Love in Storytown (2026) Movie Script

1

(Men shouting, indistinct)
- I can't believe
it's been 15 years.
I still remember talking
to your father
about your enlistment.
(Chuckling)
And here you are.
You're a lot like the general.
You're reserved and efficient.
It must run in the family.
- Thank you, Colonel.
- Well, I see here that
you would have been promoted
multiple times
below the zone.
That's an incredible feat.
So I want to continue
that tradition.
And I would like to offer you
a signing bonus of $40,000
for the next 6 years.
- That's a generous offer, sir.
- Well, Major, you earned it.

Major?
- While I appreciate the offer,
Colonel Gibson...
I have decided
to leave the service.
(Phone ringing in distance)
- Well, that's definitely
not what I expected, but...
with everything
you went through with Luke,
I--I--I understand.
- Luke and I always wanted
to settle down,
but never got the chance.
And I just...
I think it's time.
I want to be
more present for Caleb
and I want him
to be around family.
And...
I need to be
around my family.
- I understand, Major.
Family, that's everything.
Major, you should be very proud
of your accomplishments here.
And I personally want
to thank you for your service.
- Thank you, Colonel.
It's been a long time coming.
I just finally had
the courage to do it.
(Chuckling)
- Your father would be
very proud.
Very proud.
- Thank you, Sir.

(Sighing)
- You ready?
- Yeah.
As ready as I'll ever be.
- Can't believe this is it.
So what do you call yourself?
"Ms. Taylor?"
- I haven't actually
thought about it.
- Ah...
Going from outside
of the nation's capitol
to a town with less than
6,000 people is a huge step.
Everyone is gonna
know you, Mandy.
You have to decide
what you want them to call you
before you get there.
- I think Mandy will be fine.
- It's a massive culture shock.
- Yeah, but we need it.
Caleb needs it.
- I get it.
I'm just gonna miss you.
- I'm gonna miss you too.
- Don't forget me.
- Ah!
- Ah!
(Chuckling)
- Hey, why don't you go inside
and just make sure we didn't
miss anything, OK?
- Yes, Ma'am.
- Think he'll adjust OK?
- Yeah. He'll be fine.
- I can see you marrying
a farmer.
- What? No!
(Laughing)
No way! No men!
No, I--I need
to stay focused.
You promise you'll come
for the grand opening?
- As long as you play
some salsa music.
- Ooh!
- All ready!
(Laughing)
- Ah, I'm gonna
miss you, mijo .
And don't you grow up on me.
- I don't think I have a choice.
- Well, try.
- I got to try and fit in first.
- What do you mean?
- I don't know how
to be a civilian.
- Hmm, me neither.
We will have to
figure it out together.
- Well, you two
better hit the road
before I decide to go AWOL
and end up in Tennessee myself.
- Ready?
- Yep.
- Let's do it.
Storytown...
- (Together):
Here we come!

- ... mounted atop his steed
with his squire by his side,
rode away from
his stone Marouatte Castle,
beginning his journey
to a far-away land.
- Hey.
- Our crusader
was trained to...
- Thank you so much for meeting
us after hours, Mayor Hudson.
- Mandy, darling, I've known you
since you was in diapers.
You can just call me Jeff.
- Force of habit.
How about I call you
Mayor Jeff?
- I suppose that's fine.
- Thank you so much.
I just--I couldn't wait
to see this place in person.
- Yeah, your mom has been
bragging about your baking.
Perfect timing
for story week and all.
- A-are people here already?
- Yeah, we have folks
year round.
Did you know last year,
the National Storytelling
Festival had 15,000 people.
- Wow, well, yep.
Then I just got to
get open ASAP.
- Who is that?
- Hmm?
Oh, that's one of
our best storytellers.
- Wait, so people
do that all day?
They just tell stories?
They don't have real jobs?
- Sweetheart,
storytelling is a job!
How is it you moved
all the way here
and know nothing
about storytelling?
- Well, I mean, I know about
the International Story Center
and the National
Storytelling Festival.
I guess I'm just not much
of a story person.
- Stick around long enough
and you will be.
- Ah, we'll see about that.
- Well, the electrical box will
need beefing up for a bakery.
You'll need venting too.
And if you need a handyman,
let me know.
- Oh, thank you for the offer.
Actually, I hired Mr. Lopez
for all the electrical work.
He'll be here tomorrow.
- Oh, great! Great.
I've used him for a lot of work.
Terrific guy!
He'll get you up and running
in no time.
- Yeah, uh, for the most part,
it's just gonna be Caleb and I.
Isn't that right, Caleb?
Caleb?
- A few days after he staved off
the highway robbers,
our knight finally reaches
a harbor full of ships.
Each ship has a flag
hanging from its mast.
It has the family crest on it,
representing
each of the earldoms.
- Caleb!
Caleb!
You can't run off like that.
- I didn't run off.
I wanted to hear his story.
- Well, you have to tell me
if you're going somewhere first.
- It's OK.
He's safe here.
- Uh, thank you,
but I've got it from here.
Come on, buddy.
- But, Mom...
- Hey, no buts!
- You cannot take off
like that again.
- I'm sorry, Mom.
- You just scared me, buddy.
That's all.
- Is everything OK?
- Yeah, it's fine.
Thank you. And I'm sorry
for interrupting your story.
- Oh, no, don't worry about it.
It just...
Mandy Johnson?
- Well, it's Taylor now,
but yeah.
Wait...
Zach?
- You two know each other?
- Um, yeah. I...
Yeah, we--we were
childhood friends.
- Been a long time.
- Yeah, it has.
- A-are you gonna finish
your story?
- Oh, yeah, right.
Um, I got to get back.
But I'll see you around.
(Ceiling cracking,
thudding on floor)
- Well that won't pass
inspection.

(Sighing)
You're like a bird migrating
back South for the winter.
- Well, Jonesborough
is my favorite roost.
(Chuckling)
I mean, having a whole month
here every year...
Mmm! Good for my soul.
Help out the town,
fish a little,
tell some stories...
- It's good to have you back.
- It's good to be back.
- You get any juicy stories
from your travels this year?
- Of course.
- Let's catch up this week.
- I'd love that.
- I didn't know you knew Mandy.
- Yeah, our families used to
come here every summer,
but I haven't
seen her in years.
- Apparently,
she's quite the baker.
She bought that place
sight unseen.
- That's great!
Well, hey, this town
could use a bakery
since Wanda closed up shop.
- Zach! Ooh!
I'm so glad to catch you.
I have a family emergency
and I need to go to Chicago.
- What? W-why?
- My daughter went into labor
a month early.
My flight leaves in 3 hours.
- Uh, but the festival...
- I'll be back before
story week, God willing.
- Jasmine, it's in 2 weeks.
- And you're in charge of it.
- Zach, I need you to hold down
the fort until I get back.
- Me?
- Yes!
You know all the storytellers.
Look, I'll send you
the schedule.
And volunteers will do
most of the work, anyway.
- I can help too.
- You promise you'll help me?
- Oh, absolutely.
- Go be with your family.
We got this.
- Thank you.
I'll--I'll call you
as soon as I land.
- We got this, right?
- Right!
(Chuckling)
(Birds chirping)

- Hi, Grandma!
- The most handsome grandson
on both sides
of the Mississippi!
How did you get so big?
Let me look at you.
Oh my goodness!
- Hi, Mama.
- Hi, honey.
Oh, you made it before dark and
you're here to live with me.
- Well, it's just temporary.
- I could stay here forever.
- Well, I'm gonna enjoy
every minute you are here.
Come on,
let me show you your rooms.

- I'll get it.
- OK, honey, your room.
I did it just for you.
- Thanks, Grandma, I love it!
- Oh, I'm so glad!
He loves it.
OK, you OK?
- Yeah.
- OK, come on.
Let me show you yours.
- All right. OK.
- It's right down the hall.
- Oh...
Pink...
(Chuckling)
- Isn't it perfect?
- It is...
dainty!
- Oh, sweetie pie,
you can stay
as long as you like,
you and Caleb, OK?
- Oh, it's just until
we find our footing,
and then we'll find a place.
- Well, I love having
you two here.
- I--I just don't want
to be in your way.
- Please.
- Are you sure you don't want us
to be, like, in the cabin?
- Baby girl, hush your mouth,
Amanda Grace.
You could never be
in my way, never.
- Love you, Mama.
- I love you too.
OK, now, you're probably
tired and hungry.
Freshen up.
- OK.
- There just could be
a delicious supper
ready for you
in a few minutes.
- Well, I can't wait.
- OK, honey.
- OK, thank you, Mama.
- OK. And don't forget
we have guests.
(Water flowing)
(Birds chirping)
- Everything OK, bud?
- Yeah, I guess.
- Come on, kiddo.
I can hear those gears turning
in your head from over here.
- No one is gonna like me.
- What?
Are you kidding me, Caleb?
You are the kindest kid I know.
Everyone is gonna love you.
- N-no they won't.
I'm the new kid.
- Well, you've been
the new kid before.
- Yeah, but this is different.
- How so?
- Every other time we moved,
it was to a new base.
This time,
they're all civilians.
- What do you mean?
- You know, it's just civilians
don't understand people like us.
- Ah, I see.
OK, well then...
You just have to find a way
to connect with them.
- Yeah, how?
- Find something you have
in common with them.
- No one has anything in common
with me, Mom, except you.
- Well...
You like baseball.
- Yeah, so?
- So, find some kids
at your new school
who like baseball.
- Maybe.
But if they don't...
can I get a puppy?
(Laughing)
- Really?
You're gonna pull
the I-need-a-puppy card?
- A dog is man's best friend.
- Mmm! Nice try.
Hey, you don't have to worry.
We're not gonna be
moving around anymore.
We're gonna stay put.
So just give it some time.
And soon enough,
you'll have plenty of friends.
- I don't know. Maybe.
Does everyone have
a Southern accent here?
- I think it's a requirement.
I mean, soon enough, you'll be
talkin' like Mayor Jeff.
- No way.
- Mm-hmm!
(Laughing)
- (Grandma):
It's supper time!
- Ooh, let's go.
- Is Grandma a good cook?
- Mmm! Absolutely!
Her cooking used to be
my wake-up call in the morning.
I mean, she's the best cook
in the South.
- Even better than you?
- Oh, no,
she is the best cook.
I... I am the best baker.
- What's the difference?
- Well...
I mean, baking is
more of a science,
whereas cooking
is more of an art.
Baking is about
exact measurements,
whereas with cooking,
you can add
a little bit of this,
a little bit of that.
You can be more creative.
You cannot do that
with baking.
Baking is about exact,
precise scientific measurements.
- You are definitely a baker.
- What's that
supposed to mean?
- I'm just saying that
you're more into science
than anything creative.
- Hmm, true.
Oh, and--and hey, uh,
don't tell Grandma all about
the takeout I order.
I mean, she might disown me.
- It will be our secret.
- OK.
Hi, thank you for waiting.
(Chuckling)
- You're the storyteller
from today.
- I am.
- Zach, right?
- Right again, little man.
- What are you doing here?
Why aren't you
at your own house?
- Caleb!
- I... Uh, no, it's OK.
Uh...
I--I don't actually live
in Jonesborough.
I come here every year
and I stay
in the cabin out back.
- Cool.
I liked your story today.
- Thank you very much.
I enjoyed telling it.
(Woman clears throat)
- Uh, what kind of stories
do you tell?
- Oh, who? Me?
Oh, no.
No, I--I am not
a storyteller.
- Where are my manners?
Mandy is my daughter.
Trixie and Bonnie
are new storytellers.
They gave up their day job
to do this full time.
Mandy here
is opening a bakery.
She was a major in the army.
And Caleb is starting
6th grade tomorrow.
- Oh, lots of new beginnings
tonight.
The energy of the room
is expectant.
- I have over 10 million
social media followers.
So I'm really excited to act out
all my characters in person.
- Uh, Zach, I find it
quite centering to meditate
near the brook
before I start my day.
Would you like to join me
tomorrow morning?
- Oh, no thanks. I, um...
It's just that mosquitos tend
to love me a little too much.
(Chuckling)
- Actually, you know,
you can use my lemon grass oil.
It's very calming
and repels insects.
- Uh, no thanks.
I'm just afraid
I'm not gonna have time.
- Zach, I heard you're
a master storyteller.
We should collaborate.
- I appreciate the offer.
It's just I really don't think
I'm gonna have time.
- When Zach isn't
telling stories,
he's busy running around
the world resolving conflict.
- Really?
That's so noble of you.
(Chuckling)
(Phone ringing)
- Hello?
Oh, hey, Mr. Lopez.
Yeah.
Yeah, I just got into town.
Are we still good
for tomorrow?
O-oh...
Oh no!
Oh no!
That's--that's terrible.
Are y--are you OK?
No, no, no, no.
No, don't...
Don't even worry about it.
I'll, uh...
Yeah, I'll--I'll figure
something out.
No, it's--it's fine.
Yeah, um...
Thank you. You too.
And, um, feel better soon.
(Sighing)
- You know, you really
have a gift, Zach.
Hearing stories like yours
is what inspired me
to be a storyteller.
- I didn't realize that
storytelling was a career.
I thought it was
more of a hobby.
- A hobby?
- I have 10 million people
who follow me online
just for my stories.
- Yeah, you said that.
- Think of it this way,
everything in life,
it's found in all stories.
You know, it's how we pass down
the--the culture
and the history
that shapes all of us.
- Mmm, I don't know
about that.
I think life is
about a series of events,
and that's what shapes us.
- Exactly.
Isn't that what a story is?
A sequence of events
strung together
to share a--a lesson
or maybe even some insight.
- Uh, I--I didn't mean
to offend anyone.
- Mom's more about science,
less about creative stuff.
Right, Mom?
- Right, bud.
I guess storytelling
is a culture
I don't really know
much about.
- You're living
in the storytelling capitol
of the world now.
Maybe you should
embrace the culture.
- Yeah, I just...
I didn't know
anything about it.
I'm sorry.
- I'll teach you.
You know, and maybe I can even
help you share your own story.

(Crickets chirping,
fire crackling)
(Footsteps approaching)
- Hiding?
(Chuckling)
- Yeah... kind of.
But not from you.
- Hmm.
So are you really
staying in the cabin?
- Yep. Yeah.
Same place every year
for the last...
10 years.
Yeah, it's kind of
my home base.
- Wow! I didn't realize
that you were here that often.
So, where are you
really living these days?
- For the most part,
just wherever
the assignments take me.
I don't know.
I guess I'm not ready
to be stuck in one place
just yet, you know?
(Chuckling)
- Well, if you call it stuck,
then yeah,
you are definitely not ready.
- Yeah, well when you
put it that way, um...
(Chuckling)
- Yeah...
Luke and I never really
got to settle down.
- Yeah, your mom told me.
I'm really sorry, Mandy.
- Thank you.
- Uh, hey, so,
I'm sure your bakery
is gonna be a big success.
- Well that's the plan.
As long as I can get
everything up to code.
- You need any help?
- No, it's OK.
I hear you're very busy.
- Yeah, I definitely have
a lot more going on this year,
that's for sure.
- Well, if you need any help,
I'm sure Bonnie
and Trixie would just...
(Imitating Bonnie):
... love to help you.
- (Whispering): Yeah.
(Regular voice): OK, um...
So are you saying that you're
not interested in helping me?
- Wait, me?
No, of course not.
I mean, no offense.
I just have
a lot on my plate
and that was before
the ceiling fell down.
- Are you saying that
the ceiling actually fell down?
Or are you using that
as a metaphor?
- No, the ceiling
actually fell down.
- What?
- Yeah.
I better let you get
to the rest of your evening.
- Oh, no hurry.
Just us and the fireflies.
- Good night, Zach.
- Good night, Mandy.
(Birds chirping)

- Come on, slowpoke.
(Chuckling)
- Maybe you should start
running with me.
- Maybe you should try
a little harder.
- Oh, you better hope
I don't catch up with you!
(Mandy and Caleb giggling)
- Oh, whoa! Oh!
Uh, he-here, here, here!
Oh my gosh!
Uh, I am so sorry, Mandy!
- No, it's fine.
Uh, just my luck.
Well, at least it's not hot.
(Sighing)
- So...
- Today's my first day
of school.
I think she's more nervous
than I am.
But don't tell her I know.
- Yeah, I'm sure
you're gonna be fine.
- Really?
- Yeah.
I mean, clearly, it looks like
you've done this before, so...
- Yeah, I have had to go
to a lot of schools.
But this time it's different,
'cause we're not on base.
- Well, I will tell you this,
coming from this guy,
I'd say that anyone would be
lucky to have you as a friend.
You good?
- Yeah, I'm fine.
Caleb, you better go get ready
so we're not late.
- See you later, Zach.
- All right, go get 'em,
little man.
Hey... you got this.
- Thanks for that.
He's--he's a bit nervous.
- What about you?
- I'm... yeah, of course.
I'm just... you know,
kids can be brutal.
- Oh, I'm sure
he's gonna be fine.
(Sighing)
- I needed that too.
(Chuckling)
- So, going to the bakery?
- You know it.
- Hey, um, any chance
you could swing by
the, uh, storytelling center?
I heard that you are great
with logistics.
- Ah...
Who has been spilling
my secrets?
- I don't recall.
I believe it was a little
mama bird by the name of...
(Southern accent): Darla Jean.
(Chuckling)
- Yeah, OK.
I will stop by
after I drop Caleb off.
- Yeah?
Ah, thank you.
Thank you.
- Yeah, well,
I better get going
because I do not want Caleb
starting his new school year
off on the wrong foot.
- All right.
- Bye.
- See you.

- Good morning, Ms. Osborne.
- Good morning, Ms. Abigail.
Welcome! Good morning.
You must be Caleb Taylor.
- Yes, Ma'am.
- Hi, I'm Mandy Taylor.
They--they told me
I could walk him to class.
- Nice to meet you.
Caleb will fit right in
to this class.
Everyone,
this is Caleb Taylor.
He'll be joining our class.
Let's give him
a warm Jonesborough
elementary school welcome.
- (Together): Hi, Caleb.
- Hi.
- Yes, Annie?
- Can Caleb sit by me?
- Absolutely. Go take that desk
next to Annie right there.
- (Whispering): Bye.
- Bye, buddy.
Oh, yeah. Sorry.

There you are.
- Hey!
- Hey.
- Sorry, I'm just
kind of distracted.
I'm trying to figure out
this spreadsheet.
And this is definitely
not my strong suit.
- Mind if I take a look?
- No, help yourself.
- OK.
- Yeah, I tried to search
how to do it,
but I feel like I made
a bigger mess out of it.
(Keyboard clicking)
- OK, and...
Yep.
There you go.
- Wow!
That's it?
- Yeah.
(Chuckling)
- And you're leaving?
- Well, I've got
some of my own work to do.
- Right.
(Chuckling)
- Well, hey, looks like
I've got some free time now.
I'll come over and help.
- You sure?
- Yeah.
I'll be over in a few.
Whoa... you weren't kidding.
- Mmm, nothing
I can't handle.
(Chuckling)
- Are those your plans?
- Yeah.
- You mind if I take a look?
- Sure.
- These are great.
You're really organized.
- I was in
aerial supply chain.
You cannot mess that up.
- Oh, I'm sure you've got
some adventure stories
in there somewhere.
Where were you?
- The better question
is where I wasn't.
Um, there was
Afghanistan, Germany.
Ooh, Hawaii was fun.
- Oh, yeah, I'm sure.
- What about you?
So you tell stories,
resolve conflicts
and dabble in construction.
What doesn't Zach Barran do?
- Spreadsheets.
(Chuckling)
- So what, is telling stories
your side hustle?
- You seem really interested
in my life.
- Well, isn't that what people
in small towns do?
Get nosy?
- You're a funny one.
I'll give you that, Major.
- It's Major Taylor to you.
- Oh yeah. Sorry.
(Clears throat)
- No.
- I always wanted to do that.
- No, please don't.
- Was that right?
- No. Just give me these.
- What? Up high? Down low?
- Stop. If you want to help,
that's how you can help.
(Chuckling)
(Children talking, indistinct)
- Can you email me the order
from last year?
And then I'll get back
to you tomorrow?
Oh, thank you so much.
Yeah. Yep.
We'll talk then. OK.
Hey, buddy!
- Hi.
- So how was school?
- Great!
- You sure?
- I'm sure.
Can I help you
fix up the bakery?
- Ah, you know
I'd love that.
But tonight is
a school night.
Seatbelt.
- How's the weather up there?
- Hey, morning, Mr. Mayor.
You're checking up
on me, huh?
- Oh, no.
I know you're just fine.
- Yeah, mostly
because of Mandy.
I will say,
that girl is not only helping me
with the festival,
but she is saving my butt.
- Sounds like you make
a good team.
And you're helping her
with the bakery?
- Yeah. Plan is to be open
before story week.
Yeah, she's actually making
some pastries for our kickoff
here on opening day.
- Oh, looks like you've resolved
both of your problems.
- Hmm, yeah, I guess
we do make a good team.
(Chuckling)
- Be careful, Zach.
You'll find yourself
around these parts
longer than you plan.
- Ah, I can't stay,
my friend.
Unfortunately, I've got
a simmering issue
with some Christian
brick makers in Pakistan
I've got to resolve.
(Guitar )
(Crickets chirping)
- He's good looking,
isn't he?
- Hmm?
Mmm, I hadn't noticed.
- Why don't you stop
stress eating
and pay attention to that snack
right in front of you.
- Mama...
- I'm just saying he's cute.
Is that so bad?
- I am not looking
for a man right now.
There are other things
I need to stay focused on.
- Well, he's very charming
and he's one of
the best storytellers.
- I have more important things
to do than listen to stories.
- I--I...
Put that down.
You need to loosen up.
Clearly,
you need to loosen up.
Now, come on.
There's a fair at the
Embree House Historic Farm.
We should all go.
- Yeah, you know what?
It'd be nice
for the three of us
to have some family time.
- And maybe a handsome wanderer
will join us.
- Mama...
- Oh, OK.
(Chuckling)
Whatever, honey.
I love you.
(Silverware clattering)

- Anyone have a song request?
- Are you familiar with
It Is Well with My Soul?
- Yes, Ma'am.
Actually, you know
the story to that song?
- Me? No.
- So the man who wrote
that song, Horatio Spafford,
he suffered a lot of loss
and hardship in his life.
He lost his business
in the Chicago fire,
and his wife and kids' ship sunk
on the way to Europe,
and all five of
his children drowned.
So when he was sailing
to be reunited with his wife,
the deckhand came
to him and said:
"This is the very spot
where your children were lost
in the Atlantic."
And it was in that moment,
on that ship,
that he penned
the words to the song,
It Is Well with My Soul.
- That's an awful story.
(Darla Jean chuckling)
- True, but it shows how
his strong faith got him
through all them challenges.
- That it did.
I like to think that Horatio
would want us to be encouraged
when we suffer loss,
to open our heart and just...
trust the journey,
you know?
(It Is Well with My Soul
on radio
It is well
It is well
It is well

Dress for hiking.
- I'm sorry.
Where are we going?
- It's a surprise.
- Well, um, I don't
particularly like surprises.
- Your loss.
- OK, fine. I'm game.
I'll go.
- All right then.
We'll go after
you drop Caleb off at school.
- I'll be ready.
(Birds chirping)
(Cows mooing)
(Crow cawing)
- I thought you might enjoy
a trip down memory lane.
- Wait, is this the spot?
- The spot that
we tried to camp out.
- Oh...
(Chuckling)
I haven't thought
about that in so long.
Wait, we didn't even make it
the night, did we?
- No, we didn't
because you got scared
and ran down the mountain.
- First of all,
I thought there was a bear.
- A bear. It was Tommy.
(Laughing)
- I was running so fast
down the mountain,
and then I tripped.
- You sprained your ankle,
and we had to carry you
all the way back to town.
- Oh, my mom was so mad.
(Chuckling)
And now look at me.
I have a bakery
on Main Street.
- Yeah, and you're now a part
of Jonesborough history.
- It's crazy how
so much has changed,
yet so much is...
- (Together): Still the same.
- Thank you for
bringing me here.
- You're welcome.
(Sighing)
- Beat you down the mountain.
- Hey!

- OK, wait.
- Get it.
(Phone ringing)
- Oh, Caleb,
will you grab that?
- Hi, Tia B!
- Caleb!
- Tia B, guess what?
I already made a friend.
- Oh, really?
Tell me about them.
- His name's Zach.
He likes to tell stories.
And he lives near
Grandma's house.
- Oh, cool!
Does Zach go
to school with you?
- No, Tia,
Zach is a grown-up.
- Does your mamacita know
that you're, uh,
hanging out with strange men
telling stories?
- He's not strange.
We have dinner every night.
He's helping Mom fix
the bakery.
- Get your mom on the phone now.
I need the deets.
Um, excuse me?
Who is this Zach?
- OK, it's not like that.
Zach has been a friend of mine
since we were kids.
He comes here every year
and stays in my mom's cabin.
- Ah, I knew
you'd get a farmer.
- OK, he is not a farmer.
He is a conflict negotiator.
- Oh, so he knows
how to win an argument?
That's not fun.
- He is also a storyteller
and somewhat of a town hero.
- Ooh, is he cute?
- I don't look
at him that way.
- Look at me.
Stick to the important things.
Is Zach single?
- So, we've done
some remodeling,
um, but we still have
a little bit more to go.
- Chica, this conversation's
not over.
- Bye-bye.
- Hey, Zach!
- Hey, what's up, little man?
Mandy.
Hey, so I got
some new fishing poles.
I wanted to see if Caleb wanted
to go fishing with me today.
- Oh, we're kind of busy
right now.
- Yeah, I see that.
You're helping your mom, huh?
Well, hey,
I can give you a hand.
Actually... two.
(Backbone by
Brooke Stephenson )
I'll point the way
when you can't get back
Put you on course
when you get off track
I'll share your load
Will you share mine?
'Cause we are all
just passing time
We are all
just passing time
Ooh, ooh
When your troubles
are overgrown...
- Thank you for helping.
- Yeah, it would have taken
forever if it was just us.
(Laughing)
- I say we celebrate.
We still have some time to catch
some fish before dinner.
What do you say?
- Can I?
Please, Mom?
It will be fun!
- What if we all go?
- (Caleb and Zach): Yeah!
(Laughing)
- Yay.
That's all I get?
(Chuckling)
All right. Let's go!
(Birds chirping)
You know,
Grandpa always used to say...
"Give a man a fish,
and you feed him for a day.
"Teach a man to fish,
and you feed him
for a lifetime."
- Are we ever gonna
catch anything?
- Patience, my boy.
(Mandy chuckling)
Did I ever tell you about
that time Grandpa and I went
on this amazing fishing trip?
(Giggling)
We went to the same place
3 days in a row.
Not even a bite.
(Chuckling)
But on that 4th day,
I finally got a bite.
I was so excited!
I was reeling it in...
And guess what happened?
- The fish got away?
- Well, yeah.
Actually, the fish did get away.
(Chuckling)
But Grandpa and I went
diving into the water.
I mean, we were covered
head to toe, muck and all.
We were a sight to be seen.
(Chuckling)
But you know what?
We stuck with it.
And I caught a fish that day.
(Giggling)
- You know, I think your mom
just told her first story.
(Reel clicking,
Mandy giggling)
- Ah...
I think I got a bite.
(Laughing)
- Oh, hey, Mama.
- Oh, where you been?
(Chuckling)
You could knock
a buzzard off a deer.
- Fishing.
- Oh, what's on the menu?
- A little bit of smallmouth
and panfish.
- We haven't had
fresh catch here
in I don't know how long.
- Mom caught the biggest fish.
- I sure did.
- Why am I not surprised?
(Chuckling)
- Yeah, seems like
your daughter can do anything
she puts her mind to.
- OK, I'm standing right here,
you know.
- Oh, I know you are.
(Chuckling)
- Caleb, let's you and me
go out back,
honey, and I will teach you
how to gut a fish.
- Cool!
- Ah, no, no, no.
Maybe next time.
Uh, we need to clean up
before dinner.
- Can Zach come to the fair
with us after dinner?
- Well, I'm sure
Zach has plans.
- Actually, I'm wide open.
And I'd love to join you.
I mean, if--if that's OK.
I--I don't want to intrude
on family time or anything.
- Please, Mom?
- Sure.
- Awesome.
- OK, you get in the shower.
- Well, I'll be.
- What?
- You may have made a crack
in Mandy's outer shell.
Just saying...
(Steal Away by Mamadear )
I could be your alibi
Your favorite kind of high
And if we leave it
all behind
OK...
- Wow!
This is quite the turnout.
- Just wait till the National
Storytelling Festival.
- Ah! Caleb, do you want
to go find your classmates?
- No, I'd rather
stay here with you.
- Ah, buddy!
I'll take all the time
I can get,
because once you're
a teenager,
you'll probably kick me
to the curb.
- I'd never kick you
to the curb, Mom, ever.
- Ah! I know, bud.
(Chuckling, gasping)
- Deep fried candy bars.
- What?
- OK, now, that sentence alone
just gave me a stomach ache.
(Darla Jean talking,
indistinct)
- There you are!
- You came!
- Yeah, I had an appointment
with an electrical panel.
(Grunting)
(Grunting, chuckling)
- Come here.
Let me see that.
Oh.
(Giggling)
- (Whispering): Wow...
So, what did I miss?
- I had a deep fried candy bar,
and then I beat Mom at cornhole.
- Um, I let you win.
- Nope, I beat you.
- Uh, I don't think so.
- You want to see if you can
go undefeated, little man?
- Yeah!
- Yeah, well, let's do it then.
- You're going down.
- All right.
Steal away
Hey, hey, steal, steal...
- Can I get cotton candy?
- Meh.
- Please?
- Sure.
- Yeah!
- We'll be right here.
Hey, hey, steal away
- Well, hello, everybody.
We are so happy
to be here tonight.
Let's kick this thing off
with a little two-step.
Here we go.
(Country )
- Hey, any of those kids
in your class?
- Yeah.
- Any of them friends?
- No.
- Why not?
- They already have friends.
- Just 'cause they
have friends doesn't mean
they don't want more.
Oh, come here.
I want to be your friend.
- So, you want to dance?
- Oh, no, I--I don't dance.
- Don't worry about that,
little lady.
Just relax,
be fluid and follow my lead.
- No, I...
(Chuckling)
I just call your name
And when I have a chore
I come knocking
at your door
And when I feel alone
- I thought you said
you couldn't dance?
- No, I didn't say I couldn't,
I said I didn't.
It's been a long time.
- Well, I'd say
you're a natural.
- Mmm, you're not
too bad yourself.
I have always found myself
Seeking the tr...

- Mom, let's play
the balloon game.
(Birds chirping)
- Wow! You're up early.
- Mmm, I'm working
on some recipes.
- Can I fix you a cup?
- Uh, probably shouldn't.
I've already had three.
(Coffee pot clattering)
(Sighing)
- So, you want to ride
together into town?
Just because we're both coming
from the same place is all.
- I can't.
I have to drop
Caleb off at school.
- Well, he can come with us.
You do know that
carpooling is better
for the environment, right?
- Yeah, it's just...
that's our special time.
- Say no more.
Meeting you there it is.
And if you need a taste tester
for any of this,
I'm definitely your man.
- Help yourself.
- Yeah?
- Please.
Mmm, good choice.
(Chuckling)
That's a good one too.
- Mmm.
- It's good?
- Oh yeah. So good.
- Really?
- Love it.
Tasty, delicious!
(Giggling)
(Birds chirping)
- Hey. What's all this?
- Hey.
Oh, these are some books
written by the storytellers
for the gift shop.
- Ah, of course.
Guess what?
I got all the tents
in the tri-state area.
High-five!
- Nice!
(Chuckling)
Oh, and Jasmine wanted me
to tell you
she appreciates
you stepping in.
- Ah! How's she doing?
- OK, I guess.
Busy with her daughter.
Honestly though,
I just don't think
she's gonna make it back.
- Well, is that a problem?
- Not sure how the sponsors
are gonna feel about it.
And my former client
is the biggest sponsor.
And well,
they're a bit specific.
- Well, you have to tell them.
- I resolve conflicts,
not initiate them.
- Don't you think
they need to know?
- Yeah, I suppose they do.
Just worried about
their reaction is all.
- Oh, come on.
What's the worst
that can happen?
- How's it going do--
(Metal clanging,
Mandy groaning)
Oooh! Aaah!
- First the ceiling,
now this.
I think I am officially
in over my head.
(Sighing)
- Chair supplier called.
They lost
20 pallets of chairs.
- Are you kidding me?
(Water flowing,
Mandy sighing)
- Well...
There's only one solution.
- What?
- Ice cream.
- Ice cream?
- Trust me.
Let's go.
Come on.
Let's go.
Thanks.
- Thank you.
- Mmm. Nothing like
a little ice cream
to solve all your problems.
- Oh really?
You think he's got a spare oven
back there too?
- Mmm, I don't know.
I'll go check.
- No! Stop.
(Chuckling)
- What?
Is that a smile I see
on that face of yours?
(Chuckling)
See? Ice cream does make
everything better.
- You didn't.
Oh, I'm so gonna get you.
- (Darla Jean): You talk
to Caleb much about school?
- Yeah, he's seeming
to like it.
- You sure about that?
- Do you know
something I don't?
- Well, he was just saying
that all the kids at school
already have friends.
- He told me
everything was fine.
(Tableware clattering)
- Well, the kids here
are really nice.
But you know how kids are.
They form those little groups.
It's really hard
to break in.
(Sighing)
- This is exactly
what I was worried about.
You--I...
I have been so focused
on the bakery
that I have been
totally distracted.
- OK, don't beat yourself up.
It's gonna be fine.
- I know, but the first week
of school is always the hardest.
- I understand, honey.
But really, it's gonna be OK.
Just give it some time.
- He must feel so alone.
I just...
Ah, I just really wanted him
to have friends by now.
- Have faith, Mandy.
It will all work out.
(Sighing)
- I hope so.
- And please, watch over us.
And tell my dad I love him.
Amen.
- Amen.
(Sighing)
- Good night, Mom.
- Ah, good night, bud.
You know,
I was thinking
about your dad today too.
- Yeah, I really miss him.
- Mmm.
You know what?
I miss him too.
But you know,
this was always
our dream for you,
to have a town
that you can settle down in
and call your own,
a place where you can have
a childhood we didn't,
make lasting friendships.
(Chuckling, smacking lips)
- Yeah, but it's hard
to make friends.
- I know.
But that doesn't mean
you stop trying.
You know,
life can be hard.
And sometimes,
you get dealt a bad hand.
But that doesn't mean
you quit the game.
So let's give
Jonesborough a chance.
I think
it might surprise us.
- At least I have one friend.
- Look. Great.
What's his name?
- Zach.
- Is it true they want to move
the storytelling festival
to Washington D.C.?
- Yes.
- Why?
- Because they said
Jasmine isn't here.
She's not coming back,
and they don't think
there's anybody
that can replace her.
So this might be
the last in Jonesborough.
- But you're working remotely.
It's not like you're
not coming back at all.
- Actually, Jeff, I'm not.
- What? Why?
- Seeing my first
grand baby, OK?
I realized I want
to be closer to my family.
And that's right here
in Chicago.
I'll be back
for the story week.
But this is my last one.
I've already told them I'll be
resigning after the festival.
- Well, we're in
a real pickle here.
What will we do
if they move?
- Yeah, well, I had no idea
they would move the ISC
to Washington.
Had I known, I certainly would
have handled it differently.
- Most of the townspeople
and the businesses depend
on the National
Storytelling Festival.
It will kill the town!
- I'm not gonna let that happen.
- Are you gonna take over?
- Me? No!
- This could hurt Jonesborough.
- I've got to do
what's right for my family.
- Oh!
Honey, these muffins
are finer than a frog's hair
split four ways.
- You have to say that
because you're my mama.
- This place is gonna fill up
with storytellers tomorrow.
- Well, then I will have
a full spread to welcome them.
- They're gonna love it.
- Well, perfect.
You know, I think I actually
might be ready for opening day.
- Oh, baby girl,
you are ready.
These muffins alone are gonna
win over the entire town.
- Ah, thanks, Mama.
I hope so.
Now I just need
my oven to arrive.
- Well, the whole town
is buzzing about it.
- You know, it's actually
starting to feel like home.
- Look at you getting
all small town
big-hearted over there.
- Oh, I don't know about that.
(Chuckling)
- Well, this just has to be
our best story week ever
'cause it could be our last.
- Wait, what do you mean
it could be our last?

(Crickets chirping)
Should I be worried?
- About what?
- About the
story center moving.
It's kind of crazy how one
person's decision can affect
so many people's lives
in one town.
And here I am just
starting to like stories.
(Chuckling)
- Yeah, well, we're trying
to find a replacement.
- What about you?
- Mmm, I travel too much.
- Well, you could have
a change of career.
- I don't know about that.
I mean,
I'm good at what I do.
And I love the unexpected.
So... if the story center
moves to D.C.,
does that mean
that you would go to D.C.
every year for one month
instead of here?
- Hmm, I don't know.
I hadn't thought about it.
- So, you still leaving
after story week?
- Yeah, but, I mean,
I always come back.
- Caleb is really
gonna miss you.
- Yeah, I'm gonna miss him too.
But I mean, we'll stay in touch
with emails, phone calls.
Plus, think about
all the stories I'll have
to tell him about my travels.
- (Caleb): Mom, I'm ready.
- Be right there, bud.
Good night, Zach.
- Yeah. Hey, you mind if
I tell him good night too?
- Let's go.
- Good night, little man.
- Night, big man.
Can we go fishing again?
- You're gonna have to ask
your mom on that one.
- Please, Mom?
- We'll see. Let's go.
(Footsteps retreating)
- Are you mad at Zach?
- What?
No. Why would you ask that?
- You're being different
with him, not very nice.
(Sighing)
- You are too smart
for your own good.
And no, I think I'm just
distancing myself.
I don't want
to get too close
since he won't
be staying much longer.
- Zach is leaving?
Why?
- OK, I know you care
about him, buddy.
But, you know, Zach has a life
outside of Jonesborough.
And he's got to
get back to it.
- But he's my only friend here.
- Hey!
I'm your friend.
- You're my mom.
- OK, buddy,
I know you care for Zach,
but it's always been you and me,
and we've been OK, right?
And look,
now we've got Grandma too.
- I--I don't understand
why he would want to leave.
I--I wish he would
just settle down here.
- Well, if wishes were fishes,
we'd all swim with riches.
- You sound like Grandma.
(Chuckling)
- OK, buddy,
it's time for prayers.
- Hi, God.
Before I start
my prayers tonight,
I'd like to ask you
a big favor.
Please, make Zach want
to stay here.
He's the only friend
I have here.
I know he likes my mom,
even if she doesn't want him to.
S-so, please, let him stay.
- I don't know.
This whole thing
may have been a big mistake.
- Whoa, whoa, whoa.
Slow down.
- I just put everything
into the bakery.
And now Caleb
is getting so close to Zach
who has no intention
of sticking around.
- Well, that's not good.
- No kidding.
I was so blind trying
to get the bakery done
that I--I didn't see it.
I just... Ugh!
I do not want Caleb
to get hurt.
- Well, what about you?
- What about me?
- Well, it seems like
you've gotten attached
to Zach yourself.
Fight for him!
- OK, you better behave yourself
when you get here.
- No promises.
- Good night, B.
(Laughing)
- Yeah, good night.

- Hi, everybody.
I am Amanda Taylor.
And I'm so excited
to welcome you to story week.
Um, so I've got a brochure here
that basically,
kind of gives the run down
of the whole schedule,
also of all of
our amazing locations.
Um, also, if you are in the mood
for a great pastry,
I own Sweetie Pies Bakery
on Main.
We're new here,
so we would love your business.
Um, I really hope you guys have
an amazing story week.
And, um, we're just so excited
to welcome you here.
So again,
if you need a brochure,
just check it out in back.
(Audience applauding)
- When I was younger,
I volunteered my time
with an organization,
working for troubled teens.
It was in Houston.
- I didn't know Zach worked
with at-risk youth.
- He works with
all kind of people.
- Let me tell you
about a Houston summer.
It was so hot
that my eggs cooked
in the bag
before I could finish
pumping the gas.
- Tall tales!
- As I finished
pumping the gas,
I noticed two opposing gangs.
They were boiling mad,
ready to fight.
So I went over to see
what was going on.
And I invited them
to the air-conditioned
ice cream parlor.
I bought them
some ice cream.
Had a nice chat that day.
Turns out,
they had a lot in common.
The lesson is to always find
a comfortable neutral ground
for tough conversations.
And sometimes...
you may just need
some ice cream.
(Chuckling, applauding)
You clean up nice.
- She sure does.
- Ah, thanks.
You're not too bad yourself.
- Thank you.
- Can Zach and I go fishing?
- Ah, no, buddy.
I'm sorry.
We've got some work
to do in the bakery.
So say goodbye.
- Oh... bye, Zach.
- Mm-hmm. Come on.
(Door opening)
- Was it something I said?
- Could be something
you didn't say.
- I'm gonna head over and
introduce myself to Jasmine.
- Honey,
that's a real good idea.
- Hey, Zach.
- Hey, yourself.
All right,
what can I do to help?
- I don't know.
Mom hasn't told me
what to do yet.
- Mandy?
- You need to go
and do your homework.
In the cafe, let's go.
- Ah, man!
- Excuse me.
Are you Jasmine Jefferson?
- Yes, may I help you?
- Hi, I'm Mandy Taylor.
- Mandy!
- Hi!
- Hi!
I am so happy to finally
meet you in person.
I can't begin to thank you
for all that you've done.
- Oh, it's been my pleasure.
I hope you like
sourdough bread.
I made it for you.
- I sure do. Thank you kindly.
But you didn't have to
bake this up just for me.
Not after everything
that you've done.
I mean,
it gets pretty hectic
around here this time of year.
And I was really worried
things would fall apart
when I went away.
But your improvements,
you've made the National
Storytelling Festival
better than ever.
(Chuckling)
- I actually enjoyed it.
- I'm about to go
and check on a venue.
Would you like
to come with me?
- Oh, I'd love to.
- We can share stories
while we walk.
- OK, let's--let's go.
- Our first is Mr. Zach Barran.
(Cheering and applause)
- I sure am gonna
miss this place.
- And Jonesborough is definitely
gonna miss you.
(Chuckling)
I'm actually starting
to like storytelling.
- Mmm, you wouldn't
be interested
in taking over, would you?
- Oh, me?
- Mm-hmm.
- Oh, no, I couldn't.
I--I barely know anything
about storytelling.
And plus, I have my hands full
with the bakery.
- I figured as much.
- But what about Zach?
I mean,
can't you convince him?
- Mm-mmm. He said no.
Plus, he's not one to stay
in any one place
longer than a month tops.
- Right.
- Zach loves going around,
solving people's problems.
(Chuckling)
Well, I guess this little town
just doesn't have
enough conflict for
that rolling stone.
You know...
I think we all need
to come to a crossroads
in our lives, you know?
When you make the decision
to keep going or settle down.
Some of us get there
sooner than others.
He'll figure it out.
He'll figure out
where to put his roots down
sooner or later.
Of course...
I'm hoping for sooner.

(Reel clicking)
- Why the cold shoulder to Zach
all of a sudden?
- I just don't see the point
of getting close
to someone who's leaving.
- You never know,
things might change.
- No, this is what Zach does.
He wins people over,
and then he leaves.
So what happens to the people
he leaves behind?
You know,
like those boys in Texas.
I mean, did he
even see them again?
Did they keep the peace?
- Does it matter if he did?
People come into our lives
for a reason.
A season or a lesson.
Sometimes, we don't know why
till they're gone.
But that's not a reason
to keep them out.
You might miss out
on something really special.
- Yeah, well...
Caleb needs someone who's
actually gonna stick around.
We both do.
- Sometimes, all someone needs
is a reason to stay.
- Mama, I'm not gonna ask
someone to change who they are.
Even if I don't want
them to leave.

Hey, Mama, I, um, need to meet
the oven delivery guy
and receive a tent.
Is there any way that you can
take Caleb to school for me?
- Oh, sweetie pie,
we're gonna have a full house
this afternoon.
I have so much to do
for the guests.
Why don't you ask Zach?
- I cannot ask a stranger
to take Caleb to school.
- Mandy, he's not a stranger.
He's practically family.
- He's not my family.
- Mandy, you can trust him.
He's a good man.
- My mom said I can join
the little league
once the season starts.
- Yeah? I used to play.
I always thought
it would be fun to coach too.
- Maybe you could be my coach.
- Uh, hey, uh, Zach,
is there any way you could take
Caleb to school today?
- Really?
- Yeah. Sure.
Love to.
- Awesome.
- Thank you.
All right. Mwah!
Have a great day at school.
- Bye!
(Children talking, indistinct)
- Hello, how are you?
- Good morning, Ms. Osborne.
- You know my teacher?
- Fancy seeing you here, Zach,
our favorite storyteller.
- One day, I want to be
a master storyteller like Zach.
(Children laughing)
- You boys find
something funny?
- Storyteller?
That's not a real job.
- Quite the contrary.
I'm a storyteller.
Master storyteller,
just like Caleb said.
I get to meet
lots of important people,
travel all over the world,
which I'd say is pretty cool,
wouldn't you?
- I guess.
- Good.
'Cause Caleb here
is not just my friend,
but he's also
my storytelling trainee.
Isn't that right, little man?
- Yes, sir.
Hey, you boys want to hear
a story about a knight?
So, long ago,
in a far away land...
- (Mandy):
This isn't the right oven.
- I'm just a
delivery driver, Ma'am.
This is what
they gave me to deliver.
- Yeah, but it's
the wrong oven.
I have been waiting weeks
for my oven.
And I need my oven.
And that is not my oven.
- Do you want me
to take it back?
- No!
- So you want
to keep this oven?
- Yes! No! Ah!
(Groaning)
I will figure it out.
- OK, have a good day, Ma'am.
- Yeah, you too.
Just... put it down please.
(Sighing)
Yeah, thanks.
- (Jasmine): I'm impressed.
Great job, Zach.
- The town looks fantastic!
(Chuckling)
- Well, as much as I would like
to take credit for it,
most of it was Mandy.
Yeah, what she did
for the center is...
well, it's just gonna make it
more efficient
for years to come.
- If there are any more years
to come, you mean.
- You sure you don't want
to give it a try?
I mean, you're such a great fit
as director of the ISC.
- Nah, I couldn't.
- Hmm. That's too bad.
You and Mandy
make a great team.
- Yeah, she's got a lot
going on with Caleb
and the bakery anyway, so...
- Well, seemed like you
cozied up nice and sweet,
and now you just want
to fly the coop, huh?
(Chuckling)
- Wait, what's that
supposed to mean?
- You know,
from the sounds of it,
it seems like you set up a nice,
little homestead here.
Now you want
to leave it wide open
just for anybody to just come
on up and take your place.
(Children talking, indistinct)
- Hey, bud!
- Hey!
- Are those your friends?
- Yeah, they were mean
to me at first.
But now we're friends.
Zach helped me.
- How?
- I told the teacher I want
to be a storyteller,
and Stanley, Gilbert and Ryan
started laughing at me.
Then Zach told them I was
a storyteller trainee
and told that story
about the knight.
Now we're all friends,
all because of Zach.
- Wow!
Uh, that's great, bud.
(Chuckling)
Put your seatbelt on.
(Seatbelt clicking)
You ready?
- Yep.
(Engine starting)
(Birds chirping)

Zach!
- Caleb!
Boom!
Hey, how was school
after I left?
- It was awesome.
Stanley, Gilbert and Ryan--
- Hey, Caleb, why don't you go
get a snack inside, OK?
- Bye, Zach.
- All right. Later, little man.
(Door opening)
- Why are you trying to be
a hero in Caleb's life?
- What are you talking about?
(Scoffing)
- That bully incident.
Yeah, total dad play.
- Where are you going?
- For a walk!
- (Darla Jean):
Honey, slow down!
You keep rushing like that,
you'll catch up to tomorrow.
- I just need
to clear my head.
- OK, sweet heart,
what is going on?
(Sighing)
- I just don't get it.
- Honey, I did not know
you were in this deep
about Zach.
- It doesn't even matter.
Jasmine told me
that she offered Zach the job,
and he declined it.
So he is leaving
right after story week.
- I see. Well...
- Caleb is gonna be crushed.
- Is this about Caleb?
Or is this about you?
- I just feel like
I'm screwing everything up.
- Honey, you're screwing
nothing up!
After everything
you've been through?
You just need to put
yourself out there, honey.
(Dough slamming on counter)
(Tableware clattering)
I'd really like to know what
that dough did to tick you off.
(Sighing)
- What am I supposed to do?
My soft opening
is supposed to be tomorrow.
- Well, your big order doesn't
come till opening day.
Honey, worse comes to worse,
you're gonna use my oven.
- Your oven is not big enough
for an order of that size, Mama.
- Listen, this is just a bump
in the very long
and very beautiful road, OK?
You're gonna be OK.
We're gonna be OK.
Oh...
- Evening, Mr. Mayor.
- Oh, evening, Zach.
What you got there?
- Oh, it's the, uh, banner
for your everyday heroes board.
- Oh, terrific.
Thank you so much.
- Hey, you need some help
hanging it up?
- No, I got some volunteers
coming by in the morning.
- Oh.
- Or are you just looking
for something
to take your mind off
whatever is bothering you?
- That obvious, huh?
(Chuckling)
- Sure is.
You got some lady troubles?
Maybe a specific one?
Curly-headed son?
- It's just...
Mandy is so hard to read.
You know? It's like...
I mean, I thought I was
getting through to her,
and now she's giving me
the cold shoulder.
It's like she's just completely
shutting me out.
- Well, maybe she's
just scared.
(Sighing)
- I don't know.
I don't get it.
You know, the thing
about it is
I--I--I really care
about her and Caleb.
- Well, maybe
that's the problem.
Maybe she's got
feelings for you too.
- Yeah, well, then her attitude
sure doesn't make any sense.
(Chuckling)
- You know, Zach, you're usually
a pretty smart guy.
Right now, though, you only
got one oar in the water.
- Pardon?
- Let me explain
what happened, son.
Mandy moved to Jonesborough
for stability.
- Yeah, I know.
Oh!
I-it's me!
I'm not stable.
I am not stable.
- Ding, ding, ding!
We have a winner!
(Sighing)
- I'm such an idiot.
Mandy specifically asked me
not to get close to Caleb.
I didn't listen, and now he's
gonna be sad when I leave.
- Did you get
Mandy's hopes up too?
Act like a knight
in shining armor
before you ride off
into the sunset
on your own?
- What's worse than an idiot?
- Someone who doesn't walk
into the arms of a good woman
who has them open for him.
- That was
a rhetorical question,
by the way.
- Figure out what
your intentions are
and make them very clear.
Don't make any moves
unless you're willing
to commit... fully.
Even conflict experts
get cloudy
when it comes to
affairs of the heart.
The important question is:
Can you live without her?
- (Caleb): Who was
the 17th president
of the United States?
- Hey, this is your homework.
I can't get past the seventh.
(Chuckling)
- Andrew Johnson.
Did he live near here?
- Mmm, you got me.
- Do you like Zach?
- Yeah, of course.
He's becoming a good friend.
- No, I mean like him,
like him.
- Oh, uh, no. I--
Well, I don't know.
I...
I'm not looking
for anything like that.
I'm just trying
to get us settled.
And it's a little bit more
than I can do on my own.
- I thought we were supposed
to do things together,
be a team.
- We are like...
Scooby and Shaggy.
Bert and Ernie.
Han and Chewie.
- Woody and Buzz.
Mario and Luigi.
- See? We have a bond
that cannot be broken.
(Chuckling)
- Promise?
- Promise.
- OK.
- Now get to work.
- OK.
- OK, who's the
next president?
- I can't believe
there's over 10,000 people
in this tiny town.
- Mmm, I heard it's
more like 20,000.
- We get two whole days off
of school to go to the events.
I want to hang at the family
tent with all my friends.
- Well, I'll have
Tia B take you.
I mean, that is if I actually
get my bakery open tonight.
- Where's Zach?
- Oh, I bet he's setting up
his storytelling space.
- Hmm, or playing his guitar
to welcome the morning sun.
- Bless your heart.
Zach is working
at Mandy's bakery.
- Well, I heard that he's doing
his own storytelling session
outside the bakery tomorrow.
- I'm doing the open mic
there today.
- Oh, nice!
I'm telling the story about
my trip to the Amazon
to find medicinal herbs
today at Town Hall.
That's where they start
the alternative health stories.
- Did you find any herbs?
- You'll have to come to see.
- Maybe I will.
- I'm all about romance.
Um, I actually have a few of
my own romantic stories to tell.
- Honey, you want me
to take Caleb to school?
You got a lot to do.
- Um, no, that's OK.
Um, it'll probably be
the last time I can
until story week is over.
- You might be right
about that.
Sneaking out on the roof
like thieves
(Mandy sighing)
Holding hands
as the sun sets
- Oh, please don't tell me
another thing broke.
- Oh, no, no, no.
Trying to get your security
system up and running
before opening day.
It's fine.
- Did you figure out
a solution for my oven?
- Well... got
a new utility box.
Hopefully, this thing can
handle the extra amperage.
And I contacted
the utility company.
So as long as they show up,
we may just finish in time.
- OK, well,
I do not have a plan B.
So, I really hope this works.
- I know you do.
Hey, I'm sorry about Caleb.
- It's OK.
He's a tough kid.
We'll figure it out.
We missed you at dinner.
- Oh, yeah, I ate at Jeff's.
I thought maybe
you wanted some space.
- And breakfast?
- Uh, came here.
Just tried to get
an early start.
Lot's to do around here,
that's for sure.
- OK, well,
Caleb is waiting in the car,
so I better get him
to school.
- Yeah.
- OK, let's get you
to school.
- Can I skip today
and see Tia B?
- Ah, well, Tia B
will be here all week.
Plus, you'll get
to see Tia B after school.
- OK.
- Guess what?
I'm gonna make
ginger snaps!
Ginger snaps,
they're my favorite!
- I know. Mine too.
All right.
Let's get in the car.
- Mama Johnson!
- Oh, Blanca!
- It's so great to see you!
- Oh, I'm so glad you made it.
Welcome to Jonesborough.
- Thank you, thank you.
- B, this is Zach.
Zach, this is
my best friend, Blanca.
- Zach!
I've heard so much
about you.
- Have you?
- OK, no, she hasn't.
OK, I'm gonna show her around.
Blanca, let's--let's go.
Say goodbye.
- Bye, Zach.
- (Whispering): Stop it!
- (Blanca): Bye!
(Giggling)
- (Imitating Blanca):
Bye, Zach!
(Chuckling)
- Wow, what a crime.
It's like Romeo and Juliet:
meant for each other,
but can't be together.
- Caleb has just
gotten so attached.
- From what it sounds like,
it seems like you did too.
- I just... didn't expect
to fall for someone so quickly,
or at all.
- Well, it seems like
that guarded heart of yours
wants a little more.
- Doesn't matter.
It would never work.
I mean, he's still
chasing something.
And...
I have everything I need
right here.
- Everything?
- Practically.
- Hmm.
- I mean, if he wanted to stay,
he would have taken the job.
Or maybe I'm just...
not meant
to find love again.
You know, maybe Luke
was my one and only.
And I should be grateful
to even have had that.
- Or you would have
to open up that safe
that's guarding your heart
to let someone in again.
You know Luke would
want you to be happy.
- Excuse us, ladies.
- Oh, hey.
- Could you help us out?
We seem to be a little lost.
- Texas?
- Yes, Ma'am.
- Oh, where you want to go?
- It's a bakery.
I think it's called
Whoopie Pies or something.
(Laughing, snorting)
- Sweetie Pies.
That--that's my bakery.
- Get out of town.
I guess we asked
the right people.
- Looks like it.
- And I highly recommend
the chocolate croissants.
They're the best.
- We'll have to try them.
We're actually here looking
for Zach, Zach Barran.
- How do you know Zach?
- Well, Zach helped us out
a few years ago.
- Wait, are you guys
from the ice cream shop?
- Yes, we are, Ma'am.
- Um, it's just up the road
to the right.
- Well, thank you.
- Bye, guys.
- Maybe you're right.
- I always am.
(Giggling)
- At the very least,
I may owe him
an honest conversation.
- And you never know
what can happen after that.
(Chuckling)
Many and Zach
sitting in a tree...
- OK, all right.
- K-I-S-S...
- Enough!
- ... I-N-G.
- Shh!
- OK.
- OK, remember,
Tia B and I are gonna
be baking late tonight.
That is if Zach
can pull of a miracle.
- You owe Zach big time,
don't you?
- I guess I do.
Grandma's just down the hall
if you need anything.
- Tia B, will you still take me
to the family tent tomorrow?
- It's a date.
- I'm too young to date.
- I'll always be
your first love, mijo.
until you meet
your principesa,
then I'll have to approve
of that one, OK?
OK, go to bed.
- Sweet dreams.
- Are you gonna
tell him tonight?
- There is nothing to tell.
- Mandy, it's me.
I know you.
- I don't even know
how I feel.
I mean, plus, he's leaving.
- So talk to him.
- Honestly...
I don't know if I want
to go down that road again.
I mean, I still love Luke.
- You'll always
love Luke, chica.
But wouldn't it be nice to,
you know, let someone in again?
- I don't know. I'm just...
I am so scared
of getting hurt
and I'm terrified
of Caleb getting hurt.
- Yeah, you can get hurt.
But maybe, just maybe,
you can find love again.
Let him in.
Just see what happens.
- I don't even know
if he likes me.
- Girl, are you 12?
He's been working
all night for you.
- Well, he's my friend
and I'm helping him too.
(Chuckling)
- OK, if that's
what you want to think.
You know,
ever since I've known you,
you always take
the safe route, no risks.
- OK, that is not true.
I have taken plenty of risks.
- Calculated risks, Major.
You only take those big leaps
when you have
a high percentage
of sticking the landing.
- So?
- So maybe take
a leap of faith instead.
- You know, you better
get to bed, Captain.
We got to be up at 02:00.
Please, Lord,
let the oven be ready.
- Mandy.
- Zach hasn't texted me yet.
- No, he called me.
- What? Why?
Is everything OK?
- It will be. Come on.
- No, Blanca,
just tell me what happened.
- Trust me.
Come downstairs
and find out.
(Sighing)
- B?
- In the kitchen.
- What are you all
doing here?
- Mandy, I'm so sorry.
I--I tried to get
the oven working.
It just...
Mayor Jeff even called in
a favor to the electric company,
but unfortunately,
nothing could be done.
- It's OK.
I understand.
- I just feel
like I let you down.
And I'm sorry.
- No, it...
It was big ask.
I'm sorry for putting you
in that position.
- Cheer up, you two.
'Cause you know,
we got plan B.
- What's plan B?
- When I told your mom about
the problems with the oven,
she reached out
to Jasmine and Mayor Jeff
to see if we could use theirs.
- And they said the only way
you could use their ovens
is if you let them help
with the preparations.
- And as long as I get
another loaf of
that sourdough bread.
- And some zucchini bread.
Your mom says
you do that real good.
- Oh, she's good
at everything.
- You would...
You would do
all that for me?
- Yes.
- Sure we would.
- Of course.
(Chuckling)
- Thank you so much.
I mean, this is all...
just amazing.
- Well, don't just
stand there, Major.
Give us some orders!
- OK, um...
Mama, can you pull out
some mixing bowls
and we'll start setting up
a station?
- You got it, sweetie pie.
- Let's do it.
(Chuckling)
- Hey, uh...
Thank you for this.
- Don't sweat it.
Just, uh...
(Clears throat, sniffing)
... put me to work, Major.
(Chuckling)
- Um...
There's measuring cups
in the drawer.
(Whispering): Oh, wow!



- Sorry about everything.
- Stop apologizing!
And thank you for trying.
Hey, we actually
pulled it off.
- I just...
I didn't know what to do.
And I just really wanted you
to know that there are people
out here who love you,
and they just want to help you.
- You know, I could have
figured it out on my own.
- Yeah, I know.
But you don't have to...
do it on your own, I mean.
(Chuckling)
- You know, I think it all
turned out pretty perfect.
You know, I...
I can't believe
everyone just, like,
showed up for me like that.
It's...
actually starting to feel
like we belong here.
- Well, if they see
what I see,
then it's no wonder
they want to help out.
I mean, you and Caleb
are pretty awesome.
(Chuckling)
And you both are just
really... easy to love.
- Zach, I know you are leaving
after story week.
But you are making it
very difficult to say goodbye.
- What time do I have
to be at the bakery?
- Um... 9:00.
- I think I'm gonna
go take a nap.
- You know what,
that's a good idea.
I think I will too.
Good night.
Or... good morning.
S... uh... yeah.
- Mmm! Holy cow!
These are hot!

- Mom, hurry!
- What's wrong?
- Zach's about to start.
We don't want to miss it!
- Oh, buddy, I--
- Oh, OK, honey.
Sugar, you go ahead, OK?
Blanca and I will
hold down the fort.
- Thanks, Mama.
- Come on!
- OK! OK!

- So, after the prince
freed the knight,
he left he Holy Land,
returned to Normandy,
and settled down.
(Crowd applauding)
(Indistinct chatter)
- I thought he was
supposed to go off
and fight more battles.
- Yeah, he realized
that there's more to life.
Which, there's something
I want to tell you both.
After this week...
you're looking at
the new executive director
of the storytelling center.
- That means you're staying?
- You got it, little man.
(Chuckling)
- Wait, what about Pakistan?
- Well, I realized that,
I mean,
I'm not the only
conflict negotiator.
And I think it's
more important for me
to solve problems at home.
- Wait, home?
- Yeah, home.
In Jonesborough.
So we're starting a program
where we're gonna teach
local kids conflict resolution
through storytelling.
I'm gonna lead develop
the program and the center.
The town council
just voted on it.
(Chuckling)
- That was quick. I mean,
who's part of the council?
- Let's see, there's Jasmine,
Mayor Jeff.
Oh yeah, and,
uh, Darla Jean.
- Oh.
(Laughing)
- But there is one catch.
(Miracles by Oceans Chest )
That a certain ex-Major
stop by the center
and help me out
once in a while.
- I think I might be able
to make that happen.
That is if you're still
gonna be my handyman.
(Chuckling)
- Are you two gonna
kiss now or what?
- Uh...
Well, if it's OK with you.
'Cause now I wish
upon a star
And if it's OK with her.
And I believe
in fairy tales
Because you're
real to me
(Mandy giggling)
I see unicorns
and fairy dust
- Close your eyes!
Signs and wonders
follow us
Yes, I believe in miracles
I believe in miracles
I never thought that
I would be a prince
With the princess
of my dreams
I was more like an Aladdin
Telling lies
about everything
I never seem
to find the beauty
But I can always
find the beast
Well maybe I was
searching and looking
In all the wrong places
'Cause now I wish
upon a star
Thank God for
everything you are
And I believe
in fairy tales
Because you're
real to me
I see unicorns
and fairy dust
Signs and wonders
follow us
Yes, I believe in miracles
I believe in miracles
Maybe this is my
Magic carpet ride
The constellations dance
Entangle you and I
Maybe this is just a dream
But I don't want
to miss a thing
'Cause now I wish
upon a star
Thank God for
everything you are
And I believe
in fairy tales
Because you're
real to me
I see unicorns
and fairy dust
Signs and wonders
follow us
Yes, I believe in miracles
I believe in miracles
I believe in miracles
I believe in miracles
Look at you and me, girl