Original subtitles

I... I understand, I understand.

No, he's... he's...

No, he's writing right now.

Right now.

No, he's... he... he just told me, he's on page 56.

We're almost... We're halfway there.

No, I'm not lying.

Why would I lie about something like this?

No, I know what's at stake.

I know my... I know this is important to my company.

I get... No, he'll finish. He'll fini...

Oh.

Let me guess.

Movie producers demanding Nathan's book again.

Well, the screenplay can't be written

if we don't know how the series ends.

They're gonna pull the plug unless Nathan writes it.

Believe me, I've tried.

I mean, I've called, I've emailed, and I sent Siobhan,

his favourite editor, to convince him to come back.

Come back? Where is he?

Scotland.

A resort town called Aviemore.

Apparently, he's a ski instructor now.

Oh, God, this is a disaster.

He's accomplished every author's dreams.

He even has a movie deal.

And now he just wants to stop writing to teach skiing?

Writers are complicated.

Giving yourself an ulcer won't change anything.

SIGHS

His fans are revolting online.

Hashtags like, "Finish the finale,"

and, "Nathan's vanished," are actually trending online.

This coming from the woman who treats social media

like it's radioactive.

Our reputations are hanging on by a thread.

If he doesn't finish,

nobody's ever gonna trust us again.

UPBEAT SCOTTISH FOLK GUITAR

Nope, I got nothing. CLICKS TONGUE

My fans are gonna kill me.

Still struggling, eh?

Yeah, I thought coming back here would hit the reset button.

I don't know. Sometimes it's not that simple.

Especially when you've got so much going on inside.

Yeah, I've just... never had

this much riding on a book before.

You spend too much time alone.

And if you were to find yourself a nice lassie...

Ah, ah yeah, yeah. Not this again, Lachy.

I need to focus.

NATHAN GRUNTS

Besides, I've never really had much luck with that anyways.

You put too much pressure on yourself.

What's meant to happen will unfold in its own time.

Deadlines don't care about fate or timing, all right?

Neither do my fans or movie producers or...

Well, then, perhaps a change of scenery is in order.

I have these decorations here for your mum at the castle.

I was hoping you could take them over.

I thought you were just here for a sparkling conversation.

CHUCKLES

Oh, and don't forget.

We've a meeting tonight for our Go Ski fundraiser.

Dinnae be late.

I'm never late.

LACHLAN BLOWS RASPBERRY

Usually.

SOPHIE:Voila. TRAY CLATTERS

Vacation mode already?

I knew I should have stayed at our LA office.

You know, baking helps me think.

Don't ruin your appetite. Hm.

You should go talk to Nathan face to face.

I can't.

I've got too much to do here before Jack, Logan, and I

fly to Vail for Christmas.

Oh, I can't wait.

Anyway, Nathan's not talking to me.

He'll run the other way if he sees me coming.

Wait.

He's never seen you before.

You were the only one who stayed completely hidden

behind the scenes.

Oh, no, no, no, no, no, no.

I know exactly what you're thinking and the answer's no.

Why not?

You saw something special in Nathan's first manuscript

when you read it.

No-one thought he'd be successful

in the love-mystery space as a man, but you did.

That's why you are the perfect person

to go and talk to him.

No, but I'm not good with people.

That's why I stay behind the scenes

and you're in the front.

Time to stop hiding, Tiff.

LOGAN GRUNTS

What's the matter, Logan? I'm down 30 points.

Well, what game are you playing?The stock market, duh.

I'm trying to get rich.

There's a game called "The Stock Market"?

Well, just restart the game like your auntie used to do

whenever I was winning.

Doesn't work like that.

You know, sometimes you gotta be a little bit sneaky.

CHUCKLES

That's it.

Getting Nathan to finish his book is priority number one.

Logan, you could do with some fresh air

and time away from that screen.

You'll both hit the Scottish slopes,

hire Nathan as your ski instructor, play tourists,

and get to the bottom of why he's avoiding us like the plague.

This is literally insane.

I'm already going skiing with you and dad for Christmas

in, like, two weeks.

What's in it for me?

Adventure.

Joy.

Youthful mirth.

Money. Mm.

This isn't gonna work. I don't ski.

I mean, well, what is there to do up there?

UPBEAT SCOTTISH FOLK GUITAR

BAUBLE CLATTERS

Duke Hamish.

You're as bad as Alistair.

NATHAN SIGHS

What brings you by, son?

Uh, Lachy told me to come by and drop off these decorations.

By the looks of it, you need 'em. Thanks.

Who are...? What's going on? Who are all these people?

New duke intends to turn the castle into a bougie hotel.

After Duke Alistair passed and Hamish inherited everything,

he has made a lot of changes.

And he's no intention of keeping up our Christmas traditions.

Some nonsense about decorations

interfering with the classic castle decor.

FESTIVE INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC

You know, your mom and I never had a cellphone

when we were 11 years old.

Well, that's fascinating. How did you send texts?

Pigeon carrier?

Ha-ha, very funny.

Yeah, I know. I'm a comedian.

I've always wanted to learn how to ski.

It looks like it could be fun. So why haven't you?

Uh, I guess I'm just working all the time.

Sad.

Well, I love skiing with my parents. It's the best.

Aw, that's sweet.

And I know they love it, too. Yeah.

Miss Bennett, we will be in Scotland in 40 minutes.

Can I get you anything else?

Oh, no, thank you.

UPBEAT FESTIVE MUSIC

Kids and their phones these days.

SHE EXHALES

TRUNK CLOSES

Ah. Are you sure this is the right address?

The Maltings. This is it.

OWL HOOTING IN THE DISTANCE

CAR ENGINE STARTS

CAR DRIVES OFF

ANIMAL SQUEAKS

LUGGAGE THUMPS

DOOR SHUTS

CLOCK GONGS

"Welcome to the Highlands.

"Use... me to heat the home.

"Enjoy."

Staring at it won't make it burst into flames.

OK, Mr Smarty Pants. Do YOU know how to build a fire?

CLANKING

Fire on.

CLANKS

Fire on.

Fire on.

I don't think it works that way around here.

Besides, it'll be good for us to figure this out.

Life skills, you know?

HE SIGHS

PHONE CHIMES

Mm-hm.

WIND HOWLING

SOPHIE:'So, how's it going?'

Is it as magical as it looks online?

WIND HOWLING It's quaint.

The landscape is gorgeous.

Why do you look like you're about to go skiing?

Cos I lost the battle with the wood-burning stove.

Are you sure this is the only place available?

'Everything was sold out for the holidays.'

Oh, and you're all set for your skiing lesson

with Nathan tomorrow morning at 9am.

'Are you ready?' Well, as ready as I'll ever be.

You want to talk to Logan? 'I already did.'

I called him before you.

Get some rest. It's a big day tomorrow.

If I don't turn into a human icicle by then.

Love you, sis.

Love you more.

Oh, I can pick you up.

UPBEAT FESTIVE MUSIC

You have to put your skis down.

Oh. Watch how I do it.

Oh.

OK.

Ah.

How hard could this be?

Hm.

I think that's Nathan.

I'll go let him know we're here.

Shouldn't we wait?

SHE WHIMPERS, SCREAMS

How do I stop?

How do I stop?!

Oh, oh!

SCREAMS

HE GRUNTS, SHE WHIMPERS

Ow! HE GROANS

I am so sorry. It's OK.

You're Nathan? HE SIGHS

Yeah. Last I checked.

HE SIGHS, GRUNTS

You must be Rose? No.

I mean... yes.

I... I thought...

Yes, I know.

It's the lack of the Scottish accent, isn't it?

SCOTTISH ACCENT:Would you prefer if I spoke to you like this, then?

Oh, no. Please dinnae do that.

Even if you drank all the Irn-Bru in Scotland,

you'll never get your accent back.OK, what do you expect?

I moved to the States as a kid.

This is my slightly taller

and much less good-looking best mate, Lachlan, and his son, Ollie.

This is Rose and Logan. Nice to meet you.

Call me Lachy. Oh.

Oh, oh! SHE SQUEALS

LAUGHTER

Are you as good as your aunt, Logan?

Good? I've been skiing in Vail every winter with my parents.

Well, in that case, why don't you come ski with us?

They might be on the bunny slopes a wee while.

Oh, that's a generous offer.

But I mean, we don't want to impose.

Oh, not at all.

My wife Maggie and I run the kids' club back at the resort.

Logan's welcome to hang out there after skiing

for as long as he'd like.

Oh, are you sure?

Is that what you want, Logan?

Is there a Wi-Fi?

Of course.

It's settled, then.

Hey, why don't you take Rose for brekkie and a tour

of the village after your lesson?

Oh, I'd love that. It sounds fun.

I'd, uh, love to, Rose, but, um...

I'm really, really busy after our lesson.

Is that so? With what exactly?

I have to send out invites for the fundraiser.

Oh, Maggie's already taken care of that.

I have to organise the events, the decorations.

They're... They're not gonna set themselves up.

Well, I could help with that.

Wait, what am I signing up for exactly?

Go Ski - our fundraising event.

It's to help pay for lessons for the wee ones in the village

who cannae afford it.

Oh, that's amazing.

OK.

So, you show me around town,

and I'll help you set up for the events.

Fine. It's a lot of work.

I'm not afraid of hard work.

Come on, lads.

First one down gets an extra hot chocolate.

Ah.

Thank you.

Haven't had proper breakfast until you've had

traditional Scottish breakfast.

I can't eat all this.

And what's that? Black pudding.

Very traditional.

You should try it.

Uh, don't sniff it first. Just eat it.

Mm, delicious.

CHUCKLES

What is it that you do for work exactly?

Work? Uh...

Well, I, uh... I... I do lots of different things.

I, um... I manage, and organise,

and help plan events.

Oh, so, you're an event planner?

That's why you offered to help with our fundraiser?

Yeah, exactly. NATHAN SIGHS

And what do you do when ski season ends?

Well, I'm, uh... currently...

rethinking my career at the moment.

What?! Why?

Uh, I-I-I just mean...

..what-what are you thinking about doing instead of, uh...

whatever it is that you do?

I'm just...

..stuck between a rock and a hard place at the moment.

I don't know what I'm gonna do next.Hm.

It amazes me how ten minutes ago we were surrounded by snow,

and now, nothing.

Uh, yeah, that's, uh... Scotland for you.

Hm. OK, so, where to first?

Ah. Well, I guess that depends.

What sort of things do you like to do?

Hm... I like to read.

Ah, let's go in here.

Uh, let's go to Lachy's kids' club.

There's... Come on!

And you can check on Logan. It'll just take a second.

No, I... NATHAN GRUNTS

Oh! This is adorable.

Oh, Logan would love this book.

I'm gonna get it for him.

Let me get it for you.

Oh, don't be silly. I'll get it.

HE CHUCKLES

It's OK.

I've read every one of his books.

Did you know he's from around here?

Really?

Our very own local celebrity.

Aw, you must be very proud.

Indeed.

I can't wait until the final book of his latest series comes out.

We've been waiting forever, it seems.

You're here on holiday?

Yeah, a little getaway with my nephew.

We haven't seen much yet.

Honestly, I'm a bit more of a city girl.

We're not sure what to do around here.

Oh, well, there's plenty to do.

I'm sure you'll find something.

HE SIGHS

BELL TOLLS

So, local celebrity, huh?

Yeah. Guess my secret is out.

You're admired and respected. You should be proud of that.

HE SIGHS

Look, I'm... I'm grateful for everyone who reads

and loves my books.

It's just... Look, it's a lot sometimes, OK?

You wouldn't understand.

HE SIGHS

So, you're not impressed with Scotland so far?

No, no, no, no. I didn't say that.

It's just... a lot slower than the city.

All right, well, the city's got nothing on the character

and charm of the Highlands.

UPBEAT SCOTTISH FOLK INSTRUMENTAL

Oh, wow.

This is so beautiful.

There's so much rich history here.

Yeah, and it's, uh... something that can never be bought.

Well, this is a nice surprise.

Mom, this is Rose.

Lovely to meet you, dear.

I'm Fiona.

Oh, my.

Aren't you a beauty?

And tall like a Highland rose.

SHE CHUCKLES Aye, a rare and bonny flower.

Oh. SHE CHUCKLES

Thank you. That's very kind.

NATHAN CHUCKLE Mom, Dad, uh...

Rose is vacationing here from Los Angeles with her nephew,

and I thought it would be nice

if I just showed her some Scottish history.

From Los Angeles, eh? Like our Nathan.

Funny.

You never mentioned knowing such a beautiful lady as this.

Dad, Dad, Dad. It's not like that.

We've just met in Aviemore.

Stop your teasing, Fergus. Come on.

FERGUS LAUGHS, NATHAN SIGHS

I'm sorry. SHE GIGGLES

So, this was Nathan's favourite room to hide in

when he played hide and seek with his father as a wee boy.

Wait, this is your castle?

Oh, no, no.

Fergus and I are just the castle caretakers.

We work here and live on the grounds.

But Duke Alistair loved Nathan,

and he gave him the run of the castle.

You didn't tell me you grew up in a castle.

I mean, what a wonderful childhood.

Uh, I... I didn't think it was important.

I hope you don't mind me asking,

but why don't you have any Christmas decorations?

Oh.

After Duke Alistair passed away leaving no heirs,

so did his tradition.

He loved Christmas.

Every corner of the castle sparkled with holiday magic.

Yeah, we would all spend time here together as a family,

but he's put an end to that, too.

That's terrible. Why?

Duke Hamish is a grumpy old Scrooge.

Rose, would you like to see Duke Alistair's private chambers?

The room's considered sacred,

and it's one of the only rooms that's not available to the public.

Yeah. Come on.

Wow.

SPEAKS SCOTTISH GAELIC

What does that mean?

"Forever in our memories."

Meaning - never forget the ones you love.

He put that up the week before he died.

No-one knows why.

Hm.

May I? Of course.

CAMERA SHUTTER CLICKS

The kilt is the family's tartan.

It's a traditional Scottish pattern,

but unique to each clan.

OK, let me get this straight.

So, Alistair had no children.

The dukedom went to his younger brother,

Hamish, correct?

Aye, but Duke Alistair explicitly stated in his will

that any child of the three siblings

would inherit the castle and title of Duke.

But none of the siblings had any children.

So, why put it in the will?

Aye, why indeed.

Another of the Duke's mysteries.

So, there were three siblings and none of them had children?

Aye. Alistair, Hamish, and Mary.

And Mary was the youngest?

Well, she was, aye. Hm.

Bugger. Another tour group. Waste of time.

INDISTINCT CHATTER

GASPS

I really have to go to the bathroom.

Where is it?

Oh, it's, uh, just...

Why is Siobhan still in Scotland?

I thought she went back to the London office.

Oh, I forgot.

She extended her stay to be with her family for the holidays.

Wait, how do you know she's there?

Because she's here at the castle.

Castle?! Did she see you?

I don't think so. What am I supposed to do?

She'll blow my cover.

Well, try to get out without being seen.

I knew this was a bad idea. 'You'll be fine.'

Just don't get caught.

Hey.

Did you get lost? Hey.

I'd love to get some fresh air.

Why don't we go take a tour of the grounds?

Oh, yeah. Su... Here. It's this way.

Oh.

So, what was it like growing up in a castle?

HE CHUCKLES I don't know.

Honestly, I never really thought about it much.

Home was home and...

Yeah. My parents are great.

I don't know what would have happened to me

if it wasn't for them.

What do you mean?

My mom died during childbirth, so they adopted me.

Oh.

I am so sorry.

I had no idea. It's fine.

Thank you.

Did you know anything about her?

No.

Uh, I never really thought to ask.

All I know is I love my parents.

They love me and...

..you know, that's what really matters.

Yeah.

Come on. It's this way. Oh.

Oh, wow.

SHE GASPS

This is magnificent.

It's so peaceful.

I'd like to come down here when I need some time alone, and...

..you know, just think and unwind.

Speaking of thinking...

you mentioned you were considering a new career.

I mean, clearly, you love writing.

And the woman at the book store is dying for your last book.

BIRDS CHIRPING IN BACKGROUND

A lot of people are.

Uh, sometimes...

..I don't know, what you think you wanted isn't what you expected,

or doesn't feel the way you thought it would feel, and...

..it all just seems hollow.

You start to question your choices.

Hey.

What is that?

Celtic mythology.

This stag is symbol of strength and endurance.

It's said to be a spirit guide.

It can transition effortlessly between worlds.

Beautiful, isn't he? Yeah.

UPBEAT FESTIVE MUSIC

LOGAN LAUGHS Yeah!

HE SCREAMS

Whoo! Yeah!

Whoa-ho-ho-ho-ho!

Oh, are you sure this is safe?

NATHAN:Perfectly! SHE SCREAMS

HE GRUNTS

Oh.You hurt? Oh...

Oh.

I don't think so.

SHE EXHALES

I think you're the only person I've ever seen fall while tubing.

Sure you're OK? Just a bruised ego.

Hey, Tiffany, you know tubing is meant to be on the tube, right?

Tiffany?

Uh...

Oh!

CHUCKLES

It is so silly.

He likes to play these games

where he calls me by different names.

You know, kids. It's so weird.

Yeah, kids and their imaginations.TIFFANY CHUCKLES

Hey, how about we go somewhere where I guarantee

you won't get hurt?

OK, well, knowing you, I can't guarantee, but...

It's the snow. I think it's out to get me.

SHE SCREAMS

Seriously?

Oh, oh.

All right! Oh.

You're on! Oh!

You are in trouble!

LAUGHTER

LOGAN:I nailed you!

TIFFANY SCREAMS, LAUGHS

Oh!

KIDS LAUGH

Whoo! SHE LAUGHS

NATHAN SIGHS

We're short on our fundraising goal.

Donations are way down.

Well, I wouldnae worry too much.

Still early days.

Yeah. So what's the plan now?

Eh... Give me a day or two.

I'll think of something.

CLOCK CHIMES

It's getting complicated, Soph.

I didn't expect to actually feel.

SOPHIE, ON PHONE:'Feel?'

Are you developing feelings for him?

I think I am.

And more than I should, which makes me feel even worse.

Every time he opens up, it feels like I'm betraying him.

But he's opening up to you. That's great!

Are you seeing him tomorrow?

Yeah, he's been showing me around all his favourite places in town.

Perfect!

This is going better than we expected.

I don't know if I can keep doing this.

You'll tell him the truth when the time is right.

Just stick it out for a few more days, OK?

SHE SQUEALS, LAUGHS

I did it!You sure you haven't done this before?

I promise! This is my first time!

All right. It must be beginner's luck.

Here, let's try another.

OK. OK.

Now breathe out on your release.

OK.

SHE SQUEALS, LAUGHS

Oh!

I think we finally found something you're good at!

Oh... I'm like Robin Hood.

Yeah, just like Robin Hood! SHE LAUGHS

Seriously, that was great. I'm proud of you.

You have great form.

Not that I was looking at your form.

Or-Or-Or not looking at your form.

So, you noticed my form?

You want to go grab a cup of hot chocolate from Santa's Grotto?

Sure. Why not?

What's Christmas without a visit to Santa, right?

Yeah, let's do that.

Ugh, I used to love Christmas.

Used to?

Uh, somewhere along the way, Christmas just became...

another day.

But being here with you, in this place...

There's something magical about it.

Feels just like...

BOTH:..home.

BOTH CHUCKLE

Um...

I just have to make a quick call.

I'll be right back. OK.

Nathan. Didn't expect to run into you here.

Siobhan. Hey, uh... HE CLEARS THROAT

Thought you went back to London after our discussion.

I'm visiting family.

Gonna have some other business here.

Have you changed your mind about our discussion yet?

I haven't, and you can tell your pit bull of a boss

to stop sending people.

All right? I-I-I don't want to talk about it.

Fine, but, Nathan, I've been your editor

on your last five books now.

This isn't like you.

I'm here if you ever want to talk.

As a friend.

Thank you, Siobhan. I, uh...

..I appreciate it.

You take care.

I'll be seeing you soon.

Uh, Lachy, hey.

NATHAN EXHALES Glad I ran into you, mate.

What's up?

Bring the kids down from the club for a little outing.

I could use some help. It's like herding feral cats.

Maggie always makes it look so effortless.

NATHAN CHUCKLES

Yeah, where is that amazing wife of yours anyway?

She's back at the club.

It was my turn to run the excursion.

INDISTINCT BACKGROUND CHATTER

SIGHS

Logan. Hey, bud.

What did you want to ask Santa for this year?

A bull market.

CHUCKLES:OK.

He's right over there, so now's your chance.

I don't think so.

Are you afraid of Santa Claus?

EXHALES

Ho, ho, ho!

I have more call options than you have presents

in that bag, so I want the market to soar.

What?

So, what happened to you at Santa's Grotto?

You just disappeared.

Oh, yeah. Sorry.

Uh... a work thing came up.

But you're supposed to be on vacation?

Sometimes I feel like work follows me everywhere I go.

Yeah, trust me, I know the feeling.

Anyway, while you're here, you have to try

one of our most authentic Scottish dishes.

TAPS MENU Haggis.

Haggis? Should I be worried?

It doesn't sound great. Oh, no.

Think, um... oatmeal, vegetables, and spices.

Served with neeps and tatties. Very, very traditional.

"Neeps and tatties"? Did you just make that up?

No, neeps are turnips and tatties are mashed potatoes.

Actually, fun fact.

Haggis is most famously served on Burns Night.

Robert Burns? That's my favourite poet.

Oh, coming in for the win on that literary angle.

How could I resist, hm?

I, um, need your help with something.

For the fundraiser.

Great. What is it?

I'll show you.

After we eat. Hi.

I'll have the fish and chips,

and the lady will have an extra large haggis.

LACHLAN:Still on that phone, eh?

What can we do to entice you off it?

Skiing? Nah, unfortunately not.

The weather's nae good.

And taking a bunch of kids out to a snowbank

is not on my to-do list today.

What's up, kid?

Bad day in the market.

My stocks are down.

Wait.

Do you mean to tell me you've actually been

trading stocks this whole time?

Yeah. Duh. LACHLAN LAUGHS

Sorry.

Listen.

It's good to have goals, Logan...

but dinnae rush through being a kid.

Trust me.

The market will always be there.

But the memories you make, playing tag or laughing with pals,

priceless.

Dinnae let the opportunity pass you by.

Life's richest investments aren't always in money, lad.

Sometimes, they're in the fun you have along the way.

Logan!

Go on. Join them.

And remember what I said.

LOGAN INHALES DEEPLY

We actually did it.

Not bad for two city folks, huh?

I'm actually having fun here.

Aww! I knew you would, kiddo.

Lachy and his family have been great.

They've invited me to their house tomorrow.

Can I go? Of course, you could go.

It's wonderful to see you making new friends.

You know, I'm starting to realise...

..maybe it's not all about work.

Hm.

Oh! This is amazing! SHE GASPS

I get it why you like this place so much.

Yeah, well, you gotta keep in touch with your inner child.

At least a little bit.

Make sure the magic doesn't slip away.

Do you ever worry if the magic might slip away for you?

As a writer, I mean.

HE SIGHS

I mean, sometimes I feel like it already has.

Truth is, I don't write much these days.

I'm lost at sea. I'm, uh...

Uh, with all the attention fame brings,

you don't know if people like you for you.

Hm. Or your success.

I don't know. I write about love, but...

I can't find it in my own life.

I just feel like a fraud sometimes.

SHE CLICKS TONGUE

Are you sure you don't enjoy all the attention and success?

No, I'm sure.

Yeah, it's definitely my least favourite part.

I don't know, I don't want to sound ungrateful, but...

I just feel like I'm adrift.

I'm stuck in between who I think I am

and who I feel like everyone else thinks I should be.

I don't think you sound ungrateful.

But the real you, the one behind the words...

..that's what draws people in.

Maybe it's time to share that part of you again.

The world is waiting to see how it all ends.

HE EXHALES

You're starting to sound like my editor.

Oh, no, no, no. I didn't mean, I...

I just know how much your stories mean to people.

Believe me, I understand.

You want to avoid situations that make you feel exposed.

I hate to break it to you, but, um,

you're a little exposed right now.

SHE LAUGHS

# Ooh

# Hey

# Ooh

# Hurry home and come round here

# I really love this time of year

# Making plans to get together... #

Hold still.

# Memories that will last forever

# Snow is falling deep outside

# The day is almost up

# Come inside and don't be shy

# Cos now it's time... # Whoa.

# To have some fun

# Christmas # Oh, oh, oh

# It's Christmas... #

Ah!

# And I want to share This Christmas with you... #

Oh, that's hot. SHE LAUGHS

# Christmas... #

It's so good.

What? # It's Christmas... #

There.

Oh, wow. NATHAN LAUGHS

What?! No, it's just like

you've never seen Christmas lights before.

Oh, but it's so magical.

I mean, when did I stop paying attention to things like this?

Well, sometimes you...

..just need a little reminder.

Come on.

I want to show you something.

OK. SHE CHUCKLES

OK, be careful. Be careful.

Oh. All right.

SHE LAUGHS

OK, OK. Right?

OK, OK. OK, here I go.

OK. BOTH LAUGH

Come on. We're almost there.

OK. SHE CHUCKLES

I feel like if you take big steps, it really helps.

Oh. HE EXHALES

SHE CHUCKLES

Oh. Isn't this an amazing view?

It's getting late. I'm, uh...

I'm gonna go check in on Logan.

Yeah. Right.

Nathan. Hm?

It's your shot.

Right. Sorry.

You're distracted. What is it?

Ah, that lassie Rose has gotten to you, hasn't she?

Yeah, I, uh... I think I'm falling for her.

She's amazing.

Well, that's terrific. I cannae believe it.

Finally.

I know, but it's more than that, though.

She asked me why I never wanted to learn about my birth mom.

Your birth mom? Yeah.

I mean, she died when you were born.

What else is there to know?

It's not like you can just summon her up for tea and a chat.

It just made me start to wonder, you know, like who was she?

What was she like? She... Am I anything like her?

Oh. What am I doing?

What am I doing? I have to tell him!

It's... It's... gone way too far.

Well, if it's pressing on you, you should look into it.

Not the only thing on your mind, though, is it?

No, I just...

I can't get a read on Rose.

Oh.

This is... T-T-T-This... This is going too far.

I have to tell... I have to tell him.

I have to tell him right now.

It's like every time we get close,

I feel like she's pulling back.

Like she's hiding something.

Hm.

Well, new love takes time.

I have to do this in person.

Unless you think she's secretly a spy.

Or plotting world domination.

In that case, you're on your own.

Yeah.

She's leaving soon anyways, so...

I don't know, maybe it's not meant to be.

Well, like I always say, if she means something to you,

then it's worth seeing it through.

You know what, Lachy? You're right.

She's not like anybody I've ever met before.

She's smart, she's funny, and she's beautiful.

She's the total package.

SIGHS

Good game.

You've been awfully quiet today.

Actually, there's something I have to tell you.

There's something I have to tell you, too.

Oh?

I started writing again today for the first time in months.

Really? Yeah, yeah.

The words just came flowing out of me.

Nathan, that's incredible!

I needed a break from it, but I also missed it.

And, um, it's in part because of you.

You've reopened something inside of me, Rose, so thank you.

Now, what was it you wanted to tell me?

Oh.

Duke Hamish is gonna be the death of me.

He's refusing to have Christmas dinner at the castle.

But we always have Christmas at the castle.

Well, why don't we have it at your house, Nathan?

My house? Uh. HE CHUCKLES

No, no. I... I don't really like hosting.

It's a lot of cooking and cleaning.

Actually, it's a grand idea.

It's just us and Lachy's family.

We can have a cosy, quiet Christmas, and we can all pitch in and cook.

There you go. It's perfect!

No. I don't want that.

Decided, then.

I'll start putting together the menu.

Ah, no. Ha, hey, I didn't agree to this.

Er, stop your fussing.

You've got decorating to do.

Mm-hm. Fine.

Since this was your brilliant idea,

you can be in charge of the decorating committee.

No backing out. Oh, no. Whoa, whoa, whoa!

Yeah, no backing out. Wait, uh...

Oh, ugh, uh... No backing out.

Eeh!

Ah.

'JINGLE BELLS' INSTRUMENTAL

PHONE RINGING

Hey. Just checking in.

How's everything going?

I'm just looking up Nathan's family tree.

Really? What for?

Did you know he was adopted? 'No. He's very private.'

But it sounds like he's really opening up to you.

Yeah. He is.

He started writing, Soph.

He said he feels inspired.

Whoa, that's amazing!

Why didn't you lead with that?

Our plan's working!

Yeah.

It is.

Uh, I'm just so comfortable with him.

You know, it's not normal for me.

He's so kind, and thoughtful,

and... fun.

I haven't had fun in a long time.

I really want to tell him how I feel,

but I can't, because I'm lying about who I am.

'I know.'

But you're not just saving our reputation.

You're helping him find his voice again.

And that's a good thing.

I hope you're right, cos I feel terrible.

I truly believe that love will win the day.

You just gotta time it right.

Well, you got lucky.

I mean, Jack is an amazing husband and father.

Real life is rarely like books,

where love is safe, and predictable, and happy.

Mention my name?

Hi, Jack.

Hey, Tiff. Listen, don't stress.

If this Nathan character is as good as you described,

I'm sure he's gonna understand.

'Mm-hm.'

I love you, sis.

I love you more.

PHONE RINGING

Hey, girl. What's up?

So, I'm just dropping Logan off at the club.

Everyone's mini-golfing.

I need to talk to you. It's important.

Mom!

'Hey, sweetheart.'

It's bad news, I'm afraid.

I know you were supposed to fly out and join us tomorrow,

but a massive storm has hit Vail.

'All the flights have been grounded for the next couple of days.'

So, we're not gonna be together for Christmas?

No. I'm so sorry.

What? No. This can't be fair.

There has to be another way. Can't we take the jet?

No, the... the airport's completely shut down.

But it's Christmas.

'I know.'

And we want nothing more than to spend it together.

But it's not possible.

We love you so much.

HE SOBS

Oh...

LOGAN SOBS

Hey. Is everything OK?

There's a big storm in Vail.

It looks like we're gonna be here for Christmas.

Oh, buddy. I'm so sorry.

I know how much you were looking forward

to being with your parents.

Christmas is ruined!

LOGAN SOBS

Why don't you spend Christmas with us?

We'd love to have you.

Oh, no. We couldn't possibly.

Hey, I insist.

I'm not taking no for an answer.

Thank you.

That is a really generous offer.

LOGAN SNIFFLES

You're staying for Christmas?

Oh, well, this is great news.

Hey, Ollie will be thrilled.

Logan, I'm gonna be needing my favourite sous chef

to help me prepare some dishes for the dinner.

Really? Yeah, of course.

You didn't think you'd be getting away with it that easy, do you?

'Hello? Are you still there?'

Oh, is that your sister? Oh.

I can tell her you're spending Christmas with us.

Oh, no, no, no, no, no. I'll... I'll tell her later.

You sure? Yeah.

Yeah! Yeah. Hm.

# I still remember... #

Whoa, oh, oh.

# Like it was yesterday

# The smell of mama's Christmas cookies

# And the bells on an open sleigh

# Passing strangers stop To share a smile

# White houses filled with joy And laughter

# As they bless the child

# Christmas

# It's my favourite time

# Christmas It makes my heart shine

# Christmas... #

Boys, cookies, mince pies!

# My favourite time of year... #No, no, no, wait.

They just need a dusting.

Can we do it? You can.

# My favourite time of year ...#

BOTH CHUCKLE

Mm, I don't think that's right.

Oh! No, no, no, no, not like that.

Let me show you how. No, we're good.

Let me do it. It's OK, I can show you.

We're fine, we're fine. Let me show you.

We got it. No, let me.

BOTH GASP

LAUGHING

Stop fretting, son. She'll be down soon.

SHE CHUCKLES

You look stunning.

I made this for you.

It's the title of my third book.

Thanks to you.

This is so special.

You have no idea how much this means to me.

'JINGLE BELLS' INSTRUMENTAL

INDISTINCT CHATTER

Here, I helped make this.

It's mince pie.

Don't worry, it's just dried fruits and spices.

Mmm, that's delicious.

KNOCKING ON DOOR

Are we expecting someone else?

Hamish, what are you doing here?

Sorry to interrupt your dinner.

I, uh...

I almost forgot to deliver this to Nathan.

Wha...? But we agreed no presents this year.

This one's an exception.

Alistair asked me to give it to you on Christmas Day.

It was his dying request.

I don't understand. What is this?

That was our sister Mary's book...

from when she was a wee bairn.

Her favourite, in fact.

Well...

But why would Alistair give this to me?

I don't know.

Today would have been Mary's birthday.

She just up and left our family one day

when she was 18 years old.

Never knew why.

Less than a year later, she passed.

And was gone... forever.

I never got to say goodbye.

See, see.

Christmas is a reminder of that loss.

Alistair chose to celebrate double for Christmas

and for Mary.

But for me...

..it was a time of mourning.

That's why you didn't want to have Christmas dinner at the castle.

Well, then, this belongs to you.

Alistair wanted you to have it for a reason.

It's yours.

Cherish it.

I'd love to read the book, if that's all right.

Yeah, sure.

You can read it to Logan later tonight.

Well, now you're here, stay!

Yeah, stay with us.

Stay. Stay.

You can have my seat.

Ah, a toast.

Uh, I'm grateful to have all of you here.

To the laughter, the love, and all the cherished memories.

Merry Christmas. May lang yer lum reek.

LACHLAN:Oh. And...

NATHAN LAUGHS

Slainte mhath. Slainte mhath.

You know, Nathan, truly the worst accent ever.

It's a feat worthy of legend.

LACHLAN LAUGHS

Cheers. Cheers.

OK everybody, let's dig in.

I didn't know you'd be into haggis.

Oh, well, Nathan said it was just dried oats,

spices, and vegetables.

Oh, did he now?

CHUCKLING

Aww!

All right, go on. Have fun.

Oh, Logan, your hat!

Wa... PHONE RINGING

BEEP Your timing is really impeccable.

Guess what?

I've just booked a press junket for Nathan's new book.

Talk shows, podcasts, the works.

Oh, no, no, Soph.

We were wrong about him.

He doesn't like all the attention.

But we have to promote the book before the movie.

Uh, he's not gonna be happy about this.

Do not let your feelings for him get in the way

of what needs to be done.

Soph, I can't keep lying to Nathan.

I have to tell him the truth.

Tell me the truth about what, Tiffany?

Oh.

Oh, Nathan, I... I... I can explain.

I'm listening.

Well, I'm not who I said I was.

My name isn't Rose.

I gathered that much, Tiffany.

So, who are you?

Really?

Tiffany Bennett.

Bennett?

Of Tiffany and... and Sophie Bennett?

Owners of Golden Bennett Publishing?

Uh, yes.

So you lied to me this whole time about who you really were.

Nathan, I am so sorry.

You wouldn't take our calls. You turned Siobhan away.

We tried everything.

I thought maybe if I just come here and understand

why you stopped writing, maybe I could help.

So, this is all just some ploy to get me to write a book?

No! Well, I mean, yes, at first.

And I meant to tell you sooner, but then...

I started to care...

about you.

Like, really, really care.

And somewhere along the way, it stopped becoming about the book,

and it became about us.

"Us"?

There is no us.

You lied to me.

You're just here on business, that's all.

I'm... I'm just some product to you.

That is not true. You have to listen to me.

I'm done listening.

There's nothing that you can say to justify what you've done.

I didn't mean to hurt you.

You have to know that.

I never want to see you again.

And as for the book...

..consider it dead.

Nathan, no. No, no, no, no, no, no.

DOOR SHUTS, LOCKS

Where have I seen that before?

"Forever in our memory."

Huh.

What?!

Can't be.

I wanted to make sure Nathan got this back.

Why don't you give it back to him yourself?

I am the last person that he wants to see, and I don't blame him.

Look, it's no use feeling sorry for yourself.

What's done is done. Mistakes were made.

I'm sure you have your reasons.

I do.

But, um, I think they were quite selfish.

It isn't me you need to be explaining yourself to.

Hm.

I have something I want to show you.

There's a handwritten note in this book.

Now, it's the same handwriting that's on the picture

next to the Duke's bed.

So it is.

That's Duke Alistair's writing, I'd know it anywhere.

And Nathan told me, in Celtic folklore,

it's believed the stag is a spiritual messenger.

I believe that the Duke put it here

before he passed away for a reason.

To guide us...

to this. That's...

It can't be.

I can't believe it.

Is that?

Hamish and Alistair's little sister, Mary.

So that means Alistair is...

Nathan's uncle.

Mary must have died after she'd had the baby.

That explains why Alistair brought Nathan to us.

He knew we weren't able to have a child of our own.

By giving us Nathan...

..he was able to keep his nephew close

and watch over him.

But why did he keep it a secret?

To protect Mary.

A child out of wedlock would have caused a scandal for the family.

The Duke loved a slow-burn mystery.

Talk about a plot twist.

CLACKING KEYS

No, that's not it.

CLACKING KEYS

Uh! No.

No, no, no!

CLACKING KEYS

KNOCKING ON DOOR Not now!

It's me, son.

Uh, I'm... I'm sorry I snapped at you, mom.

It's OK, I understand.

Better get the kettle on.

We need to talk.

Duke Alistair is my... Uncle.

Indeed, a secret he kept hidden all these years.

And Rose... I mean, Tiffany, she discovered all this?

Aye. She pieced it all together.

She followed the clues that Alistair left.

And did some digging online to confirm it all.

She cares about you, Nathan.

She lied to me.

She lied to all of us.

How are you so understanding?

Nobody's perfect.

"Let him who is without sin cast the first stone."

Well, this, uh...

certainly answers a lot of questions that I've had over the years.

HE CHUCKLES

So, why would...

..Uncle Alistair keep this a secret for so long?

He loved Mary.

I think this was his way of protecting you both.

She was young and unwed.

And it would have brought shame on the family.

And knowing Alistair...

I think he wanted you to grow up without the weight of titles

and expectations.

And when he saw your love for writing,

he chose to let you follow it freely.

But you know what this means.

You're the Duke now.

The clause in his will.

Aye.

Well, what if I don't want this?

I... I have... I have my books and-and my writing.

I-I-I... I can't do all of this.

You're not alone, Nathan.

You've got me, your father, the castle staff.

We'll all help you.

I don't know, Mom.

Seems like a lot. That it is.

Just think about it.

You don't have to decide right now.

But bear in mind, you cannae leave us with

Hamish the Scrooge in charge, but...

..no pressure.

SHE CHUCKLES

INDISTINCT CHATTER, LAUGHTER

INDISTINCT CHATTER

NATHAN SIGHS

Well, aren't you the life and soul of the party?

Yeah, I'm just not really in the mood right now, Lachy.

Clearly.

That's a nasty bite you've got there.

The love bug? LACHLAN CHUCKLES

No? Not even a smile?

Right, then.

Don't you have a speech to go give?

Listen.

I know you're hurting.

I'm not making excuses for what she did.

But I've never seen you so happy before.

You two have a special connection.

Surely, that's worth putting your pride aside and...

It's not about pride, Lachy.

She lied to me. It's just a business deal.

That's all.I dinnae believe that for a second.

I saw what was in both of your eyes.

Look, I need to get on with it.

But I'm here if you need me.

INDISTINCT CHATTER

You've got to forgive, son.

Holding on to anger, it's like drinking poison yourself

and expecting the other person to die.

It's easy to see the feelings that you have for each other are true.

And finding a soul mate like that

only happens once in a lifetime if you're lucky.

Dinnae be daft.

Dinnae let her go.

Uh.

Time to go, kiddo.

Are you really gonna give up on Nathan that easily?

Running away doesn't fix anything.

You are wise beyond your years.

But there are some things you just can't understand yet.

# Shining bright like A shooting star

# In the dead of night

# Can you see it falling?

# Reaching out Can I touch it now?

# Does it come to life?

# Will it last forever?

# This could be the moment

# We're waiting for

# Every star is brighter Before it falls... #

Wait! I forgot my phone with Lachy!

We don't have time to go back, sweetheart.

We'll miss our flight.

Please, please, please, please, pretty please, please.

Well, OK.

But we have to be quick.

# Hold your breath Don't you let it go

# Watch it come to life It'll last forever

# This could be the moment... #

I'll be right back, stay here.

INDISTINCT CHATTER

Tiffany!

KNOCKING Tiffany!

INDISTINCT CHATTER

Logan? What are you doing here? I thought you'd left.

I have a favour to ask. Can you call my phone?

What are you up to? Up to? Nothing.

Why would I be up to something? Mm-hm.

PHONE RINGING

No.

# One moment forever... #

Are you kidding me?

Did you know?

GASPS Were you in on this?

Oh, and don't you go anywhere. I'm only gonna be a second.

INDISTINCT CHATTER

Oh, it's nice to see you here, dear.

Oh, I'm glad one of you had the good sense

to fight for what matters most.

Oh.

Well, actually, I didn't have a choice.

LACHLAN:Thank you all for coming tonight.

And for your generous support of our Go Ski fund for the wee ones.

We really are grateful beyond words.

Now, I have a bit of exciting news.

An anonymous donor has matched our current funds and pledged

to double any donations made this evening.

So, dig deep, my friends.

CHEERING AND APPLAUSE

Well, it looks like we're gonna meet our goal after all.

I suspect you know something about that.

No, actually, I don't.

# Deck the calls With bells of holly

# Fa-la-la-la-la Skiing for all. #

CHUCKLES

Take your partners for a strip the willow.

Have you ever danced to the ceilidh?

CEILIDH MUSIC

All right, right there.

Uh, I don't know the steps.

It's fine. Just keep moving.

Nathan, I am so sorry for what I did.

I promise, I wanted nothing more than to tell you the truth.

PEOPLE CLAPPING RHTHMICALLY

You ready? No.

Here we go!

Oh, my God, I... Stick your elbow out.

OK, I am, I am.

You're doing great! SHE SCREAMS

Calm down!

TIFFANY LAUGHS

I never expected things to go this far.

I didn't expect you.

Me?

I let my ambition blind me.

I thought you were just another writer

that needed encouragement.

But you became so much more.

You were unexpected.

Every moment we shared, everything I said was real,

and it crushes me to think that you might believe otherwise.

I wish I could go back and make things right.

But all I could do now is tell you...

..you mean everything to me.

Tiffany...

That is your real name, right?

You're the first woman to see me for who I am.

Not the version of me that everyone wants me to be

because of what I write but the real me.

I had to run off to find myself...

..and you helped me with that.

And now all I want to do is move forward with...

with you by my side.

UPBEAT FESTIVE MUSIC

Oh, I am so glad you continued with Alistair's.

Christmas tradition, son.

I still cannae believe my son's the Duke.

I raised you right, laddie.

Wait till he starts calling himself, "Duke Nathan"

and making proclamations by the fire.

Hm. On second thought, dinnae do that.

Ah, right. TIFFANY LAUGHS

Don't worry, Lachy.

Now that his book is a bestseller and the movie is in production,

he'll have plenty of stories to share by the fire.

I'm just excited about my new imprint.

It finally gives my success purpose.

And I'm gonna get to help other writers

find their voice and get published.

HAMISH:Ho, ho, ho! Oh.

Hamish? LAUGHTER

What?

It wouldn't be Christmas without Santa.

FERGUS LAUGHS

You're going to make a fine Duke.

Aye, and you'll save us from Hamish's poor decorating skills.

Aye, and you're better-looking.Ah...

Here's a little something to help you out

with your new responsibilities.

You're a lot like Alistair.

And Mary.

You have her eyes and their way of caring about people.

I never got to say goodbye, you know?

But seeing you feels like a part of her is still here.

Now, if you need advice about making money, that's where I come in.

Ah! EVERYONE BOOING

FIONA LAUGHSUh, everyone, come gather around.

Tonight, in honour of my beautiful wife,

for pouring her soul into building Golden Bennett Publishing

without even taking a moment

to savour the beautiful lights and decorations

that she loves so much.

Everyone, on three.

All: Three, two, one...

TIFFANY SQUEALS

SQUEALING, LAUGHING

Oh, wow. LAUGHING

# It wasn't in my plans...#

Merry Christmas.

I love you so much.

Merry Christmas. I love you, too.

# There's a Scottish Christmas secret

# My heart can't wait to tell

# Flakes are not the only thing

# That's falling on these hills

# Each chapter Is a sweet December

# Fairy tale come true

# I've got a Scottish Christmas secret

# For you

# For you

# Who'd have thought This was a place

# Where romance comes to bloom

# My smile just seems To shine much brighter

# Neath this Yuletide moon

# Caught up in a rush that more Than just the slopes provide

# What a moment, what a journey,

# What a ride

# I'll find a way To let you know in time

# You're the author of the carols

# That keep playing in my mind

# There's a Scottish Christmas secret

# My heart can't wait to tell

# Flakes are not the only thing That's falling on these hills

# Each chapter is a sweet December

# Fairy tale come true

# I've got a Scottish Christmas secret

# For you. #