Single on the 25th (2025) Movie Script
1
Do you want some help?
Yes please.
Okay, that's cute.
Thank you so much.
Hi! Ooh, hi, honey!
Oh, hey, girl!
Is it just me, or do Christmas trees
just get bigger every year?
Uh, have you considered
maybe you're shrinking?
No, really. I mean,
don't you feel like Christmas
just gets bigger, every year?
Okay, I sense a tirade,
and I'm totally here for it,
bigger in what way?
- Just, longer. You know?
- More ornate, more complex.
Give me an example.
- Take Christmas flavours, okay?
- So, first it was peppermint.
- Then it was peppermint mocha.
- Yeah.
Now it's peppermint mocha
creme cookie!
You love peppermint mocha
creme cookie!
I know, I'm not complaining,
I'm just asking if you ever noticed.
I'll tell you what I've noticed.
Christmas has never been
more romantic.
What do you mean?
Every Christmas card I've gotten
is a wedding announcement,
or a baby announcement.
My street is a thoroughfare of mistletoe.
- Yeah.
- Even the cocoa's coupled!
Hmm?
The coffee shop by my house,
it's the sign insisting
that cocoa is perfect for two.
Yeah, I get it. I mean, it's
not just you, I see it, too.
We're just at the age where
everyone's getting married.
Wait, so Christmas
is just supposed to be
for couples and romance?
Christmas is for everyone.
Including singles, and including you!
Mmm. Then, why does it take two people
to carry a Christmas tree?
Ugh!
Got it?
There we go.
- We can do it!
- We can do it!
Merry Christmas, donation.
Tell me you got us
the Montclair Chalet Suites.
Accessible only by private gondola!
And the Olympic ski instructors?
Reserved! Along with
the aprs-ski caviar
service you wanted.
The gold standard of Aspen ski trips!
Love it, yeah.
Ugh, Santa's giving me a migraine.
- Who let him in the building?
- I assume someone interested
- in giving back at the holidays.
- Could we call somebody?
No, I'll handle it,
I'm just heading out anyway.
- Have a good day.
- Yeah. Take care, slacker.
Here for the needy.
Santa, I think you could use this.
Oh, that's kind of you.
Uh...
Oh, that's very kind of you!
Yeah, I assume you're not
having much luck
with my colleagues.
Ho-ho-ho, your assumption is correct!
There's a children's
non-profit a few floors down,
you might do better there.
Your colleagues want me to scram?
Yeah, don't take it personally, they're all
on the naughty list!
It's just their personality.
Come on, I'll take you.
Oh, hey. Ask your neighbor
to hold the door.
- What? No, please, no!
- Why not?
Because chit chat with him
always requires a shuffle.
What's a shuffle?
You know, like, safe topics
of conversation shuffle
where you have to talk about the
weather for exactly 90 seconds.
Oh yeah, cause any shorter's rude,
- and any longer's intrusive.
- Exactly!
Okay, but you and I
are not going to be able
to get that door open
while carrying this tree.
- Fair point. Hey, Cooper!
- Can you hold the door?
Yeah.
- I got you.
- Oh, gosh.
- There you go.
- Okay. Okay.
- Thank you!
- Yeah.
Um, Cooper this is my friend, so...
Yeah, uh, Emily, right?
- Julia.
- Julia, right.
Yeah.
So uh, cold out tonight, eh?
Oh, yes. Hoo! Jack Frost is nipping!
Oh yeah!
- So, what are you doing?
- So, any big holiday plans?
Oh, Christma..., you, you go.
Um, I'm going to Aspen,
skiing with a work colleague.
It's gonna be awesome.
What about you?
Um, well...
For the last ten years,
I usually go to Ohio,
but this year, my family's
coming here to Chicago.
Cool, nice.
I'm gonna check my mail.
Yup, just, coming through!
- Bye!
- Yeah.
God, no!
Huh?
Oooh!
What do you think?
I think Christmas trees
actually have gotten bigger.
And more beautiful.
Hmm, only when you pick them!
I'm level 12 excited
for Christmas this year!
Oh, I know! I mean, you finally get to do
all the fun Chicago things
you missed out on every year.
Yes, and show my parents my life.
And hopefully make them proud.
Girl, of course they're proud of you.
Oh, one second.
- Hey, Mom!
- Hi, sweetie.
Oh! Hi, Mama Duke!
Oh, Merry Christmas, girls!
In 17 hours, you will be
what's the matter?
Bad news, honey.
Uncle Eli fell and fractured his hip.
Oh no, is he okay?
No, no, he'll be fine.
But I do feel like I should stay with him.
Yeah, yeah, of,
of course, bring him here!
Oh, he can stay at my place
while Dave and me are in Madison.
Well, that's very generous of you two,
but he can't travel right now, so...
- So you can't come to Chicago?
- Um, what about Dad?
Oh well, you know your father,
he'll go wherever he's needed most.
Well, of course, that's
with you and Uncle Eli.
It's fine, I'm gonna be fine,
I have, I have Rose and Sasha coming.
Actually, hey Mom,
that's Rose on the other line.
I'll call you back, okay?
Of course! Muah!
- Hi, Rose!
- Sasha, did you
- pack the presents?
- Rose! Did you butt dial me?
Oh no! Sorry, Nelly belly,
no, I meant to call you,
but I just got distracted trying
to get the car packed.
What? You're driving here?
No, I'm so sorry,
Sasha's sister went
into labor a month early.
I tried to tell her not to eat spicy food,
but what do I know?
So, we have to go to Columbus
to watch Sasha's nephews.
Wait, so you're not
coming to Chicago either?
No, I'm so sorry!
But, you can come to Columbus!
You can meet the baby.
No, I think being at my
brother-in-law's sister's house
with their brand new baby
could potentially be awkward.
But you can't spend Christmas alone!
That's so depressing.
I'm not gonna be alone,
I have friends here!
- I'll be fine.
- Sasha! Did you pack
- the presents?
- Bye.
- Love you, Nelly belly. Bye.
- Okay, girl?
Grab your bags, you're coming
to Madison with Dave and me.
As much as I love your
in-laws, no, I'm gonna be fine.
But I need you for moral
support, because we're telling
them that um...
- You're pregnant?
- Yeah!
You're pregnant! Oh my God!
Oh my gosh! Is it a girl?
Is it a boy? Do you know?
We're not finding out,
just as long as it's healthy.
Of course, of course!
Oh my gosh, this is the best news!
Thank you! Just, please come
to dinner with me and Dave.
I mean, yeah, he's cooking,
but don't be scared, okay?
I'm still traumatized
from the last time he cooked!
No, I'm gonna be fine.
I'm gonna order Chinese food,
I'll decorate my tree,
and start new Nell traditions.
I'm gonna be fine, I've got
a laundry list of things to do.
- Hello?
- Jade Garden with your order.
I'll be right down.
I just don't understand
why you can't go skiing
- some other time!
- Dad, we've been through this.
But you're gonna miss the craft fair,
and our holiday party.
Look, I will see you before I go,
take you and Mom out
for a nice lunch or something.
Or, we could all watch Rudolph
and eat gingerbread in matching pj's!
Come on! It's your
favorite Christmas movie!
Circle back on that,
I, I gotta focus on packing, okay?
Alright! Love you.
I love you too, bye.
Ohh.
To my favorite customer.
You say that to all of your customers!
I do, it's true, but I don't put extra
- fortune cookies in for everyone.
- Whaaat?
They better be the
winning lotto numbers!
They are. Just in the wrong order!
See you later!
Have a good night!
Whew! It's so cold out.
Yeah, yeah, still pretty cold.
Well, thanks again!
Not a problem.
Okay honey, bye.
Um, so our super's out of town,
but I left a message for Julia
and hopefully she'll get the
message soon, so I'll just,
thank you, go wait over there.
In the hall? No! It's cool,
just wait here for her.
Sure. Well, my Chinese food's
getting cold, so um,
can I repay your generosity
with egg rolls?
Well, actually, I'm,
I'm doing keto right now,
everyone in my office is really like, keto.
So...
But hey, it's a holiday, so sure.
Okay! Speaking of holidays,
what's your embargo on decorating?
Oh, no embargo. Just uh,
I haven't got around to decorating.
- Oh.
- Mm.
If you're in the market,
I do know a lot of local artists
who make beautiful holiday crafts.
Yeah um, I'm not gonna really need it
cause I'm gonna be away for Christmas.
Ah, Aspen trip. Sounds fancy.
Well, fancy's kind of in my line of work.
What do you do?
I'm an analyst for a hedge fund.
And if I'm a good boy,
one day I'll be a manager,
what do you do?
Oh um, I work in endowments
for the Chicago Riverfront University.
And I'm on the scholarship team,
I help raise money and award funds.
Cool.
You like it?
I do, it's my dream job.
It's a combo of academia
and philanthropy
and throwing parties.
You want a cookie?
Sure.
Confucius says,
"A great adventure awaits you."
Hmm.
Mine's blank!
Well, maybe the cookie's telling you
to write your own fortune.
Here we go. This one says,
"Your last fortune will come true."
You look really disappointed.
What did you want
your cookie to for tell?
Oh, "The love you seek
is closer than you think."
Oh. Okay so, you seek love.
Forget it! I'm just
having a really bad day.
Have an egg roll.
- You wanna talk about it?
- About the egg roll?
What? No! About your bad day.
Oh.
My family had to cancel
their plans here, and I just,
I spent a really long time curating like,
the perfect holiday for them,
and now I have to cancel
everything and eat the costs.
Why?
Well, cause most of the things
I booked are non-refundable.
- No, no, no.
- Why do you have to cancel?
Because I'm obviously
gonna go home to Cleveland
for the holidays, be with my family.
But, why wouldn't you just have your
perfect week here as planned?
Because I don't wanna be
alone on Christmas.
Have an egg roll.
But when you're alone, you get
to eat all the egg rolls!
Well, I would rather eat half an egg roll,
and be with the people that I love.
No, I hear that, I do.
But I believe that we have slots in life.
What are you talking about?
You know, like places where we belong.
Now, you could go
with your family in Cleveland,
or you could stay here,
and have your perfect Christmas.
With yourself.
Coming. You know what?
Finish the leftovers, thank you!
Yeah.
Okay great.
Hmm, interesting.
- What are you doing?
- I'm unpacking.
You're unpacking, you,
you're not going to Cleveland?
I'm not gonna go to Cleveland.
Okay, I don't like the idea
of you here all by yourself.
- But I am by myself.
- I live alone, I'm always alone.
Why is being alone
at Christmas any different?
Okay, what are you saying?
I mean, Cooper said something.
He, he was talking about,
like, slots in life.
And, I think that's what
I've been experiencing lately.
I don't follow, but okay, continue.
Earlier, I was looking at a
childhood Christmas photo album.
And I think that I was realizing
that like, when I'm a kid,
my slot in life was with my family, right?
And then when you get older,
it's with your partner,
and then with your kids.
And then I was thinking,
maybe those people are just
stuck in singles land
because they're waiting for
one day to meet the like
perfect person, and then
their real life will begin.
Aw, Nell, is... is that what you think?
I think I used to, but I don't anymore.
I'm letting go of that fantasy!
Okay, what does that even mean?
Why should I cancel my
perfectly curated Christmas,
just because I would be doing it alone?
I, I guess you shouldn't?
Right, like, isn't it okay
to just be by myself?
That is totally okay to be by yourself!
- Right?
- Yeah!
So that's what I'm gonna do!
I am going to celebrate my dream holiday
and I'm gonna enjoy it. Alone!
- Yeah!
- All by myself!
I'm gonna be single on the 25th.
And I'm gonna love it!
Are you sure I can't send you
a ticket to Cleveland?
No, I'm fine. I have a week
packed with holiday fun.
Starting with a carriage ride
today, but first
a Christmas gift of service for a friend
in need of help decorating.
Ooh. Who's it for?
My neighbor. Actually,
I should probably catch him
before he heads to his trip.
I-I-I'll be right back.
Oh, oh um, one thing.
Uncle Eli just sent you a Christmas gift,
and it should arrive today,
so keep an eye out. Okay?
Okay, tell him thank you!
Bye - Bye, Mom!
- Hi!
- Hi!
I just wanted to give you
this, as a thank you
for last night. Plus, you said
you didn't have any decor.
Oh, the way I said it made
it seem like I wanted some?
- Was that a thank you?
- Yes, yes, thank you.
Also, I want you to know,
I took your advice,
and I am going to embrace my slot in life.
Cause I'm okay by myself!
"To be alone is the best of company,"
that's my life's motto.
Oh, but I gotta head to work!
- Oh yeah, yeah. No, totally.
- Me too, I gotta go to work.
Actually, I cancelled work,
my family was coming to town,
but then they cancelled.
Anyway, okay, cool.
- Thanks for that.
- Okay, bye!
Have a nice day.
- Hey!
- Oh! Morning, Nell! Usual?
- Yes, please and thank you!
- Large peppermint mocha.
So, is your family already in?
- No, change of plans.
- I'm flying solo this Christmas.
- Oh no!
- No, no, no, no,
it's gonna be okay, it's gonna
be a Venn diagram of holiday fun
meets aspirational self-growth.
- Sounds complex.
- No, it's simple.
- Okay.
- I even wrote myself
a little holiday card,
with self-care instructions!
Oh, this I gotta see! C'mon, c'mon!
Number one: Be the star
on my own tree.
- Mm-hmm!
- Number two:
Deck the halls the way I like.
And number three: Egg nog all day!
I love this for you.
Yeah, it's gonna be a
Christmas just the way I want.
Yeah, I'm gonna bake
gingerbread in my pajamas
with the thermostat
cranked all the way up!
Get wild, girl!
Coop, my man! Did you catch
the game last night?
Yeah. Yeah, we killed 'em.
Absolutely insane!
Oh, Code Red, boss incoming!
Yes, good morning, boss!
Morning, Melanie!
So, we just signed the Lindts.
Our biggest client yet.
That, that's fantastic!
Huzzah for us!
And previous to this,
we planned on doing an
internal holiday dinner,
but now we're thinking something
outward facing for clients.
- Yup, makes total sense!
- Makes total sense!
And I need a point person on it.
You know what? I'd love to help, but no,
unfortunately I am gonna be
in Aspen... ah!
Okay. Then Cooper,
you're on the project.
- We uh, are actually get...
- Hire a party planner,
farm it out, whatever.
Just get it done right,
and be there to oversee it.
- Yes boss.
- And Thomas.
- Yeah?
- Have fun in Aspen!
I'll try!
Oh man, I'll make it up to you!
Woo!
Your package got delivered to me.
Oh, it must be my Christmas
gift from Uncle Eli.
Oh wow. Smells good in there!
Oh, thanks. I'm baking
gingerbread cookies.
Did you wanna come in?
Uh sure, thanks.
Yeah, I do love a good
gingerbread. Plus, I completely
- fell off the keto wagon.
- Hm.
Wow, decorations look great!
Oh, thanks. I have, I have
extra of everything
if you want anything
to help your apartment's
oh, you're going to Aspen, of course.
- Uh, no actually, not anymore.
- Work thing came up.
Sorry.
Ah, it is what it is, it's
gonna be fine. Just, just fine.
- Okay.
- Yeah.
Oh, that, this is great
gingerbread. Mmm!
So how's it going,
being in the best of company?
Amazing! Fantastic, yes.
- Yeah?
- Yes. Although,
I have realized that some
Christmas activities
have an inherent romantic component.
Like what?
Like, baking gingerbread cookies.
I'm pretty sure people bake alone.
Well yeah, that's true.
But, you know, you can't
accidentally reach
for the rolling pin at the same time
and graze each other's hands,
or sprinkle flour in the air
and maybe it gets on your nose
and then laugh, and then...
You know, there are
advantages to being alone.
Yeah, absolutely. You know?
I can turn my thermostat up
all the way, as high as I want,
and I can dance to my favorite
carol on repeat!
Not that I was doing that, or anything!
Uh-huh.
And, I get to prove to everyone
that I am totally okay on my own!
What is it?
It's a self-help book about love.
Use it as kindling.
They are fairy tales, sold to
push a Prince Charming fantasy.
I don't have a Prince Charming fantasy!
My carriage is here!
Carriage? And there it is!
So every year, I see these
very beautifully decorated
Christmas carriages, and I'm
like, that looks so magical,
so I booked one for our family.
Oh. I didn't realize
it would look so romantic.
Well maybe you should call a friend.
Oh, I tried that, everyone's
busy or with their own families.
Okay, well, no. This is gonna be
great. Okay, yeah!
It's gonna be wonderful,
I'm gonna love this!
- Yeah.
- Hey, guys!
- Hi!
- You two ready to ride?
- Oh it's just me!
- Oh, it's just her!
Just you?
Okay well, inside
you'll find some champagne,
some cozy blankets and pillows,
and well, there's the mistletoe
bell. When you ring that,
uh, I'll stop so you can uh,
I don't know
take in the sights or something, right?
Tk tk tk tk.
I mean, look at you!
Taking in the Christmas magic!
That's me, Christmas magic,
left and right!
- Alright, I'll see ya.
- Okay.
- Have a good night!
- Okay, see ya!
My gosh!
- Oh uh, you again!
- Still me.
You know, for what it's worth,
I think what you're doing is cool.
You're having the Christmas you want!
You're not wasting your life
in standby for romance mode,
waiting for somebody to be with.
Right.
Just your shortest route, thanks!
Oh, my God...
Hi!
Hey! How was the carriage ride?
Uh, it was bucket list material!
Uh-huh.
How did the baby news go?
Oh, they laughed,
they cried, they kvelled!?
It was really sweet.
Wait... are you sure you're doing okay?
Oh yeah! Yeah, no,
I'm living my best life. Yeah.
Alright. But, if you want the company,
there is a single support group
at the Lakedale Community Center.
Well, that seems silly!
It's not like I need
support for the tragedy
that is my unpartnered life!
Besides, I'm super busy.
Yeah, in fact, I should
probably go right now,
I've got things to do, okay?
- I'll call you later, bye!
- Love you, girl!
- Thanks, Mom.
- Fits you so well!
- Thanks, Mom!
- Ah, doesn't he look good?
Of course, yes, he does.
Nell? Hi!
Hi! Oh!
- Uh, this is my mom, Chloe.
- Hi!
- And my dad, Mike.
- Hi.
Nell is my neighbor.
Oh, hi!
- Oh gosh, this is beautiful.
- Is this a lace stitch?
Yes?
Do you knit?
Oh, I dabble. My aunt taught me.
Well, Chloe is the ultimate knitter.
- Hmm.
- In fact, she has a booth
at the holiday crafts market,
you should come.
Obviously, my husband
does my marketing!
Mike and Chloe?
- Yup.
- Ah, perfect!
- Nice to meet you!
- Nice to meet you!
- Nice to meet you!
- Nice to meet you!
- Oh. Here, Mom.
- Oh, this looks good!
- I'll be over in a second.
- Sure.
Yeah.
Since when do you take
cream in your coffee?
- Hi.
- Hi.
Your parents are very sweet.
- Yeah, they are.
- It must skip a generation.
No, you are sweeter than you let on.
I've witnessed it.
You off to work?
Yeah, full day of work and then uh,
got my company's holiday party to plan.
That's why I had to skip Aspen.
Oh no! Although I guess,
that's for a good reason.
Holiday celebration.
Hey, you said that you do
a lot of event planning,
and I'm wondering if you have
the number for a good
last-minute party planner.
Oh well, that tends to be me.
Ah! Okay.
So uh, what are you,
what are you up to today?
I uh, I think I'm gonna do a photo shoot
for a Christmas card.
Oh, my, my parents love those.
So do mine, I, I got it for them as a gift,
for their card next year, and I don't know,
I was gonna cancel it,
and then I thought about those
ironic single people cards.
Oh yeah. Yeah, like someone
looking depressed,
guzzling a bottle of wine with
the caption "Holiday Spirits."
Exactly! Except, I'm gonna do
the opposite,
it's just gonna be happy me on the card.
Way to break the mold!
I got the deluxe package
with the multiple sittings,
if you need a Christmas card,
you can come,
it's at Timeless Frames at six!
You know what I think? I think
you find it hard to be alone.
- Hey! No, no, don't pity me!
- I am having the time of my life!
I can tell!
By the way, I noticed you
haven't hung up my wreath yet!
Well, you gifted it to me,
so I think that makes it my wreath!
Hmm.
Hi! I am looking for a party planner
for a work party on the 23rd.
December 23rd, yeah, five days away.
I... I gather that's not
supportive laughter right there!
Listen, I, I just.
- And they hung up!
- How's it going?
Oh! Perfect. Great, couldn't be better.
I have no doubt. And Cooper,
from my family to yours!
Thank you, boss!
Great. Oh, hi!
I'll be right with you
in one moment, okay?
Yeah, keep the reindeer vibe alive!
- Hey!
- Oh, you came!
Oh yeah, I realized I could
use a Christmas card
to send to clients next year.
And uh, well nothing says good
business relationships
like that antler headband
thing she's wearing, so.
Mm-hmm.
You're not here because
you feel bad for me, are you?
No! No, I'm here because
us single people,
we need to stick together!
Plus, I think your solo
Christmas card is a great idea.
Challenge the narrative. Fight the Man.
- The snowman!
- Yeah!
No, I agree. Cause when men are single,
it's looked like a choice,
and when women are single,
it seems like a character defect.
That's some
Pride and Prejudice right there!
You know, when Elizabeth Bennett
rejects Mr. Darcy,
refusing to be grateful
for his condescending love.
I didn't know you liked
Pride and Prejudice!
The onion that is Cooper
keeps getting peeled.
Thank so much!
Happy Ho Ho Ho!
Alright. I am ready for you two.
Oh, we're not a two.
- No.
- We're a, we're a one,
- uh, two ones.
- Ones.
- Separate packages.
- Right.
Okay then, who's first? Got it.
Please, show me how it's done!
- I'm up first.
- Great!
Um, maybe less job interview, and more
happiest time of the year?
That's the same for him!
Good one. Hilarious!
Oh, there's a smile! That is it.
I think, I think we got it!
Um, do you guys want one together?
Uh, that's totally up to you!
Yeah, you want one together!
You'll be happy you did it, let's go!
Okay, it's gonna be painless, I promise!
Maybe loosen it up a little bit?
Oh dear, that's the opposite
of loosen. Okay, could you try
acting like you know each other?
And, could you look at his eyes?
Just, okay. Mmm,
oooh! Yeah, uh-huh! Oh, that's a smile!
Yeah, you can touch him, that's alright.
Yeah, I think that'll work.
- Now, you alone!
- Right.
- Right.
- Okay.
Sorry, I'm not very good
in front of the camera.
- Oh.
- Oh, come on!
You know you're gorgeous.
What he said!
There's a smile!
Oh, you are so gorgeous,
I love it.
It's perfect!
Okay, just give me a second
to do a little mockup.
Alright!
And what do you think of that?
What's wrong?
Um
Just,
it just looks lonely.
Wha?
I mean, I, I could add
some graphics to fill it out.
Or you could just take the photo again.
No, no. It's just a picture of me alone.
- Um.
- That's uh,
kind of the point, right?
Uh, how long until they're ready?
A couple of days and I can send it to you.
Okay. Thank you.
Yeah, thank you.
Happiest of holidays
from AB Knightsford.
Your call is important to us,
please remain on the line.
Thank you.
Hey, watch ya doing?
Hey! I'm just hanging my wreath, finally.
- Ohhh!
- What are you doing?
Uh, I'm calling AB Knightsford,
I have a reservation for tonight
I have to cancel, and I'm hoping
they give me a refund.
I had to put a credit card down.
Why would you cancel?
Heard it's the best meal in Chicago,
especially their holiday prix fixe.
I know, right? It took me like
a decade to get a reservation,
but you know, it's a lot of cash
to drop just by myself.
AB Knightsford.
- Oh!
- Hello?
Yeah, hi! Um, I have
a reservation tonight
for Nell, and I was hoping to cancel
and get a refund? No refunds.
They're not known for their
customer service.
I'm learning that, yeah.
I guess I'll just eat the deposit.
Or you could just eat the meal.
What if I went with you? With a caveat.
What's the caveat?
Hi, um, reservation under Nell Duke,
but it's just gonna be the two of us.
Actually, can I talk to you
for just a second?
Mm-hmm.
Thank you.
What a beautiful spot.
Hey, what was that about?
I'm just guaranteeing
we get a good table.
Never by the kitchen,
never by the bathroom.
Not in the corner.
Thank you.
- What's happening?
- We are eating alone.
Alone, together?
Welcome to...
Welcome to AB Knightsford.
Tonight, we'll be serving our
holiday prix fixe.
I'll be back with fresh bread.
Huh. Have you never eaten
alone before?
No! I was saving that great
joy for Christmas Eve dinner.
Now I get to do it
under your watchful eye!
Well, I can offer my expertise.
Spent most of my
school life eating alone.
You, unpopular? I don't believe it.
Believe it! I had
almost every school lunch alone.
Sometimes, sitting in the corner,
all the way up until college.
But you just seem so cool!
This, this is a very
carefully cultivated coolness.
- Hmmm.
- Guess I,
- always had trouble, uh.
- What?
Being yourself around others?
Exactly.
- Is it that obvious?
- No.
Let me ask you a question.
When have you felt most yourself?
When I was a kid,
I had this polka CD.
It was these four guys in pinstripe suits,
and they would play covers
of modern songs.
And they were terrible!
Really bad, but I loved it!
But you felt like yourself!
Yeah. And I would come home
from school,
from a day of hiding and trying to fit in.
And I would go to my room
and put on that polka music,
full blast and just shake off the day!
Yeah, I know that feeling.
My parents, they fell in love
at 19, they had these epic
love stories, and I, of course,
got a full ride to college,
but then, all they could really see was
that I'm, I'm still alone.
Well, I hope that's not all you see.
I try not to.
But?
Tomorrow is my college mixer,
and everyone's gonna be coupled
and it's just gonna be
a reminder of...
May I take your drink orders?
Yeah, I'll just have
some sparkling water, please.
- Really, come on!
- This is your special dinner.
I'll have, um, your best bubbly!
And I will have your best glass of red.
Thank you.
First rule of the Solo Supper Club:
Don't stare at the couples.
- Oh, okay.
- Second, no!
Don't get your phone.
That's the second rule,
no staring at your phone.
And third, whoo.
Just relax. Look,
I like to think of this as free theatre.
There is something nice about
just being an observer.
But Nell, you're not just an observer.
You're the main character.
Thank you.
So, how is everything over here?
Do we have any
special occasion tonight?
Do we?
Yes, I do!
Hmm!
Hey, you wanna see something?
Uh, sure!
Ooh!
That's uh, it's for the
telescope, so we can see better.
Tonight is the solstice.
Oh.
Now, let me adjust.
Oh, perfect timing.
Okay, have a look in there.
Okay.
And you can, you put your hand
here, to adjust,
adjust if you need it.
And that is Venus,
the Christmas star.
Wow!
The Greeks and the Romans
believed that Venus
was the heart of cosmic sympathy.
That everything is connected,
and influences everything else,
like the cosmos is dictating our fate.
So they were like the
original fortune cookies.
What do they say?
Well, they don't say your fortune is blank.
They say you can write your own fortune.
If I still wanted to say
the love you seek
is closer than you think?
Then you have to remind
yourself that uh,
it's not about finding
joy in Christmas alone,
it's about finding joy in life alone.
Look, I hear what you're saying. I just...
I don't always know how to achieve it.
Yeah. Well, like the solstice reminds us,
it's always darkest before dawn.
You know, I'm pretty good at being alone.
Been doing it most of my life.
Yeah, you're your
best company. I've heard it.
Right. And so, I'm a wealth
of tips and tricks
on how to survive
in a world full of couples.
You know, I'm completely open
to receiving your knowledge.
Good. Cause I have an idea.
I was thinking that in exchange
for my teachings,
- maybe you could help me...
- Plan your holiday party,
for your work shindig?
You read my mind!
I would love to!
Thanks!
Is that a shooting star?
Well, now you gotta make a wish!
- Hey!
- Oh! Hi!
I was looking at some
venues for your work party.
Can we hold that thought for
a moment, while you follow me?
Okay.
You were saying you felt
awkward flying solo
at holiday parties.
So, welcome to Cooper's...
College Mixer Survival Bootcamp.
Wait, are you trying to teach
me how to be single
at a party full of couples?
- I'm gonna try.
- Uh.
So. First tip, position
yourself somewhere where
you feel powerful, rather than adrift.
And the bar works very well.
- Okay.
- Cheers!
- Cheers!
- Cheers, cheers!
Okay, now follow me to the buffet!
Now, the buffet, in the event of dreaded
chit chat, your mouth is full.
Wow, this pat looks wonderful!
That's cat food... You have a cat?
No. Speaking of dreaded chit chat...
I want you to pretend
I am your most tactless college friend.
Okay, say no more.
Nell. You're still single.
Why? Hmm?
Hmmm.
Wait, wait, are you asking
as the pretend friend,
or do you really want an answer?
Oh, uh sure, yeah.
I want the answer if you want to share.
Oh, I guess I'm just kind
of a niche market!
Or maybe like you, I also have
a hard time being myself
around others.
Hmm.
Follow me.
I have created holiday singles Bingo!
- What?
- Yeah.
- Wait, you made this?
- Well yeah, it's just
a bunch of my favorite
dating quotes and situations.
"Have you tried online dating?" Ugh!
"Bickering couple drags you
into their conversation!"
The center space here.
"You'll find someone
when you stop looking!"
If I had a dime!
This is really sweet.
Oh, it's just a lifetime of
wisdom collected being single.
What's your key takeaway?
That we will be okay on our own.
That we are okay on our own.
Oh.
Ah, my folks want me to stop
by the market.
- Oh, small world!
- I was just gonna go there
to get holiday decorations for your party.
- Do you want to go together?
- Yeah, let's do it.
We'll pick this up later.
- Yeah.
- Cool.
Okay, I think I found the
perfect venue for your party,
it's a bank-themed bar.
- Bank-themed bar?
- Mm-hmm.
- Doesn't sound very charming.
- Oh, it is!
It's warm, it has a ton of character.
Uh, well usually, our parties are
- here we go!
- Oh, thank you!
Okay. Uh, our parties
are very bland and sterile,
designed to leave early.
But you're not bland and
sterile, and this is your party.
So let the people see who you are!
And who's that?
Well it's not someone wearing a mask!
- Hi!
- Merry Christmas!
Someone kind and there to help others.
Let the party reflect you.
Plus, I think you secretly love Christmas.
Hey! Coop, my man!
- Hey! Uh...
- Hey uh, who is this?
This is Nell, my neighbor.
This is Thomas, my work colleague.
Thought you left for Aspen, man.
Nah, I cancelled it. You know,
what's the point of the gold
standard if you're alone, right?
- Huh.
- I'm, I'm cold,
I'm gonna head in. Nice to meet you!
Yeah.
- You two a thing?
- Oh!
No, no.
Definitely not.
She's just a lonely neighbor
having a tough time,
so I'm trying to be supportive.
Ahh, Coop with the heart
of gold, always performing
- the charitable act!
- Uhh...
Well, I'll see you at the office.
Yeah man.
Yeah, oh yeah!
He still is! Yeah, yeah!
Speaking of, hey! Cooper!
- Hey, hey!
- Hey!
- Hi!
- We were just inviting Nell
- to our holiday dinner!
- Oh yeah, you did?
No, no yeah. Tell her how much fun it is!
I do my best Santa impression,
he dresses like an elf!
You should come! Yeah,
it's a fun-filled evening
of family constantly grilling
me on why I'm still single!
Those are my favorite parties!
I would love to come, I'll bake something.
Oh, great! Listen, you two go do a loop,
and report back
on my competition, okay?
I love them, they're great.
You know what, it's really
nice to spend this time
with them over the holidays.
Feels like home.
That's exactly the feeling
I want to bring to your party.
That sense of comfort
and feeling of belonging.
That sounds really nice,
but uh, probably
unachievable with my crowd.
No, not at all! It'll be fun and inviting.
We'll, we'll treat the guests like family,
we just, we have to build in meaning.
What if we did like a, a fundraiser,
where guests can donate
to a charity of our choice?
That's perfect!
And maybe we could do
something a little fun.
Like uh, I don't know,
like a build your own
gingerbread Wall Street,
with candy trading floors
and little gum drop brokers!
I knew you liked Christmas!
No, no I don't.
Oh my gosh, this is so beautiful!
Well you should buy it for yourself.
Oh my, is that the price,
or the year it was made?
Oh, that's out of my budget!
But imagine how good you'd
feel walking into your
mixer tonight wearing it.
I'm just gonna have to live
with imagining it!
Hey, I know this goes
against your teachings,
but do you want to come with me?
Give me real-time,
boots on the ground tips?
I'd love to!
- Allow me.
- Thank you.
Thank you.
Alright. Put me in, Coach!
- You got this!
- Yeah.
Just uh, don't hide in the corner!
Don't leave early, and don't
think you don't belong.
Mm-hmm, mm-hmm.
And uh, take the seat you deserve.
- Wish me luck!
- Good luck!
So I'm there, all night long,
there's nobody there,
it's totally pitch-dark...
Woo!
Oh! Here she comes!
Yeah!
Woo!
Kissing under the mistletoe
Holding hands while
walking through the snow
I wish I knew what that was like
Maybe next year I won't cry
The mall makes me so upset
Pretty girls with...
I love this song.
You should go and dance to it.
On a dance floor full of couples?
Well, better than not dancing at all!
Agree to disagree!
What are you doing?
- Very sweet to be doing this.
- I know. Dance with me.
Okay.
I know you hate this question,
but, you are kind, and smart,
and good-looking.
Why are you single?
Oh, you're right. I do hate that question.
I hate it!
It's, it's just, just
some reason we're single,
like, like some kind of defect.
Yeah, heard that.
In agreement, but
don't you want to be loved?
Oh, I don't know.
- Sometimes.
- Hmm.
But there are a, a lot of
different ways to be loved.
- Sure.
- And, and maybe,
not everyone needs romantic love.
And maybe, not wanting something
is just as good as having it.
Yeah, maybe.
But maybe...
What?
Just say it.
Maybe it's easier to accept
wanting to be alone
than to accept wanting
to be with someone,
and not getting it.
I, I love our self-love, but,
isn't it okay to want to be with someone?
Especially during the holidays?
So I never have to face what date it is
'Cause I hate being single
on the 25th
Hey!
Hey, babe! How's Madison?
Ahh! It's quiet in the best ways possible!
I knew it. You're gonna move there!
The baby to the suburbs pipeline.
I mean, we'll see.
Okay, tell me. How was the mixer?
Uh, it was actually kind of
great! I, I took Cooper with me?
Cooper? Of the "awkward
neighbor shuffle" Cooper?
Yeah, we've actually
become kind of friends.
Uh-huh! I mean, this sounds
like a longer story,
but for now, if you're
that eager for moral support,
there's still that singles
support group I told you about.
I just googled it, and there is
one starting in ten minutes.
It's a really great point.
Thank you so much for sharing.
Hi!
- Hi.
- Come sit, join us.
We were just talking about,
and I'm not saying relationships
aren't hard, but how exhausting
being single can be.
Yeah, like I am so tired of
feeling like being single means
there's something wrong with me!
And even more tired of believing it!
Tired of feeling left out.
Like, everyone is moving on without me.
Yes! Or constantly comparing
my messy life
to everyone's perfect,
curated relationships
on social media!
So, now that we've identified
the thoughts,
let's talk about
how we can change them. Hmm?
Floor's open.
I'll take it!
Coop, my man! You catch the game?
Nuh-uh.
Dude, what are you so hard at work on?
I'm, I'm putting together
the Christmas party.
Ooh!
You're really taking this thing seriously?
Why? You could just hire
someone to do it for you.
Well, Nell and I,
my neighbor, we're uh,
we're gonna do something
different and fun.
Ahh! No, no, no, no, no!
That sounds like a misstep, buddy!
What do you mean?
Well, cause the Lindts
are gonna be there!
I mean, we need to impress...
Fundraising...
How does Santa keep getting
in the building?
Like, does security not screen?
Coop, I hope you don't,
you know, fumble the party.
Yup. Thanks for the vote
of confidence, buddy!
- Hi, Merry...
- Nah, nah, nah.
Okay.
Santa!
Yeah? Yeah.
You free on the 23rd?
Hey! Aren't you cold?
Uh no! The cocoa's keeping me warm.
Now, that is a crazy amount
of hot chocolate.
Well, there's a sign over
there that's assuring me
that I can't possibly enjoy
this cocoa alone.
Yeah, yeah. Look at you,
proving it wrong!
Right?
Yeah!
Do you, do you want to sit?
You know, I'm not sure.
I'm not sure I wanna interrupt
your cocoa revolution here!
Your concern is noted,
but I think I'll be okay!
Hey, I uh, I got your email
about the Christmas party.
It looks great. Thank you for that.
Yeah.
So, what's on the docket today?
- It's movie night.
- Oh!
Yeah, it was a family tradition every year
to watch the original Rudolph.
The Claymation one where he runs away
to the Island of Misfit Toys?
- Yeah, that's my favorite one!
- No, mine too!
- The cowboy, riding the ostrich?
- The Charlie-in-the-box?
- Yes! And the bird that swims...
- Instead of flies!
Yes! I've seen it like a thousand times!
- I knew you liked Christmas!
- No I - fine, I do!
I love Christmas!
You got me.
It was, it was a big deal in our house.
A few days before Christmas,
we'd, we would make popcorn,
and a fire, and watch the movie.
At my house, we would wear
matching footsie pj's,
and eat gingerbread till we were sick!
Pic or it didn't happen!
No, I, I destroyed all the
evidence a long time ago.
Oh, that's convenient!
- But you reminded me, I'm...
- kind of overdue for a rewatch.
Oh.
Yeah. Well, you should
rewatch it, and then you should
get back to me and then,
you should let me know
if it's still a classic.
Yeah. Yeah, I'll do that. You too.
Oh. I think I got one
of your packages again.
- Great!
- What's the big secret?
Nothing!
Hey! Nell!
Mmm!
- Ohh.
- Hey!
Sorry, are you expecting someone?
Oh, no. I am, you.
I was just about to text you.
- Oh.
- Well, I, I figured
you're watching Rudolph tonight,
I'm watching Rudolph tonight,
why don't we just...
- Watch Rudolph together?
- Right!
For like, efficiency's sake!
Yeah, I mean totally, just
like for efficiency's sake.
- Yeah.
- Also, um, I got this for you.
Oh! Thank you! That...
Rudolph really holds up!
I totally remember why I love
this movie so much.
Tell me more.
Well, it's about, it's about
finding belonging,
even though you've been
rejected by society.
Yeah, it's a good reminder
that no one's a misfit toy.
Nope. And that we, uh
we all fit in somewhere.
Right. Cause the bird that swims
catches twice as many fish.
Yup. I guess there are uh
a lot of fish in the sea.
You should probably open your present!
Oh! No, shouldn't I...
Well, shouldn't I wait till Christmas?
No, there's a zero percent chance
that I'm not gonna ruin it
if you wait that long.
In fact, there'll be
a zero percent chance that
I won't ruin it if you don't open it
- in the next three, two, one!
- Okay! Okay.
No way!
Ooh, I hope it's the right
one! I mean, there's only
- so many pinstripe polka...
- What? No! This it!
- This is it! This is the one!
- Quartet... Okay, good!
- This is, it's amazing!
- Yes, how did you find this?
Yeah. Now you can put it on,
and dance around your apartment,
and feel like yourself.
Thank you.
I love it.
But um, I didn't get you anything.
Yes, you did!
Hey!
I'll be sure to put that on my fridge!
Oh, you're very presumptious
to think you're getting one!
- Am I not?
- Oh, maybe!
So, remind me, what's on the
schedule today?
- I'm baking for your parents!
- That's right!
Please, tell me you're baking
that gingerbread again!
For you, anything!
Uh, you know what? I'll help you bake,
after I finish the, the work party prep.
Well, vice versa, I'm your
official party planner!
- That's right, you are!
- Let's get to it.
- Now?
- Yeah!
Oh cool - So...
- Nice.
- Right?!
Okay, I got it.
Perfect, I love it!
Is that a hat.
Oh, oh gosh! I got it.
Oh.
- You okay?
- Yeah, yeah.
Listen. We're about to walk
into three hours plus
of family drilling me on why
I'm still single.
That doesn't usually seem to bother you.
No, no, but when it's family,
I don't know, I kind of feel
like I'm a disappointment, I...
That's my territory.
Maybe it's time for the student
to become the master!
- Oh yeah?
- Stick with me, I got ya!
Teach me, Obi-Wan!
Oh, tip one. Holiday paraphernalia.
Oh yeah!
Cause if I look dumb, no one's
gonna want to talk to me!
Exactly! And, it's a great
conversation redirection,
it's like a laser pointer for a cat!
Ooh.
- Come here! Ahh, no!
- What?
We're about to have an
inescapable conversation
of how men of my generation
can't commit!
Cooper! Mini Coop!
- Uncle Donnie.
- Still single, or uh...
Look, it lights up!
I...
Okay, tip two. Defensive positioning.
Oh yeah, so I don't get cornered in
the kitchen with my chatty aunts!
Well, if they're anything like my aunts,
they'll want a complete
rundown of your entire life
in order to extract information from you!
- A thousand percent!
- Tip three,
- stay close to the buffet.
- Ahh.
It's really the sweet spot, you know?
Well, no one can chat to me if
I've got a mouth full of food!
Cooper!
Look at you! So handsome!
And with a big job in finance!
So, dating anyone?
Oh...
Let's get you some water!
Hey, well that worked!
- Mm-hmm!
- Okay, tip four.
Mm-hmm.
Play with kids and pets.
Yeah, because they can't ask
me about my dating life!
Okay, but what if a dog does ask you?
Then you and I have more fun
problems to deal with!
Tip five, document this ridiculousness
so we can laugh about it later!
- Deal!
- There they are!
- Wooo!
- They made it!
Dad, Mom, Merry Christmas!
Ah, you're wearing the sweater!
- Hi!
- Nell! Christmas cocktail.
- Hey!
- Uh no, thanks,
- I know what's in there!
- Mmm.
Oh, what's in it?
Uh, it's Dad's special recipe.
Wow, I'm intrigued!
Also, Nell, do you have plans
for Christmas Eve?
Because we'd love
to have you for dinner!
You know what, I would love
to, but I actually,
I have a reservation I can't cancel.
Oh, with your family?
No, just myself!
Uh-oh, Uncle Donnie's at it again.
- Oh.
- Uh, don't forget,
- we got that thing.
- You know Donnie!
I do, I just met him.
Where are you going on Christmas Eve?
I managed to get another
reservation at AB Knighstford.
Really? You're going back?
Yeah, I think I'm finally
ready to be there alone.
Huh. Oh.
Hmm?
My weird cousin Mariesa saw us,
she's gonna come over and just,
she asks really intensely
personal questions.
Well, let's give her an answer
she deserves!
Cooper, Cooper!
I heard you're still on the market!
Why are you still single?
Mariesa. I mean,
like dating? In this economy?
Yeah, and Mercury is in retrograde.
Yeah, and like, it can't be our looks.
So it must be our personalities.
Personalities. Yeah.
Hmm, that worked.
You're really good at that!
Look, I know everyone keeps
asking you this,
but why are you still single?
I don't know!
Do you have an answer?
I think it's self-protection.
Uh-huh.
Why would I do that?
Because being in love requires
you to be fully seen.
And that's hard to do
when you're hiding yourself.
Plus, I think you still
believe that you're that
little boy that no one wants
to eat lunch with at school.
And you're not.
So many people want
to eat lunch with you!
And back at you, because you're not,
and you never have been
a niche market!
Honey! It's Santa time, and
your dad is looking for you!
- I'm gonna...
- Yeah, take that!
Thanks!
Oh, so happy you could join
us. Have a seat.
Oh, thanks.
Cooper speaks so highly of you.
Well, at the risk of being
presumptuous about your subtext,
we're just friends!
Mm-hmm, so I heard.
So, he's teaching you how to be alone.
Well, we're trying to be alone, together.
Mm-hmm. And when you hear
yourself say that,
do you buy it?
I guess I'm trying to.
All a parent wants
is for their child to be happy.
And when I see Cooper
with you, he looks happy.
Aww!
And so do you!
- Ho ho ho ho!
- Oh.
- Oh, It's Santa!
- Merry Christmas!
Santa's got something for you,
if you were a good girl!
You're a good girl! Have a present!
Look at that suit, ho ho ho!
Do your dance, Elf!
Do the elf dance!
Everybody dance the elf dance!
Ho ho ho ho!
Hi! Watchya doing?
Oh, just having an existential
crisis on whether or not
I should send someone
a Christmas card!
Who's the someone?
Oh! So the new neighbor
shuffle is the one
where you caught feelings!
Like the flu!
And it's ironic too,
because this was the Christmas
that I was supposed to set
aside romantic fantasies!
And instead, you have a crush!
On a man who's convinced
he's meant to be alone.
I mean, he's trying
to convince me that I'm
supposed to be alone.
Any advice from the therapist?
My advice is to tell him how you feel.
He can't read your mind.
Oh, and my advice is also to believe him
when he tells you who he is.
Okay, yeah. Thanks, honey.
No, man!
Dude, really? I could've gotten you
a private room at Alinea!
Oh, that's exactly the
supportive thing to say!
Whatever, you'll be fine!
So, guess who my plus one is?
My pilates teacher
I've been telling you about!
Yeah! What about you?
Who am I inviting to the party?
- Yeah!
- Oh!
- What?
- No, Nell, my neighbor,
she's helping me do all of this,
I didn't even invite her.
Honestly, it kind of seems
like you're into her.
No, she, it's the holidays,
she's alone, and she's been great. So...
- I'll see you tonight!
- Yeah.
And if you get canned because
of this party,
can I have your client list?
- No!
- Dude? Tch!
Oh, hi!
Hey!
What, is it too much?
No. You look gorgeous.
Solid main character vibes!
Have you checked your mail today?
- Yeah, this morning. Why?
- Oh, I think they do
an evening drop, you know,
for the holidays.
Well, I'll check it later.
Oh! Thanks.
Dig in!
It's so you, it's perfect!
Yeah, it turned out good!
- Wow!
- Thank you.
Thank you.
- Uh, Nell.
- Yeah.
Uh, just wait one second. Uh...
I just wanted to say that I...
Thank you. Thank you for all your help.
No, thank you for all your help!
- With what?
- Helping me realize
I'm okay by myself.
Yeah. That's great, you know.
I've been thinking about
that question you asked me,
a lot, lately.
Which is?
Is it so wrong to want
to be with someone,
especially at the holidays? That one.
- Merry Christmas, party people!
- Hey, Coop!
Thomas! Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas!
- Hey, neighbor!
- Howdy!
Uh, Coop?
- Melanie's looking for you.
- Oh.
- Go, I'm fine!
- Thanks.
Merry Christmas!
- Merry Christmas!
- Do you work at the company?
Yeah, but I, I just started,
so I don't really know anyone.
Plus, I didn't realize I could
have a plus one.
Not that I have anyone to bring!
Yeah, I know that feeling all too well.
That's why I used
to avoid my college mixer!
So, what changed?
Uh, I don't know, I guess I changed.
I uh, I had to learn that my aloneness
wasn't a problem to be fixed.
How'd you do that?
Very slowly! Here's some
unsolicited advice.
Don't shrink.
Don't hide. You're okay.
We're okay!
Yeah. Thank you!
Go get 'em!
- Nell!
- Hey!
- Hey! Guess what?
- My boss loves the party.
Yeah, she said she's had
to suffer through like
a thousand yacht charters
with caviar service...
- Oh, that sounds terrible!
- Oh, terrible, right?
But uh, yeah, this is
the first party she's actually
having fun at, and she wants
to talk about a promotion.
- That's fantastic!
- Cooper!
I want you to meet the Lindts.
Come!
Yes sir!
That's the co-worker
I was telling you about.
He brought his lonely neighbor
he's been hanging out with,
because he feels bad for her.
Dude loves a charitable act!
It's so annoying!
Hey! Couldn't help but overhear.
Sorry.
Sorry? Are you sorry
because it isn't true,
or because it is?
Again, sorry.
- It's about moonshots.
- Yes.
- You know?
- Absolutely.
And we, uh scale, we pivot...
Uh, will you just excuse me
for, for one moment?
- Sure!
- I'll be right back.
Nell? Nell?
- Everything okay?
- Was all this time
we spent together
because you pitied me?
- What?
- Be honest,
am I just another good deed?
- Of course not!
- Then did you or did you not
tell Thomas that I am your
lonely neighbor
that you feel bad for?
Uh, wait, wait. Okay,
just slow down, okay?
Yes, I did say that, but that was,
that was at the beginning.
You know who you should
feel bad for? Yourself.
- Nell. I'm sorry.
- Yeah, me too!
Wait! Are we really gonna
throw away everything between us
because of something I said
when I didn't even know you?
You know what? The reality is,
you showed me who you are,
I just didn't believe you.
Well, if nothing else,
I hope I made you realize
the worst thing in life isn't
to end up alone.
No, the worst thing in life
is to end up with someone
that makes you feel alone.
Merry Christmas, Nell!
Welcome back!
We're so happy to have you!
Uh, most people have already shared,
so why don't you just introduce yourself?
Um, okay. Hi, I'm Nell!
Hi, Nell!
I don't, I don't really know what to say.
Um, I'm single, is that
how we're supposed to start?
Yeah, that's how some of us start!
- Okay!
- Why don't you just share
whatever's on your mind?
I tried very hard to prove to myself
that I'm okay to be alone this Christmas,
and I failed miserably.
Why are you so sure you failed?
Because I still want love.
Well, maybe we don't
let go of what we want,
but rather expand the
possibility of what could be.
Yeah, I think that's true.
Why don't you tell us a little
more, dive a little deeper?
I mean, maybe my life won't look exactly
how I thought it would,
but it doesn't mean
that it can't be more rich
and beautiful and meaningful
than I ever imagined.
And
maybe I won't ever want love less.
That doesn't mean I can't
love myself more.
- Does that make sense?
- Yeah!
Absolutely!
Yeah, a love that stems from
wholeness rather than hunger,
from want instead of need.
A love that says I'm okay.
And you know what?
I am okay.
I am enough.
Cooper! Hey, um.
I just wanted to apologize
for what happened last night
- with your neighbor.
- It's all good.
You know what?
Thomas, why did you say that?
I don't know. Honestly, I...
Look, sometimes I just do and
say stuff, it's not me, it's...
Why?
I don't know, I'm just trying
to fit in around here,
and get people to like me.
I get that.
Especially around here, it can be uh,
it can be hard.
- Yeah!
- Yeah.
Um, one last thing.
You know how every morning
when you come in, I'm like,
"Yo, Coop! You watch
the game last night?"
Yeah. Every morning.
Yeah, well um.
I never actually watch them.
Neither do I.
No, I check the scores when
I'm coming up in the elevator.
For real?
- Yeah!
- For real?
- For real!
- Ohh!
- Julia?
- Yeah!
What? How did you find me?
Cause I know you!
And also, because
you share your location!
- Oh, yeah!
- Yeah!
Why aren't you in Madison?
I'm here to bring you back with me.
Cause I seem so despondent?
Okay, I wouldn't phrase it that way.
More like, you just sounded
like you needed a friend.
But what about your family?
Girl, you're my family.
I know, but, things are gonna change.
You've got the baby coming!
No. You know, it'll make
things different between us,
but it won't end them!
- Promise?
- Yeah, I promise!
Girl, our paths aren't
diverging, they're broadening.
And we can walk them together.
- I'm not gonna cry!
- Okay! Just hold off
one moment longer,
cause I need to ask you,
would you be the baby's godmother?
Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes!
Oh my gosh, I thought you'd never ask!
Of course!
But I'm not gonna
go to Madison with you, okay?
I'm good! I'm gonna stay here
and finish Christmas off
with my head held high!
Good for you.
Honey? Everything okay?
Yeah. Yeah, I'm fine.
Don't make me dig it out of you!
Just uh, things kind of fell
apart with Nell.
I mean, not that there was
anything to fall apart
in the first place.
Because you two were, what?
I don't know the word for it.
I just know I loved every minute with her.
Just like
everything with her felt right.
And when you were with her,
did you feel like you
could truly be yourself?
Yeah. Yeah,
like the absolute best version of myself.
Hm, isn't that the point
of being with someone, hm?
That they can see you, and love
you for exactly who you are, hm?
"Cooper. Thank
you for helping me realize"
what a joy it is to be with myself.
But more so, thank you
for helping me realize that
I'd rather be alone with you,
than together with anyone else.
"Merry Christmas! Nell."
Ma? I gotta go.
Hi, Nell Duke. Party of one.
Mm-hmm.
Thank you.
What are you doing here?
I know, you wanted to be here alone.
I know we're single, and
look, I know I taught you how to do
- all of this. I am so...
- Cooper.
I'm fine.
I know.
I'm not.
I um, I realize that you taught me that I,
I don't wanna be by myself.
You don't?
No.
I don't wanna
eat alone, together.
I don't wanna have
Christmas alone, together.
Then what do you want?
I just want to be together.
With you.
If you'll have me.
- Uh...
- What's this?
Well, I'll tell you what it isn't.
It's not that ring that we saw
at the Christmas park, but no,
because I looked everywhere
for it and I couldn't find it
anywhere, and I...
Then, what is it?
Just open it.
That's the fortune from the
first night that you came over.
A great adventure awaits you.
Yeah.
And I, I realized that
my fortune came true because I met you.
And I think,
and I think that yours has too.
The love you seek
is closer than you think.
Do you want some help?
Yes please.
Okay, that's cute.
Thank you so much.
Hi! Ooh, hi, honey!
Oh, hey, girl!
Is it just me, or do Christmas trees
just get bigger every year?
Uh, have you considered
maybe you're shrinking?
No, really. I mean,
don't you feel like Christmas
just gets bigger, every year?
Okay, I sense a tirade,
and I'm totally here for it,
bigger in what way?
- Just, longer. You know?
- More ornate, more complex.
Give me an example.
- Take Christmas flavours, okay?
- So, first it was peppermint.
- Then it was peppermint mocha.
- Yeah.
Now it's peppermint mocha
creme cookie!
You love peppermint mocha
creme cookie!
I know, I'm not complaining,
I'm just asking if you ever noticed.
I'll tell you what I've noticed.
Christmas has never been
more romantic.
What do you mean?
Every Christmas card I've gotten
is a wedding announcement,
or a baby announcement.
My street is a thoroughfare of mistletoe.
- Yeah.
- Even the cocoa's coupled!
Hmm?
The coffee shop by my house,
it's the sign insisting
that cocoa is perfect for two.
Yeah, I get it. I mean, it's
not just you, I see it, too.
We're just at the age where
everyone's getting married.
Wait, so Christmas
is just supposed to be
for couples and romance?
Christmas is for everyone.
Including singles, and including you!
Mmm. Then, why does it take two people
to carry a Christmas tree?
Ugh!
Got it?
There we go.
- We can do it!
- We can do it!
Merry Christmas, donation.
Tell me you got us
the Montclair Chalet Suites.
Accessible only by private gondola!
And the Olympic ski instructors?
Reserved! Along with
the aprs-ski caviar
service you wanted.
The gold standard of Aspen ski trips!
Love it, yeah.
Ugh, Santa's giving me a migraine.
- Who let him in the building?
- I assume someone interested
- in giving back at the holidays.
- Could we call somebody?
No, I'll handle it,
I'm just heading out anyway.
- Have a good day.
- Yeah. Take care, slacker.
Here for the needy.
Santa, I think you could use this.
Oh, that's kind of you.
Uh...
Oh, that's very kind of you!
Yeah, I assume you're not
having much luck
with my colleagues.
Ho-ho-ho, your assumption is correct!
There's a children's
non-profit a few floors down,
you might do better there.
Your colleagues want me to scram?
Yeah, don't take it personally, they're all
on the naughty list!
It's just their personality.
Come on, I'll take you.
Oh, hey. Ask your neighbor
to hold the door.
- What? No, please, no!
- Why not?
Because chit chat with him
always requires a shuffle.
What's a shuffle?
You know, like, safe topics
of conversation shuffle
where you have to talk about the
weather for exactly 90 seconds.
Oh yeah, cause any shorter's rude,
- and any longer's intrusive.
- Exactly!
Okay, but you and I
are not going to be able
to get that door open
while carrying this tree.
- Fair point. Hey, Cooper!
- Can you hold the door?
Yeah.
- I got you.
- Oh, gosh.
- There you go.
- Okay. Okay.
- Thank you!
- Yeah.
Um, Cooper this is my friend, so...
Yeah, uh, Emily, right?
- Julia.
- Julia, right.
Yeah.
So uh, cold out tonight, eh?
Oh, yes. Hoo! Jack Frost is nipping!
Oh yeah!
- So, what are you doing?
- So, any big holiday plans?
Oh, Christma..., you, you go.
Um, I'm going to Aspen,
skiing with a work colleague.
It's gonna be awesome.
What about you?
Um, well...
For the last ten years,
I usually go to Ohio,
but this year, my family's
coming here to Chicago.
Cool, nice.
I'm gonna check my mail.
Yup, just, coming through!
- Bye!
- Yeah.
God, no!
Huh?
Oooh!
What do you think?
I think Christmas trees
actually have gotten bigger.
And more beautiful.
Hmm, only when you pick them!
I'm level 12 excited
for Christmas this year!
Oh, I know! I mean, you finally get to do
all the fun Chicago things
you missed out on every year.
Yes, and show my parents my life.
And hopefully make them proud.
Girl, of course they're proud of you.
Oh, one second.
- Hey, Mom!
- Hi, sweetie.
Oh! Hi, Mama Duke!
Oh, Merry Christmas, girls!
In 17 hours, you will be
what's the matter?
Bad news, honey.
Uncle Eli fell and fractured his hip.
Oh no, is he okay?
No, no, he'll be fine.
But I do feel like I should stay with him.
Yeah, yeah, of,
of course, bring him here!
Oh, he can stay at my place
while Dave and me are in Madison.
Well, that's very generous of you two,
but he can't travel right now, so...
- So you can't come to Chicago?
- Um, what about Dad?
Oh well, you know your father,
he'll go wherever he's needed most.
Well, of course, that's
with you and Uncle Eli.
It's fine, I'm gonna be fine,
I have, I have Rose and Sasha coming.
Actually, hey Mom,
that's Rose on the other line.
I'll call you back, okay?
Of course! Muah!
- Hi, Rose!
- Sasha, did you
- pack the presents?
- Rose! Did you butt dial me?
Oh no! Sorry, Nelly belly,
no, I meant to call you,
but I just got distracted trying
to get the car packed.
What? You're driving here?
No, I'm so sorry,
Sasha's sister went
into labor a month early.
I tried to tell her not to eat spicy food,
but what do I know?
So, we have to go to Columbus
to watch Sasha's nephews.
Wait, so you're not
coming to Chicago either?
No, I'm so sorry!
But, you can come to Columbus!
You can meet the baby.
No, I think being at my
brother-in-law's sister's house
with their brand new baby
could potentially be awkward.
But you can't spend Christmas alone!
That's so depressing.
I'm not gonna be alone,
I have friends here!
- I'll be fine.
- Sasha! Did you pack
- the presents?
- Bye.
- Love you, Nelly belly. Bye.
- Okay, girl?
Grab your bags, you're coming
to Madison with Dave and me.
As much as I love your
in-laws, no, I'm gonna be fine.
But I need you for moral
support, because we're telling
them that um...
- You're pregnant?
- Yeah!
You're pregnant! Oh my God!
Oh my gosh! Is it a girl?
Is it a boy? Do you know?
We're not finding out,
just as long as it's healthy.
Of course, of course!
Oh my gosh, this is the best news!
Thank you! Just, please come
to dinner with me and Dave.
I mean, yeah, he's cooking,
but don't be scared, okay?
I'm still traumatized
from the last time he cooked!
No, I'm gonna be fine.
I'm gonna order Chinese food,
I'll decorate my tree,
and start new Nell traditions.
I'm gonna be fine, I've got
a laundry list of things to do.
- Hello?
- Jade Garden with your order.
I'll be right down.
I just don't understand
why you can't go skiing
- some other time!
- Dad, we've been through this.
But you're gonna miss the craft fair,
and our holiday party.
Look, I will see you before I go,
take you and Mom out
for a nice lunch or something.
Or, we could all watch Rudolph
and eat gingerbread in matching pj's!
Come on! It's your
favorite Christmas movie!
Circle back on that,
I, I gotta focus on packing, okay?
Alright! Love you.
I love you too, bye.
Ohh.
To my favorite customer.
You say that to all of your customers!
I do, it's true, but I don't put extra
- fortune cookies in for everyone.
- Whaaat?
They better be the
winning lotto numbers!
They are. Just in the wrong order!
See you later!
Have a good night!
Whew! It's so cold out.
Yeah, yeah, still pretty cold.
Well, thanks again!
Not a problem.
Okay honey, bye.
Um, so our super's out of town,
but I left a message for Julia
and hopefully she'll get the
message soon, so I'll just,
thank you, go wait over there.
In the hall? No! It's cool,
just wait here for her.
Sure. Well, my Chinese food's
getting cold, so um,
can I repay your generosity
with egg rolls?
Well, actually, I'm,
I'm doing keto right now,
everyone in my office is really like, keto.
So...
But hey, it's a holiday, so sure.
Okay! Speaking of holidays,
what's your embargo on decorating?
Oh, no embargo. Just uh,
I haven't got around to decorating.
- Oh.
- Mm.
If you're in the market,
I do know a lot of local artists
who make beautiful holiday crafts.
Yeah um, I'm not gonna really need it
cause I'm gonna be away for Christmas.
Ah, Aspen trip. Sounds fancy.
Well, fancy's kind of in my line of work.
What do you do?
I'm an analyst for a hedge fund.
And if I'm a good boy,
one day I'll be a manager,
what do you do?
Oh um, I work in endowments
for the Chicago Riverfront University.
And I'm on the scholarship team,
I help raise money and award funds.
Cool.
You like it?
I do, it's my dream job.
It's a combo of academia
and philanthropy
and throwing parties.
You want a cookie?
Sure.
Confucius says,
"A great adventure awaits you."
Hmm.
Mine's blank!
Well, maybe the cookie's telling you
to write your own fortune.
Here we go. This one says,
"Your last fortune will come true."
You look really disappointed.
What did you want
your cookie to for tell?
Oh, "The love you seek
is closer than you think."
Oh. Okay so, you seek love.
Forget it! I'm just
having a really bad day.
Have an egg roll.
- You wanna talk about it?
- About the egg roll?
What? No! About your bad day.
Oh.
My family had to cancel
their plans here, and I just,
I spent a really long time curating like,
the perfect holiday for them,
and now I have to cancel
everything and eat the costs.
Why?
Well, cause most of the things
I booked are non-refundable.
- No, no, no.
- Why do you have to cancel?
Because I'm obviously
gonna go home to Cleveland
for the holidays, be with my family.
But, why wouldn't you just have your
perfect week here as planned?
Because I don't wanna be
alone on Christmas.
Have an egg roll.
But when you're alone, you get
to eat all the egg rolls!
Well, I would rather eat half an egg roll,
and be with the people that I love.
No, I hear that, I do.
But I believe that we have slots in life.
What are you talking about?
You know, like places where we belong.
Now, you could go
with your family in Cleveland,
or you could stay here,
and have your perfect Christmas.
With yourself.
Coming. You know what?
Finish the leftovers, thank you!
Yeah.
Okay great.
Hmm, interesting.
- What are you doing?
- I'm unpacking.
You're unpacking, you,
you're not going to Cleveland?
I'm not gonna go to Cleveland.
Okay, I don't like the idea
of you here all by yourself.
- But I am by myself.
- I live alone, I'm always alone.
Why is being alone
at Christmas any different?
Okay, what are you saying?
I mean, Cooper said something.
He, he was talking about,
like, slots in life.
And, I think that's what
I've been experiencing lately.
I don't follow, but okay, continue.
Earlier, I was looking at a
childhood Christmas photo album.
And I think that I was realizing
that like, when I'm a kid,
my slot in life was with my family, right?
And then when you get older,
it's with your partner,
and then with your kids.
And then I was thinking,
maybe those people are just
stuck in singles land
because they're waiting for
one day to meet the like
perfect person, and then
their real life will begin.
Aw, Nell, is... is that what you think?
I think I used to, but I don't anymore.
I'm letting go of that fantasy!
Okay, what does that even mean?
Why should I cancel my
perfectly curated Christmas,
just because I would be doing it alone?
I, I guess you shouldn't?
Right, like, isn't it okay
to just be by myself?
That is totally okay to be by yourself!
- Right?
- Yeah!
So that's what I'm gonna do!
I am going to celebrate my dream holiday
and I'm gonna enjoy it. Alone!
- Yeah!
- All by myself!
I'm gonna be single on the 25th.
And I'm gonna love it!
Are you sure I can't send you
a ticket to Cleveland?
No, I'm fine. I have a week
packed with holiday fun.
Starting with a carriage ride
today, but first
a Christmas gift of service for a friend
in need of help decorating.
Ooh. Who's it for?
My neighbor. Actually,
I should probably catch him
before he heads to his trip.
I-I-I'll be right back.
Oh, oh um, one thing.
Uncle Eli just sent you a Christmas gift,
and it should arrive today,
so keep an eye out. Okay?
Okay, tell him thank you!
Bye - Bye, Mom!
- Hi!
- Hi!
I just wanted to give you
this, as a thank you
for last night. Plus, you said
you didn't have any decor.
Oh, the way I said it made
it seem like I wanted some?
- Was that a thank you?
- Yes, yes, thank you.
Also, I want you to know,
I took your advice,
and I am going to embrace my slot in life.
Cause I'm okay by myself!
"To be alone is the best of company,"
that's my life's motto.
Oh, but I gotta head to work!
- Oh yeah, yeah. No, totally.
- Me too, I gotta go to work.
Actually, I cancelled work,
my family was coming to town,
but then they cancelled.
Anyway, okay, cool.
- Thanks for that.
- Okay, bye!
Have a nice day.
- Hey!
- Oh! Morning, Nell! Usual?
- Yes, please and thank you!
- Large peppermint mocha.
So, is your family already in?
- No, change of plans.
- I'm flying solo this Christmas.
- Oh no!
- No, no, no, no,
it's gonna be okay, it's gonna
be a Venn diagram of holiday fun
meets aspirational self-growth.
- Sounds complex.
- No, it's simple.
- Okay.
- I even wrote myself
a little holiday card,
with self-care instructions!
Oh, this I gotta see! C'mon, c'mon!
Number one: Be the star
on my own tree.
- Mm-hmm!
- Number two:
Deck the halls the way I like.
And number three: Egg nog all day!
I love this for you.
Yeah, it's gonna be a
Christmas just the way I want.
Yeah, I'm gonna bake
gingerbread in my pajamas
with the thermostat
cranked all the way up!
Get wild, girl!
Coop, my man! Did you catch
the game last night?
Yeah. Yeah, we killed 'em.
Absolutely insane!
Oh, Code Red, boss incoming!
Yes, good morning, boss!
Morning, Melanie!
So, we just signed the Lindts.
Our biggest client yet.
That, that's fantastic!
Huzzah for us!
And previous to this,
we planned on doing an
internal holiday dinner,
but now we're thinking something
outward facing for clients.
- Yup, makes total sense!
- Makes total sense!
And I need a point person on it.
You know what? I'd love to help, but no,
unfortunately I am gonna be
in Aspen... ah!
Okay. Then Cooper,
you're on the project.
- We uh, are actually get...
- Hire a party planner,
farm it out, whatever.
Just get it done right,
and be there to oversee it.
- Yes boss.
- And Thomas.
- Yeah?
- Have fun in Aspen!
I'll try!
Oh man, I'll make it up to you!
Woo!
Your package got delivered to me.
Oh, it must be my Christmas
gift from Uncle Eli.
Oh wow. Smells good in there!
Oh, thanks. I'm baking
gingerbread cookies.
Did you wanna come in?
Uh sure, thanks.
Yeah, I do love a good
gingerbread. Plus, I completely
- fell off the keto wagon.
- Hm.
Wow, decorations look great!
Oh, thanks. I have, I have
extra of everything
if you want anything
to help your apartment's
oh, you're going to Aspen, of course.
- Uh, no actually, not anymore.
- Work thing came up.
Sorry.
Ah, it is what it is, it's
gonna be fine. Just, just fine.
- Okay.
- Yeah.
Oh, that, this is great
gingerbread. Mmm!
So how's it going,
being in the best of company?
Amazing! Fantastic, yes.
- Yeah?
- Yes. Although,
I have realized that some
Christmas activities
have an inherent romantic component.
Like what?
Like, baking gingerbread cookies.
I'm pretty sure people bake alone.
Well yeah, that's true.
But, you know, you can't
accidentally reach
for the rolling pin at the same time
and graze each other's hands,
or sprinkle flour in the air
and maybe it gets on your nose
and then laugh, and then...
You know, there are
advantages to being alone.
Yeah, absolutely. You know?
I can turn my thermostat up
all the way, as high as I want,
and I can dance to my favorite
carol on repeat!
Not that I was doing that, or anything!
Uh-huh.
And, I get to prove to everyone
that I am totally okay on my own!
What is it?
It's a self-help book about love.
Use it as kindling.
They are fairy tales, sold to
push a Prince Charming fantasy.
I don't have a Prince Charming fantasy!
My carriage is here!
Carriage? And there it is!
So every year, I see these
very beautifully decorated
Christmas carriages, and I'm
like, that looks so magical,
so I booked one for our family.
Oh. I didn't realize
it would look so romantic.
Well maybe you should call a friend.
Oh, I tried that, everyone's
busy or with their own families.
Okay, well, no. This is gonna be
great. Okay, yeah!
It's gonna be wonderful,
I'm gonna love this!
- Yeah.
- Hey, guys!
- Hi!
- You two ready to ride?
- Oh it's just me!
- Oh, it's just her!
Just you?
Okay well, inside
you'll find some champagne,
some cozy blankets and pillows,
and well, there's the mistletoe
bell. When you ring that,
uh, I'll stop so you can uh,
I don't know
take in the sights or something, right?
Tk tk tk tk.
I mean, look at you!
Taking in the Christmas magic!
That's me, Christmas magic,
left and right!
- Alright, I'll see ya.
- Okay.
- Have a good night!
- Okay, see ya!
My gosh!
- Oh uh, you again!
- Still me.
You know, for what it's worth,
I think what you're doing is cool.
You're having the Christmas you want!
You're not wasting your life
in standby for romance mode,
waiting for somebody to be with.
Right.
Just your shortest route, thanks!
Oh, my God...
Hi!
Hey! How was the carriage ride?
Uh, it was bucket list material!
Uh-huh.
How did the baby news go?
Oh, they laughed,
they cried, they kvelled!?
It was really sweet.
Wait... are you sure you're doing okay?
Oh yeah! Yeah, no,
I'm living my best life. Yeah.
Alright. But, if you want the company,
there is a single support group
at the Lakedale Community Center.
Well, that seems silly!
It's not like I need
support for the tragedy
that is my unpartnered life!
Besides, I'm super busy.
Yeah, in fact, I should
probably go right now,
I've got things to do, okay?
- I'll call you later, bye!
- Love you, girl!
- Thanks, Mom.
- Fits you so well!
- Thanks, Mom!
- Ah, doesn't he look good?
Of course, yes, he does.
Nell? Hi!
Hi! Oh!
- Uh, this is my mom, Chloe.
- Hi!
- And my dad, Mike.
- Hi.
Nell is my neighbor.
Oh, hi!
- Oh gosh, this is beautiful.
- Is this a lace stitch?
Yes?
Do you knit?
Oh, I dabble. My aunt taught me.
Well, Chloe is the ultimate knitter.
- Hmm.
- In fact, she has a booth
at the holiday crafts market,
you should come.
Obviously, my husband
does my marketing!
Mike and Chloe?
- Yup.
- Ah, perfect!
- Nice to meet you!
- Nice to meet you!
- Nice to meet you!
- Nice to meet you!
- Oh. Here, Mom.
- Oh, this looks good!
- I'll be over in a second.
- Sure.
Yeah.
Since when do you take
cream in your coffee?
- Hi.
- Hi.
Your parents are very sweet.
- Yeah, they are.
- It must skip a generation.
No, you are sweeter than you let on.
I've witnessed it.
You off to work?
Yeah, full day of work and then uh,
got my company's holiday party to plan.
That's why I had to skip Aspen.
Oh no! Although I guess,
that's for a good reason.
Holiday celebration.
Hey, you said that you do
a lot of event planning,
and I'm wondering if you have
the number for a good
last-minute party planner.
Oh well, that tends to be me.
Ah! Okay.
So uh, what are you,
what are you up to today?
I uh, I think I'm gonna do a photo shoot
for a Christmas card.
Oh, my, my parents love those.
So do mine, I, I got it for them as a gift,
for their card next year, and I don't know,
I was gonna cancel it,
and then I thought about those
ironic single people cards.
Oh yeah. Yeah, like someone
looking depressed,
guzzling a bottle of wine with
the caption "Holiday Spirits."
Exactly! Except, I'm gonna do
the opposite,
it's just gonna be happy me on the card.
Way to break the mold!
I got the deluxe package
with the multiple sittings,
if you need a Christmas card,
you can come,
it's at Timeless Frames at six!
You know what I think? I think
you find it hard to be alone.
- Hey! No, no, don't pity me!
- I am having the time of my life!
I can tell!
By the way, I noticed you
haven't hung up my wreath yet!
Well, you gifted it to me,
so I think that makes it my wreath!
Hmm.
Hi! I am looking for a party planner
for a work party on the 23rd.
December 23rd, yeah, five days away.
I... I gather that's not
supportive laughter right there!
Listen, I, I just.
- And they hung up!
- How's it going?
Oh! Perfect. Great, couldn't be better.
I have no doubt. And Cooper,
from my family to yours!
Thank you, boss!
Great. Oh, hi!
I'll be right with you
in one moment, okay?
Yeah, keep the reindeer vibe alive!
- Hey!
- Oh, you came!
Oh yeah, I realized I could
use a Christmas card
to send to clients next year.
And uh, well nothing says good
business relationships
like that antler headband
thing she's wearing, so.
Mm-hmm.
You're not here because
you feel bad for me, are you?
No! No, I'm here because
us single people,
we need to stick together!
Plus, I think your solo
Christmas card is a great idea.
Challenge the narrative. Fight the Man.
- The snowman!
- Yeah!
No, I agree. Cause when men are single,
it's looked like a choice,
and when women are single,
it seems like a character defect.
That's some
Pride and Prejudice right there!
You know, when Elizabeth Bennett
rejects Mr. Darcy,
refusing to be grateful
for his condescending love.
I didn't know you liked
Pride and Prejudice!
The onion that is Cooper
keeps getting peeled.
Thank so much!
Happy Ho Ho Ho!
Alright. I am ready for you two.
Oh, we're not a two.
- No.
- We're a, we're a one,
- uh, two ones.
- Ones.
- Separate packages.
- Right.
Okay then, who's first? Got it.
Please, show me how it's done!
- I'm up first.
- Great!
Um, maybe less job interview, and more
happiest time of the year?
That's the same for him!
Good one. Hilarious!
Oh, there's a smile! That is it.
I think, I think we got it!
Um, do you guys want one together?
Uh, that's totally up to you!
Yeah, you want one together!
You'll be happy you did it, let's go!
Okay, it's gonna be painless, I promise!
Maybe loosen it up a little bit?
Oh dear, that's the opposite
of loosen. Okay, could you try
acting like you know each other?
And, could you look at his eyes?
Just, okay. Mmm,
oooh! Yeah, uh-huh! Oh, that's a smile!
Yeah, you can touch him, that's alright.
Yeah, I think that'll work.
- Now, you alone!
- Right.
- Right.
- Okay.
Sorry, I'm not very good
in front of the camera.
- Oh.
- Oh, come on!
You know you're gorgeous.
What he said!
There's a smile!
Oh, you are so gorgeous,
I love it.
It's perfect!
Okay, just give me a second
to do a little mockup.
Alright!
And what do you think of that?
What's wrong?
Um
Just,
it just looks lonely.
Wha?
I mean, I, I could add
some graphics to fill it out.
Or you could just take the photo again.
No, no. It's just a picture of me alone.
- Um.
- That's uh,
kind of the point, right?
Uh, how long until they're ready?
A couple of days and I can send it to you.
Okay. Thank you.
Yeah, thank you.
Happiest of holidays
from AB Knightsford.
Your call is important to us,
please remain on the line.
Thank you.
Hey, watch ya doing?
Hey! I'm just hanging my wreath, finally.
- Ohhh!
- What are you doing?
Uh, I'm calling AB Knightsford,
I have a reservation for tonight
I have to cancel, and I'm hoping
they give me a refund.
I had to put a credit card down.
Why would you cancel?
Heard it's the best meal in Chicago,
especially their holiday prix fixe.
I know, right? It took me like
a decade to get a reservation,
but you know, it's a lot of cash
to drop just by myself.
AB Knightsford.
- Oh!
- Hello?
Yeah, hi! Um, I have
a reservation tonight
for Nell, and I was hoping to cancel
and get a refund? No refunds.
They're not known for their
customer service.
I'm learning that, yeah.
I guess I'll just eat the deposit.
Or you could just eat the meal.
What if I went with you? With a caveat.
What's the caveat?
Hi, um, reservation under Nell Duke,
but it's just gonna be the two of us.
Actually, can I talk to you
for just a second?
Mm-hmm.
Thank you.
What a beautiful spot.
Hey, what was that about?
I'm just guaranteeing
we get a good table.
Never by the kitchen,
never by the bathroom.
Not in the corner.
Thank you.
- What's happening?
- We are eating alone.
Alone, together?
Welcome to...
Welcome to AB Knightsford.
Tonight, we'll be serving our
holiday prix fixe.
I'll be back with fresh bread.
Huh. Have you never eaten
alone before?
No! I was saving that great
joy for Christmas Eve dinner.
Now I get to do it
under your watchful eye!
Well, I can offer my expertise.
Spent most of my
school life eating alone.
You, unpopular? I don't believe it.
Believe it! I had
almost every school lunch alone.
Sometimes, sitting in the corner,
all the way up until college.
But you just seem so cool!
This, this is a very
carefully cultivated coolness.
- Hmmm.
- Guess I,
- always had trouble, uh.
- What?
Being yourself around others?
Exactly.
- Is it that obvious?
- No.
Let me ask you a question.
When have you felt most yourself?
When I was a kid,
I had this polka CD.
It was these four guys in pinstripe suits,
and they would play covers
of modern songs.
And they were terrible!
Really bad, but I loved it!
But you felt like yourself!
Yeah. And I would come home
from school,
from a day of hiding and trying to fit in.
And I would go to my room
and put on that polka music,
full blast and just shake off the day!
Yeah, I know that feeling.
My parents, they fell in love
at 19, they had these epic
love stories, and I, of course,
got a full ride to college,
but then, all they could really see was
that I'm, I'm still alone.
Well, I hope that's not all you see.
I try not to.
But?
Tomorrow is my college mixer,
and everyone's gonna be coupled
and it's just gonna be
a reminder of...
May I take your drink orders?
Yeah, I'll just have
some sparkling water, please.
- Really, come on!
- This is your special dinner.
I'll have, um, your best bubbly!
And I will have your best glass of red.
Thank you.
First rule of the Solo Supper Club:
Don't stare at the couples.
- Oh, okay.
- Second, no!
Don't get your phone.
That's the second rule,
no staring at your phone.
And third, whoo.
Just relax. Look,
I like to think of this as free theatre.
There is something nice about
just being an observer.
But Nell, you're not just an observer.
You're the main character.
Thank you.
So, how is everything over here?
Do we have any
special occasion tonight?
Do we?
Yes, I do!
Hmm!
Hey, you wanna see something?
Uh, sure!
Ooh!
That's uh, it's for the
telescope, so we can see better.
Tonight is the solstice.
Oh.
Now, let me adjust.
Oh, perfect timing.
Okay, have a look in there.
Okay.
And you can, you put your hand
here, to adjust,
adjust if you need it.
And that is Venus,
the Christmas star.
Wow!
The Greeks and the Romans
believed that Venus
was the heart of cosmic sympathy.
That everything is connected,
and influences everything else,
like the cosmos is dictating our fate.
So they were like the
original fortune cookies.
What do they say?
Well, they don't say your fortune is blank.
They say you can write your own fortune.
If I still wanted to say
the love you seek
is closer than you think?
Then you have to remind
yourself that uh,
it's not about finding
joy in Christmas alone,
it's about finding joy in life alone.
Look, I hear what you're saying. I just...
I don't always know how to achieve it.
Yeah. Well, like the solstice reminds us,
it's always darkest before dawn.
You know, I'm pretty good at being alone.
Been doing it most of my life.
Yeah, you're your
best company. I've heard it.
Right. And so, I'm a wealth
of tips and tricks
on how to survive
in a world full of couples.
You know, I'm completely open
to receiving your knowledge.
Good. Cause I have an idea.
I was thinking that in exchange
for my teachings,
- maybe you could help me...
- Plan your holiday party,
for your work shindig?
You read my mind!
I would love to!
Thanks!
Is that a shooting star?
Well, now you gotta make a wish!
- Hey!
- Oh! Hi!
I was looking at some
venues for your work party.
Can we hold that thought for
a moment, while you follow me?
Okay.
You were saying you felt
awkward flying solo
at holiday parties.
So, welcome to Cooper's...
College Mixer Survival Bootcamp.
Wait, are you trying to teach
me how to be single
at a party full of couples?
- I'm gonna try.
- Uh.
So. First tip, position
yourself somewhere where
you feel powerful, rather than adrift.
And the bar works very well.
- Okay.
- Cheers!
- Cheers!
- Cheers, cheers!
Okay, now follow me to the buffet!
Now, the buffet, in the event of dreaded
chit chat, your mouth is full.
Wow, this pat looks wonderful!
That's cat food... You have a cat?
No. Speaking of dreaded chit chat...
I want you to pretend
I am your most tactless college friend.
Okay, say no more.
Nell. You're still single.
Why? Hmm?
Hmmm.
Wait, wait, are you asking
as the pretend friend,
or do you really want an answer?
Oh, uh sure, yeah.
I want the answer if you want to share.
Oh, I guess I'm just kind
of a niche market!
Or maybe like you, I also have
a hard time being myself
around others.
Hmm.
Follow me.
I have created holiday singles Bingo!
- What?
- Yeah.
- Wait, you made this?
- Well yeah, it's just
a bunch of my favorite
dating quotes and situations.
"Have you tried online dating?" Ugh!
"Bickering couple drags you
into their conversation!"
The center space here.
"You'll find someone
when you stop looking!"
If I had a dime!
This is really sweet.
Oh, it's just a lifetime of
wisdom collected being single.
What's your key takeaway?
That we will be okay on our own.
That we are okay on our own.
Oh.
Ah, my folks want me to stop
by the market.
- Oh, small world!
- I was just gonna go there
to get holiday decorations for your party.
- Do you want to go together?
- Yeah, let's do it.
We'll pick this up later.
- Yeah.
- Cool.
Okay, I think I found the
perfect venue for your party,
it's a bank-themed bar.
- Bank-themed bar?
- Mm-hmm.
- Doesn't sound very charming.
- Oh, it is!
It's warm, it has a ton of character.
Uh, well usually, our parties are
- here we go!
- Oh, thank you!
Okay. Uh, our parties
are very bland and sterile,
designed to leave early.
But you're not bland and
sterile, and this is your party.
So let the people see who you are!
And who's that?
Well it's not someone wearing a mask!
- Hi!
- Merry Christmas!
Someone kind and there to help others.
Let the party reflect you.
Plus, I think you secretly love Christmas.
Hey! Coop, my man!
- Hey! Uh...
- Hey uh, who is this?
This is Nell, my neighbor.
This is Thomas, my work colleague.
Thought you left for Aspen, man.
Nah, I cancelled it. You know,
what's the point of the gold
standard if you're alone, right?
- Huh.
- I'm, I'm cold,
I'm gonna head in. Nice to meet you!
Yeah.
- You two a thing?
- Oh!
No, no.
Definitely not.
She's just a lonely neighbor
having a tough time,
so I'm trying to be supportive.
Ahh, Coop with the heart
of gold, always performing
- the charitable act!
- Uhh...
Well, I'll see you at the office.
Yeah man.
Yeah, oh yeah!
He still is! Yeah, yeah!
Speaking of, hey! Cooper!
- Hey, hey!
- Hey!
- Hi!
- We were just inviting Nell
- to our holiday dinner!
- Oh yeah, you did?
No, no yeah. Tell her how much fun it is!
I do my best Santa impression,
he dresses like an elf!
You should come! Yeah,
it's a fun-filled evening
of family constantly grilling
me on why I'm still single!
Those are my favorite parties!
I would love to come, I'll bake something.
Oh, great! Listen, you two go do a loop,
and report back
on my competition, okay?
I love them, they're great.
You know what, it's really
nice to spend this time
with them over the holidays.
Feels like home.
That's exactly the feeling
I want to bring to your party.
That sense of comfort
and feeling of belonging.
That sounds really nice,
but uh, probably
unachievable with my crowd.
No, not at all! It'll be fun and inviting.
We'll, we'll treat the guests like family,
we just, we have to build in meaning.
What if we did like a, a fundraiser,
where guests can donate
to a charity of our choice?
That's perfect!
And maybe we could do
something a little fun.
Like uh, I don't know,
like a build your own
gingerbread Wall Street,
with candy trading floors
and little gum drop brokers!
I knew you liked Christmas!
No, no I don't.
Oh my gosh, this is so beautiful!
Well you should buy it for yourself.
Oh my, is that the price,
or the year it was made?
Oh, that's out of my budget!
But imagine how good you'd
feel walking into your
mixer tonight wearing it.
I'm just gonna have to live
with imagining it!
Hey, I know this goes
against your teachings,
but do you want to come with me?
Give me real-time,
boots on the ground tips?
I'd love to!
- Allow me.
- Thank you.
Thank you.
Alright. Put me in, Coach!
- You got this!
- Yeah.
Just uh, don't hide in the corner!
Don't leave early, and don't
think you don't belong.
Mm-hmm, mm-hmm.
And uh, take the seat you deserve.
- Wish me luck!
- Good luck!
So I'm there, all night long,
there's nobody there,
it's totally pitch-dark...
Woo!
Oh! Here she comes!
Yeah!
Woo!
Kissing under the mistletoe
Holding hands while
walking through the snow
I wish I knew what that was like
Maybe next year I won't cry
The mall makes me so upset
Pretty girls with...
I love this song.
You should go and dance to it.
On a dance floor full of couples?
Well, better than not dancing at all!
Agree to disagree!
What are you doing?
- Very sweet to be doing this.
- I know. Dance with me.
Okay.
I know you hate this question,
but, you are kind, and smart,
and good-looking.
Why are you single?
Oh, you're right. I do hate that question.
I hate it!
It's, it's just, just
some reason we're single,
like, like some kind of defect.
Yeah, heard that.
In agreement, but
don't you want to be loved?
Oh, I don't know.
- Sometimes.
- Hmm.
But there are a, a lot of
different ways to be loved.
- Sure.
- And, and maybe,
not everyone needs romantic love.
And maybe, not wanting something
is just as good as having it.
Yeah, maybe.
But maybe...
What?
Just say it.
Maybe it's easier to accept
wanting to be alone
than to accept wanting
to be with someone,
and not getting it.
I, I love our self-love, but,
isn't it okay to want to be with someone?
Especially during the holidays?
So I never have to face what date it is
'Cause I hate being single
on the 25th
Hey!
Hey, babe! How's Madison?
Ahh! It's quiet in the best ways possible!
I knew it. You're gonna move there!
The baby to the suburbs pipeline.
I mean, we'll see.
Okay, tell me. How was the mixer?
Uh, it was actually kind of
great! I, I took Cooper with me?
Cooper? Of the "awkward
neighbor shuffle" Cooper?
Yeah, we've actually
become kind of friends.
Uh-huh! I mean, this sounds
like a longer story,
but for now, if you're
that eager for moral support,
there's still that singles
support group I told you about.
I just googled it, and there is
one starting in ten minutes.
It's a really great point.
Thank you so much for sharing.
Hi!
- Hi.
- Come sit, join us.
We were just talking about,
and I'm not saying relationships
aren't hard, but how exhausting
being single can be.
Yeah, like I am so tired of
feeling like being single means
there's something wrong with me!
And even more tired of believing it!
Tired of feeling left out.
Like, everyone is moving on without me.
Yes! Or constantly comparing
my messy life
to everyone's perfect,
curated relationships
on social media!
So, now that we've identified
the thoughts,
let's talk about
how we can change them. Hmm?
Floor's open.
I'll take it!
Coop, my man! You catch the game?
Nuh-uh.
Dude, what are you so hard at work on?
I'm, I'm putting together
the Christmas party.
Ooh!
You're really taking this thing seriously?
Why? You could just hire
someone to do it for you.
Well, Nell and I,
my neighbor, we're uh,
we're gonna do something
different and fun.
Ahh! No, no, no, no, no!
That sounds like a misstep, buddy!
What do you mean?
Well, cause the Lindts
are gonna be there!
I mean, we need to impress...
Fundraising...
How does Santa keep getting
in the building?
Like, does security not screen?
Coop, I hope you don't,
you know, fumble the party.
Yup. Thanks for the vote
of confidence, buddy!
- Hi, Merry...
- Nah, nah, nah.
Okay.
Santa!
Yeah? Yeah.
You free on the 23rd?
Hey! Aren't you cold?
Uh no! The cocoa's keeping me warm.
Now, that is a crazy amount
of hot chocolate.
Well, there's a sign over
there that's assuring me
that I can't possibly enjoy
this cocoa alone.
Yeah, yeah. Look at you,
proving it wrong!
Right?
Yeah!
Do you, do you want to sit?
You know, I'm not sure.
I'm not sure I wanna interrupt
your cocoa revolution here!
Your concern is noted,
but I think I'll be okay!
Hey, I uh, I got your email
about the Christmas party.
It looks great. Thank you for that.
Yeah.
So, what's on the docket today?
- It's movie night.
- Oh!
Yeah, it was a family tradition every year
to watch the original Rudolph.
The Claymation one where he runs away
to the Island of Misfit Toys?
- Yeah, that's my favorite one!
- No, mine too!
- The cowboy, riding the ostrich?
- The Charlie-in-the-box?
- Yes! And the bird that swims...
- Instead of flies!
Yes! I've seen it like a thousand times!
- I knew you liked Christmas!
- No I - fine, I do!
I love Christmas!
You got me.
It was, it was a big deal in our house.
A few days before Christmas,
we'd, we would make popcorn,
and a fire, and watch the movie.
At my house, we would wear
matching footsie pj's,
and eat gingerbread till we were sick!
Pic or it didn't happen!
No, I, I destroyed all the
evidence a long time ago.
Oh, that's convenient!
- But you reminded me, I'm...
- kind of overdue for a rewatch.
Oh.
Yeah. Well, you should
rewatch it, and then you should
get back to me and then,
you should let me know
if it's still a classic.
Yeah. Yeah, I'll do that. You too.
Oh. I think I got one
of your packages again.
- Great!
- What's the big secret?
Nothing!
Hey! Nell!
Mmm!
- Ohh.
- Hey!
Sorry, are you expecting someone?
Oh, no. I am, you.
I was just about to text you.
- Oh.
- Well, I, I figured
you're watching Rudolph tonight,
I'm watching Rudolph tonight,
why don't we just...
- Watch Rudolph together?
- Right!
For like, efficiency's sake!
Yeah, I mean totally, just
like for efficiency's sake.
- Yeah.
- Also, um, I got this for you.
Oh! Thank you! That...
Rudolph really holds up!
I totally remember why I love
this movie so much.
Tell me more.
Well, it's about, it's about
finding belonging,
even though you've been
rejected by society.
Yeah, it's a good reminder
that no one's a misfit toy.
Nope. And that we, uh
we all fit in somewhere.
Right. Cause the bird that swims
catches twice as many fish.
Yup. I guess there are uh
a lot of fish in the sea.
You should probably open your present!
Oh! No, shouldn't I...
Well, shouldn't I wait till Christmas?
No, there's a zero percent chance
that I'm not gonna ruin it
if you wait that long.
In fact, there'll be
a zero percent chance that
I won't ruin it if you don't open it
- in the next three, two, one!
- Okay! Okay.
No way!
Ooh, I hope it's the right
one! I mean, there's only
- so many pinstripe polka...
- What? No! This it!
- This is it! This is the one!
- Quartet... Okay, good!
- This is, it's amazing!
- Yes, how did you find this?
Yeah. Now you can put it on,
and dance around your apartment,
and feel like yourself.
Thank you.
I love it.
But um, I didn't get you anything.
Yes, you did!
Hey!
I'll be sure to put that on my fridge!
Oh, you're very presumptious
to think you're getting one!
- Am I not?
- Oh, maybe!
So, remind me, what's on the
schedule today?
- I'm baking for your parents!
- That's right!
Please, tell me you're baking
that gingerbread again!
For you, anything!
Uh, you know what? I'll help you bake,
after I finish the, the work party prep.
Well, vice versa, I'm your
official party planner!
- That's right, you are!
- Let's get to it.
- Now?
- Yeah!
Oh cool - So...
- Nice.
- Right?!
Okay, I got it.
Perfect, I love it!
Is that a hat.
Oh, oh gosh! I got it.
Oh.
- You okay?
- Yeah, yeah.
Listen. We're about to walk
into three hours plus
of family drilling me on why
I'm still single.
That doesn't usually seem to bother you.
No, no, but when it's family,
I don't know, I kind of feel
like I'm a disappointment, I...
That's my territory.
Maybe it's time for the student
to become the master!
- Oh yeah?
- Stick with me, I got ya!
Teach me, Obi-Wan!
Oh, tip one. Holiday paraphernalia.
Oh yeah!
Cause if I look dumb, no one's
gonna want to talk to me!
Exactly! And, it's a great
conversation redirection,
it's like a laser pointer for a cat!
Ooh.
- Come here! Ahh, no!
- What?
We're about to have an
inescapable conversation
of how men of my generation
can't commit!
Cooper! Mini Coop!
- Uncle Donnie.
- Still single, or uh...
Look, it lights up!
I...
Okay, tip two. Defensive positioning.
Oh yeah, so I don't get cornered in
the kitchen with my chatty aunts!
Well, if they're anything like my aunts,
they'll want a complete
rundown of your entire life
in order to extract information from you!
- A thousand percent!
- Tip three,
- stay close to the buffet.
- Ahh.
It's really the sweet spot, you know?
Well, no one can chat to me if
I've got a mouth full of food!
Cooper!
Look at you! So handsome!
And with a big job in finance!
So, dating anyone?
Oh...
Let's get you some water!
Hey, well that worked!
- Mm-hmm!
- Okay, tip four.
Mm-hmm.
Play with kids and pets.
Yeah, because they can't ask
me about my dating life!
Okay, but what if a dog does ask you?
Then you and I have more fun
problems to deal with!
Tip five, document this ridiculousness
so we can laugh about it later!
- Deal!
- There they are!
- Wooo!
- They made it!
Dad, Mom, Merry Christmas!
Ah, you're wearing the sweater!
- Hi!
- Nell! Christmas cocktail.
- Hey!
- Uh no, thanks,
- I know what's in there!
- Mmm.
Oh, what's in it?
Uh, it's Dad's special recipe.
Wow, I'm intrigued!
Also, Nell, do you have plans
for Christmas Eve?
Because we'd love
to have you for dinner!
You know what, I would love
to, but I actually,
I have a reservation I can't cancel.
Oh, with your family?
No, just myself!
Uh-oh, Uncle Donnie's at it again.
- Oh.
- Uh, don't forget,
- we got that thing.
- You know Donnie!
I do, I just met him.
Where are you going on Christmas Eve?
I managed to get another
reservation at AB Knighstford.
Really? You're going back?
Yeah, I think I'm finally
ready to be there alone.
Huh. Oh.
Hmm?
My weird cousin Mariesa saw us,
she's gonna come over and just,
she asks really intensely
personal questions.
Well, let's give her an answer
she deserves!
Cooper, Cooper!
I heard you're still on the market!
Why are you still single?
Mariesa. I mean,
like dating? In this economy?
Yeah, and Mercury is in retrograde.
Yeah, and like, it can't be our looks.
So it must be our personalities.
Personalities. Yeah.
Hmm, that worked.
You're really good at that!
Look, I know everyone keeps
asking you this,
but why are you still single?
I don't know!
Do you have an answer?
I think it's self-protection.
Uh-huh.
Why would I do that?
Because being in love requires
you to be fully seen.
And that's hard to do
when you're hiding yourself.
Plus, I think you still
believe that you're that
little boy that no one wants
to eat lunch with at school.
And you're not.
So many people want
to eat lunch with you!
And back at you, because you're not,
and you never have been
a niche market!
Honey! It's Santa time, and
your dad is looking for you!
- I'm gonna...
- Yeah, take that!
Thanks!
Oh, so happy you could join
us. Have a seat.
Oh, thanks.
Cooper speaks so highly of you.
Well, at the risk of being
presumptuous about your subtext,
we're just friends!
Mm-hmm, so I heard.
So, he's teaching you how to be alone.
Well, we're trying to be alone, together.
Mm-hmm. And when you hear
yourself say that,
do you buy it?
I guess I'm trying to.
All a parent wants
is for their child to be happy.
And when I see Cooper
with you, he looks happy.
Aww!
And so do you!
- Ho ho ho ho!
- Oh.
- Oh, It's Santa!
- Merry Christmas!
Santa's got something for you,
if you were a good girl!
You're a good girl! Have a present!
Look at that suit, ho ho ho!
Do your dance, Elf!
Do the elf dance!
Everybody dance the elf dance!
Ho ho ho ho!
Hi! Watchya doing?
Oh, just having an existential
crisis on whether or not
I should send someone
a Christmas card!
Who's the someone?
Oh! So the new neighbor
shuffle is the one
where you caught feelings!
Like the flu!
And it's ironic too,
because this was the Christmas
that I was supposed to set
aside romantic fantasies!
And instead, you have a crush!
On a man who's convinced
he's meant to be alone.
I mean, he's trying
to convince me that I'm
supposed to be alone.
Any advice from the therapist?
My advice is to tell him how you feel.
He can't read your mind.
Oh, and my advice is also to believe him
when he tells you who he is.
Okay, yeah. Thanks, honey.
No, man!
Dude, really? I could've gotten you
a private room at Alinea!
Oh, that's exactly the
supportive thing to say!
Whatever, you'll be fine!
So, guess who my plus one is?
My pilates teacher
I've been telling you about!
Yeah! What about you?
Who am I inviting to the party?
- Yeah!
- Oh!
- What?
- No, Nell, my neighbor,
she's helping me do all of this,
I didn't even invite her.
Honestly, it kind of seems
like you're into her.
No, she, it's the holidays,
she's alone, and she's been great. So...
- I'll see you tonight!
- Yeah.
And if you get canned because
of this party,
can I have your client list?
- No!
- Dude? Tch!
Oh, hi!
Hey!
What, is it too much?
No. You look gorgeous.
Solid main character vibes!
Have you checked your mail today?
- Yeah, this morning. Why?
- Oh, I think they do
an evening drop, you know,
for the holidays.
Well, I'll check it later.
Oh! Thanks.
Dig in!
It's so you, it's perfect!
Yeah, it turned out good!
- Wow!
- Thank you.
Thank you.
- Uh, Nell.
- Yeah.
Uh, just wait one second. Uh...
I just wanted to say that I...
Thank you. Thank you for all your help.
No, thank you for all your help!
- With what?
- Helping me realize
I'm okay by myself.
Yeah. That's great, you know.
I've been thinking about
that question you asked me,
a lot, lately.
Which is?
Is it so wrong to want
to be with someone,
especially at the holidays? That one.
- Merry Christmas, party people!
- Hey, Coop!
Thomas! Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas!
- Hey, neighbor!
- Howdy!
Uh, Coop?
- Melanie's looking for you.
- Oh.
- Go, I'm fine!
- Thanks.
Merry Christmas!
- Merry Christmas!
- Do you work at the company?
Yeah, but I, I just started,
so I don't really know anyone.
Plus, I didn't realize I could
have a plus one.
Not that I have anyone to bring!
Yeah, I know that feeling all too well.
That's why I used
to avoid my college mixer!
So, what changed?
Uh, I don't know, I guess I changed.
I uh, I had to learn that my aloneness
wasn't a problem to be fixed.
How'd you do that?
Very slowly! Here's some
unsolicited advice.
Don't shrink.
Don't hide. You're okay.
We're okay!
Yeah. Thank you!
Go get 'em!
- Nell!
- Hey!
- Hey! Guess what?
- My boss loves the party.
Yeah, she said she's had
to suffer through like
a thousand yacht charters
with caviar service...
- Oh, that sounds terrible!
- Oh, terrible, right?
But uh, yeah, this is
the first party she's actually
having fun at, and she wants
to talk about a promotion.
- That's fantastic!
- Cooper!
I want you to meet the Lindts.
Come!
Yes sir!
That's the co-worker
I was telling you about.
He brought his lonely neighbor
he's been hanging out with,
because he feels bad for her.
Dude loves a charitable act!
It's so annoying!
Hey! Couldn't help but overhear.
Sorry.
Sorry? Are you sorry
because it isn't true,
or because it is?
Again, sorry.
- It's about moonshots.
- Yes.
- You know?
- Absolutely.
And we, uh scale, we pivot...
Uh, will you just excuse me
for, for one moment?
- Sure!
- I'll be right back.
Nell? Nell?
- Everything okay?
- Was all this time
we spent together
because you pitied me?
- What?
- Be honest,
am I just another good deed?
- Of course not!
- Then did you or did you not
tell Thomas that I am your
lonely neighbor
that you feel bad for?
Uh, wait, wait. Okay,
just slow down, okay?
Yes, I did say that, but that was,
that was at the beginning.
You know who you should
feel bad for? Yourself.
- Nell. I'm sorry.
- Yeah, me too!
Wait! Are we really gonna
throw away everything between us
because of something I said
when I didn't even know you?
You know what? The reality is,
you showed me who you are,
I just didn't believe you.
Well, if nothing else,
I hope I made you realize
the worst thing in life isn't
to end up alone.
No, the worst thing in life
is to end up with someone
that makes you feel alone.
Merry Christmas, Nell!
Welcome back!
We're so happy to have you!
Uh, most people have already shared,
so why don't you just introduce yourself?
Um, okay. Hi, I'm Nell!
Hi, Nell!
I don't, I don't really know what to say.
Um, I'm single, is that
how we're supposed to start?
Yeah, that's how some of us start!
- Okay!
- Why don't you just share
whatever's on your mind?
I tried very hard to prove to myself
that I'm okay to be alone this Christmas,
and I failed miserably.
Why are you so sure you failed?
Because I still want love.
Well, maybe we don't
let go of what we want,
but rather expand the
possibility of what could be.
Yeah, I think that's true.
Why don't you tell us a little
more, dive a little deeper?
I mean, maybe my life won't look exactly
how I thought it would,
but it doesn't mean
that it can't be more rich
and beautiful and meaningful
than I ever imagined.
And
maybe I won't ever want love less.
That doesn't mean I can't
love myself more.
- Does that make sense?
- Yeah!
Absolutely!
Yeah, a love that stems from
wholeness rather than hunger,
from want instead of need.
A love that says I'm okay.
And you know what?
I am okay.
I am enough.
Cooper! Hey, um.
I just wanted to apologize
for what happened last night
- with your neighbor.
- It's all good.
You know what?
Thomas, why did you say that?
I don't know. Honestly, I...
Look, sometimes I just do and
say stuff, it's not me, it's...
Why?
I don't know, I'm just trying
to fit in around here,
and get people to like me.
I get that.
Especially around here, it can be uh,
it can be hard.
- Yeah!
- Yeah.
Um, one last thing.
You know how every morning
when you come in, I'm like,
"Yo, Coop! You watch
the game last night?"
Yeah. Every morning.
Yeah, well um.
I never actually watch them.
Neither do I.
No, I check the scores when
I'm coming up in the elevator.
For real?
- Yeah!
- For real?
- For real!
- Ohh!
- Julia?
- Yeah!
What? How did you find me?
Cause I know you!
And also, because
you share your location!
- Oh, yeah!
- Yeah!
Why aren't you in Madison?
I'm here to bring you back with me.
Cause I seem so despondent?
Okay, I wouldn't phrase it that way.
More like, you just sounded
like you needed a friend.
But what about your family?
Girl, you're my family.
I know, but, things are gonna change.
You've got the baby coming!
No. You know, it'll make
things different between us,
but it won't end them!
- Promise?
- Yeah, I promise!
Girl, our paths aren't
diverging, they're broadening.
And we can walk them together.
- I'm not gonna cry!
- Okay! Just hold off
one moment longer,
cause I need to ask you,
would you be the baby's godmother?
Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes!
Oh my gosh, I thought you'd never ask!
Of course!
But I'm not gonna
go to Madison with you, okay?
I'm good! I'm gonna stay here
and finish Christmas off
with my head held high!
Good for you.
Honey? Everything okay?
Yeah. Yeah, I'm fine.
Don't make me dig it out of you!
Just uh, things kind of fell
apart with Nell.
I mean, not that there was
anything to fall apart
in the first place.
Because you two were, what?
I don't know the word for it.
I just know I loved every minute with her.
Just like
everything with her felt right.
And when you were with her,
did you feel like you
could truly be yourself?
Yeah. Yeah,
like the absolute best version of myself.
Hm, isn't that the point
of being with someone, hm?
That they can see you, and love
you for exactly who you are, hm?
"Cooper. Thank
you for helping me realize"
what a joy it is to be with myself.
But more so, thank you
for helping me realize that
I'd rather be alone with you,
than together with anyone else.
"Merry Christmas! Nell."
Ma? I gotta go.
Hi, Nell Duke. Party of one.
Mm-hmm.
Thank you.
What are you doing here?
I know, you wanted to be here alone.
I know we're single, and
look, I know I taught you how to do
- all of this. I am so...
- Cooper.
I'm fine.
I know.
I'm not.
I um, I realize that you taught me that I,
I don't wanna be by myself.
You don't?
No.
I don't wanna
eat alone, together.
I don't wanna have
Christmas alone, together.
Then what do you want?
I just want to be together.
With you.
If you'll have me.
- Uh...
- What's this?
Well, I'll tell you what it isn't.
It's not that ring that we saw
at the Christmas park, but no,
because I looked everywhere
for it and I couldn't find it
anywhere, and I...
Then, what is it?
Just open it.
That's the fortune from the
first night that you came over.
A great adventure awaits you.
Yeah.
And I, I realized that
my fortune came true because I met you.
And I think,
and I think that yours has too.
The love you seek
is closer than you think.