All language subtitles for a.soulful.christmas.2025.1080p.web.dl.hevc.x265.rmteam

What's up, Macon?

The season is right here.

We're in it.

It's the joy, it's the cheer, it's the magic,

it's the brightness of the lights.

Now, if there's one thing that
I love more than Christmas,

is celebrating people who makes
this season even brighter.

And, today, we're doing just that, guys.

Right here in Macon, Macon's
very own Patti and Ashton

are gonna be receiving
their very own star

at Macon Walk of Fame,

just in time for the holidays.

So, guys, just sit back,
because this song is a classic.

You know, it's one of those songs

that never fades, you know?

It just gets better with
every season, you know?

So sit back, get into the spirit of things,

and just enjoy the magic
of Patti and Ashton,

"Love at Christmas Time."

♪ Love at Christmas time ♪

♪ You and me, babe, sippin' red wine ♪

♪ All I need is your hand in mine ♪

♪ Love at Christmas time ♪

♪ Wrapped in your arms,
I'm feeling right ♪

♪ This ♪

♪ Christmas ♪

♪ Christmas time ♪

Okay.

♪ It ♪

"Where's Patti? I bet she's still fine."

"Daughter, Winnie sings,
but she's not her mom."

Hi, Mrs. Gershan,

I'm calling to confirm Reid's
guitar appointment today.

No, my mom isn't in
town for the holidays,

but I will let her know that she is invited.

Okay, see you at four.

Bye.

Hi, mom.

My darling daughter,

are you packed and ready to leave?

I never promised you I'd go.

You haven't been to Macon in forever.

I think you should go.

And risk seeing him?

No thanks.

It's been 25 years.

25 years doesn't change the fact

that he ran off with a dream we built.

- This isn't about him.
- Exactly.

It's about our legacy.

And you only get one chance
to remind these people

whose daughter you are.

I know whose daughter I am, Mom,

I can't escape it.

Granny Leah misses you,

and she wants you there for Christmas.

But Macon is still giving you your flowers

while you can smell them.

Go smell them, Mom.

Honey, my sense of smell
is like my dating life,

practically nonexistent.

Speaking of, how's Trevor?

- We broke up.
- Oh no!

He's a Wall Street guy,
and those are hard to find.

What happened?

- So you really aren't going?
- No.

And I hate to sound ungrateful,

not that I need their approval,

but, to be honest with you,
people like to feel appreciated.

Mom, focus.

Parents should come
with a warning label

so the babies know who to choose
and who to stay away from.

Oh no, honey, we do the picking.

So how about a little gratitude

and accept my star?

Smile, wave, and for God
sakes, wear something fabulous.

I'll send you a first-class ticket.

- Mom.
- I gotta go, bye.

Love you.

Mom?

Wow.

Yeah, I love you too, Mom.

Fabulous enough.

No, no, Thurman, I don't care, okay?

The market doesn't slow down
just because it's the holidays.

Can't we just pull money
from somewhere else?

Think big, okay, brother? Big.

Okay, this development, all right,

if we get a piece of
this, it's gonna be huge.

Huge.

Wait, are you telling me
that the deal collapses

without proof of liquidity?

Absolutely.

We shouldn't have lied about our assets.

Well, that was your suggestion.

Yeah, then.

I don't know, can you sell something?

Maybe borrow money
from your pops or...

No, he's not an option.

What's our short fall?

- That we're close.
- Close? All right.

If we leverage our
capital that we have now

and reallocate a little bit of the lenders

that aren't essential to us,

then maybe we could bridge the gap.

You know, maybe cover 60% of it.

No, we've leveraged
everything, just ask your dad.

No, my dad, leave him out of this, okay?

We got this, me and you here, right?

Do me a favor, call our private lenders,

see if somebody can float us something

that we can use for the time being

without triggering scrutiny, please.

- Whatever you say.
- Yeah.

Merry Christmas, by the way.

That's my guy.

For me?

Look, I know gifts aren't really your thing,

but it's been a hard
year and you trust me.

So I just appreciate that.

Oh, um, let me catch this real quick.

Thurman, hey, buddy, thank you.

- Appreciate you, man.
- Cheers.

My beautiful big sis.

- How are you?
- Are you bailing on me?

What are you talking about?

Because I know the beautiful sister act.

Come on, all right, you're already there.

What's the point of
me driving 2 1/2 hours

for a 30-minute ceremony?

Because Dad wants you here

and your niece and nephew miss you.

Ah, you're really gonna play

the guilt card right now, are you?

Playing the reality card.

I figured you'd wanna
flash that winning smile

and prove to dad, yet again,
that you're a perfect son,

even if it's not true.

- That's low.
- I'm an attorney.

I close cases for a living.

I'll see you tomorrow.

Hey.

I didn't realize this
was a business meeting.

Oh, yeah.

You gotta stay ready so you
don't gotta get ready, right?

Come on, my sister's over here.

The hat?

The suit?

It's for the event.

- Hi, Winnie.
- Hi.

Thank you for meeting us.

So sorry about the random DM.

I didn't know how else to get in touch.

Oh, no, it's fine.

Nice to meet you both.

So I figured we would talk
before the mayhem began.

Yeah, um, where's Dad?

Chicago had a snowstorm, he's stuck.

So do you wanna order anything?

We have about an hour
before the ceremony.

I'm sure she has to change.

She's not wearing that.

- Are you?
- I am.

Oh, uh, okay, I mean, that's fine.

Could I get pancakes, um, eggs,

scrambled with cheese, and extra bacon.

And you?

Um, I'll just have, uh,
avocado toast and a match a.

We don't have avocado toast

or match a.

Okay, then I will have, uh,
potatoes and cranberry juice.

So, Winnie, uh, your mom isn't coming?

No, she stayed in Nashville
to take care of a friend.

So it's just the kids then.

No worries. I'll keep us in check.

Just think of me as the
court-appointed guardian

for this just dysfunctional reunion.

♪ Away in a manger ♪

Patti Love and Ashton Franklin

are more than just stars in their fields.

They are a testament to the excellence

and greatness grown here in Macon.

Though they couldn't
be here with us today,

we are privileged to have
their incredible children,

Winnie Young, Robert Franklin,

and Bailey Gates, his sister, here

to accept this honor on their behalf.

Woo.

Their presence here today reminds us

that legacy isn't just about the past.

It's about inspiration

being passed down through generations.

Today, we proudly place their
names amongst the greats,

not just as a tribute to their success,

but as a reminder to every
dreamer in this town,

your roots here can take you anywhere.

All right, y'all ready?

Woo!

Congratulations to the
families of Patti and Ashton

for this well-deserved honor.

I'll give this to you here, sir.

- Oh, that is nice.
- Thank you.

Wow.

Thank you.

Awesome, guys, let's take a picture.

Let's take a picture.

Man, we hate that your
parents couldn't be here,

but we are so appreciative
for you all coming out.

Oh, no, it's an honor to be
accepting this upon my dad.

I hear you're doing big things in Atlanta.

I would... Yeah, business is doing well.

All right, and, Ms. Winnie,
you still making music?

- Not at the moment, no.
- Ah.

Well, hopefully, we'll get
some of that magic again soon.

- No.
- Hey.

- Hi.
- Hi, I'm Randy.

- Randy on the Rise.
- Yes.

Yeah, 147K strong and climbing.

- Gotta get this shot.
- Oh yeah.

My followers need to see this.

- Okay, yes.
- Honey, come, come on.

Jessi, you can stand right here.

Perfect.

So, um, love the family vibe,
but, wow, a lot of people.

Are you sure you all wanna be in this?

I mean, sometimes a solo shot

just hits better on the algorithm.

You know, minimal distractions,
focus on the moment.

No, you're so right.

This is a bigger
moment, a family moment.

Who wants to do a group slow-mo
walk towards the camera?

Like we're in a holiday movie trailer?

Yes, that's right!

Okay, come on, scoot back, scoot back.

- Oh my god!
- This is a masterpiece.

- Great job, you all.
- Winnie, Robert.

Wow, I'm looking at Ashton and Patti

all over again.

My name is Gene Taylor.

I'm the CEO of Southern Hill Records.

Wait, nice to meet you.

Your father worked with my pop?

Uh-huh, and he adored them.

I mean, he's retired, so
now I'm running the company,

but they helped put us on the map.

Wow, that's amazing.

I'm so sorry, but I have to head out.

It was nice to meet you.

Hold on, I'd like to talk
to the two of you together.

I mean, how would you be interested

in continuing the tradition?

What do you mean?

Oh, I'll cut to the chase,

"Love at Christmas Time,"

the remake by Winnie and Robert, huh?

I'm not interested in
riding my mom's coattails.

Thank you, but no, thank you.

It was nice to meet you, and
nice to meet you as well.

Well, perhaps you

and your sister might
be interested, hmm?

My sister's a lawyer, all right?

And I'm in finance. We're not singers.

Well, anybody can sing these days.

Your daddy wrote the song,
we own the publishing,

so it's a real easy deal.

And the studios are always requesting

to use the song in their films,

so why not give us
the upgraded version?

I appreciate the sentiment, brother,

but it's not the right opportunity for me.

- The song's...
- Find somebody else.

The song's making a lot of money now.

Would in advance help, huh?

I mean, I could do something
from the mid-six-figures.

Oh, really?

Oh really.

Shall we go sit down
and talk somewhere?

I know a nice, little spot down the street.

Yeah, let's talk.

What spot you be going to?

- Pizza?
- Well.

Sis, think about the legacy, all right?

Dad will love it.

Since when do you care about the legacy

or Christmas songs?

You didn't even wanna come?

That doesn't matter if
I wanted to come or not.

I'm here, ain't I?

Okay, look, I think it would
be a great opportunity.

Boy, bye. You don't
want me in that studio.

I will sing circles around you.

What are you laughing at?

You can't sing.

Uh-uh-uh.

Show 'em what you got.

♪ Silent night ♪

♪ Holy night ♪

See, it runs in the family.

Plus, I'm too busy.

I have two big cases.

Why don't you just ask Winnie.

She already said, "No."

Then I guess it's not gon happen.

I got you, Uncle Robert.

I guess it will just
be me and you, nephew.

Great job, you all.

Hot cocoa in five minutes.

Wait, excuse me.

Let me take this call real quick.

What's going on?

I got good news.

I was able to book the
studio for you and Bailey.

Oh, um, about that.

There's a lot of things
that's going on on her end

and family involved, you know...

Well, I got even better news.

Now, if you can finish this in two days,

I can make a call and permit us

on regional radio Christmas Day.

Wouldn't you want to
wait until next year?

That seems like the most
logical marketing standpoint.

No, a good Christmas song lasts forever.

We can go national,
international next year, huh?

Your session starts at 10.

Um, Bailey may not be
able to make it tomorrow.

Oh, you can come in and do your part,

we'll bring her in the next day.

And don't forget to
send me your information

so we can get you in our system, hmm?

Okay.

Oh, it's gonna be a hit.

I can feel it.

Bye.

Cute, but sad.

Hey, it's me.

If you're free, I would
like to meet up for lunch.

Granny, you didn't have bake cookies.

Sure I did.

You love my cookies.

I remember you were
downright obsessed

with having exactly 10 cookies for Santa.

Oh, no, it was serious.

One for Santa, one for each reindeer.

And I kept on telling you,
"Reindeers eat carrots,"

but you won't have it.

Stubborn as a mule as Sunday
shoes, just like your mama.

Mmm.

Mm.

Yeah, they're still as good as I remember.

Oh, a little butter, sugar, and prayer.

Can't get more reliable than that.

But what I can't believe
is your mama's a no-show.

She was afraid Ashton might come.

What I don't understand
is how a girl can go from,

"I just can't live without him," one minute,

and want to set him on fire the next.

Granny, you've been divorced twice.

Yeah, but I don't give
up on love like your mama.

I just take intermissions.

The problem with your mama,
she never got over Ashton,

and that's why it didn't
work with your dad.

Wow.

My cookies are being shared
with a little holiday trauma.

Look, I love me some Quentin.

I mean, we still talk,

and, you know, he was
the perfect son-in-law.

But it's your mama that's a
mess.

Hm, what does he want?

Does he have a name?

No, it's not like that.

It's Robert, Ashton's son.

He wants to meet me for coffee.

Well gon, don't let me stop you.

- No.
- Look, and take him a cookie.

No, he's so arrogant.

Well, sweetie, the
problem with arrogant men,

they're like a biscuit with no butter.

They look fine on the outside,

but they dry as hell where it counts.

Ooh.

Okay, then why should I go?

Because I'm nosy and I want
to know what he talking about.

Hmm.

Think about the legacy, all right?

You being on the radio,

that would be great
for your career, yeah?

You wanna be a singer,
professional at that,

I mean, it takes a lot more
than what you're doing now.

You wanna be a singer, right?

It takes a lot more than what it, no.

Think about your, think, think
about your legacy, all right?

Hi.

Hey.

Take a seat.

What's up?

Let's get to know each other.

Really?

Look, I know our parents don't speak,

but that doesn't mean we shouldn't.

This is weird.

Is it?

Yeah.

Aside from insulting my favorite hoodie,

you barely said two
words to me this morning.

Okay, yes, my sister
did get on me on that.

I'm sorry.

I'm here to make amends, all right?

You drink coffee?

Why am I here?

We should do the song.

I knew it was something.

- No.
- Come on. Okay?

I know you're a singer, all right?

And I saw online that
you teach guitar lessons,

you having a hit song would
be great for your enrollment.

This is not the first time

that somebody has
tried to get me to redo

one of my mom's songs.

I'm not interested.

Think about the royalties, okay?

Interviews.

I'm talking JHud, Tamron, Sherri.

They all gon want us.

Do you even sing?

I can hold a note.

Look, but what I'm saying
is, you and me, we do a song.

We do this song.

We convince Taylor to
release you a solo project.

Yes, it might be a small label,

but, hey, you'll be the
one calling the shots.

No, "Love at Christmas Time" is sacred.

Which is exactly why we should do it.

Okay, think about it,

the son and daughter
of Patti and Ashton.

I mean, that's a story that
the people will eat up.

- You're in finance?
- Yeah.

You've seen the way this industry works.

Why are you doing this?

This would make my father happy,

which is something I barely do.

Yeah, that I sadly understand.

Look, I'm gonna send it to you straight.

It's been four years since
your album has came out.

I mean, you wanna get
back on the radar.

You wanna get back in?

This is your only shot.

Take it.

Okay, if I'm going to be,

if I'm going to be a part of this,

then I have to be involved in creative.

I am not just coming to sing.

Hey, look, I'm in your world.

I'm just living in it.

Okay.

We doing it?

Yeah.

All right.

Um, I'm gonna make a call real quick.

Enjoy your coffee though.

Hey, Thurman, I will have
400K in hand within two weeks.

I know we're still coming up short,

but see if they can budge.

Leverage the timeline.

Do whatever it takes.

We need this, all right?

All right.

Now, they'll be here shortly,

and I don't wanna spend no
more than two days on this.

I removed the vocals.

You sure you don't
wanna change the track?

It's pretty dated.

We have new voices.

We don't need new music, hm?

- All right, man.
- Hm?

- Hey.
- Ah, Rob, my man.

- My man, I'm glad to see you.
- Yeah.

And, look, we do not wanna
waste too much time now.

- Are you warmed up?
- Uh, no.

Oh, good.

We should get you in the booth
to get started.

Come on.

Robert.

What's up now? Aries.

What's up?

There we go.

Um, I don't have the lyrics.

Well, it's only one of the most popular

Christmas songs ever.

Your dad wrote it.

Gene...

Okay, I'ma look up the lyrics myself.

You got my information?

Yeah, I got you in
the system this morning,

I emailed your dad, and I
printed out the contract,

it's in the studio.

What'd he say?

I haven't heard back.

All right, okay, we're gonna
play the track and you can, uh,

you can sing, warm up.

Okay.

Let's take it back from the top.

♪ Snow is falling ♪

♪ Lights are glowing ♪

♪ Fireplace is warm, but
my heart was frozen ♪

♪ When you walked in ♪

♪ With that mistletoe smile ♪

Oh, wait, wait.

You're both here.

Hey, come on.

Hey, Winnie.

- Hey.
- Hi.

Hi, Gene.

I appreciate you setting this all up,

but I thought we were gonna
work on this together,

not just plug in an old track.

Well, no, Winnie, Winnie,
this version is timeless.

No, no, no, I get that. I get that.

But if I'm gonna be part of it,

then it has to sound like me.

See, no, I wrote my own arrangement.

Just give me 10 minutes

and I can show you exactly what I got.

Look, Winnie, come on now.

Look, the cake is already baked.

We're just adding a few sprinkles, hm?

- Okay.
- Yeah.

Yeah, then maybe I shouldn't be here.

Hey, Gene, let's talk for a sec.

Gene.

Please just let me talk to her, all right?

She can't perform with you arguing.

We need to stay on task.

I get that, okay?

Come back in a couple hours,
we'll have something recorded.

Not just something.

I want magic.

I've got you.

Get her to sign the agreement.

Okay, so we're just gonna,
I was sort of thinking like,

so one, two...

♪ Snow is falling ♪

♪ Lights are glowing ♪

So now,

tell me what's on your mind.

I have a different vision.

I wanna do a slowed down intro
and a shift in the tempo.

Something that's actually ours

and not just a rehash of
a version 25 years ago.

Oh, so you've already got it all

arranged in your head, huh?

I do.

I wish we had live instruments,

but Aries can hook it
up and I have my guitar.

It's gon be nice.

Am I missing something?

Do you know each other?

No, actually.

We can get to know
each other over dinner.

Okay, hey, how about
we focus on the music?

All right?

Winnie grab the guitar,
let's hear what you got.

All right.

- Oh, Winnie.
- Hmm?

So Gene has the final approval.

So I was thinking we go
ahead and do his version,

then we knock out yours.

No, that doesn't make any sense.

We should do the one
that we actually want.

Look, let me show you this.

What if he doesn't approve it?

- I...
- You don't wanna be labeled

as difficult, Winnie,

especially when the goal is
to get your own solo deal.

So I was thinking we breeze
through the old version,

this boring version of his,

then we could wow him with yours

once he's in a better mood tomorrow.

Aries, will you be here tomorrow?

Tonight, tomorrow, tomorrow
night, whatever you need.

Fantastic.

All right, let's just, let's
just figure it out. Let's go.

All right. It's hot in here.

All right.

Um, just let me know when
you're ready and, you good?

Okay, let's take it from my first verse.

Okay.

♪ Now the cocoa's sweet,
but not like you ♪

♪ You're the only gift
I wanna unwrap too ♪

Wait, uh, sorry. Uh, can we stop?

Can we just, can we do it again?

But this time can you tweak the EQ?

Can you make it a little bit
less bright and more warm,

especially because I'm
at my lower register?

Okay, I got you.

I gotta take this call.

Okay.

Hey. All right, so any update?

They're considering it, but
they need some reassurance.

So can you please get me
that deposit by Friday?

I don't think the money
will be here in two days.

Actually, I'm recording a song.

What?

And getting an advance.

Are you joking?

I'm at the studio right now.

But you don't sing.

No, I don't.

But, come on now, you
know who my father is.

I come from greatness.

So what the heck are
you even recording?

My dad's old Christmas song?

Your dad's old Christmas song?

You're not serious, are you?

Wow, the things we do for money.

Okay, well, hey, listen,

I will just send you
everything that they said,

and you let me know how
you want me to respond.

All right.

Okay, so it sounds good, but
I think when he comes back,

we can put his part in, and then,

- hi.
- Hey.

We are just doing the chorus.

- All right.
- Can you harmonize?

That's easy, you go up, I go down.

Let's do it.

Okay. All right.

He's gonna play the first,

uh, he's gonna play the
first, beginning of it,

the first note.

And if you could just, be careful with this,

but if you could just hear it,

and then try and match it,
that would be good, okay?

Three, two.

♪ Love at Christmas time ♪

Aries, can you hit it again?

♪ Love - Try again.

Three, and...

♪ Love at Christmas ♪

Okay, so your, your,
your breath is too shallow.

You have to take a deeper breath.

- Push from your diaphragm.
- I have to take this off.

Listen, look, I know
you're out of your element,

but if you just trust
yourself and you let go,

and you stop trying to
force it, you'll get there.

Okay?

Two, one.

♪ Love at ♪

Aries, can you mute him

the same way you mute
background music?

Apparently, I'm recording
a duet with his cell phone.

I'm sorry, it's work, all right?

Hey, why don't you finish your part,

then we can finish the rest.

All right.

Um, okay. Let's take
it from the pre-chorus.

I'll try my part first.

Can you give me a little bit more vocal

- in my left ear and...
- What? No!

- What?
- Robert, I'm recording!

I'm sorry, um, my bad.

This is a bad idea.

Just because I'm busy
doesn't make it a bad idea.

Okay, we just got a moment, yes?

Come on.

You sold me on legacy and
how important this was to you,

but you don't care.

You're not paying attention.

You have no right to
tell me what I care about.

This is my passion.

I don't appreciate when people
like you think it's a joke.

Oh, if it was a passion,

then why haven't you
created the song in years?

Winnie?

Winnie?

I shouldn't have said it, all right?

You know, everything in my
gut said this was a bad idea.

I'm calling Gene and telling
him it's not happening.

Oh, no.

Calm down, okay?

Look, look what we have.

Aries is here. There's no excuse.

This is your moment.

Remember your goals, all right?

This is what you do.

I see.

Yeah, I'm not falling for it.

You know what, since
they just wanna copy

and paste everything,

you can plug my mom's
vocals in with your track.

Winnie, uh.

All right, Aries,

guys, we can get this shaking.

Okay, so look, let's punch me
in at the top of the verse.

Or maybe the bridge.

Start wherever it makes sense.

You know, perfect pitch, tune my voice.

You know, I want it warm,
but, you know, not...

What's this?

The lyrics.

My dad wrote this.

Just do your job.

Yeah, I got you, bro.

Now, you get this pie over to the church.

Oh, and be sure to save me
a seat on Sunday, you hear?

- Leah, I got you.
- Okay.

I'ma take good care of this pie,

but everybody's waiting on it.

- Okay.
- And I'll see you Sunday.

- Thanks for coming by.
- All right.

- All right, take care.
- Okay.

Love you.

- Love you too.
- Bye-bye.

Oh, hey.

What happened?

It was a disaster.

Did you lose your words?

Or the mic exploded?

Robert finally realized

he couldn't carry a tune in a bucket.

It was a joke to him,
Granny Leah, a business move.

It wasn't about music,
it wasn't about the song.

It was just a way to get
his daddy's approval.

What a hot mess on Sunday morning.

Come here, baby.

He didn't care about
the music, or the legacy,

or the song, or me, just the hype.

And when I pushed
back, he made it clear

that he'd rather just plug
in my mom's old vocals

than actually make something real.

And you let him have it?

Yeah, he can have his
little industry moment.

- I'm done.
- Wait a minute.

Your mama let his daddy
change up her dreams.

Now, don't you sit here
and let him do the same.

Well, remaking my mom's
song is not my dream.

It's just a bad idea.

But here you are caught up anyway.

Aren't you supposed to
be making me feel better?

Come on, baby, let's
get you something sweet.

A little warm pie and sugar

will remind you of just who the star is.

Okay.

Don't mention any of
this to my mom, okay?

Oh.

Come on.

Yo, sis, you want a drink?

- Yes, please.
- I got you.

The kids are settled.

Now, it's time for the
adults to have some fun.

Let's do it. Let's do it.

- Ooh.
- Orange peel.

Little bit of a little garnish.

- Fancy and delicious.
- Yeah, thank you.

Look at you.

To siblings who don't spend
nearly enough time together.

To us.

I'm happy you agreed to
come with us for Christmas.

Don't get too comfortable.

I don't wanna be doing
no caroling or anything.

You're such a scrooge, bro.

I just don't get the hype, that's all.

Sure.

Hey, um, you ever thought

that dad really was in love with Patti?

What makes you ask that?

I was at that old record store downtown

and I saw an old poster of
them from back in the day.

Oh my god, yes.

I used to have that poster in my room.

He looked so cool.

Have you ever paid attention
to the way he looked at her?

Like, he was mesmerized.

Hmm.

Uh, I don't think he
loved her more than mom.

- Hmm.
- But I think he loved her

the way a 22-year-old can love,

intensely, recklessly, with little foresight.

He never really talks about it though.

But you got to work with Patti 2.0.

How was that?

2.0?

Um, it was something.

She's a perfectionist,

and clearly I didn't
live up to her standards.

You, not living up
to a woman's standards.

Shocking.

Wait, you're actually upset about it?

- No.
- Uh-uh.

Try that again, but without the lie.

I'm not upset, all right?

It's just,

I wish she did the song
without all the drama.

Okay, she wants to change everything.

Make it her own version.

Of course she does, she's an artist.

I guess it doesn't matter anymore, right?

Aries is gonna take my vocals,

lay it over the old track,
and that's gon be that.

Aw, that's too bad.

It would've been nice to hear you two

actually sing together.

She has a great voice.

And sometimes in the booth
we trying to, you know...

Hey, what is this?

- Hi.
- You two haven't started

happy hour without me, have you?

Of course not, dear.

How was your day?

The official last day.

Got everything prepped
for next semester.

Yay!

Mmm.

- Mm?
- Mm-hmm, mm-mm.

- Mm-hmm.
- Done.

If finance doesn't work out,

you could always try bartending.

Why wouldn't finance work out?

I was joking.

I got a veggie and a
cheese for game night.

That's perfect.

We're having game night tonight,

and I know how competitive you are,

so you're gonna have a blast.

- Ooh.
- Stop it.

You just...

I'm gonna lay down for a bit.

Okay.

Is he okay?

With Robert, you never really know.

But I have an idea.

I know that look.

- You're up to something.
- Oh, absolutely.

♪ Eight maids a milking ♪

♪ Seven swans a singing ♪

♪ Six geese a laying ♪

♪ Five golden rings ♪

♪ Four calling birds ♪

♪ Three French hens ♪

♪ Two turtle doves ♪

♪ And a partridge in a pear tree ♪

Ooh.

- Okay, all right.
- All right.

Enough of the karaoke.

Now it's time for my
favorite Christmas card game,

- Christmas card trivia!
- Ooh.

- Have you ever played before?
- No.

Okay.

Just in time.

Uh, Robert, can you get that?

Yeah.

So I'm thinking maybe girls on boys.

Yes.

Winnie.

I'm surprised to see you here.

Happy though.

Come on.

Hi.

- Hi, Bailey.
- Hi.

- Hi, sorry we're late.
- We?

- What's up, man?
- Hey.

I parked on the street. Think it's okay?

Yeah.

- What's up, y'all?
- Hi.

Thank you again for the
invitation, here you go.

- This is my friend Aries.
- Hey.

We were gonna get dinner
tonight, so I brought him along.

I hope it's not a problem.

Of course. Have a seat.

- What's up?
- What's up?

Okay, just in time for
our Christmas card game.

Okay, each Christmas card
has a sentimental question.

Answer honestly, and if your
answer makes someone cry,

you get an extra point.

Sounds manipulating, doesn't it?

Cookies and competition, it
sounds like my type of night.

- Great. You go first.
- Cool.

"What's the one Christmas memory

that helped shape who you are"?

Robert?

I'll pass.

You can't pass. You have to answer.

Okay, fine.

I'll go.

Um.

Okay. Sorry.

Um.

Hmm. Uh.

I was maybe 10.

My mom was touring that Christmas,

so I was home with my granny.

And my granny, she has
this, she has a strict rule,

no presents until Christmas
morning, no exceptions.

And that specific year,

I was so sure I wasn't
gonna get anything,

that my mom had forgotten about me.

But, at midnight, my granny woke me up

and she handed me a
small gift, and she said,

"Some things can't wait until morning."

What was the gift?

A homemade songbook.

Blank pages, a note inside that said,

"Fill it with the songs you
want to create, love Mom."

And I think that was the first time

I realized that this was
something I was meant to do.

That music wasn't something
I liked, it was mine.

That's dope.

Your mom knew you had it
in you before you did.

Yeah, I guess,

and I've been writing
in songbooks ever since.

Old school. I like it.

- Okay.
- All right.

Ahem, all right.

"What is the worst
Christmas gift you ever got,

and who gave it to you"?

- Oh, I got this one.
- Oh.

Easy.

So picture this, I'm seven years old,

and I've been good all year, right?

Staying out of trouble,
helping out with chores,

and I had one thing on
my list, one thing thing.

A Game Boy Color.

That's it. Simple request.

Oh, this is about to be tragic.

Tragic ain't the word, Bailey.

Christmas morning comes,

I see under the tree, there's a box.

The size is right. The weight is right.

I think to myself, "This is it.

My Game Boy era is about to begin."

I rip open that wrapping paper so fast.

And inside?

A dictionary.

- Oh.
- Ooh.

And not a cool dictionary either.

Not one with pictures, just
words in alphabetical order.

Who gave you that?

My Aunt Loretta.

And do you know what
this woman said to me

when I looked at her devastated?

She patted me on my
head, and she said,

"Baby, knowledge is power."

- Oh, honey.
- Well.

Everybody else is opening
up Power Rangers and Barbies,

and I'm over here with
"Webster's Complete Dictionary"

like I got a final exam
on Christmas morning.

Okay, I think we should end on that note.

My baby looks triggered.

Come on, baby. Thank you for sharing.

Yeah.

My honey brought his guitar.

Are you ready to play something?

Yeah.

Aries, I heard you singing in the studio.

You should sing.

Sing, sing, sing,
sing, sing, sing, sing!

All right, I get it.

- How about "The First Noel"?
- Okay.

♪ The first Noel ♪

♪ The angels did say ♪

♪ Was to certain poor shepherds ♪

♪ In fields as they lay ♪

♪ In fields where they ♪

♪ Lay keeping their sheep ♪

♪ On a cold winter's night ♪

♪ That was so deep ♪

♪ Noel, Noel ♪

♪ Noel, Noel ♪

♪ Born is the King of Israel ♪

♪ Noel, Noel ♪

♪ Noel, Noel ♪

♪ Born is the King of Israel ♪

Aw, you
guys sounded amazing.

It was good.

I enjoyed it.

Nah, nah, you can sing, man.

I ain't even gonna lie.

But, you know, I think it
takes a little bit more

to create a song than just that.

You sound like you wanna
sing something, Franklin.

Oh, no, no, no, please don't.

His harmonies are like
Wi-Fi in a basement.

- Ooh.
- Unreliable.

Completely unreliable and weak.

- Ooh.
- Oh.

Yeah, I'm done here.

But you guys enjoy your
charcuterie board and card games.

I was joking.

Yeah, we were just having fun.

- What's his deal?
- Interesting.

Looks like my baby brother
could be catching a crush.

I'll be back.

All right.

Our kids do that all the time

when we tell them, "It's
bedtime in five minutes."

I see where they get it from.

Winnie, did you get a chance
to go by the old high school?

They redid the theater and
name it after your mom.

No, I have no idea what
you're talking about.

Is that where you're principal?

Yeah, yeah, um,

I'll have Bailey take
you over there tomorrow.

Yeah, yeah. I'd like that.

All right, let's play one last round

- before we call it quits.
- Yeah.

Yeah. Okay.

I'm picking?

I'm picking the card this time. Okay.

You good?

Yep.

You can close a million finance deals

and say all the right things,

but if you don't tell the
right person how you feel,

what's the point?

I'm just saying.

Yeah.

Oh, no, no, no, please don't.

His harmonies are like
Wi-Fi in a basement.

- Ooh.
- Unreliable.

Completely unreliable and weak.

I like your voice.

This school has been here for years,

but your mom's foundation

has really brought it back to life.

Patti and my dad did their
first show here back in the day.

Yes.

The art programs here are
the lifeline for our kids.

- They're so good, aren't they?
- Yeah, they're great.

- Okay.
- She's eating.

- Okay, great.
- She's so great.

- Okay.
- Ooh.

Yes, ladies.

Good job, great job.

What are they rehearsing for?

The Christmas Spectacular.

They've been rehearsing forever.

Is this the only program

or the only show that they're doing?

Oh, no, they have many shows.

Actually, your mom and my dad

have a couple of scholarship
programs here as well.

Wow.

I'm embarrassed to say I
never knew any of this.

Now you know.

Thank you.

Your mom receiving that star
isn't just about the song.

It's a reflection on the lasting impact

she's had on our town.

Do you ever think about
what would've happened

if they stayed together?

Mm, I used to when I was little.

Sometimes your mom's songs
would come on the radio

and my dad would turn
them up and sing along.

Your mom didn't care?

Nah, she was a fan. We all were.

Wow.

Do you know "Love at Christmas Time"

only came about because
they were trying to win

the Senior Showcase?

Yes! Yes!

Yes, my mom did mention
that they were supposed

to sing a Luther duet,

but your dad couldn't hit the notes.

- Ooh.
- Why'd your dad stop singing?

I think he was making
more money writing, I guess.

And then, we came about and
he wanted to go home more.

He really wanted Robert to perform.

Like, he would force him
to do all the talent shows.

Robert hated the attention.

Robert hating attention?

I know. Hard to believe.

You guys are so good.

- Great job, girls.
- Congratulations.

Oh my gosh,

I still can't believe I didn't
know any of this existed.

Thank you so much
for bringing me here.

Of course, and thank you for coming.

You know, I would advise you

to go a little easy on my brother.

He's used to winning.

What is he trying to win?

Don't act.

What? What is that?

You know.

What are we looking at?

Your grandma is still upset

because I put the angel on
the tree instead of the star.

I like the angel.

The star guided the
three wise men to Jesus.

The Star of Bethlehem.

The beacon of hope.

Yeah, but the angels were the ones

who announced the birth.

Well, this one's going
to announce your death

if you don't get out to that
shed and find my star, Isaac.

I will look for the star.

It'll give me something to do.

Thank you.

Thank you, baby.

Hmm.

Wouldn't the cord?

"I don't even know if you'll
read this, but I have to try."

I don't know what they told you,

but I swear on everything
I never took the solo deal.

Not without you. They're
lying to us, Patti.

"Don't let them break us."

The label broke them up?

What?

Granny?

Granny?

Granny?

Oh, you found my star.

No, but I found these.

Has my mom ever read these?

Child, no.

Ashton brought them things around here

after she went to California.

Have you ever read what's in these?

I ain't have to.

That boy come around here
begging and spilling his guts

about everything in them letters.

Your granddaddy had to
run him off this porch

more times than we had count.

Well, Mom thinks Ashton
betrayed her, but maybe he didn't.

Look, here he says, "I
never took the solo deal.

Not without you. They're lying to us.

Don't let them break us."

Nobody is trying to hear all that.

Where's my star?

No, I didn't. I'll go back and look.

I just keep thinking
about how these letters

are handwritten.

No one does these these days,
let alone write all of these.

- Yeah.
- I mean, it's a lot.

"I started writing this a hundred times.

I don't even know if you'll read this."

I mean, you're telling me
she's never seen these?

No.

It's obvious he loved her.

The record label wanted to
give him a songwriting deal,

but they thought he
wouldn't be as productive

if he was touring with Patti.

According to this letter,

they've been blatantly lying
to your mom this whole time.

The worst part is my mom

still doesn't believe any of this.

- Should we call him?
- No.

Dad would be embarrassed if he knew

that we were reading these.

Record labels are so manipulative.

My label promised me that
if I put out that pop album,

they'd release the one
that I really wanted.

Of course, they never did.

So you have made music
since your first project?

Yeah.

An album and two singles, all shelved.

I'm not saying Gene is just like his father,

but, in a way, he is sowing discord

between two talented people.

We should record the song.

Yeah, Patti and my dad is,

they're gonna have to do interviews

and who knows what else could happen.

Getting my mom in
the same room as Ashton

would be a miracle.

But it's, it's worth a try.

So you two are gonna
go back into the studio?

- Yeah.
- Yeah.

Yeah, I'll call Aries.

Do you have to?

Why do you have a problem with him?

Yes, why do you, brother?

Sister, I do not have a problem with him.

Maybe I wanted to be
a producer one day.

I don't think that's realistic.

♪ Snow is falling ♪

♪ Lights are glowing ♪

♪ Fireplace is warm ♪

♪ But my heart was frozen ♪

Sounds good.

All right, rolling it back.

Let's take it from the top of Patti's verse

and right into the hook.

Okay.

Rob, my man, I'm glad we
got things back on track.

Yes, Winnie's in the studio right now

and Aries said he'll have
a mix up by tomorrow.

All right, your dad signed the addendum,

I rushed your advance, the
wire should hit tonight.

- Great.
- And I spoke to your dad.

He's excited.

He told me that this was your deal

and to send you the whole advance.

He's proud of you.

That's good to hear, I appreciate that.

So let's go
inside and hear what we have.

I don't think you should go in right now.

Oh, what's going on?

Gene, we just learned that your dad

was directly responsible for
breaking up Patti and Ashton.

All right, well, there must
be some misunderstanding here.

No, it was deliberate.

So to keep the peace,

you shouldn't show your face right now,

especially while she's recording.

Look, just so you know,
I was a kid, all right?

And I had nothing to do
with my father's business.

I understand that.

But look at you now.

You're running a label, right?

Big shot.

And you put a bad taste
in my sister's mouth

and she's an attorney,

wouldn't want her
bringing up any old debts.

Okay.

Yeah, but you are gonna get
Winnie to sign this contract, right?

If not, we're doing this
record with just you.

Trust me, you want her on this.

And if I were you, I'd do a deal.

A fair deal at that, with
her on our own label,

with her own song.

Hmm.

I'm okay with that.

- All right.
- Yeah.

Yeah, get her to sign that contract.

Got you.

- Talk to you soon, man.
- My man.

Do good work.

♪ Now the cocoa's sweet,
but not like you ♪

♪ You're the only gift
I wanna unwrap too ♪

♪ Underneath the tree, just you and me ♪

♪ Feels like heaven
sent you here to me ♪

Give me a few hours.

I'ma have this mix
shining like fresh snow

on Christmas morning.

Mm.

A few hours, you're doing all this now?

You sure you don't wanna
get something to eat?

Let the man work.

I mean, we can go grab
some food if you're hungry.

We got business to talk about.

Yeah, you should come with us.

Rain check?

Yeah, I'll catch you later.

Thanks. Appreciate you, man.

So I know
this cute place downtown.

You're gonna love it.

- Also, the harmonies.
- Yep, yep, yep.

Y'all been doing some work.

- Yep, yep.
- I see you.

- I feel like it sounds good.
- Yeah, really great song.

- Like two in love.
- Yeah.

Okay, but first of all,
where do you guys wanna eat?

Oh, I can't go.

I have to rescue Tremaine from the kids.

You two enjoy.

Also, this was amazing.

But I rolled with you.

Winnie can take you.

I feel like we just got set up.

Definitely.

You hungry?

- I can eat.
- Food? Sure.

- Let's go.
- All right.

Mr. Maddox, we're back.

Our partners, they have
reviewed everything,

and they're ready to move forward

with the merger and property acquisition.

That sounds amazing.

We'll send the packet out,

but we will need wet
signatures immediately

to put this through.

We'll get right on it.

Robert and I are looking
forward to this partnership.

Okay, thanks. Bye.

Yes!

Oh my god.

Pick up, pick up, pick up.

Pick up!

You've reached Robert Franklin.

Please leave a message after the beep.

Dude, we were approved!

Listen, we may be the
smallest ownership group,

but we are owners.

I need a wet signature
as soon as possible, bye.

I'll just drive to him in the morning.

I got you a sandwich.

Sure, thanks.

I am done.

- Really?
- Yeah.

Just sent it over to Gene to take a listen.

I think I'ma go ahead
and get outta here too.

We wanted to stay and
vibe out for a minute.

Do you mind?

Sure, don't touch my board.

No, no, we're just gonna chill here.

I'll play my guitar.

Yeah, I gotta pull an
all-nighter over at Studio B.

Come holler at me before you leave.

Y'all have a good one.

That's nice.

You can leave it like that, it's nice.

Yeah?

Okay, awesome.

So what do you wanna do?

Um, let me sign this agreement first,

and then maybe we can
try my acoustic version.

Cool.

Uh,

do you have a charger on you?

Uh, I didn't bring one, sorry.

Done.

What's this?

Oh.

It seems like this has seen a lot.

It's my songbook from my
last few projects, yeah.

I think it's time for a new one.

Do you ever feel like you're
carrying your dad's story

on your back?

Precisely why I didn't start singing.

Confession time.

Confession time.

I auditioned for "The Voice" once,

and I made it to the finals.

- No way.
- Yeah.

What happened?

Yeah, some execs found out who I was

and wanted to make this package

around "the son of a pop star."

I didn't want that to sum up
my career, so I pulled out.

You should've stayed though,

just to see how far you could make it.

Well, I would've been doing it for him.

Hmm.

Then why are you doing this?

- Um.
- It's fine, okay, um.

Do you wanna try the
version that I wanted to do?

- Yeah, let's go.
- Okay.

So I'm still figuring it out a little bit.

- Okay.
- But I'm thinking I wanna

just go like this.

- Ready?
- Yeah.

Okay.

Okay, so then you would come in here.

♪ Snow is falling ♪

♪ Lights are glowing ♪

♪ Fireplace is warm ♪

♪ But my heart was frozen ♪

♪ Then you walked in ♪

♪ With that mistletoe smile ♪

♪ And I knew this love was worthwhile ♪

♪ Now the cocoa's sweet,
but not like you ♪

♪ You're the only gift
I wanna unwrap too ♪

♪ Underneath the tree, just you and me ♪

♪ Feels like heaven
sent you here to me ♪

♪ Love at Christmas time ♪

♪ You and me, babe, sippin' red wine ♪

♪ All I need is your hand in mine ♪

♪ 'Cause nothin' feels better than love ♪

Nah, it sounds good though.

It sounds good.

Why was it so hard the first time?

Hmm.

Because harmonies are
like a relationship.

If you're not really listening to each other

and you're not letting go,

it won't work if you don't trust each other.

So you trust me?

Yeah.

Rob, you want pancakes?

Tremaine!

Tremaine!

What happened?

Guess who didn't come home last night?

What?

Babe, you scared me.

I thought the tree was on fire.

Winnie and Robert are
gonna look so cute together.

What if they get
married and have babies?

Little singing babies.

Or what if Ashton and
Patti get back together

and they become singing siblings?

Ah, why do you do this?

I'm over here planning a fairytale

and you turned it into a family reunion.

Let me have my love story, Tremaine.

I'm your love story.

But I'm going back to bed.

Guess it's pancakes
for me and the kids then.

Hey, what time is it?

My phone's been dead since yesterday.

It's after eight.

We've been here for an entire day.

You know, I never realized
how beautiful the lyrics

are to this song till now.

I mean, I thought it was
some catchy Christmas song.

Nah, it's definitely a love song.

I don't know how you missed that.

I don't even listen to Christmas music.

The Christmas memory that
shaped me, I was six.

It was Christmas and my
mom wasn't feeling well.

All I wished was for her to get better.

She didn't.

Everyone was excited and
happy, opening presents,

and my life was falling apart.

♪ Ah

Ever since then, Christmas
hasn't been the same.

♪ Ah

Um, how about I go get breakfast?

You get up with Aries.

- By the time I get back, we can eat.
- Okay.

- Record the song that we made last night.
- All right.

- Yeah?
- Yeah.

All right.

Here, your jacket.

♪ Ah

Hi, Bailey.

Yeah, we're still at the studio.

He just went to get something to eat.

No, no, no, no.

I'll have him call you.

All right. All right, bye.

Leah, stop worrying about her.

She's an adult.

I know she's an adult, Isaac.

But the last I checked, grown
folks still come up missing.

And don't you dare call her.

♪ Love at Christmas time ♪

This is dope.

- I like the beginning.
- Yeah, it's perfect.

Sounds good.

I'm Thurman. Robert's business partner.

Hi, Winnie. Robert's singing partner.

Oh, wow.

- Nice to meet you, man.
- What's up, man?

Is he here by chance?

- No, he went to get food.
- He'll be back in five though.

- I'll take this.
- All right, yeah.

I just can't believe he's singing.

A Christmas song?

Out of everything he could've chose.

Yeah, it's kind of his birthright.

I guess. I just thought he
was doing it for the money.

And that thing came right on time too.

What money?

The advance.

What advance? Did he get extra money?

I'm gonna just leave
this here for him to sign,

and I'll just be on my way.

- No, you stay. I'll leave.
- Winnie.

I don't think there's
anything to be upset about.

Come on, are you serious?

Thurman, you're here?

- Winnie.
- Winnie?

Dude, why don't you
answer your phone?

We did it.

Where's Winnie going?

Are you not listening?

We are part owners of Midtown Station.

This literally changes our whole lives.

Wait, we're partners?

That's what I'm saying.

But I need a wet signature
from you as soon as possible,

otherwise this won't happen...

Did you say something to Winnie?

I, I, no, I didn't, I just...

What exactly did you tell her?

I just mentioned the
money and she just...

Thurman, come on, man.

You sound
really good, by the way.

Oh, so we staying out all
night and slamming doors?

♪ Silent night ♪

♪ Holy night

Not right now, Granny. I'm fine.

Fine, is what people
say when they ain't fine.

Can you just give me a moment, please?

Okay, baby. ♪ Round yon Virgin ♪

♪ Mother and child ♪

♪ Holy infant ♪

♪ So tender and mild ♪

♪ Sleep in heavenly

- Hey, Mom.
- Hey, baby.

- Did Granny call you?
- No, is everything okay?

Yeah.

No.

No, it's not all the way okay.

I've been,

I've been in the studio remaking
"Love at Christmas Time."

You what?

- With Ashton's son.
- Winnie.

Are you serious? Why?

At first I thought that it,

I thought that it was a bad idea.

Then I thought maybe it was a good idea.

But it was definitely a bad idea.

Of course it was.

Well, it's done now. There is no song.

♪ Fall on your knees ♪

Oh, I signed a contract.

I'm on my way.

♪ Silent night ♪

♪ Holy night ♪

♪ Son of God ♪

Hi, uh, is Winnie here?

What is it with you Franklin men?

You have master's degrees in
mess and PhDs in heartbreak.

At least you got emails now.

You don't have to cramp your fingers

with a bunch of letters.

Yes, um, can you please
just tell her I'm here?

Winnie Renee,

little Ashton's at the door.

♪ Jesus Lord ♪

♪ At Thy birth

I got it, Granny. I'm good.

- You sure, baby?
- Mm-hmm.

♪ Fall on your knees ♪

I'm sorry I didn't tell you.

No, you played me so you could get paid.

I was wrong, okay, not to
tell you about the deposit,

but my father did write the song.

I will sue you, Gene, and your dad

if you try and release this, I dare you.

You can't sue me.

You signed the contract.

Look, I'm trying to give
you money. Just take it.

It is not about the money.

Then why are you mad?

I specifically asked you
why you were doing this

and you said nothing.

Instead, you used my music, my artistry,

and our parents' song
to get what you wanted.

You played me! You used me!

So I am done.

- Goodbye.
- Winnie.

♪ Fall on your knees ♪

♪ Fall on your knees ♪

♪ Sleep ♪

♪ In heavenly peace ♪

Let's not put them all
in one place, okay, Jessi?

Can we keep changing them
every day up until Christmas?

Oh.

Sis, have you been hearing anything

that I've been talking about?

Yes, give her half the money.

She deserves it.

Dude, you can't.

We won't have enough to invest.

I was going to make everything right

once we closed in on the deal.

It takes patience, right?

I don't care if Dad wrote the song,

it wouldn't be a hit without Patti.

Hey, Rob, I'm just sitting here listening

to this version you sent over.

Um, what'd you think?

People want liveliness at Christmas,

this is too laid back.

As soon as I get the masters,

I'll have over 50 P&Ds
committed to release

the other version on Christmas Day.

Congratulations.

You are officially in the music biz.

- What'd he say?
- Um.

We've got some work to do.

But we're getting there, trust me.

We're getting there.

I know you're not a little girl anymore,

but this used to be your favorite drink.

Used to make you smile.

Thank you.

Thank you, Granny.

- I love you, baby.
- I love you too.

Okay.

Mom.

Now, where is this boy
who has hurt my baby?

Hello?

My mother is in town.

We're on the way over.

Uh, okay.

Bye.

Sis, I'm sorry you weren't
able to go ice skating

with Tremaine and the boys.

Oh, I could've gone.

I just wanted my house to
still be standing tonight.

Why wouldn't it be standing?

It's not gonna get that crazy.

There she is.

Merry Christmas! Hey!

- Dad?
- Dad!

What are you doing here?

I came to see my kids.

May I come in?

- Oh yeah.
- Yeah.

Why didn't you call?

I wanted to surprise you.

Oh, there're gonna be a
lot of surprises all right.

Where are my grandkids?

Oh, Tremaine took them ice skating.

Why don't I take you there?

That's a great idea.

Okay, well, let me put my things down

and freshen up first.

Okay, put your things in the guest room.

Okay. All right.

- Gotta get those letters.
- Yeah.

He's gotta go before Patti gets here.

Yeah, I know.

Is that them?

Ms. Patti, uh, it's nice to finally meet you.

Are you guys hungry? We
should go get some food.

You ain't gon butter
me up with a good steak.

I came to have words.

Are you sure you don't wanna
go out to eat with Robert?

No, I just need a little bit of water

to wash down all this betrayal.

Hey, you know what? I've got an idea.

How about after we go ice
skating, we could go...

Make that water a vodka.

Stop right there.

I didn't know he was gonna be here.

Patti, it's good to see you.

I'd like to say the same thing about you,

but your son is stealing
money from my daughter.

I tried to pay your daughter, okay?

No, it was an afterthought.

I'm doing the deal.

Take the money.

No, I'm not taking the money.

You need to admit that
you were using me.

Like father, like son.

I never used you, Patti.

But then, what do you call it?

- I made a mistake, okay?
- What are you talking about?

Why do you have to be so stubborn?

Stubborn, see?

- I'm stubborn?
- Yes.

I know where she gets that from.

Wait, you calling me stubborn?

- You've always been stubborn.
- How am I stubborn?

You've been lying about
everything for the entire time.

You've been stubborn for years.

After what you put me
through after 20 years?

- We all just...
- What about Aries?

You're so infatuated with him.

You're so in love with him, right?

Stop trying to pin it all over me,

'cause that's not gonna work.

- Five years.
- Ah!

I've been focused the whole time.

You think you've been
focused this whole time?

- I've been focused...
- Wait.

♪ It feels like heaven
sent you here to me ♪

♪ Love at Christmas time ♪

Is that our song?

♪ You and me, babe, sippin' red wine ♪

♪ All I need is your hand in mine ♪

Winnie, is that you?

Your voice sounds like an angel.

♪ Wrapped in your arms ♪

Hey, you sound different.

I can tell you've been putting in the work.

♪ The season's magic is your love ♪

Yeah, well, it's not gonna come out,

because Robert is going
to delete that contract.

No, the world needs to hear you again.

And there's another version that's better.

And she's right.

You all sound amazing.

Just like another couple I know.

Nice try.

We're not a couple.

We're not even friends.

Dad, I think you should resend these.

But, how, how did you get these?

I found them in Granny's attic.

Mom, take them.

It's Gene from the label.

Put that man on speaker.

Gene, uh, hey.

Robert, how
would you and Winnie

like to kick off our holiday parade?

We'll have it all set up
for you to sing the song.

This sounds amazing, Gene.

This is Patti Love.

Oh, wow.

Patti, I didn't even
realize you were in town.

Well, you know, when
business ain't right,

mama gotta step in and fix things.

Speaking of that, you and I need to talk.

Okay.

I'll get the details later.

Thanks, Gene.

I don't think that this is a good idea.

Oh, honey, people need to
hear your beautiful voice again.

She's right.

- You don't get to talk.
- I'm sorry.

Okay, I'm sorry. Is that what you want?

I'm sorry. In front of everyone.

I was selfish.

Okay, yes, but I just
want another opportunity

to make things right.

Here the young man out.

You know I'm right.

Oh, Patti Love is always right.

No, but if it weren't for
Patti speaking her mind,

there would be no Patti and Ashton.

Period.

So, matter of fact, could
I talk to you for a sec.

Patti, please, may I have
just an hour of your time?

I mean, I just wanna take
you to coffee tomorrow.

I drink my coffee in 10 minutes.

Mom.

Mom.

I will do the song with Robert,

if you agree to have coffee with Ashton.

And I will have coffee with Ashton,

if you would do the song with Robert.

Deal.

All right, I have an hour,

but I have to help Winnie get
her outfit for the parade.

Oh, why don't you guys
go check out the star.

And, in the meantime,
how about I call Aries

and see if he can mix up
a version of your song?

See, it's all working out. It's perfect.

It feels like love at Christmas time.

What?

Y'all were just slamming doors

and fighting and crying over there.

Now, we're picking out outfits

and having a family reunion?

It's a Christmas miracle.

So you didn't read any of my letters?

No, I didn't wanna hear any more lies.

Lies? Patti, I never lied to you.

Mr. Taylor wanted me to sing and write

for his daughter Erica, even date her.

He wanted us to be the
next Ashford & Simpson,

but that's not what I wanted.

Then why did you do a song with her?

Well, I told him I'd do
a song on one condition,

that they do a tour and
an album for you and I.

Then why didn't you tell me?

I had to turn on the radio
and hear you and her.

Honestly, I was working
up the nerve, I was.

But they released it before I could.

They told me you were
going on tour with her,

and then they dropped me.

Oh, I'm sorry.

She called and told me
that you two were together

and that our stint as a
one-hit wonder was over.

God, Ashton, that broke me.

I never meant for that to happen.

You know what, when you moved away,

I went to your mom's house
and I begged her to call you.

But, you know, she wouldn't.

The reason I stopped singing

was because I never wanted
to sing with anybody but you.

Our kids sound great.

Yeah, they do, they do.

But, listen, is it just me

or does it seem like
something's going on

between the two of them?

That boy's nose is glowing so hard,

he could guide the whole sleigh.

Well, I know that feeling.

Look.

We were something else.

♪ I get so in my feelings
when I need you to go ♪

Hey, man.

Give me a minute.

What's going on?

Bro, I already told you,

Gene already paid for these sessions.

I cannot withhold the masters.

I hear you, all right?

I'm not saying destroy them.

Just give us the acoustic
masters that we just recorded.

Tell him something happened.

Hey, tell him that you gon fix it.

Bro, I don't know, man.

I can pay you, huh?

- Give me a minute.
- All right.

Hey.

Yeah. What's up?

Gene just texted me about a solo deal.

Did you say something to him?

I probably mentioned he
should be in business with you.

That's all.

What's up?

I don't need you to speak up for me.

You stand up for yourself,

and that's one of the
things I like about you.

Yeah, well, in this industry you have to.

Yeah.

So you figured out if you're
doing Gene's deal or not?

I don't know.

I'm thinking about it.

You know, I'll make my decision

- when I get back from vacation.
- Wait.

Vacation?

Where you going?

I don't know.

I'll decide when the
advance hits my account.

Okay, I see what it is.

I'm coming, right?

Aries, how much longer
till we can get that file?

Okay.

Isaac, didn't the doctor tell you

about eating those sweets at night?

Um, oh, no, these are not my sweets.

These are for you guys.

Come on, baby, you know you
all the sugar I need at night.

Oh, you rascal.

I think I should be on that float.

Mama, you weren't
invited, and neither was I.

But if it weren't for
me, it would be no you.

And if it weren't for
you, there'd be no her.

Now invitation or not,
I'm getting on that float.

No, you're right.

You can be our backup dancer.

Whoop! That's what I'm talking about!

Isaac!

Isaac, get my dancing shoes, baby!

- Oh.
- Granny going dancing.

- Oh, come on!
- Mm-mm!

I hope you know what you started.

Oh, I do.

Hey, how come you never told
me about the scholarship

and theater stuff at your old school?

Well, you don't live here,

and I know you don't
care about my old stuff.

Oh, that is not true, Mom.

I just,

just because I wanna find my own voice

does not mean I don't care about you.

When I call and when you
hear me calling, you ignore it.

Only sometimes.

You're an icon, Mom,

and I think that that's
sometimes hard for me.

But I am so proud to be your daughter,

and I need you to know that.

Thank you for picking me.

The more I think about it, you're right.

It's the babies that pick the moms.

And I owe you a big one,

because my life would be
empty had you not chosen me.

I love you.

I love you.

Oh.

Mm, okay, I'm gonna get
some rest before my big day.

Okay.

Merry Christmas, Macon!

It's your girl, Christine Carter.

And I'm coming to you live
bringing all the Christmas cheer.

I have a wonderful gift for you guys.

It's a brand new, hot off the press,

hot out the booth, new version
of "Love at Christmas Time."

And if you really wanna get
into the Christmas spirit,

make sure you go
downtown and grab a spot,

because the parade is about to begin.

Let's go, Macon!

Okay, I'm not gonna lie,

I don't wanna get all
sentimental on you, but

here.

You caught me something.

Thank you.

No more Patti 2.0, none of that.

This time it's just you.

Oh, oh, oh, okay.

What is this?

This is so sweet.

Thank you.

I didn't get you something

in case you were expecting something.

Oh, I should just leave then, huh?

Just playing, I got you something.

- Really?
- Yeah.

Oh! Oh, wow, okay.

I wasn't expecting this, okay.

Okay, well, let me put it on you.

Okay.

St. Nick.

Here's to making new holiday memories.

Yeah.

- Christmas, hey!
- Merry Christmas, Macon!

What a beautiful day to kick
off our annual holiday parade.

And to get things started, we
have something extra special.

Bringing back the magic,
the music, and the melody,

we have the next
generation of our darlings,

Patti and Ashton,

Winnie and Robert here to bless us

with a brand new rendition
of "Love at Christmas Time."

Winnie and Robert!

Winnie and Robert!

Hi!

Thank you.

Merry Christmas, you guys.

Hope you guys enjoy the special treat

that we have in store for you all.

♪ Snow is falling ♪

♪ Lights are glowing ♪

♪ Fireplace is warm ♪

♪ But my heart was frozen ♪

♪ Then you walked in ♪

♪ With that mistletoe smile ♪

♪ And I knew this love was worthwhile ♪

♪ Now the cocoa's sweet,
but not like you ♪

♪ You're the only gift
I wanna unwrap too ♪

♪ Underneath the tree, just you and me ♪

♪ It feels like heaven
sent you here to me ♪

♪ Love at Christmas time ♪

♪ You and me, babe, sippin' red wine ♪

♪ All I need is your hand in mine ♪

♪ 'Cause nothing feels better than love ♪

Please welcome our
parents, Patty and Ashton!

Come on, everybody, hey!

♪ Snow is falling ♪

♪ Lights are glowing ♪

♪ Fireplace is warm, but
my heart was frozen ♪

♪ Then you walked in ♪

♪ With that mistletoe smile ♪

♪ And I knew this love was worthwhile ♪

♪ Now the cocoa's sweet,
but not like you ♪

♪ You're the only gift
I wanna unwrap too ♪

♪ Underneath the tree, it's you and me ♪

♪ It feels like heaven
sent you here to me ♪

♪ Love at Christmas time ♪

♪ You and me, babe, sippin' red wine ♪

♪ All I need is your hand in mine ♪

♪ Nothing feels better than love ♪

♪ Love at Christmas time ♪

♪ Wrapped in your arms,
I'm feeling right ♪

♪ You're my star, my light that shines ♪

♪ The season's magic is love ♪

♪ Ooh ♪

♪ Ooh ♪

♪ Sleigh bells ring, but
your voice is my song ♪

♪ Every note you sing, I
just wanna sing along ♪

♪ Forget the gifts, forget the snow ♪

♪ With you I've got all I need to know ♪

♪ Turned my winter into spring ♪

♪ Boy, you make my heart sing, yeah ♪

♪ Love at Christmas time ♪

♪ You and me, babe, sippin' red wine ♪

♪ All I need is your hand in mine, yeah ♪

♪ Nothing feels better than love ♪

♪ Love at Christmas time ♪

♪ Wrapped in your arms,
I'm feeling right ♪

♪ You're my star, my light that shines ♪

♪ Oh ♪

♪ Love at Christmas time ♪

♪ You and me, babe, sippin' red wine ♪

♪ All I need is your hand in mine ♪

♪ Nothing feels better than love ♪

♪ Love at Christmas time ♪

♪ Wrapped in your arms,
I'm feeling so right ♪

♪ You're my star, my light that shines ♪

♪ The season's magic is love ♪

♪ Is love ♪

♪ This Christmas ♪

♪ Oh ♪

♪ Oh, love ♪

♪ Snowflakes touching my windowsill ♪

♪ Is telling me that Christmas is here ♪

♪ I hear the laughing
and kids full of cheer ♪

♪ I feel the love in the air is so clear ♪

♪ But I know that the one
thing I'm missing is you ♪

♪ As I sit by the phone, wish
your call would come through ♪

♪ I know you feel my
love, I know you do ♪

♪ So, baby, won't you please
help my last wish come true ♪

♪ Oh, oh ♪

♪ In my dreams ♪

♪ You're the only present ♪

♪ Under my tree that I need ♪

♪ Oh, oh ♪

♪ But finally ♪

♪ I can hear your voice at my door ♪

♪ You're right by my side ♪

♪ Next to me ♪

♪ You can be anywhere in the world ♪

♪ But you're with me this Christmas ♪

♪ It could've been anyone else ♪

♪ Under my mistletoe ♪

♪ By I love that it's me and you ♪

♪ Me and my wish list ♪

♪ You're matching my love ♪

♪ My Christmas joy ♪

♪ My beautiful one ♪

♪ The one I adore, boy ♪

♪ I love the way you love my family ♪

♪ This feels like living my fantasy ♪

♪ So sit down, I'll make you a plate ♪

♪ Matching pajamas, hot
chocolate, and spades ♪

♪ Christmas karaoke and charades ♪

♪ I could go all night, long
as you're here with me ♪