering vine
and maybe, I don't know, have
a little pathway coming down
with flowers on either side.
You know, Ben is actually
much better at this than I am.
I'm happy
to give you my thoughts,
but, um,
take what you like,
and you should have
Ben incorporate them
into his design.
No. I like what you're saying.
Really?
Yes, you have
an incredible eye
and I think
that we're on the same page.
Okay.
Promise me
you won't be disappointed
if I don't completely
capture your dreams.
I-I've never
done a design before,
so I'm kind of winging it.
Well, sometimes, winging it
is the best way
to create something magical.
Well, then let's create
something magical.
Oh, I am gonna
spoil this dog...
I know
you're just staying here
until you can
get your own place
and get settled,
but...
oh, gosh,
do I love this dog.
Yeah.
I promise,
I'm soaking the shirt.
That's not
why I was calling,
but I'm glad to hear you are.
No, we, uh, we forgot
to sign those papers.
Ah! We did, didn't we?
Yeah, I'm sorry
I didn't call sooner,
but I had this meeting
to get to,
and then I had to get to work.
No, it's okay.
I'll tell you what.
Sunshine and I
will drive over tomorrow
and we can take care of that.
And you guys can get
a little more time together.
Or was that your plan
all along?
No! No, no.
No, seriously, I just forgot.
Just kidding.
Same time tomorrow?
Yeah, 9:00 a.m. is great.
I don't come in
till the afternoon.
And I promise...
no Fudge Pops.
Okay.
What?
Not saying a word.
That's good.
No, no, just...
Great.
Oh! I made fresh lemonade.
That sounds great.
Yeah? Okay.
Hope you like it sweet.
Hey, did you do these?
This is good.
It's really good.
Oh, that's just for a friend.
She just asked me
to help her figure out
what might look good
in her backyard.
I have never done this before.
You have a great eye.
Thanks.
I have an outside blanket
for Sunshine.
I don't know if you want it,
but I have it.
Yeah, sure.
I'll put it on the patio.
Okay.
Ah, redoing your deck?
Was.
My ex.
Ah.
Yeah, he was gonna move in
after we got married
and he wanted a big deck
for entertaining.
That left me with
the unfinished promise of a deck
and no one
to entertain with.
Yeah, sort of metaphoric.
Well...
you know, you have
everything you need right here.
I could finish this in a day
or so, no problem.
I couldn't ask you
to do that!
You didn't ask.
I offered.
No, finishing this would be
a more proper "thank you,"
unless you really
want another bromeliad,
'cause I know
this great little nursery.
Kinda friendly with the owner.
Oh, really?
Yeah, well...
we kinda share a dog.
So he's building you a deck?
No.
No, he's just helping me...
finish it.
As a "thank you."
Hmm.
I didn't know how empty
the house was gonna feel
without Sunshine.
Mm... well, if it
makes you feel better,
you can scratch me
behind the ears,
but I draw the line
at fetching a ball.
I'm perfectly happy
with the bubbles,
but thank you.
Thanks for coming over
to hang out with me.
Well, it did put a crimp
in my oh-so-busy social life...
but, luckily, I was able
to fit it in
between going to work today
and work tomorrow.
I miss this.
We haven't done this
in forever, right?
Yeah, because you were always
busy with what's-his-name.
You can say his name.
I could,
but I prefer not to.
You never did
like Ben very much, did you?
It's not like
I didn't "like" him.
He just always wanted
to do things his way
and you lost your voice
when you were with him.
And then
the way he ended it...
Even he admits
that was horrible.
He feels really bad about it.
He got scared.
Well, everyone gets scared.
Please tell me
you're not falling for it.
I'm not.
I'm not!
I...
Okay, fine, maybe
there's some small part of me
that still
has feelings for him.
Oh, but he left you
standing at the altar.
Okay, we never got that far.
Ally, you are beautiful,
you're smart,
you-you own your own business.
Normally,
I hate people like you,
but you also are the most
forgiving person in the world.
I just don't want to see you
make the same mistake.
You deserve better.
I love you.
And I don't want to make
the same mistake.
At least not
with the same guy!
Mm, I have missed your cooking.
Well, good,
because I'm not gonna
get tired of cooking for you
for a long time.
So...
you decided to say "thank you"
by building her a deck, huh?
Only you.
It was already framed out.
All I have to do
is put down the planks.
-It's not a big deal.
-Mm-hmm.
She's had a rough time.
You're the one who said "make
sure you do something nice."
Well, that was what
the plant was for.
It was her plant!
It was like I was giving her
a gift certificate
to her own store.
You're just always thinking
about everybody else.
I just don't want
you to get hurt.
Mom, seriously, it's a deck,
not a date.
I got so many other things to do
to get my life back in order.
It's the last thing on my mind.
Trust me.
It's all good.
You're a good man,
Jake Terry.
Just like your father,
rest his soul.
And I say that
with all the humility
a proud mama can.
You're tired.
You should get some rest.
Ah, I'm just gonna sit
down here for a while.
Are you sure
that you're okay?
Yeah, I'm fine.
I just...
I like the quiet.
I haven't had that
in a long time.
I love you.
Love you, too, Mom.
No. I can't do dinner tonight.
What? Why not?
Because I have a project
that I'm trying to finish,
and I'm not sure I'll be done.
Besides, Ben, what is the point,
really, of this dinner?
It's not about business.
It's about me and you.
There is
no "me and you" anymore,
and that was your choice.
Yeah.
I know, it's...
the worst mistake of my life.
I don't know
what you want me to say.
You don't need
to say anything.
I'm the one who screwed this up,
but I want to make it right.
Hey, look, if not dinner,
how about lunch?
You know what, I gotta--
I gotta go.
Quit pouting.
I'm not pouting.
I was with you for two years.
I know when you're pouting.
Okay, maybe lunch.
All right?
I gotta go. Bye.
Lunch! Ah. All right.
Hello, Sunshine!
Oh! Oh, I missed you.
I missed you.
Good to see you, too.
Good morning.
We brought tools.
Great. Wow.
-Okay.
-Let's get to work.
Yeah!
Wow, you're a natural.
-Thanks.
-You didn't need my help.
Yeah, right...
but I definitely need
your power tools.
And your motivation.
I was thinking of
leaving the deck undone,
as a testament
to my bad judgment.
Well, now it'll be a testament
to your moving on.
I like that much better.
Want to mark that for me?
Oh. Sure.
Can I ask you
a personal question?
Yeah, sure.
What was it like over there?
Oh, it was, um...
it was challenging.
But I made
a lot of close friends,
including Sunshine,
Got to see a part of the world
I never would've otherwise.
Mark the other side?
Yeah.
Would you ever go back?
If I get called back,
I'm happy to serve my country.
There.
Perfect.
You do nice work.
Thanks.
So they didn't, uh, they didn't
need you at the nursery today?
Oh, well,
technically,
I should be there every day,
since I own it,
but I work with my sister--
-Oh, yeah, we've met.
-Yeah! You've met!
And so we cover when
one of us has something to do.
I am happy
to have the company.
Company?
A minute ago,
you said I was working.
Ah, you wanna work?
Get back to work.
-Get to work!
-Touche.
So how did you ever come
to own a nursery?
Oh...
Growing up,
we had this big backyard
and I got into gardening.
I loved taking care of plants
and watching them grow
and get bigger,
and I started working at
a nursery during the summers
and just soaked up
everything I could.
Majored in horticulture
in college,
came back here after I got out,
and when the owners
decided to sell,
I decided to buy.
Wow.
And now I own a nursery.
I... You really
knew what you wanted.
Didn't you?
No, not a clue.
No, I was just, uh,
kicking around from job to job,
and then, uh...
well, then 9/11 happened.
And I felt it was my duty
to be of service,
so my dad suggested
I join the army.
He was military--
like father, like son.
So, did you?
Figure out
what you wanted to do?
Uh, well, yeah, eventually.
I mean, as much as I love
being of service
and I love
working with Sunshine,
what I missed was this--
you know, building things
with my own hands.
Wow.
Hmm!
You know, you're gonna have
some amazing barbecues out here.
Yeah.
Or just open a bottle of wine
after a long day
and enjoy the evening.
Oh, that sounds great.
I'm gonna have to join you.
Well, thank you for everything.
Yeah, yeah.
I was thinking of
getting back with my ex
just to get the deck done.
-And then break up with him?
-Over the phone.
I can't believe
she likes apple slices.
Oh, yeah, no,
that's her favorite treat.
You know, when she was a puppy,
she never liked apples.
Really?
Yeah, I tried.
She wasn't into it.
Loves 'em now.
Thanks. Appreciate it.
All right.
Well...
Come on, girl.
Up. Up. Up. Up.
That's it.
Thanks again,
for everything.
Especially
listening to me ramble.
I rambled as much as you did.
No, I enjoyed
every second of it.
Me too.
-Oh, uh--
-Oh...
Bye.
Okay.
Y-You should come out
to the house sometime.
See where Sunshine's living.
What are you doing
on the Fourth of July?
The Fourth?
I-I don't know. Why?
We always have friends over.
Why don't you come join us?
Jake, I appreciate it,
but you really don't
have to do all that.
Hey, again, you didn't ask.
I offered.
Besides, my mom probably
wants to meet the girl
Sunshine's
been barking about.
I think it would give you
peace of mind
to see how much she's loved.
Sunshine, I mean.
Not my mom.
Right.
You know,
my mom is also loved.
I get it.
You know what?
It sounds wonderful.
Well, um, I'll text you
the address.
And I get to see
where Sunshine is living.
That'll make me feel
so much better about losing her.
You didn't lose her,
you gained a deck.
You knew that Sunshine
was eventually gonna go back
to her owner.
I know.
Who, by the way,
is kinda...
What are you, 12?
Am I wrong?
Well, no, but...
And he built you a deck!
I mean,
I need a man like that.
Wait, is he single?
The good ones never are.
I didn't ask.
I mean, I assume so.
You spent the whole day
with him
and you didn't ask
if he was single?
It's not something that
came up in conversation, no.
Oh, please.
I have news for you--
seeing that dog again
is not why you've been
smiling all morning.
Hey.
We're not open yet.
Good to see you, too, Emma.
Oh, you know, this railing
is kind of loose here.
What can I do for you, Ben?
Well, let me tell you.
Be glad that you sell plants
and you don't design.
That couple that I brought in--
they are driving me crazy.
Denver was completely
on board
and, suddenly,
Trisha has other ideas.
She does?
She does, so, while I wait
for them to figure out
their differences,
I've got some other clients
to think about,
so I just wanted to grab
some samples.
Well, you know
where everything is.
Yes. I do.
Hey, uh... Sunshine's gone?
Don't look so happy.
I'm sorry, I know
how fond of her you were.
Well, I'm on the list
for another foster.
Great.
Good, good, good.
Hey, uh, what about Wednesday?
What about Wednesday?
Well, you said maybe dinner.
I said maybe lunch.
Perfect. Wednesday. Lunch.
You really want to do this?
I really want to do this.
I'm a hopeless romantic.
You have half of that right.
Oh, Emma...
Well, you know,
I said I'd do it,
so fine, Wednesday it is.
Great! I'll, uh,
I'll pick you up at noon.
Just tell me where
and I'll meet you.
It's a start.
I'll take it.
After everything he's done,
you're gonna go on a date?
It's not a date.
Oh, I can assure you,
it sounds like a date to Ben.
Well, it doesn't matter
what it sounds like to Ben,
for me, it's...
it's about closure.
I was in love with the guy
I am tired of feeling
off-balance.
Good,
because if his heart
was truly in it,
he would've never left you
in the first place.
When did you start
making sense?
Doesn't happen all that often,
so enjoy the moment.
So, what do you think?
We have enough to start?
Yeah, enough
for a couple months.
We're gonna have to hustle,
though, to land a good job,
put us on solid ground.
More?
Yeah, thanks, Mom.
Thanks, Mom.
Oh, by thy way, don't forget,
Ally's gonna join us
for the Fourth.
I know.
I'm looking forward to it.
Is that the woman that was
taking care of Sunshine?
Yeah, I invited her out
to see where Sunshine's living.
Least I could do.
Bro, you built her a deck,
I think you've exceeded "least."
What, you got a problem
with me being nice?
-It's the right thing to do.
-Ahh!
What, dragging out
her attachment
to somebody else's dog
is the right thing to do?
No, no, no.
Situations like this,
you rip off the Band-Aid.
It might hurt more
in the short run,
but it's way better
in the long run.
And what do you know
about ripping off a Band-Aid?
We got kids.
Yeah, and who does
all the Band-Aid ripping
in our house?
Look, all I'm saying is
that, just like Jake,
she needs to move on
with her life.
Hmm. Mm-hmm.
So, by the way,
Donna dropped by.
She told me
she wants to take you out.
Yeah.
Listen, she feels really bad
about the way
she broke things off with you.
Look, it's all good.
I just feel
that part of my life is over.
Like you just said--
rip the Band-Aid, move on.
Yeah. Yeah, but she's agreed
to do the books for our company
for next to nothing,
so you're going to be
seeing a lot of her.
I have no problem with that.
Look, Donna and I
will always be friends.
As for Ally,
she's my friend, too.
I just want her to see
that Sunshine's in good hands.
Looks like she is.
Looks great.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
For what?
For fixing the railing.
Railing...
What are you talking about?
You complained about...
Wait. You didn't have someone
come out and fix the railing?
No, have you checked
with your sister?
She probably had it fixed
before somebody got hurt.
So lunch at Franco's?
Yeah, yeah.
I'll see you at noon.
I gotta go.
Who fixed the hand railing?
Ooh! Coffee. Thank you.
So you didn't have
someone come out to fix it?
Seriously? If I knew someone
who could do that,
I wouldn't be single.
This is Jake.
Hi, Jake.
This is gonna sound like
a really strange question,
but were you, by chance,
at the nursery this morning?
No. I was there last night,
though.
I was out your way, I figured
I'd fix that railing for you.
Hope you don't mind.
Oh, I was also gonna
touch up the sign,
but I ran out of time.
Besides, I didn't know if
you wanted a different color.
You really don't
have to do all this.
Ah, people do nice things
for me,
I do nice things for them--
it's how my mom raised me.
Hey, Jake?
Well, then, I guess
I owe her a thank you.
All right, no problem. Listen.
I really have to jump here.
Did the caps for the deck
come in yet?
Yes.
All right, what do you say
I come out Saturday,
we finish it up?
You don't have to.
Are you really
gonna make me say it again?
Okay, fine. I didn't ask.
You offered.
Okay, I'll see you Saturday.
2:00?
See you then.
All right.
So, he just came out here
and fixed it?
Yeah.
Well... I think someone's
sweet on you?
Oh, no, no, no.
It's nothing like that.
No, that's just
the kind of person he is.
No, he feels
he has a debt to pay,
which I've told him
he doesn't, but...
Well, let him think he does
until he puts in
that new kitchen you want.
Have I ever told you
that you are horrible?
Many times.
Okay, Trisha.
Let's create some magic.
Sunshine will be there.
Oh, thank you.
So I'll get to see her
one more time,
and just to know
she's in good hands.
That's good, that's great.
I'm-I'm glad for you.
I'm boring you.
No! No, no, no.
Besides, I know
you're not a dog person.
Hey, I'm glad
that she was there for you
when you needed her,
and that she was able
to help you.
You know, I think
that the perspective I got
from our time apart
really helped me, too.
That's good.
I'm glad.
Listen.
I know that you're not ready
for anything more
than friendship...
but I miss what we had,
and I miss you.
And seeing you at the nursery,
it's been hard for me.
Do you think
it's been easy for me?
So you're having
the same feelings?
Yo-You're misinterpreting
what I'm saying.
I loved you.
My gosh,
I was ready to marry you,
but what you did
really knocked me
off-balance,
and I'm trying
to get my footing again.
Okay, I get it.
I understand.
I hurt the best person
I've ever known,
someone
that I still love,
and that is on me.
I got scared.
But I'm not scared anymore.
What changed?
I realized
that you complement me
and, well, I'd like to think
that I complement you, too.
And I can't-- I can't go back,
I can't change what I did,
but I'm hoping we can
change where we go from here.
I mean, why can't you and I
start fresh?
It's not like
there's anyone else.
Hey, you know me
better than anyone,
so when I say that I've changed,
I mean it.
Thanks.
Oh, I think that's a mistake.
We didn't order that.
No, it's okay.
I ordered it for us
ahead of time.
It's our favorite.
Mm!
No, Ben...
It's your favorite.
Hmm?
You should try it.
It's amazing.
Wow, that's good. Mm!
So good.
We do good work.
-Yes, we do.
-Yeah.
And you have been very patient.
Hasn't she?
Hey, you know, there is a park
just a few blocks from here.
It's where
all the cool dogs go.
-That's where she needs to be.
-Right?
Who wants to go to the park?
Yes!
-Oh!
-Yes, you do.
Okay, let's go.
All right.
Come on.
Good girl.
In case you couldn't tell,
this is the dog beach.
Yeah, I got that.
Ah, she loves it here!
Oh, I can see why.
Aw, man.
This is dog heaven.
Does she always get this messy
at the dog beach?
Yeah. Sorry about that.
We can give her a bath
when we get back to the house.
We're gonna have to!
Yeah.
Aw, man, you know,
when I was deployed,
some days
were just so scorching hot.
Sunshine would just
find a tub full of water
and sit in it all day.
Oh!
Sorry, mister.
Thanks.
Who wants cake?
Come on, guys.
Saved by the cake.
Come on, let's get out of here
before they finish eating.
Hello?
No. No, no.
This is a good time.
Okay.
That's great.
Oh, uh, I appreciate that.
Yeah, yeah. I can be there.
No problem.
I'll see you then.
Thank you.
So?
Are you gonna tell me,
or do I have to beat it
out of you?
That was Trisha.
She loved my design.
-See?
-She wants to meet up.
I guess to make a few changes
before she gives it to Ben.
That's great!
See? Now maybe he'll appreciate
just how talented
you really are.
Whoa!
Slow down,
you're not in a race.
Good morning.
Thanks for picking me up.
Well, I only did it
'cause I knew
Mom was making French toast.
And it was delicious.
She makes me breakfast
every morning
because I am her favorite.
-Thanks, Mom.
-You're both my favorites.
Well, it looks like someone's
exceptionally happy
this morning.
I am. I am.
I'm feeling better
than I've felt in a long time.
I'm getting back in the groove.
Well, that's great to hear.
Would you like some more coffee?
No, I am perfect, Mom.
Life is good.
But...
Oh! Ally was wondering what
she could bring for the Fourth
and I said nothing.
Perfect.
All right. Good.
I'll be in the truck.
Let's go! Chop-chop.
Have an amazing day, Mom.
It's great to see him so happy.
Mm-hmm.
You think
it's because of that girl?
Well, now, what do you think?
Hmm. Thanks, Ma.
I love the idea
of the archway here,
with flowering vines.
Just so you know,
it will take a few years
before the vines
totally cover it.
I'm fine with that.
Okay.
Watching it grow
fuller each year
is a wonderful way
to mark time.
Your design ideas
are marvelous.
Thank you.
So when can you start?
Excuse me?
I made a deal with Denver
that Ben can have
the front of the house,
and the backyard is mine,
I want your designs
and I want you to do it.
No, no, no, no, no.
That's what Ben is for.
Just give him our plans
and tell him
that's the design you want.
No.
But I don't have a crew
or know what anything costs.
You know
he'll change everything.
I want your vision.
Ben does have a funny habit
of improving people's ideas
until they're his ideas.
Well, I like your ideas.
I appreciate that,
but in all fairness to you,
executing those ideas
is a big deal,
and it's something
I've never done.
That's okay.
You will learn as you go.
I believe in you.
Why don't you?
But I would still
need to find a crew,
and there's budgets...
And you will learn everything
as you go.
Besides, you already have
two of the most important things
you need.
Which are?
You have the vision,
and you have
the easiest-going client
you'll ever have.
Yes?
I'm so glad
to have you on board.
Why don't you come on up?
I'm gonna give you some more
of my key lime pie.
Okay.
So...
have you called Donna?
Not yet.
You know,
since you came home,
your only female companionship
has been your dog,
a woman who loves your dog,
and Mom.
What do you care
if I call Donna?
Because she keeps asking me
why you haven't called her,
and I don't want
to be in the middle.
Look, bro,
Donna's smart,
she's a successful
business woman,
she's good-looking,
and more importantly,
for some completely
unknown reason,
she's still into you.
She's gonna be at the party
on the weekend, you know that.
You should
probably talk to her.
I'll call.
I promise.
You know what?
No time like the present.
-No, I--
-Oh, yeah.
Don't leave her hanging.
It's dialing.
Yeah. I see that.
Hey, Donna.
No, uh, actually, it's Jake.
You know that
you're gonna have to tell Ben
you're doing half the job.
It would not be fair for him
to find out from them.
Since when are you worried
about being fair to Ben?
Oh, come on.
No, I'm just-- I'm...
I'm just waiting
for the right time to tell him.
Did you learn nothing from Ben?
There is no such thing
as the right time.
Ally. Hey. How's it going?
Question--
are you free for coffee?
Coffee? Ooh. No.
But I am free for dinner.
Okay.
-Great.
-Great.
How long
has this place been here?
Oh, it opened
about six months ago,
and it is the place,
if you couldn't already tell.
Thank you.
Thanks.
I recommend the short ribs.
They're fantastic.
Okay.
Nice to meet you.
You too, Ricky.
Thank you.
Ahh. Everything is great here,
but the salmon
is out of this world.
Oh, allow me.
Hello?
Sorry. Sorry.
I'm just...
I'm a little overwhelmed
by the crowd.
Oh, yeah, it's crowded,
but you know, I figured,
what better way
to get you back
in the swing of things
than to throw you into the deep
end of the social scene.
Not exactly the most conducive
place to talk.
Well, maybe not,
but it is a great place
to see and be seen,
and I want people to see us.
I was so happy that
you called me to have dinner.
Hmm.
It's not what you think.
There's something else
that we really need
to talk about.
Uh-oh.
Now what have I done?
Ben, this is not about you.
This is, uh, about me.
So...
on a lark,
Trisha Collins asked,
um, how I would
design her backyard.
She... what?
So I did a few sketches
and suggested some ideas...
and she liked them.
Oh, okay.
That... that's why
they haven't signed off
on my proposal then.
Yeah.
You know what,
it's-- it's fine.
Tell her
I'll be happy to fix them
and to put them
into the final project.
Um, well,
that's the point--
she doesn't want you
"fixing" my ideas.
She--
She wants my design, as-is.
Yeah, but this is my design.
Yeah, I know what works,
that's why
I have the final word--
I am the architect.
But you haven't seen
what I've done.
You...
You've always done this to me.
I-I'd come up with something
and you'd find a reason
to make a change--
Come on, I--
...Whether
it was needed or not.
I don't do that.
Well, she already
offered me the job.
You took my job?
No. No, no, no.
Uh, well, half of it.
Denver still loves your idea
for the front of the house.
It's just that Trisha
likes mine for the back.
Oh! So you're stealing
half my job?
No, thank you.
I cannot believe
that you went behind my back.
I didn't go behind your back.
She came to me.
I buy every plant
for every job I do from you
and this is what you do to me?
You're not listening.
No, I am listening.
You're taking half my job.
Did...
Did I miss something?
You've never supervised
a landscape job.
Do you think it's just easy?
No.
Do you have people to hire?
No. Ahem.
So, that's why I was thinking,
actually, that maybe
there is a way that you and I
could work together.
That's what you always said
you wanted when we were--
Together?
But we're not.
So, um...
you and Sam have some jobs
coming up. That's good.
Yeah. Uh...
I'm sorry.
Can you just excuse me
for one second?
No,
I would never do that.
That's not what
this is about at all.
I thought
that you wanted to meet
so that we could
work things out.
Hey, Ally. Sorry.
Didn't mean to bother you.
I just wanted to say hi.
Jake! Hi!
Uh, Ben, this is Jake.
Um...
Uh, Jake is Sunshine's handler.
The dog?
Wow! Could this night
get any more perfect?
Because if it's not about
how awful I am,
it's always about the dog.
You know what?
Just-Just close my account.
I think I'm gonna take
my business to Bloomfield.
I'm sorry.
Did I--
No. You didn't do anything.
I just wanted to make sure
you were okay.
Sorry.
I didn't mean to overstep.
No! No, no, and don't
ruin your evening for me.
I'm fine.
Go back to your date.
Ally...
I-I should go.
Hey, sweet girl.
Come here.
This is all your fault,
you know.
I get why you like her.
I like her, too.
I thought maybe...
...but she's just not available.
Yeah.
I'm sad, too.
I'm sad, too.
Goodnight.
You look like you could
use a glass of wine.
That party is tomorrow.
I'm still not sure
I should be going.
Thanks.
It's just one of those weeks
I wish I still had Sunshine.
Well, if you need me,
we could just sit quietly,
or talk,
or if it makes you feel better,
I could just bark occasionally.
You're the best.
Let's get out of here.
Let's do it.
-Hi.
-Hey.
I hope you don't already
have a rack of these.
No, not yet,
but I'm gonna start
a collection.
And these are for your mom.
That's sweet.
I'm really glad
you decided to come.
Happy Fourth of July.
Thanks. You too.
Hey, come on in.
Beautiful house!
Thanks.
We call it home.
This is to say I'm sorry
about the other night.
There was a lot going on
when you came over to say hi.
You mean when I came over
to stick my nose
in your business?
Honestly, you couldn't have
arrived at a better time.
Things were not going well.
Do you remember that design
you peeked at?
The woman I did it for
loved it.
Oh, congrats!
That's great news.
Yeah, thanks, but the thing is,
that was Ben's client.
Oh... okay, I get it.
So I gather he didn't
take it well?
That would be
an understatement.
Well, you know what?
If your design was better,
that's on him.
You give the client
what they want,
and if you don't,
they're free to look elsewhere.
Yeah, look, I know you guys
have a history together,
and you're obviously still
trying to work
some things through--
No. No, no. That's over.
This must be Ally.
I'm Jake's mom,
oh, but I'm sure
you've already figured that out.
Call me Margo.
These are for you.
Oh, my goodness.
These are-- Thank you!
I like this girl.
So, we don't stand
on ceremony here.
There are gonna a lot of people
in and out,
a lot of food--
and I expect you
to make yourself at home, okay?
I appreciate that.
Well, today's about family,
and Sunshine
is part of our family
and that makes you
a part of our family, too.
And we don't argue with Mom.
She says you're family,
you're family.
Good, now that we've got
that settled,
this dog needs
to get out for a walk.
And take my son,
because he could use a walk
as well.
I'm gonna go put these
in water,
because these
are pretty, pretty, pretty!
Ugh! Get outta here!
And... that's my mom.
The backyard has a path.
Come on.
Let's go.
So the fireworks go off
right over the water.
We just pull up a chair...
Best view in town.
I just want you to know
how grateful I am
that you didn't just
pick up Sunshine and run.
You know,
we don't live that far.
You're welcome to visit
any time.
Jake, I appreciate that,
but I don't want
to intrude in your life.
Intruding?
We're friends.
We are?
I hope so,
or else I helped
build a deck for nothing.
Here. Gets a little rocky here.
-Thanks.
-Sure.
Well, I'm-I'm glad
we're friends.
Yeah, you can't have
too many friends.
That's right.
That's right.
And you never know
when something else
might need fixing.
Oh, no.
What'd I get myself into?
Well, you offered,
I didn't ask.
Oh, you're gonna
throw that at me?
Isn't that what friends do?
You are such a good dog.
Come on. Come on.
Let's go.
There you go. Come on with me.
That's right.
Listen, I know
you're gonna be really busy
with the new design job,
but any time you want,
you're always welcome here.
Thank you.
But, uh, I don't know
if I can take that job.
What?
Yeah, I have a feeling
I might've gotten myself
in over my head,
and even if I wanted to try,
the only crew I know
is Ben's.
I tried calling around,
but...
Well, you do have
one thing going for you.
What's that?
Me.
Hey, Sam!
Come on.
What's going on?
I don't think Ally knows
what we do for a living.
No?
You're in construction, right?
I figured, from what we did,
decks and stuff.
Yeah, we build
"decks and stuff."
We also build retaining walls,
patios, sprinkler systems,
any sort of hardscaping
or landscaping.
Wait.
Wait, I see where this is going.
You own a nursery.
We can get our materials
from you.
That--
That is genius!
Can we get a discount?
Well, actually, I have
a different arrangement in mind.
How would you feel about hiring
a brand-new
construction company
run by two of
the hardest-working guys?
We got a great crew.
We'd be happy to bid on the job.
Are you serious?
You guys could do this?
Absolutely!
Yeah, we're here to serve.
I think we're in business!
All right!
I can take those for you.
Oh, Ally! Leave that.
It's the least I can do
to repay your hospitality
and two huge plates of food.
You're a guest.
Go! Mingle.
Miss Ally, do you know
where Sunshine is?
Oh, um...
You know what, I bet
the party tuckered her out.
I know how she feels.
Parties can be hard.
Yeah.
Why don't you check inside?
She might be in there,
sleeping.
Right?
No, I like that.
It's good.
Hi...
Hi.
I'm Donna.
It's nice to meet you.
I'm--
Ally. Yes, I know.
Jake's been bragging about you.
Bragging?
Yes, about you and all
that you've done for him.
It's about all
he can talk about.
Oh, I didn't do anything
I wouldn't do for any other
returning service dog.
I wasn't talking
about you and Sunshine.
Oh...
Oh, you're talking
about us working together?
I was referring
to you and Jake.
You are all he can talk about.
I mean, I wish
he looked at me that way.
Don't worry.
Jake and I had a thing,
but he never looked at me
like that.
And, yeah, I guess I was hoping,
when he came back,
maybe we could rekindle things,
but it has become
crystal clear
that he has his eyes
on someone else.
Me? No! No, no, no, no.
We are just--
...Friends?
I may not be the woman
that Jake is interested in,
but trust me,
I can still read him
like a book,
and that book says
that he's not thinking of you
as a friend.
I think
Sunshine knows that, too.
Come on, Sunshine.
So, what were you two
talking about?
Oh... just...
like, how good
a dog's instincts are
with understanding people.
-You know?
-Yeah, yeah.
-Yeah.
-Dogs are pretty smart.
You know, they know if
they like someone right away.
You know, I think
most people know right away,
if they like someone.
You think so?
Yeah.
Sometimes,
it takes a bit longer
for them
to do something about it.
Wow.
Told you.
You were right,
it's the best view in town.
Yeah.
Best view in town.
I have to tell you, guys,
I am so impressed with
how much you've gotten done
in just a few weeks.
Yeah. Yeah.
It's getting there.
Yeah.
I told you we'd be done
in 10 weeks,
and I always keep my promises.
It's like that?
Okay. That's cool.
You want to come over
for a glass of wine?
No, thanks.
Really?
-Hey!
-Hey.
-What a nice surprise.
-Yeah.
Let's, um,
let's go for a walk.
Okay.
Where are we going?
Oh... not far.
For the record,
I'm jealous.
Very jealous.
I need to get a dog.
Oh, my goodness.
Wow.
Thank you.
This is incredible!
What's the occasion?
Well...
I mean, it's our three-month-
seven-day anniversary, but...
I love that you remember it
to the day.
Of course.
There's no occasion.
If there's one thing I learned
while I was deployed,
it's not to wait for holidays
to celebrate life.
Just enjoy the moment?
Can't think of a better moment
to celebrate than this.
Now...
With you.
So...
Thank you, everyone,
for all your hard work
on our first job together.
-The first of many.
-Yup!
It's so beautiful!
Thank you, Sam,
for putting together
this great crew!
And Jake...
thank you for everything.
Oh! And my sister, Emma,
thank you for holding down
the fort at the nursery for me!
I am happy for the overtime.
You're salaried,
you don't get overtime.
Oh! Ouch...
But we can talk about a raise.
Seriously, I...
couldn't have done this
without you.
And none of this
would've happened
without this wonderful girl.
It is remarkable how this dog
has changed my life.
But she has.
She helped find somebody
I thought I'd lost...
me.
And she helped me
find... you.
Yes!
To all of you and Sunshine...
...My deepest gratitude.
Cheers!
Cheers.
Mm. Now, let's get out of here
before Trisha and Denver
get back,
so they can enjoy
their new sanctuary.
Yes! Let's go.
Come on.
Nice speech.
Aw, thanks.
-Good morning.
-Good morning.
Listen, uh...
I've been so busy working
on the front of the house,
I-- I never stopped by
to tell you
how beautiful
Trisha's garden looks.
Congratulations.
That means a lot,
coming from you.
And the front of the house
looks amazing, of course.
Ahh.
Well, we make a great team.
But-But we weren't right
for each other, were we?
No.
Yeah.
You're a great guy, Ben.
You just weren't great for me.
Well, hey, that, uh,
doesn't mean we can't
do business together.
I'd like that.
Me too.
Bye, Ally.
Bye.
So you've been dating
for... what, now?
A few months.
You getting serious?
I'm not rushing anything,
but, uh...
doesn't mean I don't see it
going somewhere.
Well, just so you know,
Mom is already making plans.
Oh, hold on.
I gotta grab this.
Master Sergeant Terry.
Yes, sir.
Yes, sir. I understand.
Is everything okay?
My team's being called back.
Hi.
What's wrong?
Come in.
I got a call.
All the way over here,
I was trying to figure out
how to say this.
There's just--
There's not an easy way.
My team got called back.
When?
I report in two weeks.
Two weeks?
That soon?
Yeah.
Okay.
I think you know
how I feel about you.
I can't ask you to sit here
and wait for me.
I've gone through that before
and we'd been together
for a long time.
I-I don't understand.
Look at you.
You're... you're beautiful.
You're talented.
You're this incredible person.
It's not fair for me to ask you
put your life on hold.
That should be my choice.
I'm sorry, no.
I-- 'cause I know
what you'd choose.
I can't be worried about you,
and you worried about me,
and both of us
worried about us.
And that's on top of
everything else
I have to do while I'm there.
I've tried it, Ally,
it doesn't work.
I'm so sorry...
...to break things off with you.
I'm... sorrier than
I've ever been in my whole life.
No.
Ally...
I have to go
break the news to my mom,
but I needed
to see you first.
Jake...
you're making a mistake.
I understand,
and I want you to be safe,
but also...
you have to know
I'm not going anywhere.
You're not
gonna make it easy, are you?
You are the most incredible
woman I've ever met...
I am so lucky
to have found you..
But I'm not gonna make you
sit here and wait for me.
I won't do that.
Please try to understand
where I'm coming from.
Please.
I'm so sorry.
I'm sorry.
So how did Ally take the news?
I don't know, I didn't stay.
If I'd seen her fall apart,
then I would've
fallen apart, too,
and I didn't want that.
It's not fair to her
and I want to be fair.
She has every right
to fall apart.
She cares for you
and what you two had
had just started to bloom.
I like that girl.
And more importantly,
I like that girl
for you.
I know.
But I can't have her on my mind
while I'm over there.
Well, your safety
has to come first, of course,
but she deserves to be
involved in this decision.
That's what she said.
Well, that's because
she's a very smart girl.
Look, I know
it would've been easier
if you two had
had another couple of months,
maybe a chance to see
where this was going,
but life doesn't always
work out that neatly.
The heart...
it's a funny thing, hon'.
It doesn't understand time
the way our head does.
Sometimes,
you just have to take
a leap of faith.
So, you're the one in charge
of the service dogs?
Great!
My name is Ally Craig.
Um, thank you
for taking my call.
I was wondering,
is it possible
to match a soldier
with a particular dog
he's served with before?
Thanks, man.
You know,
with this new crew,
you'll be just fine
until I get back.
Yeah, we already got
a few jobs lined up,
and each one seems
to generate more, so...
I just hope this tour
is a short one.
Yeah, I hope so.
For a lot of reasons.
Have you talked to Ally
since you broke the news?
I don't...
I don't know what to do.
I report in a week
and I want to see her.
I want to see her badly
before I go, but...
I don't want to hurt her.
You know, if there's
one thing she deserves,
it's happiness.
You don't think
you make her happy?
When did
you turn "Team Ally"?
She's cool!
"She's cool"?
Barb loves her.
Mom loves her.
Heck, even Donna loves her.
So, look, I got to go by
the nursery tomorrow
to pick up an order, so...
What should I say
if I see her?
You know what, you don't
want me to say anything...
Well--
No.
Don't say anything.
Okay.
Can't believe I found someone
I can see a future with
and I'm leaving.
You know, you don't know
what the future holds.
All right, so you do your job,
you be safe.
Just come home.
I'm gonna miss you.
Yeah, I'm gonna miss you, too.
Trust me.
Go with the red gerbera.
It'll be beautiful.
Nice!
I know.
I'm trusting my instincts.
-Mm.
-Thanks.
Oh, and Sam came by to pick up
the rest of the ground cover...
He left this for you.
-Love you both.
- I love you, too.
Be safe, Jake.
So, listen, when I get back,
I'm gonna need a paycheck, so--
Yeah, I know,
don't screw up the business.
Screw it up?
I'm expecting you to be
so successful I can retire.
You can count on that.
Now, you two,
when I leave you here,
you're gonna take care
of your mom and your dad
and your grandma.
Okay?
Yes, sir.
Love you, Mom.
You take care of yourself
over there, okay?
And you call me.
On the computer,
so I can see you.
I promise.
You planned this,
didn't you?
Nah, I just let her know
what time you were leaving.
You know, I, um...
I've seen that look before.
On your father.
The day he gave me this.
It was the day he left
to serve his country.
He wanted to make sure
that I didn't get away.
I want you to have this.
She's special, Jake.
You don't want her getting away.
Oh, hey! Hey, girl.
Oh, I missed you, too.
I, um, I heard
you tried to get Sunshine
called back into service.
You know, she's retired.
Yeah, I found out.
I'm sorry,
I overstepped.
I just want you to be safe.
And I knew Sunshine
would take care of you.
Yeah. Sunshine would.
But she has a new job now.
I'm entrusting her
with the most important thing
in the world to me...
...You.
Sunshine.
I'm counting on you, girl.
You're gonna take care of Ally
while I'm gone.
And if any potential suitors
come along,
you make sure
you chase them away.
'Cause when I get back...
If she'll have me...
I'm gonna marry her.
I know we haven't
known each other that long...
...but I also know
I don't want to go
another day
without you in my life.
And it's okay if you say no,
I understand,
because it's a lot to ask
for you to wait--
Ask me to wait?
You didn't ask.
I offered.
So?
Yes!
Ally Craig?
Hi!
Sorry to disturb
your morning exercise.
Oh, that's all right.
What can I do for you, Corine?
Hello, Sunshine!
I need to replace the bushes
down the side of my house.
The deer got the old ones.
I'm looking
for something flowering
and it's kind of shady there.
What do you think?
Flowering bush, semi-shaded
and deer-resistant...
I'm thinking astilbe visions,
red or purple.
I love red.
If you love red,
there's also heuchera red!
Oh, it's great, it's got
these wispy, delicate
little red flowers
and vibrant red leaves.
Do you have those
at the nursery,
or do you need
to order them in?
We have a whole section!
You can come down
and take your pick.
Well, in that case, you will
see me this afternoon.
Enjoy your walk.
Thanks!
Another satisfied customer.
Ahh!
Oh, my gosh!
Welcome home, honey.
It's so good
to see you guys.
Not as good as it is to see you
and to have you home safe!
What?
You guys don't stop growing,
do you?
It just happens!
I don't even try.
In school, I had to draw
a picture of a role model,
and I chose you, Uncle Jake.
Whoa!
That's just like me.
You're a great artist.
You can keep it
and put it on your refrigerator.
Well, that is exactly what
we're gonna do.
Yeah, it is.
-Great idea.
-Welcome home, Jake.
Good to see you, Barb.
What about this guy?
Get in there!
I've seen you my whole life.
I missed you, bro.
Oh, I missed you, too.
-You look good.
-You too, man.
Good? He's skin and bones.
Don't they feed you in the army?
Your mom has been cooking
for two days straight--
all your favorites.
Braised ribs,
Southern fried chicken...
Oh, ho.
...All the fixings.
Well, in that case...
what are we standing
around here for?
-Oh!
-Let's go!
That's how it's gonna be, huh?
That's exactly
how it's gonna be.
Come on, come on!
Personally,
I like the purples...
but the reds are also nice.
Yeah.
And even the yellows,
they're really beautiful
this year.
Oh...
I-I'm just not sure
what will go best
against a white fence.
Go with the purple.
Really? You're sure?
Trust me.
Oh, thanks, Ally.
I appreciate it.
They want your opinion.
Trust your instincts.
I'm trying.
I just don't have your eye.
You're doing great.
I hope so.
Hello, Sunshine.
Oh, he's such a good doggy.
Oh, no.
Look what the cat dragged in.
Are you kidding me?
That'll be $23.85.
What's he doing here?
Ask him.
I don't want to talk to him.
Thank you.
No, no, no, no.
We had a deal.
Ben is not supposed to come in
when I'm here.
Apparently, he lost the memo.
He could break off
our engagement over the phone,
but when it comes
to buying hydrangea,
that has to be done in person.
You know what?
I have orders to place,
so I'm gonna go to the office,
and you can deal with him.
-Uh... or not.
-Hey.
So close.
Good morning
to you, too, Emma.
What can I do for you, Ben?
Ally, it's been
over two months.
Two months and 11 days.
Not that anyone's counting.
I know that I hurt you,
and I'm sorry...
...but I still own
a landscaping business
and you still have
the best nursery in the area,
so we have to do business
together.
Actually, we don't.
Uh, actually,
I'm your biggest customer,
and I don't want to go
all the way to Bloomfield
to buy plants,
because they don't even have
half the selection you do.
But mostly...
they don't know me
like you do.
Which is an even better reason
for you to go to Bloomfield.
-Excuse me.
-Oh.
Sorry.
Apparently,
I didn't know you at all.
Yes, you did.
You know me better
than anyone.
Look, I handled this wrong
on every level.
You think?
Well, that's the problem,
I didn't think.
I called you to talk,
to-to tell you
how I was feeling,
and the more we talked,
the more scared I got,
and before I knew it,
I just... said it.
And I heard it.
And I'm sorry.
Can we just go to dinner
so that we can talk about this?
Ben, there's nothing
to talk about.
Thanks.
Oh, thank you, Sadie.
See you next time.
Listen, I'm gonna be in here
all the time.
You got the best eye when
it comes to choosing plants
and I value your opinion.
I just want to salvage
this part of our relationship.
Dinner? One time?
Please?
Where are you using this?
What? Oh, I'm adding them
to a rock garden display.
That gray stone that you like?
Exactly.
Okay, then I would go with
an emerald-blue creeping phlox.
See? This is what I mean.
You're the best.
Can I get 20 trays
by Friday?
But, you know what?
Let's do
the red creeping phlox.
It pops.
If you really want the red,
head over to Bloomfield.
I bet you they could get it
by Thursday.
Or we could order it here.
Perfect.
It was great to see you.
I hate to admit it, but...
he's right.
He is our biggest customer.
I will keep it professional.
I'm not sure I can.
Yeah, yeah, I've picked up
a lot of mad skills
since you've been gone.
"Mad skills"?
-Mad skills!
-Mad!
So, as soon as you're ready...
-Ready?
-Mm-hmm.
I've been ready for two years.
Listen, I'm proud of you.
You kept the company afloat
while I was gone,
now I'm back.
I want to get my hands dirty
and learn
some of these "mad skills"
you keep bragging about.
All right!
Hey, kids!
Strawberries and ice cream!
-Hey!
-Thanks, Mom.
Thank you, Grandma.
Oh, hold on, you two.
Gotta get you dried off.
Come on.
Oh, my gosh, strawberries
are so sweet this summer.
Yeah, they certainly are. Oh.
I missed this.
-So...
-Thanks, Mom.
...what are the chances that
they're gonna call you back?
Well, there's always
a chance, Mom.
I'm not active duty anymore,
but they can call me back
when they want.
I don't want to worry
about that right now.
I'm just happy to be home
with my family.
Yeah, well,
we're happy to have you.
Mm.
So, when are you
picking up Sunshine?
The sooner the better.
I have to get in touch with
the woman who was assigned
to take care of her,
see what works.
I still don't get
why you didn't get her sent
to us or Mom.
Rules.
You're not vetted
by American Humane.
Good point.
You think
she's gonna remember you?
It's been a couple of months
since you've seen her.
Sunshine was by my side
every minute
till they retired her,
sent her stateside,
I'm not worried.
There's a bond.
I knew she'd never
let anything happen to me.
I certainly wasn't gonna let
anything happen to her.
Nothing comes between
you and your dog.
Hello?
Hi. I hope it's not too early,
This is Jake Terry.
I was Sunshine's handler.
Oh... hi.
I mean, welcome home.
Thanks. And I really
want to thank you
for fostering Sunshine
till I got stateside.
Any chance I could
pick her up today or tomorrow?
Uh, yeah, yeah. Uh...
How about tomorrow?
9:00 a.m.?
I'll text you the address.
Perfect.
Okay. See you then.
Oh...
I've been dreading this.
I'm gonna miss you.
You've been
the perfect friend...
just when I needed
someone to listen to me talk.
After Ben and I...
well, you know the story.
You've heard it enough.
But you helped me
through a lot of tears.
I don't think I could've made it
through everything without you.
You've been the best girlfriend
I could've ever asked for.
And I promise,
from now on,
I'll make better choices.
Are you talking to the dog?
Oh...
You need to wear a bell.
Yes. You're probably right.
Sorry. It's a--
It's a last-minute thing,
but I wanted to introduce you
to my clients--
Hey, guys, come on over.
This is Denver
and Trisha Collins.
They own Sweet Lady T's.
Hi.
The bakery?
I love your desserts.
Yeah, me too.
Oh, thank you.
I'm redesigning
their landscape,
so I thought
it would be good for them
to come in
and have a look around,
see what they might like.
Ally here
has the best selection
and the best eye
when it comes to plants,
so if you have any questions,
she is the person to ask.
But, you know, um,
before we get to that,
why don't we have a look
at those pavers
that you and I
were talking about?
Uh, can we
look at the plants first?
Sure, yeah, why don't, uh,
why don't you two get started,
and we'll be right back?
The pavers are just over here.
Uh--
and off they go.
So tell me,
what are you looking to do
with your yard?
What do I want to do,
or what do Ben and Denver
already have planned?
They want a lot of stone,
and I love color.
I'm with you 100%.
That's why
I got into this business.
It's all about vibrant colors
and wonderful aromas.
It's always full of life.
Yes! Exactly.
Ben is a wonderful
landscape architect,
and Denver loves his plans,
but for me,
I just envision myself
being surrounded
by lots of colorful flowers.
I have an idea.
Let me show you some flowers
that are just--
Oh. Well, hang on.
I think I even have
a better idea.
Is there any chance
that you'd be able
to come out to the house,
and you could see the space
and maybe share
your design ideas?
Oh, that's--
that's Ben's department.
I mean, I can tell you
what flowers work in a space,
but I'm not
a landscape architect.
Oh, but listen,
I am not looking
for a landscape architect.
I'm looking for an opinion.
Maybe I can bribe you
with ice tea
and some of my special desserts?
Including
the lemon custard tarts?
Especially
the lemon custard tarts!
Oh! That is so tempting...
but I can't.
Ben is your landscape architect
and he's really good at it.
Look, I know Ben.
You just got to tell him
what you want
and make sure he listens.
Notice who's not
in that conversation.
Please...
I just need
a fresh perspective.
Otherwise, I'm afraid
I'm gonna wind up
with something
that I'm going to regret.
Lemon custard tarts?
Throw in
a slice of key lime pie
and I'm totally caving.
Done!
Now let me show you
these flowers.
Absolutely.
Hello.
Mind telling me
why I had to find out
from your brother
that you're back in town?
It's good to see you, Donna.
So you are talking to me?
I'm not mad.
I get it.
I'm not the first guy
in the military
to get a "Dear John" letter.
Brought you an apology pie.
It's Georgia peach,
your favorite.
I appreciate the pie.
You don't have to apologize.
We didn't know
when I was getting back.
We didn't know...
We didn't know
a lot of things,
and I couldn't expect you
to sit around and wait for me.
I'm sorry anyway.
Okay, well, I assume
you still have my number?
Thanks for the pie, Donna.
I appreciate it.
Hello?
Did you get something
for the woman
who's been taking care
of Sunshine?
Jacob Terry.
I raised you better.
I know,
it completely slipped my mind.
Oh, wait. Hold on, Mom.
I got it covered.
Oh, hi. I need some help.
I need a "thank you" gift
for a woman who's been
taking care of my dog.
Looking after your dog?
It's a military dog.
Long story.
Oh.
I have just the thing.
Follow me.
Ah. Oh...
You're such a good girl.
Tsk. Okay.
Oh, there she is.
Hi-- Sit.
Ten-hut!
Who's my good girl?
There's my girl!
I missed you so much.
Did you miss me?
Hi. Sorry. I'm Jake Terry.
I kinda guessed that.
Ally Craig.
Come in.
Come on.
Let's go.
Oh, this is, uh, it's just
a little something
to say thanks
for fostering Sunshine.
You stopped by
the nursery right off
the highway, didn't you?
Yeah.
Yeah, the woman there said--
Am I missing something?
That was my sister.
- I own the nursery.
- Are you serious?
Yeah. Yeah.
You probably gave her
too much information.
This is her idea of a joke.
Ha-ha. Well, at least the plant
will be among good company here.
Thank you.
It was very thoughtful.
Oh, Sunshine looks so good!
You took great care of her.
It was my pleasure.
Oh, I have everything you need
documented--
um, shots, diet, exercise.
And there's some papers
from American Humane
that you need to sign.
Okay. No problem.
I'm sure you did everything.
I just can't wait
to get her home
and introduce her to my family.
She's a great dog.
Yeah.
Oh, and I have her stuff.
Um, bowls, food,
a couple of toys
she really likes.
It's all yours,
if you want it.
Great.
I-I, really,
I can't thank you enough.
Oh...
I see she loves you, too!
The feeling is mutual.
Uh, y-you probably
have to go,
so I'll get your stuff.
Do you want to go for a walk?
W-With Sunshine, I mean.
You know, we don't have
far to go,
but I'm sure one more walk
would do her good.
That would be nice.
Okay, let me just call my sister
and tell her that I will be in
after my meeting,
and to tell her she'll be
processing your refund--
No, come on.
Uh! ...For the beautiful gift
that I'm keeping.
I can see why this is
Sunshine's favorite walk.
Well, truth be known...
it's mine, too.
How long have you
been volunteering
with American Humane?
Not very long.
Actually, Sunshine
is only the second service dog
I've taken care of,
and the first was just
for a few weeks.
Sunshine, she is...
special.
Yeah, couldn't agree more.
I was really lucky
to have her as a partner.
It's not hard to see how someone
could become attached to her.
Oh...
Thank you.
You okay?
Yeah. I...
Well, it's just...
Sunshine came into my life
at a time
when I really needed her.
I was engaged,
planning a wedding.
Everything was paid for
and I--
Oh, my gosh, I'm sorry.
No, no. You don't have
to explain anything.
-No, no, I just--
-I get it.
-I mean, I didn't mean to pry.
-No, you didn't!
I'm basically
a complete stranger. I...
Well, almost
a complete stranger.
We shared a dog.
-Well...
-No, I'm sorry.
No, no!
I'm happy to listen.
I-I really am.
I mean...
After all, we share a dog.
He broke up with me
over the phone.
Ouch.
Yeah.
Well, it certainly beats
my "Dear John" Letter.
Double-ouch.
Yeah.
Well, I guess we share
more than just a dog.
Ice cream? My treat?
If you insist.
-I insist.
-Okay.
Hi.
I'll have a Fudge Pop.
My favorite!
Make it two, please.
-There you go.
-Thank you.
There you go.
-Thank you.
-You're very welcome.
Thanks. Appreciate it.
There you go.
Whoa!
I'm so sorry!
Oh-- OH, my gosh.
You know,
if you wanted something else,
you could've just said so.
Yeah, I mean--
It's okay, it's okay.
I'll wash it when I get home.
We should probably
both be getting home.
Yeah. Here, take mine.
Oh...
-Are you sure?
-It's fine. Come on, let's go.
-Oh, my goodness.
-Thank you.
Okay. Thank you.
Come on, Sunshine.
Thank you.
Make sure you soak that shirt
right away when you get home.
Yes, ma'am.
Well, I guess
we should get going.
Hey, Sunshine,
say your goo-byes.
Oh.
Oh, you are the best.
Love you, girl.
I hope my next foster
is as wonderful as you.
Okay. It's time.
All right.
Come on.
Come on.
Yeah, we're gonna go home now.
Uh, Jake?
Thank you for your service.
Thanks for yours.
Who's a good girl?
Who's a good girl?
Come on, you ready?
Up.
Oh!
Wait, Jake!
We didn't sign the papers!
Oh...
That's perfect.
I can see how this yard
sold you on the house.
Yes! Now, I know
it's a bit of a mess,
but look at this view.
I really wanted
something special
for myself here,
but I got kind of overwhelmed.
Well, it's a blank canvas...
With so many possibilities.
Oh, I'd love to hear them.
Oh.
Uh... Well, I was thinking,
first of all, flowers.
Just-- Just color.
Big planters...
You know what else
we could do...
We could put in an archway
right here,
leading to your own
personal sanctuary,
and we could cover the arch
with, like, a flowering vine
and maybe, I don't know, have
a little pathway coming down
with flowers on either side.
You know, Ben is actually
much better at this than I am.
I'm happy
to give you my thoughts,
but, um,
take what you like,
and you should have
Ben incorporate them
into his design.
No. I like what you're saying.
Really?
Yes, you have
an incredible eye
and I think
that we're on the same page.
Okay.
Promise me
you won't be disappointed
if I don't completely
capture your dreams.
I-I've never
done a design before,
so I'm kind of winging it.
Well, sometimes, winging it
is the best way
to create something magical.
Well, then let's create
something magical.
Oh, I am gonna
spoil this dog...
I know
you're just staying here
until you can
get your own place
and get settled,
but...
oh, gosh,
do I love this dog.
Yeah.
I promise,
I'm soaking the shirt.
That's not
why I was calling,
but I'm glad to hear you are.
No, we, uh, we forgot
to sign those papers.
Ah! We did, didn't we?
Yeah, I'm sorry
I didn't call sooner,
but I had this meeting
to get to,
and then I had to get to work.
No, it's okay.
I'll tell you what.
Sunshine and I
will drive over tomorrow
and we can take care of that.
And you guys can get
a little more time together.
Or was that your plan
all along?
No! No, no.
No, seriously, I just forgot.
Just kidding.
Same time tomorrow?
Yeah, 9:00 a.m. is great.
I don't come in
till the afternoon.
And I promise...
no Fudge Pops.
Okay.
What?
Not saying a word.
That's good.
No, no, just...
Great.
Oh! I made fresh lemonade.
That sounds great.
Yeah? Okay.
Hope you like it sweet.
Hey, did you do these?
This is good.
It's really good.
Oh, that's just for a friend.
She just asked me
to help her figure out
what might look good
in her backyard.
I have never done this before.
You have a great eye.
Thanks.
I have an outside blanket
for Sunshine.
I don't know if you want it,
but I have it.
Yeah, sure.
I'll put it on the patio.
Okay.
Ah, redoing your deck?
Was.
My ex.
Ah.
Yeah, he was gonna move in
after we got married
and he wanted a big deck
for entertaining.
That left me with
the unfinished promise of a deck
and no one
to entertain with.
Yeah, sort of metaphoric.
Well...
you know, you have
everything you need right here.
I could finish this in a day
or so, no problem.
I couldn't ask you
to do that!
You didn't ask.
I offered.
No, finishing this would be
a more proper "thank you,"
unless you really
want another bromeliad,
'cause I know
this great little nursery.
Kinda friendly with the owner.
Oh, really?
Yeah, well...
we kinda share a dog.
So he's building you a deck?
No.
No, he's just helping me...
finish it.
As a "thank you."
Hmm.
I didn't know how empty
the house was gonna feel
without Sunshine.
Mm... well, if it
makes you feel better,
you can scratch me
behind the ears,
but I draw the line
at fetching a ball.
I'm perfectly happy
with the bubbles,
but thank you.
Thanks for coming over
to hang out with me.
Well, it did put a crimp
in my oh-so-busy social life...
but, luckily, I was able
to fit it in
between going to work today
and work tomorrow.
I miss this.
We haven't done this
in forever, right?
Yeah, because you were always
busy with what's-his-name.
You can say his name.
I could,
but I prefer not to.
You never did
like Ben very much, did you?
It's not like
I didn't "like" him.
He just always wanted
to do things his way
and you lost your voice
when you were with him.
And then
the way he ended it...
Even he admits
that was horrible.
He feels really bad about it.
He got scared.
Well, everyone gets scared.
Please tell me
you're not falling for it.
I'm not.
I'm not!
I...
Okay, fine, maybe
there's some small part of me
that still
has feelings for him.
Oh, but he left you
standing at the altar.
Okay, we never got that far.
Ally, you are beautiful,
you're smart,
you-you own your own business.
Normally,
I hate people like you,
but you also are the most
forgiving person in the world.
I just don't want to see you
make the same mistake.
You deserve better.
I love you.
And I don't want to make
the same mistake.
At least not
with the same guy!
Mm, I have missed your cooking.
Well, good,
because I'm not gonna
get tired of cooking for you
for a long time.
So...
you decided to say "thank you"
by building her a deck, huh?
Only you.
It was already framed out.
All I have to do
is put down the planks.
-It's not a big deal.
-Mm-hmm.
She's had a rough time.
You're the one who said "make
sure you do something nice."
Well, that was what
the plant was for.
It was her plant!
It was like I was giving her
a gift certificate
to her own store.
You're just always thinking
about everybody else.
I just don't want
you to get hurt.
Mom, seriously, it's a deck,
not a date.
I got so many other things to do
to get my life back in order.
It's the last thing on my mind.
Trust me.
It's all good.
You're a good man,
Jake Terry.
Just like your father,
rest his soul.
And I say that
with all the humility
a proud mama can.
You're tired.
You should get some rest.
Ah, I'm just gonna sit
down here for a while.
Are you sure
that you're okay?
Yeah, I'm fine.
I just...
I like the quiet.
I haven't had that
in a long time.
I love you.
Love you, too, Mom.
No. I can't do dinner tonight.
What? Why not?
Because I have a project
that I'm trying to finish,
and I'm not sure I'll be done.
Besides, Ben, what is the point,
really, of this dinner?
It's not about business.
It's about me and you.
There is
no "me and you" anymore,
and that was your choice.
Yeah.
I know, it's...
the worst mistake of my life.
I don't know
what you want me to say.
You don't need
to say anything.
I'm the one who screwed this up,
but I want to make it right.
Hey, look, if not dinner,
how about lunch?
You know what, I gotta--
I gotta go.
Quit pouting.
I'm not pouting.
I was with you for two years.
I know when you're pouting.
Okay, maybe lunch.
All right?
I gotta go. Bye.
Lunch! Ah. All right.
Hello, Sunshine!
Oh! Oh, I missed you.
I missed you.
Good to see you, too.
Good morning.
We brought tools.
Great. Wow.
-Okay.
-Let's get to work.
Yeah!
Wow, you're a natural.
-Thanks.
-You didn't need my help.
Yeah, right...
but I definitely need
your power tools.
And your motivation.
I was thinking of
leaving the deck undone,
as a testament
to my bad judgment.
Well, now it'll be a testament
to your moving on.
I like that much better.
Want to mark that for me?
Oh. Sure.
Can I ask you
a personal question?
Yeah, sure.
What was it like over there?
Oh, it was, um...
it was challenging.
But I made
a lot of close friends,
including Sunshine,
Got to see a part of the world
I never would've otherwise.
Mark the other side?
Yeah.
Would you ever go back?
If I get called back,
I'm happy to serve my country.
There.
Perfect.
You do nice work.
Thanks.
So they didn't, uh, they didn't
need you at the nursery today?
Oh, well,
technically,
I should be there every day,
since I own it,
but I work with my sister--
-Oh, yeah, we've met.
-Yeah! You've met!
And so we cover when
one of us has something to do.
I am happy
to have the company.
Company?
A minute ago,
you said I was working.
Ah, you wanna work?
Get back to work.
-Get to work!
-Touche.
So how did you ever come
to own a nursery?
Oh...
Growing up,
we had this big backyard
and I got into gardening.
I loved taking care of plants
and watching them grow
and get bigger,
and I started working at
a nursery during the summers
and just soaked up
everything I could.
Majored in horticulture
in college,
came back here after I got out,
and when the owners
decided to sell,
I decided to buy.
Wow.
And now I own a nursery.
I... You really
knew what you wanted.
Didn't you?
No, not a clue.
No, I was just, uh,
kicking around from job to job,
and then, uh...
well, then 9/11 happened.
And I felt it was my duty
to be of service,
so my dad suggested
I join the army.
He was military--
like father, like son.
So, did you?
Figure out
what you wanted to do?
Uh, well, yeah, eventually.
I mean, as much as I love
being of service
and I love
working with Sunshine,
what I missed was this--
you know, building things
with my own hands.
Wow.
Hmm!
You know, you're gonna have
some amazing barbecues out here.
Yeah.
Or just open a bottle of wine
after a long day
and enjoy the evening.
Oh, that sounds great.
I'm gonna have to join you.
Well, thank you for everything.
Yeah, yeah.
I was thinking of
getting back with my ex
just to get the deck done.
-And then break up with him?
-Over the phone.
I can't believe
she likes apple slices.
Oh, yeah, no,
that's her favorite treat.
You know, when she was a puppy,
she never liked apples.
Really?
Yeah, I tried.
She wasn't into it.
Loves 'em now.
Thanks. Appreciate it.
All right.
Well...
Come on, girl.
Up. Up. Up. Up.
That's it.
Thanks again,
for everything.
Especially
listening to me ramble.
I rambled as much as you did.
No, I enjoyed
every second of it.
Me too.
-Oh, uh--
-Oh...
Bye.
Okay.
Y-You should come out
to the house sometime.
See where Sunshine's living.
What are you doing
on the Fourth of July?
The Fourth?
I-I don't know. Why?
We always have friends over.
Why don't you come join us?
Jake, I appreciate it,
but you really don't
have to do all that.
Hey, again, you didn't ask.
I offered.
Besides, my mom probably
wants to meet the girl
Sunshine's
been barking about.
I think it would give you
peace of mind
to see how much she's loved.
Sunshine, I mean.
Not my mom.
Right.
You know,
my mom is also loved.
I get it.
You know what?
It sounds wonderful.
Well, um, I'll text you
the address.
And I get to see
where Sunshine is living.
That'll make me feel
so much better about losing her.
You didn't lose her,
you gained a deck.
You knew that Sunshine
was eventually gonna go back
to her owner.
I know.
Who, by the way,
is kinda...
What are you, 12?
Am I wrong?
Well, no, but...
And he built you a deck!
I mean,
I need a man like that.
Wait, is he single?
The good ones never are.
I didn't ask.
I mean, I assume so.
You spent the whole day
with him
and you didn't ask
if he was single?
It's not something that
came up in conversation, no.
Oh, please.
I have news for you--
seeing that dog again
is not why you've been
smiling all morning.
Hey.
We're not open yet.
Good to see you, too, Emma.
Oh, you know, this railing
is kind of loose here.
What can I do for you, Ben?
Well, let me tell you.
Be glad that you sell plants
and you don't design.
That couple that I brought in--
they are driving me crazy.
Denver was completely
on board
and, suddenly,
Trisha has other ideas.
She does?
She does, so, while I wait
for them to figure out
their differences,
I've got some other clients
to think about,
so I just wanted to grab
some samples.
Well, you know
where everything is.
Yes. I do.
Hey, uh... Sunshine's gone?
Don't look so happy.
I'm sorry, I know
how fond of her you were.
Well, I'm on the list
for another foster.
Great.
Good, good, good.
Hey, uh, what about Wednesday?
What about Wednesday?
Well, you said maybe dinner.
I said maybe lunch.
Perfect. Wednesday. Lunch.
You really want to do this?
I really want to do this.
I'm a hopeless romantic.
You have half of that right.
Oh, Emma...
Well, you know,
I said I'd do it,
so fine, Wednesday it is.
Great! I'll, uh,
I'll pick you up at noon.
Just tell me where
and I'll meet you.
It's a start.
I'll take it.
After everything he's done,
you're gonna go on a date?
It's not a date.
Oh, I can assure you,
it sounds like a date to Ben.
Well, it doesn't matter
what it sounds like to Ben,
for me, it's...
it's about closure.
I was in love with the guy
I am tired of feeling
off-balance.
Good,
because if his heart
was truly in it,
he would've never left you
in the first place.
When did you start
making sense?
Doesn't happen all that often,
so enjoy the moment.
So, what do you think?
We have enough to start?
Yeah, enough
for a couple months.
We're gonna have to hustle,
though, to land a good job,
put us on solid ground.
More?
Yeah, thanks, Mom.
Thanks, Mom.
Oh, by thy way, don't forget,
Ally's gonna join us
for the Fourth.
I know.
I'm looking forward to it.
Is that the woman that was
taking care of Sunshine?
Yeah, I invited her out
to see where Sunshine's living.
Least I could do.
Bro, you built her a deck,
I think you've exceeded "least."
What, you got a problem
with me being nice?
-It's the right thing to do.
-Ahh!
What, dragging out
her attachment
to somebody else's dog
is the right thing to do?
No, no, no.
Situations like this,
you rip off the Band-Aid.
It might hurt more
in the short run,
but it's way better
in the long run.
And what do you know
about ripping off a Band-Aid?
We got kids.
Yeah, and who does
all the Band-Aid ripping
in our house?
Look, all I'm saying is
that, just like Jake,
she needs to move on
with her life.
Hmm. Mm-hmm.
So, by the way,
Donna dropped by.
She told me
she wants to take you out.
Yeah.
Listen, she feels really bad
about the way
she broke things off with you.
Look, it's all good.
I just feel
that part of my life is over.
Like you just said--
rip the Band-Aid, move on.
Yeah. Yeah, but she's agreed
to do the books for our company
for next to nothing,
so you're going to be
seeing a lot of her.
I have no problem with that.
Look, Donna and I
will always be friends.
As for Ally,
she's my friend, too.
I just want her to see
that Sunshine's in good hands.
Looks like she is.
Looks great.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
For what?
For fixing the railing.
Railing...
What are you talking about?
You complained about...
Wait. You didn't have someone
come out and fix the railing?
No, have you checked
with your sister?
She probably had it fixed
before somebody got hurt.
So lunch at Franco's?
Yeah, yeah.
I'll see you at noon.
I gotta go.
Who fixed the hand railing?
Ooh! Coffee. Thank you.
So you didn't have
someone come out to fix it?
Seriously? If I knew someone
who could do that,
I wouldn't be single.
This is Jake.
Hi, Jake.
This is gonna sound like
a really strange question,
but were you, by chance,
at the nursery this morning?
No. I was there last night,
though.
I was out your way, I figured
I'd fix that railing for you.
Hope you don't mind.
Oh, I was also gonna
touch up the sign,
but I ran out of time.
Besides, I didn't know if
you wanted a different color.
You really don't
have to do all this.
Ah, people do nice things
for me,
I do nice things for them--
it's how my mom raised me.
Hey, Jake?
Well, then, I guess
I owe her a thank you.
All right, no problem. Listen.
I really have to jump here.
Did the caps for the deck
come in yet?
Yes.
All right, what do you say
I come out Saturday,
we finish it up?
You don't have to.
Are you really
gonna make me say it again?
Okay, fine. I didn't ask.
You offered.
Okay, I'll see you Saturday.
2:00?
See you then.
All right.
So, he just came out here
and fixed it?
Yeah.
Well... I think someone's
sweet on you?
Oh, no, no, no.
It's nothing like that.
No, that's just
the kind of person he is.
No, he feels
he has a debt to pay,
which I've told him
he doesn't, but...
Well, let him think he does
until he puts in
that new kitchen you want.
Have I ever told you
that you are horrible?
Many times.
Okay, Trisha.
Let's create some magic.
Sunshine will be there.
Oh, thank you.
So I'll get to see her
one more time,
and just to know
she's in good hands.
That's good, that's great.
I'm-I'm glad for you.
I'm boring you.
No! No, no, no.
Besides, I know
you're not a dog person.
Hey, I'm glad
that she was there for you
when you needed her,
and that she was able
to help you.
You know, I think
that the perspective I got
from our time apart
really helped me, too.
That's good.
I'm glad.
Listen.
I know that you're not ready
for anything more
than friendship...
but I miss what we had,
and I miss you.
And seeing you at the nursery,
it's been hard for me.
Do you think
it's been easy for me?
So you're having
the same feelings?
Yo-You're misinterpreting
what I'm saying.
I loved you.
My gosh,
I was ready to marry you,
but what you did
really knocked me
off-balance,
and I'm trying
to get my footing again.
Okay, I get it.
I understand.
I hurt the best person
I've ever known,
someone
that I still love,
and that is on me.
I got scared.
But I'm not scared anymore.
What changed?
I realized
that you complement me
and, well, I'd like to think
that I complement you, too.
And I can't-- I can't go back,
I can't change what I did,
but I'm hoping we can
change where we go from here.
I mean, why can't you and I
start fresh?
It's not like
there's anyone else.
Hey, you know me
better than anyone,
so when I say that I've changed,
I mean it.
Thanks.
Oh, I think that's a mistake.
We didn't order that.
No, it's okay.
I ordered it for us
ahead of time.
It's our favorite.
Mm!
No, Ben...
It's your favorite.
Hmm?
You should try it.
It's amazing.
Wow, that's good. Mm!
So good.
We do good work.
-Yes, we do.
-Yeah.
And you have been very patient.
Hasn't she?
Hey, you know, there is a park
just a few blocks from here.
It's where
all the cool dogs go.
-That's where she needs to be.
-Right?
Who wants to go to the park?
Yes!
-Oh!
-Yes, you do.
Okay, let's go.
All right.
Come on.
Good girl.
In case you couldn't tell,
this is the dog beach.
Yeah, I got that.
Ah, she loves it here!
Oh, I can see why.
Aw, man.
This is dog heaven.
Does she always get this messy
at the dog beach?
Yeah. Sorry about that.
We can give her a bath
when we get back to the house.
We're gonna have to!
Yeah.
Aw, man, you know,
when I was deployed,
some days
were just so scorching hot.
Sunshine would just
find a tub full of water
and sit in it all day.
Oh!
Sorry, mister.
Thanks.
Who wants cake?
Come on, guys.
Saved by the cake.
Come on, let's get out of here
before they finish eating.
Hello?
No. No, no.
This is a good time.
Okay.
That's great.
Oh, uh, I appreciate that.
Yeah, yeah. I can be there.
No problem.
I'll see you then.
Thank you.
So?
Are you gonna tell me,
or do I have to beat it
out of you?
That was Trisha.
She loved my design.
-See?
-She wants to meet up.
I guess to make a few changes
before she gives it to Ben.
That's great!
See? Now maybe he'll appreciate
just how talented
you really are.
Whoa!
Slow down,
you're not in a race.
Good morning.
Thanks for picking me up.
Well, I only did it
'cause I knew
Mom was making French toast.
And it was delicious.
She makes me breakfast
every morning
because I am her favorite.
-Thanks, Mom.
-You're both my favorites.
Well, it looks like someone's
exceptionally happy
this morning.
I am. I am.
I'm feeling better
than I've felt in a long time.
I'm getting back in the groove.
Well, that's great to hear.
Would you like some more coffee?
No, I am perfect, Mom.
Life is good.
But...
Oh! Ally was wondering what
she could bring for the Fourth
and I said nothing.
Perfect.
All right. Good.
I'll be in the truck.
Let's go! Chop-chop.
Have an amazing day, Mom.
It's great to see him so happy.
Mm-hmm.
You think
it's because of that girl?
Well, now, what do you think?
Hmm. Thanks, Ma.
I love the idea
of the archway here,
with flowering vines.
Just so you know,
it will take a few years
before the vines
totally cover it.
I'm fine with that.
Okay.
Watching it grow
fuller each year
is a wonderful way
to mark time.
Your design ideas
are marvelous.
Thank you.
So when can you start?
Excuse me?
I made a deal with Denver
that Ben can have
the front of the house,
and the backyard is mine,
I want your designs
and I want you to do it.
No, no, no, no, no.
That's what Ben is for.
Just give him our plans
and tell him
that's the design you want.
No.
But I don't have a crew
or know what anything costs.
You know
he'll change everything.
I want your vision.
Ben does have a funny habit
of improving people's ideas
until they're his ideas.
Well, I like your ideas.
I appreciate that,
but in all fairness to you,
executing those ideas
is a big deal,
and it's something
I've never done.
That's okay.
You will learn as you go.
I believe in you.
Why don't you?
But I would still
need to find a crew,
and there's budgets...
And you will learn everything
as you go.
Besides, you already have
two of the most important things
you need.
Which are?
You have the vision,
and you have
the easiest-going client
you'll ever have.
Yes?
I'm so glad
to have you on board.
Why don't you come on up?
I'm gonna give you some more
of my key lime pie.
Okay.
So...
have you called Donna?
Not yet.
You know,
since you came home,
your only female companionship
has been your dog,
a woman who loves your dog,
and Mom.
What do you care
if I call Donna?
Because she keeps asking me
why you haven't called her,
and I don't want
to be in the middle.
Look, bro,
Donna's smart,
she's a successful
business woman,
she's good-looking,
and more importantly,
for some completely
unknown reason,
she's still into you.
She's gonna be at the party
on the weekend, you know that.
You should
probably talk to her.
I'll call.
I promise.
You know what?
No time like the present.
-No, I--
-Oh, yeah.
Don't leave her hanging.
It's dialing.
Yeah. I see that.
Hey, Donna.
No, uh, actually, it's Jake.
You know that
you're gonna have to tell Ben
you're doing half the job.
It would not be fair for him
to find out from them.
Since when are you worried
about being fair to Ben?
Oh, come on.
No, I'm just-- I'm...
I'm just waiting
for the right time to tell him.
Did you learn nothing from Ben?
There is no such thing
as the right time.
Ally. Hey. How's it going?
Question--
are you free for coffee?
Coffee? Ooh. No.
But I am free for dinner.
Okay.
-Great.
-Great.
How long
has this place been here?
Oh, it opened
about six months ago,
and it is the place,
if you couldn't already tell.
Thank you.
Thanks.
I recommend the short ribs.
They're fantastic.
Okay.
Nice to meet you.
You too, Ricky.
Thank you.
Ahh. Everything is great here,
but the salmon
is out of this world.
Oh, allow me.
Hello?
Sorry. Sorry.
I'm just...
I'm a little overwhelmed
by the crowd.
Oh, yeah, it's crowded,
but you know, I figured,
what better way
to get you back
in the swing of things
than to throw you into the deep
end of the social scene.
Not exactly the most conducive
place to talk.
Well, maybe not,
but it is a great place
to see and be seen,
and I want people to see us.
I was so happy that
you called me to have dinner.
Hmm.
It's not what you think.
There's something else
that we really need
to talk about.
Uh-oh.
Now what have I done?
Ben, this is not about you.
This is, uh, about me.
So...
on a lark,
Trisha Collins asked,
um, how I would
design her backyard.
She... what?
So I did a few sketches
and suggested some ideas...
and she liked them.
Oh, okay.
That... that's why
they haven't signed off
on my proposal then.
Yeah.
You know what,
it's-- it's fine.
Tell her
I'll be happy to fix them
and to put them
into the final project.
Um, well,
that's the point--
she doesn't want you
"fixing" my ideas.
She--
She wants my design, as-is.
Yeah, but this is my design.
Yeah, I know what works,
that's why
I have the final word--
I am the architect.
But you haven't seen
what I've done.
You...
You've always done this to me.
I-I'd come up with something
and you'd find a reason
to make a change--
Come on, I--
...Whether
it was needed or not.
I don't do that.
Well, she already
offered me the job.
You took my job?
No. No, no, no.
Uh, well, half of it.
Denver still loves your idea
for the front of the house.
It's just that Trisha
likes mine for the back.
Oh! So you're stealing
half my job?
No, thank you.
I cannot believe
that you went behind my back.
I didn't go behind your back.
She came to me.
I buy every plant
for every job I do from you
and this is what you do to me?
You're not listening.
No, I am listening.
You're taking half my job.
Did...
Did I miss something?
You've never supervised
a landscape job.
Do you think it's just easy?
No.
Do you have people to hire?
No. Ahem.
So, that's why I was thinking,
actually, that maybe
there is a way that you and I
could work together.
That's what you always said
you wanted when we were--
Together?
But we're not.
So, um...
you and Sam have some jobs
coming up. That's good.
Yeah. Uh...
I'm sorry.
Can you just excuse me
for one second?
No,
I would never do that.
That's not what
this is about at all.
I thought
that you wanted to meet
so that we could
work things out.
Hey, Ally. Sorry.
Didn't mean to bother you.
I just wanted to say hi.
Jake! Hi!
Uh, Ben, this is Jake.
Um...
Uh, Jake is Sunshine's handler.
The dog?
Wow! Could this night
get any more perfect?
Because if it's not about
how awful I am,
it's always about the dog.
You know what?
Just-Just close my account.
I think I'm gonna take
my business to Bloomfield.
I'm sorry.
Did I--
No. You didn't do anything.
I just wanted to make sure
you were okay.
Sorry.
I didn't mean to overstep.
No! No, no, and don't
ruin your evening for me.
I'm fine.
Go back to your date.
Ally...
I-I should go.
Hey, sweet girl.
Come here.
This is all your fault,
you know.
I get why you like her.
I like her, too.
I thought maybe...
...but she's just not available.
Yeah.
I'm sad, too.
I'm sad, too.
Goodnight.
You look like you could
use a glass of wine.
That party is tomorrow.
I'm still not sure
I should be going.
Thanks.
It's just one of those weeks
I wish I still had Sunshine.
Well, if you need me,
we could just sit quietly,
or talk,
or if it makes you feel better,
I could just bark occasionally.
You're the best.
Let's get out of here.
Let's do it.
-Hi.
-Hey.
I hope you don't already
have a rack of these.
No, not yet,
but I'm gonna start
a collection.
And these are for your mom.
That's sweet.
I'm really glad
you decided to come.
Happy Fourth of July.
Thanks. You too.
Hey, come on in.
Beautiful house!
Thanks.
We call it home.
This is to say I'm sorry
about the other night.
There was a lot going on
when you came over to say hi.
You mean when I came over
to stick my nose
in your business?
Honestly, you couldn't have
arrived at a better time.
Things were not going well.
Do you remember that design
you peeked at?
The woman I did it for
loved it.
Oh, congrats!
That's great news.
Yeah, thanks, but the thing is,
that was Ben's client.
Oh... okay, I get it.
So I gather he didn't
take it well?
That would be
an understatement.
Well, you know what?
If your design was better,
that's on him.
You give the client
what they want,
and if you don't,
they're free to look elsewhere.
Yeah, look, I know you guys
have a history together,
and you're obviously still
trying to work
some things through--
No. No, no. That's over.
This must be Ally.
I'm Jake's mom,
oh, but I'm sure
you've already figured that out.
Call me Margo.
These are for you.
Oh, my goodness.
These are-- Thank you!
I like this girl.
So, we don't stand
on ceremony here.
There are gonna a lot of people
in and out,
a lot of food--
and I expect you
to make yourself at home, okay?
I appreciate that.
Well, today's about family,
and Sunshine
is part of our family
and that makes you
a part of our family, too.
And we don't argue with Mom.
She says you're family,
you're family.
Good, now that we've got
that settled,
this dog needs
to get out for a walk.
And take my son,
because he could use a walk
as well.
I'm gonna go put these
in water,
because these
are pretty, pretty, pretty!
Ugh! Get outta here!
And... that's my mom.
The backyard has a path.
Come on.
Let's go.
So the fireworks go off
right over the water.
We just pull up a chair...
Best view in town.
I just want you to know
how grateful I am
that you didn't just
pick up Sunshine and run.
You know,
we don't live that far.
You're welcome to visit
any time.
Jake, I appreciate that,
but I don't want
to intrude in your life.
Intruding?
We're friends.
We are?
I hope so,
or else I helped
build a deck for nothing.
Here. Gets a little rocky here.
-Thanks.
-Sure.
Well, I'm-I'm glad
we're friends.
Yeah, you can't have
too many friends.
That's right.
That's right.
And you never know
when something else
might need fixing.
Oh, no.
What'd I get myself into?
Well, you offered,
I didn't ask.
Oh, you're gonna
throw that at me?
Isn't that what friends do?
You are such a good dog.
Come on. Come on.
Let's go.
There you go. Come on with me.
That's right.
Listen, I know
you're gonna be really busy
with the new design job,
but any time you want,
you're always welcome here.
Thank you.
But, uh, I don't know
if I can take that job.
What?
Yeah, I have a feeling
I might've gotten myself
in over my head,
and even if I wanted to try,
the only crew I know
is Ben's.
I tried calling around,
but...
Well, you do have
one thing going for you.
What's that?
Me.
Hey, Sam!
Come on.
What's going on?
I don't think Ally knows
what we do for a living.
No?
You're in construction, right?
I figured, from what we did,
decks and stuff.
Yeah, we build
"decks and stuff."
We also build retaining walls,
patios, sprinkler systems,
any sort of hardscaping
or landscaping.
Wait.
Wait, I see where this is going.
You own a nursery.
We can get our materials
from you.
That--
That is genius!
Can we get a discount?
Well, actually, I have
a different arrangement in mind.
How would you feel about hiring
a brand-new
construction company
run by two of
the hardest-working guys?
We got a great crew.
We'd be happy to bid on the job.
Are you serious?
You guys could do this?
Absolutely!
Yeah, we're here to serve.
I think we're in business!
All right!
I can take those for you.
Oh, Ally! Leave that.
It's the least I can do
to repay your hospitality
and two huge plates of food.
You're a guest.
Go! Mingle.
Miss Ally, do you know
where Sunshine is?
Oh, um...
You know what, I bet
the party tuckered her out.
I know how she feels.
Parties can be hard.
Yeah.
Why don't you check inside?
She might be in there,
sleeping.
Right?
No, I like that.
It's good.
Hi...
Hi.
I'm Donna.
It's nice to meet you.
I'm--
Ally. Yes, I know.
Jake's been bragging about you.
Bragging?
Yes, about you and all
that you've done for him.
It's about all
he can talk about.
Oh, I didn't do anything
I wouldn't do for any other
returning service dog.
I wasn't talking
about you and Sunshine.
Oh...
Oh, you're talking
about us working together?
I was referring
to you and Jake.
You are all he can talk about.
I mean, I wish
he looked at me that way.
Don't worry.
Jake and I had a thing,
but he never looked at me
like that.
And, yeah, I guess I was hoping,
when he came back,
maybe we could rekindle things,
but it has become
crystal clear
that he has his eyes
on someone else.
Me? No! No, no, no, no.
We are just--
...Friends?
I may not be the woman
that Jake is interested in,
but trust me,
I can still read him
like a book,
and that book says
that he's not thinking of you
as a friend.
I think
Sunshine knows that, too.
Come on, Sunshine.
So, what were you two
talking about?
Oh... just...
like, how good
a dog's instincts are
with understanding people.
-You know?
-Yeah, yeah.
-Yeah.
-Dogs are pretty smart.
You know, they know if
they like someone right away.
You know, I think
most people know right away,
if they like someone.
You think so?
Yeah.
Sometimes,
it takes a bit longer
for them
to do something about it.
Wow.
Told you.
You were right,
it's the best view in town.
Yeah.
Best view in town.
I have to tell you, guys,
I am so impressed with
how much you've gotten done
in just a few weeks.
Yeah. Yeah.
It's getting there.
Yeah.
I told you we'd be done
in 10 weeks,
and I always keep my promises.
It's like that?
Okay. That's cool.
You want to come over
for a glass of wine?
No, thanks.
Really?
-Hey!
-Hey.
-What a nice surprise.
-Yeah.
Let's, um,
let's go for a walk.
Okay.
Where are we going?
Oh... not far.
For the record,
I'm jealous.
Very jealous.
I need to get a dog.
Oh, my goodness.
Wow.
Thank you.
This is incredible!
What's the occasion?
Well...
I mean, it's our three-month-
seven-day anniversary, but...
I love that you remember it
to the day.
Of course.
There's no occasion.
If there's one thing I learned
while I was deployed,
it's not to wait for holidays
to celebrate life.
Just enjoy the moment?
Can't think of a better moment
to celebrate than this.
Now...
With you.
So...
Thank you, everyone,
for all your hard work
on our first job together.
-The first of many.
-Yup!
It's so beautiful!
Thank you, Sam,
for putting together
this great crew!
And Jake...
thank you for everything.
Oh! And my sister, Emma,
thank you for holding down
the fort at the nursery for me!
I am happy for the overtime.
You're salaried,
you don't get overtime.
Oh! Ouch...
But we can talk about a raise.
Seriously, I...
couldn't have done this
without you.
And none of this
would've happened
without this wonderful girl.
It is remarkable how this dog
has changed my life.
But she has.
She helped find somebody
I thought I'd lost...
me.
And she helped me
find... you.
Yes!
To all of you and Sunshine...
...My deepest gratitude.
Cheers!
Cheers.
Mm. Now, let's get out of here
before Trisha and Denver
get back,
so they can enjoy
their new sanctuary.
Yes! Let's go.
Come on.
Nice speech.
Aw, thanks.
-Good morning.
-Good morning.
Listen, uh...
I've been so busy working
on the front of the house,
I-- I never stopped by
to tell you
how beautiful
Trisha's garden looks.
Congratulations.
That means a lot,
coming from you.
And the front of the house
looks amazing, of course.
Ahh.
Well, we make a great team.
But-But we weren't right
for each other, were we?
No.
Yeah.
You're a great guy, Ben.
You just weren't great for me.
Well, hey, that, uh,
doesn't mean we can't
do business together.
I'd like that.
Me too.
Bye, Ally.
Bye.
So you've been dating
for... what, now?
A few months.
You getting serious?
I'm not rushing anything,
but, uh...
doesn't mean I don't see it
going somewhere.
Well, just so you know,
Mom is already making plans.
Oh, hold on.
I gotta grab this.
Master Sergeant Terry.
Yes, sir.
Yes, sir. I understand.
Is everything okay?
My team's being called back.
Hi.
What's wrong?
Come in.
I got a call.
All the way over here,
I was trying to figure out
how to say this.
There's just--
There's not an easy way.
My team got called back.
When?
I report in two weeks.
Two weeks?
That soon?
Yeah.
Okay.
I think you know
how I feel about you.
I can't ask you to sit here
and wait for me.
I've gone through that before
and we'd been together
for a long time.
I-I don't understand.
Look at you.
You're... you're beautiful.
You're talented.
You're this incredible person.
It's not fair for me to ask you
put your life on hold.
That should be my choice.
I'm sorry, no.
I-- 'cause I know
what you'd choose.
I can't be worried about you,
and you worried about me,
and both of us
worried about us.
And that's on top of
everything else
I have to do while I'm there.
I've tried it, Ally,
it doesn't work.
I'm so sorry...
...to break things off with you.
I'm... sorrier than
I've ever been in my whole life.
No.
Ally...
I have to go
break the news to my mom,
but I needed
to see you first.
Jake...
you're making a mistake.
I understand,
and I want you to be safe,
but also...
you have to know
I'm not going anywhere.
You're not
gonna make it easy, are you?
You are the most incredible
woman I've ever met...
I am so lucky
to have found you..
But I'm not gonna make you
sit here and wait for me.
I won't do that.
Please try to understand
where I'm coming from.
Please.
I'm so sorry.
I'm sorry.
So how did Ally take the news?
I don't know, I didn't stay.
If I'd seen her fall apart,
then I would've
fallen apart, too,
and I didn't want that.
It's not fair to her
and I want to be fair.
She has every right
to fall apart.
She cares for you
and what you two had
had just started to bloom.
I like that girl.
And more importantly,
I like that girl
for you.
I know.
But I can't have her on my mind
while I'm over there.
Well, your safety
has to come first, of course,
but she deserves to be
involved in this decision.
That's what she said.
Well, that's because
she's a very smart girl.
Look, I know
it would've been easier
if you two had
had another couple of months,
maybe a chance to see
where this was going,
but life doesn't always
work out that neatly.
The heart...
it's a funny thing, hon'.
It doesn't understand time
the way our head does.
Sometimes,
you just have to take
a leap of faith.
So, you're the one in charge
of the service dogs?
Great!
My name is Ally Craig.
Um, thank you
for taking my call.
I was wondering,
is it possible
to match a soldier
with a particular dog
he's served with before?
Thanks, man.
You know,
with this new crew,
you'll be just fine
until I get back.
Yeah, we already got
a few jobs lined up,
and each one seems
to generate more, so...
I just hope this tour
is a short one.
Yeah, I hope so.
For a lot of reasons.
Have you talked to Ally
since you broke the news?
I don't...
I don't know what to do.
I report in a week
and I want to see her.
I want to see her badly
before I go, but...
I don't want to hurt her.
You know, if there's
one thing she deserves,
it's happiness.
You don't think
you make her happy?
When did
you turn "Team Ally"?
She's cool!
"She's cool"?
Barb loves her.
Mom loves her.
Heck, even Donna loves her.
So, look, I got to go by
the nursery tomorrow
to pick up an order, so...
What should I say
if I see her?
You know what, you don't
want me to say anything...
Well--
No.
Don't say anything.
Okay.
Can't believe I found someone
I can see a future with
and I'm leaving.
You know, you don't know
what the future holds.
All right, so you do your job,
you be safe.
Just come home.
I'm gonna miss you.
Yeah, I'm gonna miss you, too.
Trust me.
Go with the red gerbera.
It'll be beautiful.
Nice!
I know.
I'm trusting my instincts.
-Mm.
-Thanks.
Oh, and Sam came by to pick up
the rest of the ground cover...
He left this for you.
-Love you both.
- I love you, too.
Be safe, Jake.
So, listen, when I get back,
I'm gonna need a paycheck, so--
Yeah, I know,
don't screw up the business.
Screw it up?
I'm expecting you to be
so successful I can retire.
You can count on that.
Now, you two,
when I leave you here,
you're gonna take care
of your mom and your dad
and your grandma.
Okay?
Yes, sir.
Love you, Mom.
You take care of yourself
over there, okay?
And you call me.
On the computer,
so I can see you.
I promise.
You planned this,
didn't you?
Nah, I just let her know
what time you were leaving.
You know, I, um...
I've seen that look before.
On your father.
The day he gave me this.
It was the day he left
to serve his country.
He wanted to make sure
that I didn't get away.
I want you to have this.
She's special, Jake.
You don't want her getting away.
Oh, hey! Hey, girl.
Oh, I missed you, too.
I, um, I heard
you tried to get Sunshine
called back into service.
You know, she's retired.
Yeah, I found out.
I'm sorry,
I overstepped.
I just want you to be safe.
And I knew Sunshine
would take care of you.
Yeah. Sunshine would.
But she has a new job now.
I'm entrusting her
with the most important thing
in the world to me...
...You.
Sunshine.
I'm counting on you, girl.
You're gonna take care of Ally
while I'm gone.
And if any potential suitors
come along,
you make sure
you chase them away.
'Cause when I get back...
If she'll have me...
I'm gonna marry her.
I know we haven't
known each other that long...
...but I also know
I don't want to go
another day
without you in my life.
And it's okay if you say no,
I understand,
because it's a lot to ask
for you to wait--
Ask me to wait?
You didn't ask.
I offered.
So?
Yes!