All language subtitles for A.Christmas.for.the.Books.2018.WEBRip.x264-ION10

Woman:
Happy Holidays.

Man: Merry Christmas.
It's great to see you.

Okay, Jeff. We're going
live to tape in five.

Let's go.

Two, one.

Host: We are back with someone

who can seemingly do it all.
She is a lifestyle guru,

do-it-yourself wonder
and romance expert.

She can show you how to pull off
the perfect celebration,

and then make sure
you're not alone while doing it.

Joanna Moret, good morning
and Happy Holidays.

Ah, Merry Christmas,
Sara.

I'm so thrilled
to be here.

Good, good.
Thank you for being here.

And I have to say,
congratulations

on your bestselling book,
The Love Audit.

Thank you.

It's a great feeling to know
the readers are responding.

And dating.

And dating, yes.

This has some amazing
practical thoughts

on finding
and keeping love.

Well, because love is practical,

I truly believe
that love is work.

Don't wait for love to find you.
Get out there and go find it.

Bold ideas.

Well, speaking of ideas,

I have something I want to
share with you guys.

Okay.

This is something
you can do

with that special someone

to show that
you love the holidays.

It's beautiful.

And they're so easy and fun
to make.

Speaking of couples,

we know that
your boyfriend's identity

is a mystery,
but we want to know

what's in store
for your Christmas

and what is his name?

Sara, Sara.

There'll be snow
and fun

and lots of holiday spirit.

And there you have it.

Finding love
and staying festive

with the one and only
Joanna Moret.

(bell dinging)

All right.
So good to see you, as always.

You, too.
Thanks so much.
Okay.

Perfect.
Ms. Moret?
Hi.

Hi, I'm Cameron.
Ted's assistant.

Nice to meet you.
Let me
help you.
Thank you.

We haven't met.

Oh, he's great.
Busy, though.

Hey. I'm concerned about
the author special.

It's too--
Broad?

I'd like to chat with him
about a New Year's segment.

You're all set.
Hang out,

and you can chat with him
when he's done.

Thank you.

Uh-- Oh.
What if we brought in--

You know, I--
One second.

I got to--
(beeping phone on)

Hi. Uh, no.

I haven't had a chance to.

Sweetheart, I can't just leave.

You're right.

Yeah, okay. I'll work on items
17, 12, one, two and three.

I really have to go,
okay?

We'll talk about
how far behind

in points I am
when I get home.

What?
I can't hear you.

You're breaking up...

...with me.

Everything good?

Yeah.

Hmm. Okay.

Hey!
Goldie, hi.
You're...

Late. Sorry.

My office said
you were fantastic as usual.

Thank you.
I had them
DVR it,

so I can not watch it
and tell you what I think later.

Well, I thought you were
power-lunching somewhere

on my behalf.

Well, actually,
we should talk.

Honey, I remember when
you were just starting out

with crafty little
at-home get-togethers.

Joanna Moret, my dear,
you are no longer just a name.

You are a brand.

Okay. You're being
really nice

and it's scaring me.

Your fans love you.

Okay? We get letters
all the time

about how much more fulfilling
their lives are

because of your blogs
and your books.

Your bestselling books,
I might add.

I'm confused. Do you want me to
write another Christmas book?

I want to make you a star.

Oh. Well, let me just
check my schedule.

MacAllen Entertainment.

The TV producer?

The TV producer.

I met with Del MacAllen,

their head of development
and production.

and he may have mentioned
that they think

you might be ready
for your own show.

(squealing)

Okay. I'm sensing
a save-the-hug-for-later vibe.

Okay. It's not a done deal,
all right?

They love what you do, but
it's a three-step process

and it starts with
your seminar.

I'm sorry.
My what?

They're sponsoring

the Christmas in the Air
Festival,

and it just so happens that
they need another speaker.

You'll give a quick talk
on finding love

and using your strategies.

Okay.
Seminar, check.

Step two?

MacAllen's holiday gala.

Wait, wait, wait.
The gala?

The one that's
written up in magazines

where people clamour
for an invite?

Mm-hmm.

Yeah, I've heard of it.

Good, because you'll be
planning it.

Wait. That's in
less than a week.

Oh, and you'll also be
a guest,

so no more clamouring.

But that's on
Christmas Eve.

Details, details.

Goldie--

It's non-negotiable, okay?

They're considering this
to be your audition.

Joanna Moret using
her skills, creativity

and make-it-workedness
to pull off

their event of the year,

and to show them
what you're made of

so they can help you
show that

to millions
of television eyeballs

all across America,
every single day.

Hmm.

But there's still
step number three.

How could it possibly
get crazier?

Hmm. Funny you should
say that.

They want you to attend
with your--

My--

Boyfriend.

Oh. (chuckles)
Oh.

Wow.

Wow. Okay.
I can give a speech

and I can plan a party,

but how can I--

Goldie,

what will people think?

If they discover

that the man who checked
every one of your boxes

in your Foolproof Guide
to Love dumped you?

Goldie, Brian and I
broke up months ago, and--

Oh, honey, we talked about this,
okay?

Just it wasn't the right time
to risk that revelation

when you were just launching
your book.

But let's face facts.
I mean, there are worse reasons

to have to find a boyfriend
for Christmas.

Yeah.

Just planning
the party of the year,

giving a seminar
and finding love.

I'm not sure Joanna Moret
can do that.

Well, I am.

Man: To sweet or not to sweet?

By all means, enjoy.

I'm Ted Domrose.
Mm-hmm.

And you are
Joanna Moret.

Author, romance expert,
Christmas guru.

You're familiar with
my work?

Not really,
but I produce the segment.

Mmm.

I'm kidding.
Oh, I know your work.

Hmm.

Thank you for being
on the show today.

Oh, my pleasure.
Well, I wanted to--

I should--
Sorry.

You go.
You go ahead.

Well, I just wanted to say
I really enjoyed--

Oh, I'm sorry.

My, uh, someone

wanted me to remind you
of what a fan she is

and say thank you
for all your great advice.

Aw, well, that's very kind.
Who is it?

My ex-girlfriend.

Can I amend my thanks
with a sorry?

I'll play it safe
and say

I've certainly had
less eventful days.

Besides, if I got into
hot water

saying things to her,

saying them to the author
of The Love Audit

won't win me any points.

I've created
what some might view

as a love-life-saver,

while others see me
as more of, um--

The crazy aunt
at Thanksgiving

who'd rather tell you
why you're single

than just,
"Enjoy your dinner."

That's actually not
the worst one I've heard.

But you know,

I wanted people to know
that I think true love

is more than just
a feeling,

more than a philosophy.

More than points
and checklists?

Correct me if I'm wrong here,
and I'm making a very educated,

though not by intentionally
eavesdropping, guess,

that your ex is unhappy
with your inability

to follow a certain author/
romance expert/Christmas guru's

system of finding and keeping
true love?

There were signs,
but never the dreaded B-word.

Breakup.
Oh.

It kind of puts a kink
in Christmas.

Well, what exciting things
will you plan for yourself?

Is a silent movie marathon
too on the nose?

Oh, I'm so sorry.

Do you like
hot chocolate?

Ted: What is it
about the points system?

Well, I believe it's a way
for both sides

to figure out
what they want

and how to get it,

but by giving
of themselves.

So, you do things
for your partner,

you get points
to use with each other

for what you want
or need.

If you don't do things,
well, then, you don't.

So, it's a way for both sides
to figure out what they want

and how much it's worth.

I suppose,
but point systems

and checklists
and perfectly romantic

romantic gestures just--

Oh, don't forget
the forehead kiss.

Exactly!
Every time I think

I have it figured out,
there's something else.

You know,
I try to keep up,

but isn't it all
too much to do,

too much not to do?
Too much pressure?

Whew.

That's a lot to unpack
over cocoa.

That's why I got us
whipped cream.

Look. She was playing
by your rules,

and sometimes, no matter
how hard I tried,

and I did try,

I just felt like
I was on the bench.

So, are you asking me

how to get back
in the game with her?

No.

Yes.
I don't know.

Actually,

and I bring it up 'cause Sara
mentioned it on the segment,

this unseen mysterious man
you have in your life--

Mm-hmm?

You know,
this pillar of perfection

who stands
in direct contrast

to flawed men like me,
I guess,

like your readers
are apparently dealing with,

all based on rules
that according to Valerie--

Now my ex-girlfriend--

And according to you,
who created them,

could be the beginning of
the end of the relationship.

Right.
Well, my question--

Was there a question?

(scoffing)
You sound just like Valerie.

Or, she sounds
just like you.

I work hard.

I have great friends.
I love my family.

I get along with
dogs and cats.

And kids seem to think that
I'm some sort of Jungle Jim.

Whatever happened to
just--

You know,
you like somebody.

You think that
they like you.

And you just go
right up to them

and you ask--

Will you be
my boyfriend?

Exactly.

Wait. What?

Yeah. It's, um--

It's not what you think,

and it is
a long, sordid story.

but I have proposal
for you.

You're not just saying that

because I said I was going to
watch Christmas movies alone?

Hear me out.

MacAllen Entertainment

has expressed interest
in creating a show for me.

And as an audition,
I have to give a seminar

and plan their
annual Christmas gala.

But, they don't want to
just get to know my work.

They want to
get to know me.

Which includes oft-mentioned,
never-seen boyfriend.

Exactly.

And you want me to play

said oft-mentioned,
never-seen boyfriend?

It's complicated,
but yeah.

You realize
how wild this sounds?

I will make you a deal,
okay?

You agree to play
the ever-loving, perfect,

forehead-kissing boyfriend,

and I will do
everything I can

to help you understand
The Love Audit

so that you can fix things
with Valerie.

It's only about a week,
okay?

I do the seminar,
I impress MacAllen,

I sign on the dotted line.

And then,
when you and Valerie

are back in the throes of,
you know, love,

we'll break up.

And I will have
a press release

drawn up that--

That--

The pressures
of our careers

put too much strain
on the romance,

and we have decided
to part ways.

But of course,
we'll remain

the best of friends,

and we ask for privacy

during this
very difficult time,

please.

Is that a yes?

(sighing)
Oh.

What are you doing?

Giving you
your first lesson.

It's a napkin.

It's a Love Gesture.

All right?
You see a napkin,

but the recipient
sees that you care

and you are aware.

And I think
there's someone

that you should be
giving that to.

Also, before I forget,

lesson one, part two: read.

Thank you.
Mm-hmm.

Give me your hand.

Look.
I'm really sorry.

There's no good way
to say this, but--

I know.

If we're going to do this,

it's got to be
believable,

and I think we should start
as soon as possible.

Isn't that right,
my little cabbage?

I have been reading
the rules.

Number, uh, what,
six-trillion-and-something?

Give or take
a trillion.

"A pet name
shows your partner

that you know them,
understand them and want them."

Great.

Well, we will, uh,
start at the seminar.

Tomorrow,

partner.
Partner.

Joanna: I'm crazy. This whole
thing is crazy, right?

Do you want my mom opinion
or my professional opinion?

Both scare me.
Start professional.

You got this.
You get to do what you love

and share it
with the world.

And as my mother?

Oh, sweetie, you're a mess.

I know.

But your father and I love you.

Love you, too.

He is cute, though, right?

Good night, Mom. Love you.

(sighing)

Okay.

I can do this. I can do this.

You can do it.
I can't believe I'm doing this.

(yawning)

(gasping)

Man: My goodness.

Hi.
Sorry, sorry, sorry.

Do you ever wear a suit?

Do you ever wear jeans?

So, this is where

they relocated
the North Pole.

Oh, it's a fantastic event.

All right.
Let's get inspired.

(swing version
of "Jingle Bells" playing)

♪

Wow.
This is pretty festive,

my little celery stick.

Better, right?

You'll keep trying,
won't you?

Well, if the stocking
hung by the chimney

with care fits.

Unto everything
a list.

The MacAllen event is important.

It's family, friends
and colleagues.

But I want to find a way
to combine those aspects

so it doesn't feel like

they're too business
or pleasure,

but this magical
integration of both.

Maybe this'll help.
Neigh!

We need to work on

your definition
of "help."

Well, you know,

I think your concept
is amazing.

It might even be bigger
than figgy pudding.

Do you always have to be
so silly?

Do you always
have to be so serious?

Joanna?

Hi.
Joanna
Moret?

I saw you over there and I
thought I would come say hello.

Aw.

Can you sign my book?
I mean, your book.

I mean--

I'd be happy to.

My name is Barbara,
and your advice

has completely
changed my life.

I mean,
I've practised everything.

I made my boyfriend do
the Love Checklist.

We figured out
the points system.

He was a bit behind,

but he totally mastered
the Love Gestures.

How wonderful.
Please tell me more.

You were right. I'm allowed
to have my own deal-breakers.

Even if they are superficial
to people,

they're important to me.

As you said,
I should be important to me.

Well,
I'm just so happy to hear

things have changed
for the better.

I mean, I would have never
seen myself with him

until he completely transformed
into a totally different person,

but--

Oh. Well, here you go, Barbara.
It was so nice to meet you.

Thank you. Bye.

Bye.

Okay. Let's go see
where I'm speaking.

Let's.

Ted: Whoa.

Well, that's one way
to go.

For the record,
I would never wear garland.

No, the title.

"Christmas Romance,
New Year's Wedding"?

Yikes.
Sounds rough.

Hey, don't knock it.

You pay attention,
you and Valerie

could be planning a honeymoon.

You think?

Oh, Ted.

Dear, sweet, sweet Ted.
Watch and learn, muffin.

Note to self:

baked goods
are on the table.

MC: Ladies and gentlemen,
please give a warm welcome

to the bestselling author of
The Love Audit, Joanna Moret.

(Cheering
and applause)

Hello.

Thank you so much
for being here with me today.

Let's talk about love
and how to find it,

but more importantly,
how to keep it.

By being here today,

you have succeeded in taking
the important first step.

It's what you do next
that's the difference

between Christmas turkey
with the future in-laws

or TV dinners at home alone.

So, that's why I have created
the Love Triangle.

Evaluate, concentrate,
designate.

First,
evaluate your potential mates

as objectively as you can.

Next, you need to concentrate
on your romantic goals.

Finally, you must designate
what is important to you,

and that means
making hard choices.

Is this person
really fulfilling me?

If I don't like something,
can I tell them?

And you have to ask yourself,
"What can I live with,"

and more importantly, without.

Because you are so worthy
of love.

Take a look around.

Remember, you don't succumb
to loneliness.

You conquer it.

(Cheering and applause)

Thank you.
Thank you so much.

There you go.

Thank you.

Yeah. Let's get a picture.

One, two, three.
(Shutter clicking)

Thank you.
Thank you.

Bye.

Oh, gosh. They were great.
Really in tune, don't you think?

Totally.

Okay, let's hear it.
I can take it.

Uh, hear what?

Well, you came, you saw.

I'd really like to hear
what you think.

Okay. Well,

it felt a little surface.
Cold, maybe.

That if things
aren't working out,

it's just move on
without trying to fix them.

You say that's the path
to love or marriage,

but maybe some people
might think it's...

...selfish.

Is Valerie selfish for going for
what she wants?

That's different.
She's different.

Is she?

Is it better to not be honest
with yourself or your partner

for the sake of a relationship

that's not particularly
going well?

I just believe that people
are perfectly imperfect.

That flaws
can be charming, you know,

and make you laugh,
make you smile.

That you need
that spark.

Imperfections also add up,
cause rifts.

One person's charming flaw
is another's irritating fail.

I just don't understand

why you think telling people
to go for the best is wrong.

Because "the best"
is an illusion.

Sometimes it's not
the power suit,

but the pair of old jeans
with a rip in the seam

and a hole in the knee
that make you realize

you're comfortable
with who you are

and who you're with.

Comfortable
is complacent.

(scoffing)

Joanna?

Oh, Mr. MacAllen! Hi.

Joanna Moret. It is
such a pleasure to meet you.

Call me George,
please.

Uh, this is Ted Domrose,
my boyfriend.

Yeah.
Pleasure to meet you, sir.

I'm thrilled that you--

That the two of you
are going to be joining us

for our
Christmas Eve gala.

Everyone at MacAllen's
is very much

looking forward to
what you're going to do

to make it special.
Um, extra special.

We want the best that
Joanna Moret can offer

in decor, music, food,

and that holiday feeling
that only you can bring.

And frankly,
what you show to us

we want to show
to everyone, every day,

in their living rooms
across this country.

Phew. No pressure.

(chuckles nervously)
Mr. MacAllen--

George, um,
I am just so thrilled

with the opportunity
to give your event

every bit of my passion
and ingenuity.

Well, perfect.

We're prepared to have you
both up tomorrow afternoon.

Great.

Tomorrow?
Yeah.

Sounds fun.

Well, I won't
let you down.

Joanna, it's been
an absolute pleasure.

I'm so excited about
collaborating with you.

Very nice to meet you,
Ted.

You, too.

I'm looking forward to
getting to know

both of you more.

Yes.
Us as well.

Right back at you, sir.

Great.
Can't wait.

All right.
We'll see you.

Okay.

Bye.
Bye, now.

He's good.

What's wrong?

Less than a week.

To be perfect.

To be perfect.
Okay.

We have about 29 hours

to learn enough
about each other

to convince Mr. MacAllen that
we've been together forever,

and I'm not a total fraud.

29 hours?

Yep.

Well, we better
get to work,

dinner roll.

Oh, wow.
You're killing me.

All right.
Home, sweet home.

Okay. I stand corrected.
The North Pole relocated here.

Right here.

You can tell a lot
about a person

from their tree.

This is my parents
and me

when I came home
for Christmas

the first year
I left for school.

You all look happy.

Yeah, we were.

Christmas is a huge deal
in my family.

We have relatives flying in
from all over the place.

And my parents and I cook.
There's kids and music.

A ton of presents.

How about you?

Uh, I'm an only child.

The rest of my family
is scattered,

and my parents retired
to the sunny side of Florida.

Hmm.

They take this holiday cruise
to the Bahamas,

which doesn't exactly scream
"winter wonderland" to me.

But yeah, as a kid,

I couldn't get enough of
spending time with family.

The lights, the snow,

Both:
Big tree.

As I got older, most of the time
was spent with friends

in the city.

We called ourselves
holiday orphans.

And then, you know,
someone would get adopted out

when they found a new family
to spend Christmas with.

Kind of like what happened
with you and Valerie?

Her family is great.

Very open. Very loud.

(giggling)

But it was
a whirlwind.

You know, catching up
with people she wanted to see.

Running errands.

Sometimes I felt like
it would have been really nice

just to have some quiet time
with a cocoa and a fireplace.

Did you ever tell her this?

No, I--

I don't know.

Well, that brings us to
our next lesson:

Christmas cards.

They are a great way

to tell the people that you love
that you love them.

Okay.
This one is for Uncle Louie.

That's my mom's brother.

Super nice guy, very funny.
Museum curator.

Perpetually single.

You know, my aunt Joyce
never married,

my dad's sister.

She teaches history and she
volunteers at an antique shop.

Maybe Uncle Lou and Aunt Joyce
should get together

and go bowling.

Yes.
See, interesting people

find interest
in each other.

Not everything in
The Love Audit is so bad.

Okay.
I think this is the last one.

All right.

This was all an elaborate ruse
to get me to help you

with your Christmas cards,
wasn't it?

You found me out.

I will forgive you,

on one condition.

Name it.

Ted: All right.

Nothing cider and cookie
can't fix.

All is forgiven.

Wow.
It's that easy?

Ah, your book
is a little too long.

Okay. I'm curious.
How did you become Joanna Moret?

Well, I always loved
crafting and baking,

fixing things.

So, I went to
design school,

and then I started
this tiny little business

out of my living room
where I help people

plan parties
and family gatherings,

Christmases.

And I realized
people wanted more

than just how to string
the perfect lights,

so I started
giving advice

and they kept asking.
Then I met Goldie.

The rest is history.
Right time, right place.

I am going to
open your eyes

to what it is
Valerie wants,

what you want,
and how to get it.

You'll see.

We used to be so in sync,
or so I thought,

and then, ka-pow.

Don't give up on Valerie
just yet.

Remember, you have
a secret weapon.

Me.

Okay.

Mm-hmm.

Ted: That about covers it, huh?

I think so.

I had a good time.
Thank you.

Oh, I should be thanking you.

It's not every day you learn
so much about the boyfriend

you've supposedly had for years.

Uh, yeah. Makes sense.

♪ O Holy night

♪ The stars
are brightly shining ♪

♪ It is the night

♪ Of our dear
saviour's birth ♪

♪ Long lay the world

♪ In sin and error
pining ♪

Well, you better
get inside

before too much
of this stuff falls.

I make
a pretty mean snowball.

Ooh.
I hope to see the day.

Good night, Joanna.

Good night.
I'll see you tomorrow.

Game time.

Game time.

Oh, okay.
Go team.

Good night.
'Night.

♪

Ted.

Hey.

(sighing)
So, you ready?

Yeah. Let's go over
the game plan.

We play couple.
I do business.

I get show.
We break up.

When you say it
like that,

it makes me wonder
how anyone could think

romance is dead.

Ah, right.
It's never going to work.

I mean, how could I think
this could work?

No, no, no.
This is going to work

'cause you know how
to make it work.

The things you do are special,
because you're special.

You wouldn't be here
if you weren't.

You really do have
a lot of stuff.

I'm looking for
a book.

Right now?

Why do you need
a book?
Shh.

It's a finger-book
fortune.

It's a trick
my nana taught me.

You let the words
speak to you.

Hey, this is my fortune.
Get your own.

Uh--

Ah.

A trick my auto shop teacher
taught me.

You took auto shop?

Never.

Ooh, very interesting.
Very telling.

Care to share?

It's my message.

It's my car manual.

Okay.
If you must know

what the fates
have in store for me.

"This vehicle
may hydroplane

"while driving
at high speeds

on a slick or wet road."

(scoffing)
Perfect.

All right.
It's now or never.

Okay.

Wow. So, this is
what hit TV gets you?

Good to know.

You know,
I've heard stories

that ringing the doorbell
can help.

Or if you're
really old-school,

you can knock.

I'm thinking.

Oh, I see.
You're willing George

to throw open the door
and whisk us inside.

Joanna, Ted. Come on in
out of the cold. Come on in.

You're good.

Hi.
Hi.
Hey, Ted.

Wow.
This is stunning,

and not decorated at all.

Mm-hmm.

The tree will go right there.

Oh, I'm already getting ideas.
I can't wait to get started.

I'm so glad.
I have the feeling

this is the start of
something wonderful.

Man:
I couldn't agree more.

George: Please meet my head
of development and production,

my son Del.

Joanna Moret,

brilliant and creative
love expert,

the pleasure
is certainly mine.

It's so nice to meet you.

Uh, hi. I'm Ted.

Uh, Joanna's boyfriend.

Ah. I didn't know
who to expect.

You've been shrouded
in secrecy.

Oh, well--

So, this, the perfect
yet elusive boyfriend, huh?

We've run the figures
and the facts.

Joanna Moret
is good business.

Loyal fans, solid readership.

We want to turn that
into viewership

and not only expand
your horizons,

but shatter
them.
Jeez.

Pardon?

She's-- She's the best.

(chuckles
nervously)
I'm sure.

That sounds
truly incredible.

Well, incredible
and doable.

Your ad revenues increase
year to year,

and your awareness level
among prospective viewers

is nothing short of a dream.

Hmm. No pressure.

No worries.

(giggling)

Sorry. I'm just--
I'm so thrilled

that you're interested
in me.

In my work.

Well, now that Del
has nicely laid the groundwork,

what do you say
we grab a quick bite?

I'll have your things
brought in, taken up,

and we can enjoy ourselves.

That sounds wonderful.

That would be darling, darling.

Great.

Follow me.

You know what, Del?

Um, could Ted and I
have just a moment?

Of course.

The dining room
is right through there.

Great.
We'll be right there.

Save us a spot.

Okay, what?

What was that for?

What was that for?

What are
you doing?
What am
I doing?

Stop.

Stop answering my questions
with a question.

You are going to
blow our cover

and completely
derail this.

I don't like

how Mr. Three Piece Suit
is talking to you.

He's so smarmy.

Robotic.

Or he's an executive

getting to know
a potential client.

Oh, Joanna.

You're a producer, right?

You have to put people at ease
every day

before you put them on TV.

And there's a big difference

between talking to someone
with respect

and talking to them like--

Like--

Okay, Ted.

I appreciate this. I do.
But we need this to work.

I know, but the way he talks
and acts, he's--

He's so calculated. So perfect.

Is someone jealous?

Jealous? Ha!
Shh.

Let me point out
that I'm your boyfriend.

Uh, not really.
And he's named after
a computer.

(laughing)

Okay, okay.

All right.
We need to pull it together.

Pull it together.

Let's get back out there
before they think

that anything is going on.

Just let me get started
on the gala,

and then we will start on

your and Valerie's
romance number two.

Okay, fine, but I don't like
the way he's talking to you.

What have I gotten us into?

Yeah. What have you
gotten us into?

Stop answering
my questions

with a question.
Okay.

George:
Well, Del was quite a handful,

especially at Christmas,

and don't let him tell you
otherwise.

I plead the fifth,

and I kind of ask
my father to as well.

Well, in all fairness, he did
find an outlet for his energies

with the company.

Well, you produce
some wonderful content.

It's really impressive.

Thank you. Well, thank Del.
He worked hard.

Although I do believe
there are times

when he prefers
his development reports

to people.

You always know where you stand
with facts and figures.

I'm a big fan of to-do lists.

Yeah, but it's fun

putting the show together,
too, you know?

Wrangling the elements.

Being part of
the little moments

that you don't expect.

Right?

Pumpkin?

You know, I'm a big fan
of to-do lists, too.

Yeah, and that reminds me.

Let's talk gala.

Ah. Down to business.

I would love to get started
as soon as possible.

I have to admit

given the grandeur
of the event,

I was a bit surprised
to see

the house
wasn't decorated at all.

Not even a tree.

My mother took care of
the interior.

Mrs. MacAllen passed away
early in the year,

just after the holidays.

It wasn't the holidays until
you heard her voice echoing,

"More garland. Brighter lights.
Bigger ornaments."

I'm so sorry
for your loss.

Our sympathies,
truly.

Thank you. We appreciate that.

And, my dear,

she was quite the fan of yours.

In fact, your being here
is just as much

of a request of ours

as it would be
a wish fulfilled for her.

Wow. I don't know what to say.
Thank you.

Well,
if you'd like to get started,

no time like the present.

Follow me.

Del:
So, here it is.

Oh.

Ted, stand corrected again.
The North Pole relocated here.

Uh, yeah.

Oh, my gosh.

I can't believe how much stuff
is in here.

Oh, and it's all so beautiful.

Is some of this
vintage?

Yeah.

My mother
used to believe in

adding to her collection

without ever
taking away.

You know,
she used to say,

"The Christmas
of the past"--

Both:
"Is its own Christmas present."

That's from
my first book.

I'm so flattered
she found

anything I said
helpful.

Well,
I'll leave you to it.

Great.
Thanks, Del.

No. Why don't you stay?

It would be much faster
with you as our guide.

Of course. Efficiency is key.

Yeah. Uh, why don't we just take
everything we can down?

Del, perhaps we can stage things
in the main hall?

I think that'll be fine.

All right. Well, we better get
nut-cracking.

Get it?
Nut-crack?

Okay. After you.

Hey.
You all right?

Yeah. I'm just--

I mean, there's
so much history here.

These are all of
their memories.

You know what?
I'm better than fine.

I think I just
figured out my theme.

First Christmas,
forever memories.

I'll leave you to it.

Woman:
Where is he?

Valerie?

Um, not here.

Cameron,

I got you this job.
You owe me.

Joanna Moret asked him out,
and he must have said yes

'cause he took a few days off
to spend time with her,

and went to MacAllen's mansion
to help her on a project.

Did he, now?

(exhaling sharply)

The last of it here.

Whew.

Lot of stuff.

Yeah. My mother ran
the decorating staff

like a well-oiled machine.

They'll of course be at
your complete disposal.

This event was really

as much my mother's
as my father's.

I won't let you down.

I don't doubt it.

Del.
Ted.

(exhaling)
No pressure.

Hey. You can do this,
'cause you know how to do this.

Making moments and memories.
Besides,

it's never just business
when people are involved.

Are you reading my book?

Okay. I'm going to leave you
and your notebook

to work up some Christmas magic.

Good night, Joanna.

Good night.

Hmm.

♪ 'Tis the season
you can feel it in the air ♪

♪ There is a reason

♪ It's a time beyond compare

♪ Presents
all around the tree ♪

♪ But that's not all I see

♪ Warm by the fireside

♪ A picture-perfect
holiday night ♪

♪ The falling snow

♪ And mistletoe

♪ The magic of Christmas

♪ Lights on the tree

(thudding)

(thudding)

Valerie?

Just when were you
going to tell me?

Tell you what?

The secret to your grandmother's
rice pudding.

That you've been dating
Joanna Moret.

No, Val. It's not--

Don't you "Val" me.

Okay. Valerie,
it's not what you think.

What are you even doing here?

You broke up with me.

Uh, no. No.
I stepped back.

Let me quote:

"It's over. We're through.
I'm breaking up with you."

I needed space.

So, you said all that
'cause you needed space?

What, all of it?

Yes. Probably when you crowded
our relationship

with another woman!
Would you st--
Ow! Man. Stop that.

Don't tell me
what to do.

What are you doing?

What are you doing?
Where are you going?

To give a little advice
of my own.

I bet she never saw this coming
in her Love Gestures.

Wait. Would you--
Valerie!

No, no, no.
Valerie, can you--

So. Where is she?

Ted:
Let me explain.

Ah, believe me,
by all means,

I can't wait to hear it.

Look, I was gonna
tell you earlier,

but everything happened so fast.

These things usually do.

Ted:
Keep your voice down, please!

Okay, what is
going on down here?

Ted:
George! Dell.

Joanna.

Ted.

Valerie.
Oh.

Well, now that we've
established names,

can anyone please
tell me who this woman is

and why is she in my foyer?

Of course, Mr. MacAllen.

This is, uh, you know, um...

My... assistant.

She is?
Yep.

Ted:
She is!

(chuckling nervously)
Now, this is a funny story.

Valerie was trying
to reach Joanna

to get some things
signed for Goldie.

That's my agent, as you know.

Her agent, yes.

But the cell reception was
not working very well

and she couldn't
get a hold of her,

so she took it upon herself
to drive all the way down here.

She's such a go-getter.
Such an angel.

But she got lost

and that's why it's so late,
and we're so sorry.

Yeah.
But here she is, right?

Isn't that right, Valarie?
Ted: You made it.

Yes.

So... We're so sorry
about the late night intrusion.

Slight change of plans.

As long as things are
all sorted out.

Mm-hmm.

In that case, I will
bid you goodnight... again.

Good night.

Night. Okay, well,
it's all settled then.

Yeah. Well, we should
get those papers signed.

I'm sure Goldie wants
them ASAP.

Ted:
She's been waiting.

And we'll get you
back to the city...

On the road again.
...as soon as humanly possible.

Nonsense.

There's already a bedroom
made up next to Joanna's.

Stay the night. It'll be safer
than driving home in that snow.

Thank you.
Well, you--

Valerie:
How kind of you.

Okay, Valerie,

I will show you
to your quarters.

Follow me. Dell.

(whispering:)
Come on, come on.

We need to talk.

First of all, Valerie,
it's very nice to meet you.

I promise you, none of this
is what it looks like.

That's exactly what he said.

Because it's true.

Ted, could I handle this?
I'm just--

Actually, if you
could step outside

for just a minute,
that'd be great.

(sighing)

(sighing)

Okay, here's what's
really going on.

(sighing)

Joanna:
When I met Ted at the...

It was Ted's idea.

Valerie: Are you serious?
Joanna: I'm serious.

Okay, just let me say my piece.

Thank you so much.

I can't believe you went out
with another woman just for me.

It's so...

Insane.

...romantic!

And the fact that you,
Joanna Moret,

would bother to take
an interest in Ted...

I'm right here.
...and me,

to try to help?

Oh. Oh.
What can I say?

I think this is
a good stopping point.

Oh, hi. If you could just
set those right there.

Perfect. Thank you.
Morning.

Good morning.

This is one of my favourite
Christmas memories.

There's nothing more Christmas
than baking cookies.

I used to love watching my
mother bake with the staff.

You know, I'd always steal one,
thinking she didn't see

and she would let me,
pretending she didn't see.

Well, if you steal one of mine,
I will see you.

(chuckling)
I'm kidding.

You know, we do
have people to do this.

Oh, I know, and you're
staff has been so helpful--

helping me decorate
inside and out.

But, you know, some things you
just want to do yourself.

Want to try?

Uh, I don't know.

Don't fight it.

This is new territory for me.

Me and a cookie-cutter
could be dangerous.

I have fait in you.

And besides, I made another
batch just in case.

So, it helps if you think
you're not just making a cookie.

You know, you're making a
memory.

It's okay to have a little fun
while you're doing it.

(chuckling)

All right.

Nice.

Good morning.
Joanna: Morning. Hi.

Aww, poor reindeer.
Did he fall off the roof?

Yeah, I guess I'm a little
better at banking than baking.

Well, I think it's great.

And by the way,
I wanted to tell you

the music is set,
the menu is confirmed,

they're shipping the placards,

and I have one more little
surprise for you guys.

When did you do all that?

Oh, efficiency is key, remember?

Good morning.

Val, you're here.

Shouldn't you be
hitting the road?

Valerie: It can wait.

But you didn't bring
any of your stuff, so...

Right, that's...

I had a bag packed

with some things
from my last trip.

I'm a wiz at adjusting to new
and surprising situations.

Besides, Joanna doesn't mind

her awesome number one
assistant helping out.

Isn't that, right?

How could I say no?

All right, well,
I'm just gonna finish up here.

I gotta get these in the oven,
prep some pies,

and then, we'll get on
the tree cutting.

All:
Tree cutting?

Well, call me old fashioned,

but that's usually how you get
one from out there in here.

Oh, and with the gorgeous
smell of fresh pine...

You can buy that, you know.
Trees, too.

Val, sometimes it's nice

to do things
the old-fashioned way.

It is?

You know, we have people to take
care of the tree as well.

Oh, I know. I'm one of them.

(sighing)

Ahh!

What are you doing
in my closet?

You mean our closet.

My room's just
right over there, roomie.

Isn't this
the coolest thing ever?

It's... something.

I'm just gonna go get
a handle on the tree.

Oh, I'm coming with you.
We all are, I think.

Great.

I can't believe you've never
really explored your property.

I can't get enough of it.

How 'bout that one?

Uh, too small.

I've probably seen more
of your house than you have.

And in record time.

Just as far back as I can
remember, I felt busy.

You know, most kids play tag
and I played TV producer.

My dad to thank for that.

But it all worked
out in the end.

This one right here.

Ah. Ooh. Too wide? Sorry.

I want you know, I've really
been enjoying my time here.

Things are moving more quickly
than I ever could have hoped.

I don't know, maybe it's
a Christmas miracle.

I don't know.
I've seen you with your lists

and notebook and schedules,

making sure there's
a place for everything

and everything in its place.
I like that in a partner...

in someone I'm working with.
What is it?

"Complimenting your partner is,
in itself, a big compliment."

Mm-hmm. Chapter four.
Kissing up, huh?

You got it.

They're having a good time.

He's probably talking
to her about spreadsheets.

At least he's
talking to her.

Talking was never our problem.

It was me saying
the wrong thing.

(sighing)
Joanna says that--

Val...

Valerie, look,

sometimes I wonder if maybe
that wasn't our problem--

"Joanna says."

Maybe I needed to know
what you were thinking,

what you wanted.

Just because I was following
advice from someone else

doesn't mean it wasn't
what I was feeling.

Whether Joanna says or
Valerie thinks, it's still me.

Valerie...

(sighing)

Dell, it's important
to know that you're not--

we're not just getting a tree.
I mean, that's,

you know, branches and needles.

(sighing)

So, what are we getting?

Um, it's a symbol,
a greeting.

A Christmas should,

you know, remind people
of their childhood,

of cherished memories.

It should reflect
the spirit of Christmas,

of love and family and friends,

those still with us
and those who have gone.

There.
There it is.

(sighing contentedly)
There it is.

This'll certainly
make a statement.

It's not even decorated yet.

That's the best part--
it'll only get more beautiful.

Well, things are already
looking beautiful.

You made that, didn't you?

How could you tell?

I know that look.

Come here. Bring those.

You know, I think
that ornament should go...

right here,
front and centre, right?

Yeah. You think so?

Yeah.

You know, Joanna,

you have such an interesting
way of looking at things.

You know, that's why
I wanted you.

The show.

You've opened my eyes to
so many more possibilities.

It's beginning to look
a lot like Christmas.

Oh, George. Hello.
Dad.

I just thought I'd pop in and
see how things are going.

I think tomorrow, you'll really
see a transformation.

I want you to
know I'm especially

looking forward to the tree.

It was one of my wife's
greatest achievements,

and considering she followed
your lead for many years,

I'm sure it's in great hands.

I think so.

I wouldn't make you
any promises I couldn't keep.

Right. Well, goodnight.

Joanna: Goodnight.

Well, I'd better
get back to my work

and I'll leave you to yours.

Okay.

♪

(knocking)

Hi.

Come in, come in, please.

Welcome to your first session.

It's a little unorthodox,

but please, have a seat.

(sighing)
Good morning.

Okay, uh, well,

today, I want to work on
some core concepts--

respect, love,
understanding and passion.

It's important to talk to your
partner about these concepts.

But since your communication

hasn't been great
up to this point,

instead of saying them
to each other,

you'll be saying them to me,

as if I was your partner.

I find that sometimes the things
you can't say to someone's face

are usually the most honest.

So, Valerie,
you're up first.

And Ted, if could
just look away, turn.

Thank you.

Valerie. Ted.

Now, tell me how you're feeling

and remember, respect, love,
understanding and passion.

All right, fine.

Ted, sometimes,

I wish you would
respect the fact

that all I'm asking you to do

is try a little bit harder to
take things more seriously.

And passion?

I guess love,
the love gestures more.

That napkin was a nice touch.

You could do that
more often.

And that's it.

Good. Okay.

(sighing)
Your turn, honey.

Okay, Ted, you're up.

Tell me how it
is you're feeling.

(sighing)

I just...
(sighing)

I want you to look at me
and see who I am... inside.

I'm not perfect.

If I've learned anything,

it's that life is not one
big, solid picture.

It's a series of moments,

you know, incredible little
slices of silly and serious

that... affect you in ways

that sometimes you
don't even understand,

and that's okay.

I just want you to
love those moments with me.

No matter how big or small.

I want to make you happy,

especially when you're not.

And I want you to know that my
shoulders are strong enough

to carry your laughter
and your tears.

That when you come
to a crossroads,

I'm gonna be there
to help guide you.

And that everything I do
will shine a light on how,

even in the harshest
of winters,

you are my infinite summer.

I may not always succeed,
but I will always try,

even if I am...

(sighing)
...perfectly imperfect.

(exhaling sharply, stammering)

Great work, uh, both of you.

Sweetie, you'll get there.

You just have to really
work the system.

We're doing
the tree today, right?

Mm-hmm.

(sighing)

(stammering)

You know, I should--
I should head downstairs.

There's a lot going on today.
It's a like overwhelming.

(sighing)

Hi.
Hello.

Hey. If you could just take
those into the kitchen, please.

Thank you.
Right on the corner there.

Same for this one?

Oh, great. Thank you.

♪

Valerie: That looks great.

How about one over there?

That's perfect.

'Cause I know we can
make it work.

We just have to really focus on
cover and be a team.

Ted: I know.

Valerie:
We've always made
it work in the past.

Ted: Okay.

Valerie: I know we can
figure this out.

Ted:
Yeah, I'll think about it.

(knocking)

Come in.

Hi.

Hi.

(sighing)
I'm kind of at a loss for words.

For the first time,

I feel like I don't have control
over every aspect of my life

and it's really freaking me out.

Now, is that such a bad thing?

Not knowing exactly how
everything's going to turn out?

Ted, the things you
said today to Valerie...

to me,

they really excited me,
but they also really scare me

because I don't know what
the future looks like.

I think we need to break up
and end this charade.

What?

This whole thing's
becoming a disaster.

The illusion was
supposed to be fun and easy,

manageable at least, but...
(sighing)

...you can't control feelings.

That's the illusion.

I'm not an expert
and I figured that out.

You wrote a book about it
and you still haven't.

You had this grand plan,
but as you say,

"You don't make plans to break
them, you make them to be them."

I'm not sure I know what
that means, but I do know

I can't pretend to be
the perfect boyfriend for you

if I'm trying to be the perfect
boyfriend for Valerie.

Ted...

is this really what you want?

Don't you see? You're-- you're
on the cusp of your dotted line.

You're gonna get your show.

You're gonna do amazing things.

Ted, I feel--

I've seen how Dell looks at you.

I told you about it
the moment he saw you.

And seeing you two together--

you with your
philosophies and lists,

him with his spreadsheets
and savvy and suits--

it's a match made in...
if not heaven, on paper,

and it's more real
than anything

you told me I was
pretending to be for you.

But it's fine, you know?
You're free now to pursue Dell.

Valerie and I will
continue to work on

whatever it is we're working on.

George will be thrilled
as he ever was.

Joanna, you deserve
the perfect boyfriend,

someone who thinks like you,

someone who wants
success like you.

You can have that.

It's real and it's waiting
for you right outside.

It's a win-win.

Well, it sounds like you
have it all figured out.

I learned from the best.

(door closing)

(exhaling sharply)

(people chattering in distance)

(sighing)

Joanna:
Ooh, it is cold today!

Yeah. After you.

Thank you.

You all in?

Yep. That's it.

Hey, what do you say we get out
of here for a little while?

Dell:
So, it's certainly been an
interesting few days.

Joanna:
In What way?

Well, you came to organize
our Christmas event,

something we weren't sure
could even be done,

and somehow we ended up
baking cookies

and talking about our past
and getting to know one another.

I've been busy, haven't I?

I'd say the topper, though,

is probably your
unorthodox assistant

showing up late one night,
unannounced.

That was the topper.

There's something
about her, though.

I can't put
my finger on it.

In any case, it definitely
hasn't been business as usual.

Look, Dell, uh,

there's something that
I should mention

that you should know.

Uh, Ted and I aren't actually...

We're not...
Things aren't going well.

Is that so?

Yeah, yeah. I...

I really don't want to
get into the details of it,

but I want you and
your father to know that,

no matter what happens
between him and I,

it will, in no way,
affect my ability

to produce the work with every
ounce of creativity

and professionalism that
you are expecting of me.

I don't doubt it.

Joanna, you are your work
and your work is you.

In a really short time, I've
gotten to know you through it.

Sorry, what is it?

"Evaluate, designate
and concentrate?"

Yeah.

If I'm honest,

I don't see Ted
as being the kind of guy

that can follow those rules.

I mean, how many points
is he really scoring

doing the things you need?

You know, is he able to put into
practice any of your tactics?

Gosh, you make it sound like I
wrote a military handbook.

(chuckling)

Yeah, whatever works, right?

You know, get people
to step in line.

That's a--
that's a lot of books.

We have a long road
ahead of us, Ted.

If we ever want to get back to
that perfect place were in,

you're gonna have to work at it.
But I'm here to help.

Oh.

The Business of Love.
That's perfect.

I'm never gonna be
good enough for you, am I?

(sighing)
It's more than reading.

I'm not ruling out
seminars or therapy.

Have you ever tried hypnosis?

You're not listening.

You're right.

I am?

You can't even put your
socks on in the dark.

How are you gonna
hypnotize yourself?

No.

Honey, I've seen it.

One blue, one brown--
not a good look.

I mean, no to listening
to people who don't even know me

telling me how and when to feel.

Also, that we can get back to...

(sighing)

...something that was not
only never perfect,

it probably never existed.

What are you saying, Ted?

Val, I think you know.

Don't "Val" me.

Okay. Valerie, if we're gonna do
this, if we're meant to be,

then we have to find our way
back there by ourselves,

without The Business Of Love

and without The Love Audit.

(sighing)

Joanna.

Come on and join me.

Sure.

Hi.

I want you to know-- and I would
never say this lightly--

the house has never looked
better in such a short time.

Mrs. MacAllen would be proud
and so should you.

That-- that means
the world to me.

I just-- I want this
event to be perfect,

no matter what.

No matter what?

That signals to me something
might be the matter.

Ted's a good man.

I like his energy.

I like what he's
doing in his career.

He's a man on the way up

and I think I may even
be able to help lift him.

Oh, my gosh, that would mean
more to him than you know.

Okay, then, I'll make sure
that I tell him myself.

Now, that aside I don't think
I'm too far off by saying

you two have hit a rough patch.

Yeah.

Actually, you and Ted remind me
a lot of Mrs. MacAllen and I.

And I--

I don't want to get
myself in hot water here,

saying this to an expert
such as yourself,

but having spent
more time around the sun

than I'd like to admit,

sometimes love doesn't have
hard and fast rules.

All we needed was each other,

a hand to hold
and a heart to love

to tell us what we
already knew and what we felt,

what I believe
you feel for Ted

and what Ted feels for you

because love, my dear,
will always be a gamble.

What if you take
that chance and you lose?

How can I not look
at this relationship

through the lens
of my own advice?

Things that I'm telling everyone
else they should be doing,

shouldn't I be doing them, too?

And with Ted, he's--

he's always joking around
and I'm serious.

He's always dressed for the mall

and I'm, you know,
dressed in a power suit.

He's always thinking about

what's happening
right then in the moment

and I'm-- you know, I'm always
thinking about the future.

How in the world is
that ever going to work?

I know who I am and
what I want

or... I thought I did.

(sighing)

How can I start
something new at this point

that everyone else is
going to think is a lie?

Happiness is never a lie,

not to yourself or others.

Now, you asked a question, "What
happens if you take a chance

"on love and you lose?"

I think that's the wrong
question for you.

I think the one you
should ask instead is,

"What happens if I never
take a chance on love at all?"

Oh, Valerie, hi.

Are you looking for Ted?

Yeah. I, um, just needed
to tell him something.

I was going to get a snack.
It's been kind of a strange day.

Yeah, that's an understatement.

Look, Valerie,

I-I hope you know I never
meant to do anything

to hurt you or Ted.

I know.
As you say,

"Good intentions are not safe
from complex execution."

I think he's leaving

and I think I'm okay with that.

I don't know.
I think...

I think I've been doing too much
thinking, to tell you the truth.

You spend so much time
with someone,

looking for them to be
what you want,

instead of enjoying
who they are.

Believe me, I know.

Do you also believe in, I guess,

like at first sight with someone
you don't really know?

Is that crazy?
Is it wrong?

I think it's wrong...

not to go for what
will make you happy.

Like, love, interest, whatever--

my advice is to forget
all of my other advice.

Forget the scorecards,
the suits.

Go for the spark.

I kind of like suits.

I'm not angry.
I want you to know that.

I'm really glad you're here.

(knocking)
Ted, can we--

Ted?

(car door closing in distance)

(engine starting)

♪

Joanna, good morning.

I was just thinking about you.
Could I get you some coffee?

Oh, no, I'm fine.
Thank you.

Uh, Dell, I need to talk
to you about something.

Wonderful.
I also have some news.

What's this?

The contract for your
very own show.

I thought you'd want to see it.

Look, my father is way more
into surprises than I am,

so try to look just so
when he announces it.

My hunch is it'll be at the gala
in front of everyone.

So, in terms of scheduling,

we're gonna want to get started
on concept and development

as soon as possible
in the new year.

I'll think we'll also want
to schedule some meetings

with marketing and...

What is it?
Did I miss something?

I thought you'd be thrilled.

Dell, no, it's--
this is incredible.

It's more than I ever
could have imagined.

But before we go any further,

there's something
that you should know.

Excuse me?

Okay, here we go.

Dell, I don't think I've
ever even been in love.

The-- the guy that I wrote
about in my book, um,

that was more of the version of
what I hoped for

or what I wanted,

but not at all the version
I actually ended up with.

And, uh, on that note,
uh, that man was also not Ted.

Ted and I were never
actually in a relationship.

I, uh-- I just met him
about a week ago

and I brought him here

because I wanted
to prove to everyone,

myself included, that I was, in
fact, an expert at everything.

I lied to a lot of people

and I'm not proud of it and I
can't continue to do it.

So, if that's the woman
you're looking for, I'm sorry,

but daytime television will have
to survive with one less show.

Unbelievable.

Joanna...

that is amazing.

I mean, you're incredible.

You're-- you're not upset?

Are you kidding?

You just executed the most
brilliant marketing strategy.

I can picture the billboards--
"When love comes clean."

You can tell the story
in the pilot episode--

love, loss, redemption.
Your fans will eat it up.

Look, Joanna,

you came here to do a job
and you've done it beautifully.

So, whether or not Ted
is really your boyfriend

is irrelevant now

'cause we're in
the business of Joanna Moret,

dating or otherwise,
and frankly,

otherwise is fine with me.

I...

Have dinner with me.

Uh, to discuss the show
or... as a date?

It makes sense.

It adds up-- you, me, us.
It's a partnership.

Dell, I'm so sorry.

I can see how
you may have thought

I was going in a different
direction with this.

But I'm not looking for a
business transaction.

I'm...
I'm looking for love.

You know? Romance? The spark?

I'm learning that that gut
feeling is more important

than being a match
made on paper.

I can't say I'm not
a little bit disappointed.

A little embarrassed.

But I can say that
I still make deals

and yours is still
very much on the table.

Don't pass this up because
of my misunderstandings.

You're too good a businesswoman

and person to let this go.

Don't let this be
the one that got away.

But what about your father?
Will he feel the same way?

I'll talk to him.

I'm sure he'd be thrilled
if you said yes.

Well, thank you.

(sighing)
Then... yes.

All right,
back to my spreadsheets.

Well, I look forward to our
working relationship,

and I'll see you tonight
at the gala.

Ahh!
Ahh!

Valerie.
(exhaling deeply)

That, uh--
that's my dress.

It is?

Joanna, I had no idea.
It was just hanging up

and I didn't bring anything
fancy to wear because--

Valerie...

--I didn't know there
was going to be a party,

and when I found out
there was a party--

Valerie...

--I grabbed the
first thing I saw,

which was this dress,
your dress,

and I can
totally put it back--

Valerie!
Yes?

I-I think that dress would
look beautiful on you.

You do?

Stunning.

I'd go as far as to say

I think that dress was meant
to be worn by you.

What will you wear?

Um...

Wait. Don't say a word.

Just come with me.
I'll handle this...

Roomie.

Friend?

Oh, don't make me cry.

Dell:
Thank you very much for coming.

It's good to see you.
Enjoy yourselves.

Please enjoy yourself.
Merry Christmas.

This is incredible.

By the way,
have you seen Joanna around?

No, I haven't.

I believe she had
one last thing to do.

You look absolutely
stunning, Val.

I mean, Valerie, sorry.

Thank you.
You can call me Val.

But this dress is actually--

What she couldn't
wait to wear all week

for such an important event.

George, Dell,
I want to apologize.

One never needs to stay sorry

for delivering on every promise
and then some,

while finding a way to do it
all so beautifully.

Isn't that right, Dell?

Without question.

Well, thank you both for that,

for understanding,

for everything.

Would you accompany
me to the main hall?

I think it's time
for my entrance.

I would love to.

("The First Noel"
playing instrumentally)

Shall we?

("The First Noel"
playing instrumentally)

♪

Thank you for doing this.

You did what I thought might
have been impossible.

But our house and our hearts

are more alive
than I had ever dreamed.

Well, remember when I said

I had one last
surprise in store?

Would you mind following me?

I have something
I'd like to show you.

You have kept your wife's
memory alive in this house

and in this event,
and that is a very special gift.

You were brave enough
to share that with me,

so I wanted to return the favour

by allowing you to
share it with everyone else.

George:
I haven't seen that
photo in over 30 years.

Joanna:
And those are your guests
on their first Christmases.

This Christmas will always
be special because of you.

Joanna: Excuse me...

(clinking glass)

Excuse me, please, Mr. MacAllen
would like to say a few words.

Um...
(clearing throat)

I want to thank all of you,
friends, family and colleagues,

for taking the time

to spend another
glorious Christmas Eve

with us tonight.

My beautiful wife Caroline
is no longer here.

She would have loved this.

She believed in someone who
helped my son and I realize

that she will always
live in our hearts.

So, I would like you to join me

in thanking the woman

who's at the helm
of this incredible event

and who soon will be at the helm

of her very own television show,

where she will share her gifts.

Ladies and gentlemen, the star
of Living and Loving--

Joanna Moret.

(guests cheering and applauding)

Thank you.

(guests cheering and applauding)

Thank you.
I can't believe it.

Congratulations.

Please, enjoy the party.

So, Living and Loving, huh?

I was thinking on my toes.

I like it.

Yeah?

And I believe
we will do our best

to show everyone with a
television how to do both.

You'll figure it out,
five days a week.

Although, you might need
a little bit of help.

Yeah. I wish Ted were
here to see this,

hear the news.

He is.

Christmas miracles.

Nice tux.

Eh. And you, I mean,

you look...

Oh, well, they're not jeans,

but, you know,
baby steps.

I thought I'd never
get to see you again.

I was afraid that
you wouldn't want to.

Joanna, this is...

You're amazing.

You look amazing.

I-I did want to ask you,
when we first got here,

what did your
finger-book fortune say?

You can tell me now.

"Follow your heart."

Well, that's good advice.

Yeah.

And, uh, I have one very
important question for you.

Uh-oh.

Will you be my boyfriend?

For real this time?

Absolutely for real.

No lists, no points, just us.

Then, yes.
Absolutely yes.

Merry Christmas, Joanna.

Merry Christmas, Ted.

("We Wish You
a Merry Christmas" playing)

♪

(speaking inaudibly)

♪

♪

♪ Oh, yeah

♪ Christmas is coming
and I'm far away ♪

♪ The snow has been blowing
and drifting all day ♪

♪ Dreaming of you is the one
thing keeping me warm ♪

♪ Now, it's getting late
and I miss the last ride ♪